Technology in the Classroom

My experience with technology in the classroom is pretty much limited to what I have experienced at BYU Hawaii.  I’d have to say that my favorite “application” is Blackboard.  I love that I can find assignments, materials, grades and notifications for all my classes in one place. (Theoretically.  Unfortunately, not all of my teachers use Blackboard)  I can certainly see the power that a similar type of program would have in the elementary school.

I also have been exposed to power point presentations in some of my classes.  I can see the benefit of power point presentations because they add visual interest and help note takers outline better, BUT in some of my classes they have seemed like a crutch, and a poor excuse for real teaching.  So, I have learned that anything overused becomes boring.  I believe that I will use power point presentations in my classroom, but I will try to use it to enhance my teaching and not to take the place of it, or to become my primary accommodation.

I am intrigued with the idea of using the iPod in a classroom setting. Kids love iPods and how wonderful it would be to help them use the device for academic purposes!  I also see the benefit of the iPod as the classroom music and audio book source. How much more wonderful will be the day when an iPad is standard issue for students!

I hope that I have classroom computers available in my classroom.  I am amazed every time I am at Laie Elementary how many questions the students ask that could easily be elaborated upon if they had in class internet access.  I can see it as a definite tool for taking GT students beyond the basic assignment, but also as a potential perk for helping reluctant learners find enthusiasm for a topic within the topic.