Blog #3

Michael Wesch: A Vision of Students Today
This movie does not capture my college experience. After an eight-year “break” from college, the classroom definitely feels different to me than it did the first time around. My college experience was more traditional with classrooms consisting of lectures, studying, and tests. In my first few weeks back in school, I have discovered that my classes at South Alabama are definitely more technology based than my classes eight years ago. Based on the way that our world is changing and becoming more dependent on technology, I understand the need for classes to be conducted this way.
To make the movie more realistic, I would use a more diverse student population (i.e., more varied races and age groups). I would expand on the multitasking part of the video to include activities outside of school that might affect a student’s performance in a traditional classroom setting. It is becoming more common for older adults to go back to school, and they usually have families and full-time jobs that place additional time demands. This could be highlighted in the movie as well to give it a more realistic feel.

“It’s Not About the Technology” by Kelly Hines
Ms. Hines made very valid points in her post. School systems could spend unlimited amounts of money on the latest and greatest technology for students. However, if the teachers are not equipped to use the technology appropriately, or if they are lacking in fundamental teaching techniques, then the technology is useless.
As educators, we must focus on continually improving our teaching skills and our presentation skills – especially as it relates to technology. It is no longer acceptable to teach students the same way that teachers did even ten years ago. The fundamentals are still the same, but we must utilize different delivery techniques to match the way that students learn. To be good teachers, we must be willing and able learners.

Karl Fisch: Is It Okay to Be A Technologically Illiterate Teacher?
It is refreshing to read a strong opinion by someone who is passionate on a topic. Although I do not share the same passion for this subject in particular, I agree with the points that Mr. Fisch makes. As educators, we are committing ourselves to learning for our students and ourselves. It is not OK to be satisfied with the “status quo” – even when it comes to technology.
The lack of a willingness to learn is more of an issue than the technology illiteracy itself. There are many available resources specifically for educators wanting to use more technology in their classrooms. Simply stated, if you are willing to learn, the information is available. It just requires some time and effort.

Gary Hayes Social Media Count
Although we are all aware that our world is changing at an astounding rate, this counter is a great visual tool to help you see what is really going on. This is exciting and scary at the same time. This counter reiterates that our world is becoming a smaller place. As educators, we must be prepared to teach in a global environment. It is imperative for teachers to focus on the fundamentals of learning, but technology cannot be ignored. This is true while we are in school preparing to become educators, but it is even more important once we are responsible for facilitating the learning of others.