Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts

After watching the video on Vicki Davis and her classroom, I realized some of the positives for using technology in a classroom. Although, I got some good ideas for using technology to teach, I still stand firm in my beliefs that technology should not rule the classroom. Now, I know that we are growing and things are simply just not the same as they were when were in elementary school, but I think that some teachers should teach without a major technological influence.

Vicki Davis teaches her entire class on the computer. I heard her say they use google docs, they blog, and even play an online avatar game. I agree that for a student this is very cool. I found that by using these programs with older children that it would be a good way to keep them entertained in the classroom. Because when we think about it, what do kids do when they go home? They either get on the computer or play video games. Therefore, having a very technologically advanced class would be a smart idea. Another pro for using technology is that students will be prepared for almost any job when they get out of school, because even now almost every job requires you to have some computer skills. In addition, Vicki used the internet to connect her students with others throughout the world. This is a great way to culture your students and have them interacting with other kids.

Now, I know that those things sound great but I feel that there are also many down-sides to this technological class. For one, what is the point of the avatar game? From what they showed on the video it looked just like a video game the student would play at home. I personally just do not see what these students are learning from this game. Secondly, since our students are already constantly using technology outside of school, we should teach them other ways to learn and have fun so they can be well-rounded individuals. Finally, have your students write letters to pen pals, this will keep them cultured as well, and they get to practice writing correctly.

In the end, there are many ways to teach, and each teacher will find what works for them the best. Vicki Davis found that the computer and technology worked best for her and her students, I just happen to believe that there are better, more affective ways to learn than by using computers. But as we know, the most important goal we have as teachers is to make sure our students learn and can succeed when they get into the world.