Tech in the Classroom

     Technology is something that is becoming ever so prevalent in our classroom that it is becoming harder and harder to avoid.  Everything from the computer, to an iPad, students having phones by the age of six, Google, apps, new software updates, video games, etc. are being used in the classroom today.  Pencil and paper will soon be a thing of the past and teachers and education will all be "online".  Technology definitely has its upsides but I can't help but be a little skeptical and see the down sides of technology as well.

     The new thing for schools to be is one-to-one.  You may have heard of this before but incase you haven't one-to-one means that for every one child there is a technology device that they have to themselves.  Whether that be an iPad or a computer it doesn't matter, every child is able to get their hands on some kind of device.  This can be a major advantage for students and teachers.  Being one-to-one allows constant communication with the world.  Students are able to get their books online, they can research topics online, they can even create their own world online!  Another positive to being one-to-one is the possibility of schools taking up a turn it in system.  Students will no longer have to have a hard copy of their work but could instead turn it in online and the teacher can view it immediately.  Being connected to the internet gives children a whole new way of thinking about things.  They are constantly plugged into the world and can learn about anything they want.  If they have a question, ask the internet.  For a student to be connected to the internet the world is their oyster.  However, that is not always a positive thing.

     We have been talking about critical literacy in our class this semester and what it entails and how it is performed and accomplished.  Critical literacy involves a conversation and it involves the exchanging of thoughts and ideas and asking higher order thinking questions such as how or why?  Imagine trying to think critically alone with just the internet.  It is pretty difficult to accomplish this task.  Technology needs to be the basis of our instruction but not our entire instruction.  It is vital that we use technology as a tool but it is very important to not over use and abuse the internet that some people may.
     Technology is not going to become a thing of the past but is instead here to stay.  As teachers we need to constantly be learning about new and different kinds of technology so that we can better teach our students.  Technology is a wonderful resource and tool but it needs to be used properly.  Teaching our students how to properly use and not abuse technology is a constant struggle right now so that is why we must always try to stay one step ahead of the game....well at least be on pace.