I have never had a student that required the use of assistive technology. However, I do use technology in my classroom on a daily basis. I use flip charts on the Promethean board to teach a variety of things, including phonics and math skills. I use Brain Pop, Jr., Starfall, and United Streaming videos to enhance instruction. My students are also allowed to "play" on my board during center time. They also review letter sounds on Starfall while at computer center.
Before reading the chapter on assistive technology, I thought I was fairly up-to-date on computer technology. Now, I realize there is a lot of programs and software out there that I had never heard of. I have only touched the "tip of the iceberg" in regards to the use of technology in my classroom.
In the future, I would like to take some technology classes. Most of the technology that I use, I learned on my own through the sink or swim method. I am looking forward to getting new interactive white boards and receiving training on how to use them. I also plan to utilize some of the programs mentioned in the text that simulate real-life situations. Students are always wanting to know why they need to learn something. There are many programs that allow students to experience "real-life," especially in regard to math.
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteSometimes, the sink or swim method with technology is the best way to learn what you are doing. In my experience, the technology courses I have taken have been basic and not offering the "WOW" factor I was looking for. A few of my colleagues attended a summer class for advanced Promethean board training and they came away with great ideas. The problem is they can not reteach what they learned, so I have not been able to benefit, but this is a course that I plan to take this summer. My tech skills are mostly limited to classroom use. I bought a MAC computer for this Masters program and I use primarily for internet and writing papers. This machine can do amazing things, but I have not had the time to explore and learn how to REALLY use it. The Promethean board is a piece of technology that has changed my teaching. I use it all day, every day, but I know I could improve and enhance the flipcharts. My goal for the summer is to take the time to expand my knowledge on both of these useful tools.
P.S. Your blog looks amazing! :)
I also would like to take some technology classes. We are able to suggest professional developments that we would like to be offered at our school and that is something that my team put done. The way our world is changing today, it is important for us as teachers to say up on the technology that will help our students build in their knowledge.
ReplyDeleteI am the same way. I want to take technology classes as well. Technology is always changing and coming out with new things that I know I will have to take several classes through out my years of teaching. I have a hard time learning new things by someone telling me how to do something. I have to physically do it or have a lot of visual aids.
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