Unit 2 Reflection

Chapter 3

1.Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?
I believe it is very important to learn different technology tools even though they are constantly changing. It allows us as teachers to have more tools to pull from our own toolboxes. Also, you can combine old and new technologies so that they can work together. In our textbook it says that  "when using an older projector having lower resolution than a newer computer, the projected display will look distorted and "squished",...changing your computer display resolution to match that of the projector will alleviate this effect."(Morrison and Lowther, 2010). It is important for teachers to stay up to date on technology so that they can incorporate all technologies into their classrooms to teach.

2.Most desktop computers do the same things as mobile devices, so why do teachers need to use both?  
Desktops are nice to have in the classroom, they are bigger and have a larger viewing screen which can be beneficial when doing group activities and the components are "easily replaced or upgraded by school personnel."(Morrison and Lowther, 2010). Mobile devices on the other hand are portable which allows you to do work from home or on the go, are lightweight and offer flexibility. Desktops and mobile devices have their pros and cons but both are very beneficial to teachers.

3. How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are often limited in number and scope?I use to be a teacher assistant in a NCPK classroom and have seen first hand how the cost of digital devices can be justified. We use to provide a digital camera for children to use in the classroom. They would take pictures of their friends doing different activities as well as silly pictures while having fun. We also used the digital camera to aid in their learning. We would take pictures of them doing things that were a part of our daily routine so that they could have a visual reminder of the daily routine. We also had students act out positive things as well as things that were against the rules and put up visual reminders of what was acceptable and not. The kids had a great time using the camera and really enjoyed looking at the pictures to help remind them of different things. If used properly in a classroom digital devices can be a great asset and can really help students learn in a different and fun way.


Chapter 4

1. There are so many types of software; how do I know which ones to include in my lessons?
The first major thing that is going to help you narrow down your choices is what grade level/ age(s) are you teaching? Most software's are geared toward certain ages so you will want to first figure out which ones are appropriate for your class. Teachers also need to explore the different software's themselves and see which ones they think would be most beneficial in their class. Every class is different and no one knows them as good as you do so it is important that you find one that would be a good fit for your class. Morrison and Lowther (2010) state, "the key focus for teachers is to select software that supports student achievement of content knowledge and skills."

2. I understand why students should use educational software and the Internet, but why should my fourth-grade students learn to use spreadsheets, database, or video editing software?
Teachers need to provide a well rounded education and these things help do that! Spreadsheets help with mathematical skills like adding and subtracting as well as  formulas. In our textbook, Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom, it states that when "students enter information in a database, students can conduct limitless inquires with the click of a mouse, which rewards and supports the inquisitive nature of student learning."(Morrison and Lowther, 2010). Video editing allows students to make fun and educational videos that let them use their imagination and creativity. There are so many positive things that technology can bring to students.

3. How can student use of different types of software help improve scores on state tests?
Educational software can test students on different subjects like math, reading and writing. It can also provide students with practice tests for end of grade tests and get them use to being timed and the format it may be in. Educational software also allows teachers to receive feedback and can help them identify what the student may need extra help in.