Week 3

The article, "Oh the changes," illustrates how technology can be a powerful tool in the classroom for students. It connects them to various roles that allow them to self-explore when teachers are just acting as mentors (pg. 7). I can personally relate to the idea that students are often times made to recall facts and statistics but in no way can synthesize the data. They are expected to just reguritate statistics or data. Anyone can simply memorize the facts for the test and then forget them afterwards. This article reiterates the fact that computers are like personal tutors that have become neutral instructors and provide repitition which can be beneficial for some students learning (pg. 8) It is imporant that information does not just go in one ear and out the other, but rather is processed and critically analyzed to create a more thoughtful and critical thinker. This article proceeds to discuss the role of editors and designers which touches on the notion that technology creates a neat template where handwriting is not an issue. This is true. Handwritten notes can be messy, hard to read, and unorganized, while technology provides a place where everyone can be organized and have the opportunity to succeed. (pg. 9) Overall, it seems appearant that the engaging nature of technology is rewarding and keeps students engaged and eager to self-learn and explore. Furthermore the online supplement reiterates the significance of technology in the classroom.

This week I learned how important rubrics and newsletters are for both students and parents. It tells students what to expect and the "quality" of work expected. Parents can easily identify what their child is doing wrong when they don't recieve the grade they wanted or when they see that their child is failing. Additionally, as a teacher, there are several website provided online that can become useful tools in creating lessonplans, rubrics, and etc. This saves a lot of time and hair pulling because you can find a lesson plan or rubric and then modify it to your own personal classroom needs by simply reinventing the old.