Blog #8

This week in class, we used the website wikispaces.com in groups to create a webpage concerning technology. This is a useful tool because anyone can change, submit, or edit information if they belong to the specific URL. It provides accessible information that is easy to understand, with pictures, and is informative. The disadvantage is that people can post whatever they want, which, in some cases, is not accurate.


The reading Bridging the Digital Divide: A Building Block for Teachers By Collen Swain and Tamara Pearson discusses the inequality of technology in some classrooms, and what can be done to overcome this "divide" and create "equity" for all. Computers located in lab settings suggest that, as the article states, they are for "special" use, and are not integrated into the everyday curriculum. However, in some instances this is the only option. It is also important that the labs are accessible before and after school since students may need them to enhance their education during this time. In cases where computers are in the classroom, it is important to place the computers strategically. If there is only one, it should be made accessible to everyone. Although access is important, it is also imperative to have equity. This requires that teachers need to be educated in order to teach students how to become analytical thinkers while using the computer effectively, but not solely through the use of software. Teachers can assist in examining their own uses of technology and ability to effectively use technology in the classroom, especially in instances of instructional purposes to maximize the potential of students learning. It is crucial for teachers to work and improve their own knowledge of technology regularly to help provide equity for the students in the classroom. Furthermore, it is important to interact with the parents and perhaps offer classes to enhance the child's ability to use technology. Additionally, funding is not an excuse to disregard technology in the classroom. There are many accessible ways to raise and receive money to provide for technological resources in schools.


Clearly, technology has become crucial in the students learning. As future teachers, we need to be aware, become informed about technology, and pass this knowledge onto our students so they in turn can become effective users and thinkers. Also, find ways to raise money so that technology is easily accessible inside the classroom, not just in a computer lab.