We’re All in this Together!
A particular section within the chapter spoke up about issues involving
the integration of technology. The reading argued that some educators use
technology to divide the classroom, separating students based on educational
level or how advanced they are. If this is done in a way where it becomes
discouraging to students, I can understand the issue. However, based on what
I’ve witnessed and experienced, it’s usually counterproductive to lump students
together who are on different academic levels: Students who may learn at a
slower pace feel rushed and confused without a firm grasp on the material, and
students who may be further advanced feel held back and bored with the
presented material. I feel that teachers, who can effectively use technology in
a way that encourages students, can harness its functionality for each group of
students at their current level. Separation is necessary in certain cases, and
if executed in a way that benefits students instead of discouraging them, then
it’s all the more useful.
In previous chapters we’ve discussed the digital divide and how low
income households differ from higher income households. This mindset is
reiterated in this chapter under the term digital inequality. This emphasizes
that “simply adding more technology to homes or schools will not, in and of
itself, address differences in access among social groups” (Maloy, et al, 2014,
p. 306). Simply placing some form of technology in front of students is not
going to bring out the best in those students if the majority of them don’t
even know how to efficiently use that device. As seen by the chart on page 305,
lower income households have a smaller percentage of broadband, Internet use,
and personal cell phones (let alone a smart phone). This being said, even with
Internet access, there is no guarantee that students will have the most updated
software and search engines available. Figuring out a method to properly
introduce the uses of technology to students who do not have a solid
understanding is key if we hope to continue using technologies in the
classroom. Otherwise, a different approach will have to be made.
With all this talk of issues in the integration process of technology,
one wonders what the next step could be? Towards the end of the reading we come
across ways we, as teachers, can become technology-leading and pave the way for
our students. Even though there are many areas within the educational system
that we have no power over, we can make a difference within each of our
classrooms. The choices we make every day to how we will deliver the things we
love while incorporating technology, we can find a way to enhance student
learning by using technology in ways that complement our every day functions
and lifestyles.
In conclusion, technology can allow for students to show what they
otherwise could not. Technology may bring out the best in students, but it can
also become a source of separation; in terms of skill, social communication,
and in terms of being technologically savvy. As teachers, and leaders, we need
to be creative and critical thinkers that leave students with the desire to
follow and learn from us. We can be told to carry out a responsibility, but we
have the ability to choose how we
will carry it out to make the best impact we can.
Resources
Goshay, N. (2015, November 29). Diversity [JPEG]. Created with Tagxedo http://www.tagxedo.com/app.html?url=https%3A//www.aacu.org/publications-research/periodicals/diversity-teaching-and-learning-affirming-students-empowered&shape=Apple&orientation=Any&font=Avril%20Lavigne&theme=Cloud%20Over%20Castle
Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2014). Transforming Learning with New Technologies.
2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.
TeachForAll (2013, July 1). A school that keeps learning -
Part 3: Growth mindset. Retrieved November 29, 2015, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKM6QwQpe3g
Like your Tagxedo - it says a lot about learning and though technology is 'invisible' it stands as ubiquitous throughout the process. There are probably good reasons to group students in both 'same' and 'different' groupings, but both ways can use technology to their benefit and for various reasons. Hopefully, you'll continue to demonstrate strong leadership skills in your new role, as well. :)
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