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Thoughtful
31 January 2011 (1120)
The first assigned reading inspired a multitude of reactions within me. I must admit a reserved appreciation for both the benefits and the potential ramifications of long-term digital interaction. I realize the criticism my criticism may inspire, but I feel as though it needs to reiterated and clarified slightly. The basis of my slightly negative perspective involves what I feel is the potential for social (person to person) breakdown of daily interactions. It may seem far-fetched and unrealistic but the threat remains in my mind and THAT is all that is necessary for me to speak my mind, utilize my freedom, and hopefully inspire others to at least “think about it.” I am curious, worried, fearful, etc of what the future holds but believe whole heartedly in the measured, timed, and responsible learning. I’m not a hater, I am a fighter, but I believe in compromise.

In the reading, Richardson sometimes talks about students being isolated in the traditional classroom. Younger generations are accustomed to being “plugged in” all the time. Through his presentation of the argument it is definitely interesting and makes a great deal of sense. However, although I agree, isn’t it also possible too that at some point this “plugged in” nature through a device, will one day replace social interaction. Furthermore, if this is the case and the balance is tipped in favor of digital interactions and exchanges, although some students, some individuals, and some societies will be connected, are they not at the same then ultimately disconnected? My main concern is that one day digital interactions will dominate and break down the society I know.  The future, as we all know, is impossible to predict so it may be therefore possible for these changes to be beneficial and bring us socially closer together. However, based on my personal observations and feelings, this does not seem to be the case. Also, long-term adaptations and changes may occur so slowly that the majority of people do not notice and take it for granted. The change occurs without thought. It just is. What effect will technology have on social interactions and relationships such as family, friends, coworkers, citizens, societies, nations, and most importantly as the human race?

Effective Utilization
The benefits of technology in education are very important to consider. As I was reading, it occurred to me how limited my digital interactions are in comparison to the younger generation up and coming, especially in regards of the generations I WILL be teaching in the future. My knowledge of the digital word and the technology “out there” is very limited. The video we watched during lecture and someone’s comments about being scared were suddenly my own; I felt (still feel) scared. The world around me is changing, I have PART of a responsibility to prepare students for the world in which they will exist, and suddenly it dawned on me how important technology is and will continue to be, especially for younger generations. During the current economic slowdown which we are experiencing (maybe this slowdown should have been the norm all along), the outsourcing of jobs overseas (for various reasons), and the increasing importance of technology in everyday interactions such as careers, the reading has definitely inspired me to appreciate technology’s importance.

From the reading and the examples included, I thoroughly liked the utilization of programs such as D2L (online) to organize class material. The benefits of this are very obvious. Furthermore, the ability to include discussions beyond the classroom and submit assignments online is highly desirable. The practical benefits of organization and inclusion of students’ opinions and insights to me seem to be an almost automatic reflex which teachers should have.

Inclusion
The potential effectiveness of inclusion is exciting to consider. I can relate to the hesitation students sometimes feel during in class discussion. This can be the result of social discomfort, difficulty forming and understanding thoughts and then clearly expressing them verbally (relate big time to this one). Often while writing (as now I’m sure), my ideas sometimes are in my mind but come out jumbled and complicated in form. Digital discussions for me are very exciting. As discussed in the reading, it allows students to perform at their own level and with limited external pressure. In this setting, they are able to form their thoughts and practice expressing themselves effectively through writing. Technology, if utilized properly, is capable of supplementing the classroom and reaching students through a method they relate to and understand. Technology and digital interaction of this type is definitely very, very EXCITING. I look forward to responsibly utilizing technology and fostering the development of my students!!

Technology in the Classroom

Technology in the Classroom
24 January 2011 (1723)
I believe technology’s role within the classroom should be utilized as a supplement to the learning process of students. It should be incorporated into lesson plans and projects. 

Technology's importance is growing, especially to younger generations. This younger generation identifies and is comfortable with the many possibilities of technology, and thus it only makes sense for it to be utilized in the classroom in a variety of ways.

However, technology should only be one of many tools and methods utilized. As much as it is capable of improving the learning experience both for teachers and students, it is also something which should be contemplated with an eye toward the long term social ramifications. I believe the personal interactions of the classroom should be emphasized and technology adapted as a supplemental enhancing device, tool, method, etc.