Digital Blog Post C: Chapters 7&8

1. Computer Games As Learning Resources
Page 168-169 {7.5}

Since my early days of school I have always resorted to older methods of learning. While I was in elementary school, the only time we spent on a computer was while completing Accelerated Reader tests. Although I do not think student time on computers should be obsolete, their time should be limited. When they are used, it should be as a reinforcement tool rather than a way to introduce a new concept. While completing elementary observations at the kindergarten level this past week, it opened my eyes to how advanced students are with technology. Every student spent about 40 minutes playing education games on either an iPad or a computer. Parents already allow their children exhaustible amounts of time using some form of technology at home; for them to use it independently at school too is unacceptable. Obviously technology enhances the learning process tremendously; but, too much of it can cause social issues when interacting face-to-face.

2. Understanding Textspeak and Textism
Page 194 {8.2} 

My dad always says that "the telephone was invented to talk on the phone; not to revert backwards to the typewriter." As I have gotten older, I couldn't agree more. The textbook argues that students could learn from texting by advancing their phonological awareness and literacy. Personally, this couldn't be more wrong. Throughout the years educators have worked hard to include and develop different skills, activities, and lessons in order to teach literacy and proper spelling and writing techniques. There is absolutely no reason a student should be using a phone in order to learn these concepts. Flashcards, worksheets, presentations, and books are older methods that have worked for years on end. If something is not broken, why fix it?

3. Creating Your Own Teaching Blog
Page 198 {8.4}

With the popularity of blogging in today's society, it can be used as a very important tool of communication between teachers, parents, and students. There are plenty of ways to make it a fun, interactive, and informative space. As a future educator in a fairly technological world, I feel as though it is important to include some kind of personal blog site or web page in order to interact with your student and their families outside of the classroom. I have already learned so many great tools to use in the classroom and I cannot wait to incorporate them into my own lessons!

Sources  

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O'Loughlin, Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Myers, Sierra. (Photograph). (2015). Cell Phones In Classrooms [photograph]. Cape Coral, Florida.

Myers, Sierra. (Photograph). (2015). Nelson Mandela Quote [photograph]. Cape Coral, Florida.

The first picture {quote} shown was made using Canva and the second was made using Toondoo.