Reflection #9- Technology in instruction

I never really thought of exactly how many opportunities technology brings into the educational field. In this class, I’ve learned so many mechanisms that involve technology in the process of instruction. Technology is a great way to get students motivated and excited about learning. If you think about it, If you are teaching a lecture straight from the book, you are most likely to bore the students to death. However, a teacher can combine that same lesson with the use of computers. There are now many new programs that make learning fun for students. There are reading, math, social studies, science, and even physical education programs that students can use to better their knowledge in the subjects. Technology has token a major leap from what it was back when I was in elementary. Students are more motivated in a lesson once they know they will be using computers, even if it is for educational purposes. There are websites students can access from their houses where they can practice their skills or even complete homework. Teachers can assign students a tellecollaborative lesson where they can communicate with students all over the world via internet. The internet open up millions of doors and opportunities for teachers and students. They can use email, messaging, and chatting to communicate with other students and learn about their native land. Teachers can also assign students research projects where students can search the world wide web for information regarding their subject. Websites such as google, and yahoo, and ask are just a few of the amazing websites brought up by technology. The possibilities with technology in the classroom are endless. Another great instructional method involving education are digital stories. Even though I have yet to create my very own, I have researched on them and they are definitely fun, creative, and educational. Whether it be a teacher creating one to instruct students or even having students create their very own to present to the class, they’re awesome! They are a great way to get students to have a visual and audio representation of the lesson being taught. It is a fact that the more senses involved in a lesson, the more likely a student is to catch on to what is being taught. Having a student create their own digital story gives them an opportunity to experiment with technology while still making sure they grasp the concept of the lesson. They’re a great way to unleash the student’s creativity and talents in each slide. Overall, Including technology in education and instruction is very crucial and important. Technology is becoming part of our everyday lives and it is important that we prepare our students for it.