Dr. Donald F. Roberts
I found it fascinating the cutting
edge nature of Dr. Roberts’ research at the time conducted yet how obsolete the
study is in today’s world. Today, the outcomes
of his study seem so obvious yet, at the time, it brought to light the dramatic
change in use and were the springboard for further research in complementary
disciplines. This is even more fascinating because the study wasn’t conduct
long ago. It makes one realize how quickly our access to media is changing and
what we need to do, as teachers, to keep informed and knowledgeable.
Dr. Roberts referred on numerous
occasions to the affects of the overuse of media on the brain and cognitive
development. He neglected to discuss any
research to this regard, albeit, it isn’t his area of expertise. As teachers, it seems important to have some
understanding of the affects, especially if negative, on our students because of
its influence on classroom behavior and abilities.
More Pupils Are Learning Online, Fueling Debate on
Quality
I fear for the privatization of
education in this move towards on line education. First, like any private
industry, money is the driving force behind actions. I am not convinced student’s
best interests will be served. Second, it negates what “in-person” education
provides beyond the content. And similar to many of our ventures into reform
through Ravitch, it brings politics into education per the Tom Luna (Idaho)
example. Does it enhance learning? In my mind, it does not. It is a tool of
convenience and a tool to save money. Is there a place for it? Yes, I can see
its use for the student who cannot physically, socially or academically be in
the classroom. I also see it as a good tool for “on line makeup”. The
underlying problem with these two uses is how is it financed? Do school districts
pay for the make up work or alternative learning medium? If not, it becomes a
tool only for those who can afford the service, thereby, having no impact on
closing the achievement gap. I can never be a replacement for the culture of a
classroom.
Technology Resources for the Teacher
This is such a great site. It is so useful. I researched a
number of topics in my subject area and there was a number of slide
presentations covering the content. The
great thing is that it can be downloaded and all or a part can be utilized. If
nothing else, it provides ideas on how to shape curriculum around an area of
interest. It is free, which is awesome although you can elect for a “Pro”
status that has a monthly fee. That
“Pro” status seems more beneficial to the business community and unnecessary
for teachers.
Like SlideShare, this website has a plethora of videos on
science topics. I noticed as I was searching the site that much of the video
content is available on You Tube but never the less, this site affords teachers
ideas on how to organize ideas.
I have been resistant to sign up and use twitter but I am
now convinced it is something I should explore (similar to my resistance to
blogging until I was made to do it in the MAIT program). My resistance largely
comes from not wanting to take the time to figure it our or because I simply don’t
have the bandwidth to figure it out. But now, after hearing other students in
the programs use of technology, it seems this is an excellent source for
pushing out information quickly to students.
The “old school” part of me is saying….why do I need to do this? I have
provided students, in writing, an assignment and reminded them in class. Do I now have to tweet a reminder to them? What
am I teaching them about organization and responsibility. I guess Marcy has to
move into the 21st Century.
I have signed up for it and will use it. I carry my laptop around as if it is a
wedding ring for fear that if I loss it or it got stolen, all the work I have
accomplished over the last 2 years would be gone. Drop box is my solution, and additionally, I
will be able to access those documents from anywhere without having to have my
computer.
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