My Beliefs

From my own educational experience, I think it is wonderful that so much technology is coming into the schools. It is a great learning tool for students if it is used correctly. I have also seen in the classroom how it can be a great aid in teaching diverse students with different learning needs. Technology can provide visual information that is instant, accurate (if using reliable resources), and helpful in expanding students knowledge of the world around them. It can provide not only visual learning experiences but hands on and experimental experiences as well. I also think it is a great way for students to stay informed and organized with their assignments and connected to others at all times.
My concern from all of the good that comes from technology is that students may be using it as a crutch to their education. They are being exposed to the ideas of others so often that they do not form their own. One article also made the point that technology can lead to over consumption and loss of self control. I believe this to be true. People in general are getting too used to doing things fast. Getting things done and not really learning or experiencing what they should be. Technology can also limit the amount of personal interactions that students have. Instead of face to face conversations they may lose those social skills through online chatting only where they are staring at a screen. Although technology is definitely a very important part of education and can be very helpful it should not precede the interaction that comes from talking with, and learning from others. It should be used as an aid and resource only not a main component. In my classroom I would still want more class discussions, group work, written assignments, creative arts projects, and interactive learning experiences where they themselves are producing their own ideas and information rather then taking the ideas of someone else. As one article discussed children can loss their creativity from all of the access to technology because there no longer is a need for creativity when you can easily use it from someone else.
I believe that technology is important in the classroom but teachers need to be responsible for how much and in what form their students are using it. It is a great resource that needs to be monitored. How to use technology does need to be taught or it will cripple students later in their schooling because it has become expected. As a teacher I think it is important to teach typing skills to children at a young age and also the benefits of using programs such as web quest in which they can experience what they are learning.
I am grateful for technology and the many ways we can learn about and experience life through the many wonderful resources available!