Finding Technology

One of the aspects of my classroom I've been observing lately is the use of technology. My clinical site school is a Title I school located in Cleveland County. Having said that, we do not have loads of money to spend on new technology, and are certainly not a 1:1 ratio school. My classroom utilizes 5 desktop computers for assessment pieces such as Accelerated Reader, AR Math, Reading Eggs, and other center-based activities. My CE uses a laptop, which is connected to our SmartBoard, along with an Elmo. In addition to all this, she also uses Plickers to assess for multiple content areas...primarily during ELA. 

Having said all of this, I think what my CE is able to do with the technology that she does have is great. It is one of my biggest goals for this year to, in addition to learning from my CE, to in return teach the class some of the up and coming technology pieces she can use. Every time it comes down to last minute planning for activities or centers, I try to suggest a few simple activities that, even if students don't have the technology, they can still get an adaptation. This has a direct connection to NCTCS 1c (Teachers lead the teaching profession), because even the suggestion of a new activity could lead to a change in curriculum and improvement in instruction.

For example, we have quite a few students interested in the Robotics Team and other STEM concentrations. I have talked to my CE about utilizing a coding center during ELA or SMART time, and she is really excited for the direction that can take. Even if students don't have access to the technology instrument, they can still learn about coding via other activities. This connects to NCTCS 3d (Teachers make instruction relevant to students). 

I found an interesting article when doing my research that outlines some really shocking (and not so shocking) statistics about how income level affects how teachers can or cannot teach students via/about technology. As much as I give it a hard time, technology can be a segway that transforms a students mindset about learning, and specifically, inquiry-based learning. Apparently, there is a technology gap between the "rich" and "poor", particularly in America. This gap not only affects instruction, but moral. Teachers see other schools perform higher, which may be attributed to all of the snazzy technology they have. 

One of the biggest pieces of advice I've learned thus far and can share with you guys is to not be afraid to make suggestions in your classroom. If you know a cool SmartBoard feature that will enhance learning, throw it out during planning period. Don't be afraid to stay after school when the real grade level planning happens. You'll learn a lot.