It seems as if after every CI 556 class, I walk away feeling more impressed and inspired with what the world of technology has to offer the language classroom. To such an extent that I really consider purchasing a megaphone to shout "It's out there, we can do it!" from the rooftops. So in case I totally lost you on that last part, several of my and my fellow classmates' blogposts address the fact that as educators we need to create an environment where our students are prepared for the real-world outside the classroom. This world is filled with tons of technology. I considered possible reasons why teachers might avoid embracing the integration of technology in their classrooms and came to the conclusion that perhaps, in the majority of cases (not including the lack of resources), ignorance or lack of knowledge regarding technology, applications, software, websites and gadgets exists as opposed to mere hesitation or fear of change on the part of the educator. But in some way, these educators cannot really be blamed. Where would they even begin to look for the technology to be used in the classroom? There are so many out there and it takes time to find the ones that are appropriate for what you want to do. However, I also came to realize that the more you are familiar with what is out there, in other words, the more you are exposed to what might be possible to use, the easier your searches for appropriate applications, websites, software and gadgets become. This might sound contradictory, but all I am actually saying is that yes, initially it takes time and effort to familiarize yourself with the resources available, but after a while, you know how to search for these sites, applications and software and the initial time it took to search is cut way down.
So then for this week's blog, I wanted to see what was happening in the technology world, apart from nanotechnology, solar wind power turbines and cars that could potentially drive themselves, and I stumbled upon these three things that I thought you might find interesting as well.
1) According to a New York Times article, written by Audrey Watters, Bill Gates announced that his foundation proposes to invest $20 million for the development of technology for educational purposes. Well, that's pretty exciting news for this educator, I can't wait to see what these grants that range from $25,000 to $750,000 will deliver. According to the article,
"proposals are due Nov 19 with the winners to be announced at the end of March 2011. And while this first round will be aimed at developing technology tools and projects for higher education, the next round, according to the Gates Foundation, will address the needs of students in grades 9 through 12"
An important requirement to be met in order to receive the grant is that these new technologies should aim to increase the use of blended learning where face-to-face interaction with the teacher is combined with online learning. It thus seems to me that technology developers understand the importance of the educator being present in the learning process, and perhaps the debate of whether a teacher is actually necessary is laid to rest (well, for a while at least)....Whoohoo, new technology for educational purposes...coming soon!
2) Also in the New York Times, Sarah Perez reports that Windows is releasing the Windows 7 Phone. This is Windows' response to the iPhone, which not only has the normal features of smart phones, but also delivers Twitter and Facebook updates, internet news, photos uploaded by friends etc. as a standard feature (as news feeds on the home screen). The phone can also connect to the Xbox, (for what it is worth). The developers of this phone promise that it will be the most personalized phone on the market. In addition, Microdoft Office software is also integrated into the device.
It sounds to me more like a mini computer. If this is truly the case, and it contains all the features as suggested, then perhaps providing each child with their own 'computer' [phone]would be even easier than previously anticipated? Or am I way too enthusiastic about this again?
And the third bit of news again relates to cell phones.
3) Apple has decided to include Verizon as a network provider. Thus, increasing availability of the iPhone to most carriers. Again, with the apps on this phone, which almost, really, does have the potential of a computer, language learning (including literacy) is available on the go, non-stop, everywhere.
Surely, we as educators cannot be stuck teaching with the backboard and a piece of chalk only? Most learners (well especially high school and older) have cell phones. Soon the normal cell phones will be the smart phones. If lack of resources is one of the major hindrances for integrating technology into the language classroom, then surely making use of resources that are available such as cell phones should be no problem.
Any takers on this idea?
Leandi, I'm glad you brought up the topic of cell phone use in the classroom. From what I recall, we were going to possibly discuss this topic this semester. I was first shocked to learn this. Besides a calculator, I couldn't think of anything that a phone had to offer. Then it I remember cell phones have cameras which allow us to take photos and video. If a teacher wanted the students to take pictures/video for a lesson, it would be so much easier for the students to use their phones rather than have to check out cameras. I do believe that it might prove to be difficult to get the media off the phones because not everyone may be allowed to send picture messages. I'm glad you brought this topic up and I hope we discuss it in class. I still have some questions about the use of cell phone use in classrooms. I'm also very excited Version will be carrying the iPhone. I'm already saving my money for it!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post and one that makes you think about all the possibilities. I am looking at the grant proposal - thanks! Bill Gates has certainly put his money back into education, we can't deny that! We will discuss cell phones a bit in class, but that entire idea of a "mini" computer is coming true I think. In most smart phones, what can't it do? Very interesting issues to think about -- glad you are making connections in the course. Know it is a bit "elementary" in K-6 content taught, but you can stretch and think about how these tools can impact higher grade levels!
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