Reflection on EDUC 6715

As this class crosses the finish line, I think back on some very interesting technology topics that will enhance learning in the classroom. Looking back on my application assignment for week 6 and 7, I developed a lesson that used an online game for weather forecasting. Also included in the assignment was a plan for influencing adoption. As a Science "Specials" teacher, I have seen many fourth grade students struggle with the topic of weather and forecasting. I felt that something was missing in the curriculum to help these students. The idea of an on-line "game" would not convince people at my school that this was a step in the right direction. I felt that the word "simulation" had a more convincing sound to it. Students could interact with these simulations and make predictions with immediate response. Plus, it was a lot of fun. The final part of the assignment was to create a grant proposal. This was slightly challenging because I have had no prior experience with this process. Basically, with so few options in using the computer labs and no mobile units available, I would focus the grant process on obtaining a mobile laptop unit for the classroom. From what I have heard from our technology specialists, the funding would be around $18,000. If this grant became available, students would have their own classroom laptop for interaction with science simulations.

One area of technology that I am watching closely is the advancement of mobile devices. As stated in the Horizon Report by Johnson, Levine, Smith and Smyth (2009), "Over the past few years, mobiles have undergone a continual transformation becoming more capable and flexible with each new release". I was fortunate to be with my nephew when he purchased a mobile device that had everything but the cellular phone. I was amazed at its size and capabilities. After reading the report on these devices, it became clear of what the future will be in the classrooms.
These devices, in time, will be able to assist a student in the classroom with scientific research and recording. They will be able to graph information and display it in ways that the ordinary calculator can not. The possibilities could continue into other subjects for students. Perhaps one day students will no longer carry textbooks back and forth to class. I hope that teachers and the education systems are aware of this and will take advantage of the possibilities. To keep up with the demands of the 21st Century, teachers will need to prepare students with more basic skills that involve technologies. As for myself, I am preparing to take charge to lead students and teachers in the right direction so that we can compete in the global job market of the future.

Reference

Johnson, L., Levine, A., Smith, R., & Smythe, T. (2009). The 2009 Horizon Report: K-12 Edition. Austin, Texas: The New Media Consortium.