Reflecting on What I Know Chapter 3

1.  Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?
In order for me to make sure that my children are prepared for what is ahead for them in their educational career, but in their occupational career as well, I must be able to understand the ever evolving technology around me.  I must be willing to adapt to the new technologies and bring them into the classroom to better suit the needs of the children I serve.  Since I work with a younger group of children, I can encourage their families to learn more about the technology tools available to them and introduce their children to them as well.

2.  Most desktop computers do the same things as mobile devices, so why do teachers need to use both?
I think it is important to allow children the opportunity to become acquainted with the usage of both the mobile devices available to them as well as desktop computers.  Each device has its own pros and cons.  Eventually, they may develop a preference of their own and lean towards that more while continuing to switch back and forth depending on their needs.  In a classroom setting, a desktop computer may be more appropriate for group activities, while mobile devices may be more suitable for quick private use(63).

3.  How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are often limited in number and scope?
While each individual device may have its own limitations as far as performance and scope, but they may be used together to further enhance the educational experience of the children I serve (75).  The benefit of the technological education far outweighs the fincancial cost of using digital devices.

Reflecting on What I Know Chapter 1

1.  Must I use an inquiry-based learning approach in my classroom to use computers as a tool?
No, I do not  need to use an inquiry-based learning approach in my class in order for me to use computers as a tool.  Evidence shows that implementing computers in the classroom is most effective in an open-ended environment that will allow me as a teacher to be able to be flexible and change the lesson according to my personal style of teaching and the needs of my students.

2.  Can I still use tutorial and drill-and-practice software?
Yes, I can still use tutorial and drill-and-practice software in my classroom.  I have found that introducing my students to new concepts is more effective using drill and practice programs in the class.  I am careful to choose programs that meet the objectives that I am teaching and that are fun and informative for my children as well.

3.  Won't I have to spend a great deal of time to develop these units of instruction?
Yes, it may take some time and effort to develop proper units of instruction.  In order to make sure the lesson allows my children to learn the objectives I have for them, I must be fully prepared and ready to meet those needs.  We work as a team at the school where I work, so we would be able to come together and share the workload to make the process less intensive.

4.  Won't every student need a computer to use it as a tool?
It would be great if every child had their own computer.  From my experience with my Pre-K children, sharing is not a strong suit yet!  For my purposes, it will be a whole lot easier for my children to have their own computer to prevent behavior issues.  The NTeQ model can also be used to work with groups of children sharing a computer as well.