Lessons Learned

I am astounded at all the technology available to educators. I am amazed at the students in this generation and how quickly they catch on to the latest gadgets. When I watched the video about this generation I could relate with them. They said that their parents ask for their help with technology. I laughed because my 15 year old helps me sometimes. I also laughed because my parents, who are in their 80's never learned computers. They don't have e-mail or the internet. I thought they were old and funny but now I realize how hard it is to stay up to date on everything. You have to be learning continually to stay on the cutting edge. This generation does want instant gratification so the idea of whatever, wherever, and whenever is marketed right to them. I think students would like the class act portal.

Kathy Schrock's comparing of old way and new way of doing things was an eye opener. I liked her comparisons. The old way, the computer being used for drills and tutorials. The new way is listed as technology used for research, problem solving, and communication. The technology is used more effectively. I also like the comparison used for the student. The student becomes a searcher, active researcher, problem solver, stategist, and collaberator. The new way sounds so much better than being a passive learner who memorizes and works alone. It is also informative to listen to techwatch and see that apple is lowering its prices so the 3g is more affordable. I think cost is one of the reasons students would not utilize technology in learning. All of this technology is here to make our world a better place. If we use it properly we could create a whole new generation of exceptional learners.