Blog Post #9

Ms. Cassidy's use of technology in the classroom started when several computers were given to her class. The computers were able to access the internet but were not able to download software. She wanted to use the resources that were available so she researched about creating webpages and that carried her into blogging. Through her personal learning network she developed her skills to become a tech savvy teacher. Ms. Cassidy's first grade class uses the SMARTboard, webpages, blogs, Wikis, videos, video chat and the Nintendo DS as learning tools. Ms. Cassidy is correct, it will be difficult to teach the 21st century students with teaching methods from 10 years ago. Students today are engaged in technology outside of the classroom, so it is important to embrace it and use it in the classroom for learning purposes.

There are classes in which you may think technology is unnecessary but there are so many resources available. If a teacher has a webpage he or she can post updates to the students even if they are not in the classroom. I plan to have a webpage for my class to keep the students posted on current information. I will be teaching 6-12th graders so I can put reminders about test and also classwork required due to an absence. Students will be able to know what we did in the classroom that day even if they miss school. Also, if I will be absent I can post the classwork to the webpage and the substitute will know exactly what is expected of the students. Parents can also view the page and keep up with everything their student is learning. Another tool I will use in my class is the learning videos. Ms. Cassidy's students took videos of one another showing what they have learned. They were able to post it to their blogs and the parents can watch their children's progress.

There are several things that can hinder the use of technology in the classroom. One thing is the lack of support from administration, fellow teachers and parents. Ms. Cassidy discussed how some school officials do not discourage but they also do not encourage the use of technology. If I encounter this issue when I become a teacher I hope to show them how our classroom works and the success it has brought. A wonderful benefit of technology in the classroom is it is accessible to all the student's parents. They are able to view what their child is learning from day to day. Some people are not able to accommodate change but like Ms. Cassidy states in the video, "Technology is here to stay." Technology has made an impact on classrooms around the world. Students are engaged and excited to come to class and for a teacher that is rewarding. After watching the video discussion with Ms. Kathy Cassidy it made me realize not all tech savvy teachers started out that way. Learning technology comes through practice, failure and success.


Little Kids...Big Potential
Interview with Kathy Cassidy part 1
Interview with Kathy Cassidy part 2
Interview with Kathy Cassidy part 3