Journal #5

Journal #5

Connecting Depth and Balance in Class
Kuhn, Matthew S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading, 36, Retrieved August 6, 2008, from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=August_No_1_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4077&ContentID=21318&DirectListComboInd=D

In the article Connecting Depth and Balance in Class, the author explores the technology in education and how it has improved education at all levels. In a traditional classroom, many teachers were using drill and practice techniques, in which the teacher would present information, and then the students would regurgitate this information through boring and repetitive practice sessions. Not only is this strategy ineffective for most types of learners, but it makes students think that school is “boring”. New technological tools can advance education by addressing the needs of all learners and add depth to all lessons and information presented. New learning software has been introduced in classrooms in the place of the drill and practice techniques that were adapted from research in the neurological sciences regarding how the brain retains information. Other technology tools such as blogging increases student’s social awareness and improves verbal and linguistic performance.

Question 1: What about second language learners? Would tools like blogging be effective?
I think that second language learners could benefit from technology tools as long as they are implemented correctly. I think that language acquisition will occur more naturally if the student is engaged, rather than just copying down some text from a book or reciting words that they do not comprehend. For an advanced English language learner, I believe that blogging would be a very effective tool. Not only is language modeled for them directly on the blog, but they can get feedback on their work from peers and teachers.

Question 2: Why is there so much resistance to the technology if it is so effective? How do I overcome this?From what I have seen in both my educational experiences in the classroom, and my participation as an educator, there is an alarming amount of resistance to technology. There are very few teachers that are practiced and knowledgeable in these tools, and therefore they are set in their ways and feel like the methods that they are using are sufficient. I think it is important for young people like myself to be a technology leader at my school and within my district. I was not aware of all of the free and amazing technology that is available to educators, and I am amazed that it is not being taken advantage of. I think once teachers understand and are comfortable with the technology, they will be thrilled to introduce it into their classrooms and will discover all of the benefits of being a digital-age teacher.