Technology in the Classroom

On Thursday, Dr. Rivera lectured on technology in the classroom.  We discussed how important it is to evaluate the technology you would like to use in your classroom, to be sure that it would be effective for learning.  We also discussed the different levels of technology such as computers/laptops, the iphone, smartboard, and ELMO.  These are all very useful technological aids to help assist in student learning.  These days, the students are so technologically in tune that they may know how to use a tool more effectively than the teacher!  So, it is very important for teachers to be updated on the different tools and uses.  I was also very happy to learn about new resources that are available to us via the internet.  Sites that were shared by Amanda and Rachel such as Share My Lesson and Teachers Pay Teachers, are very useful resources for us students training to be teachers, as well as seasoned teachers.  I liked how we had blast from the past moments discussing Barney, Reading Rainbow, and Steve & Greg!  It really brought back memories of when I was in elementary school.  Although they are considered medium technology, I really learned from them then, I might revive them in my own classroom!  Another part of the class I enjoyed was Amanda's recap on her practicum lesson.  I really liked her parody of Sleeping Beauty and I loved the way she read it!  She was so excited to read her story and I am glad she shared it with us!