1.Technology, when used correctly can be useful; however, one
should not become dependent on technology. As a teacher this is a challenge.
With calculators, the internet, smart phones, I-pads, and the mass availability
of this technology we are faces with the challenge of “why do we need to do
this.” I know I asked this question as a student “Why do I need to learn how to
do this when I can just use a calculator, computer, look it up etc….” and I
know that I will not be the last student to ask this question. It is imperative
for our students to know that while technology is useful and makes our live
easier it is to be used as such, not as a replacement for actual knowledge and
understanding. Anyone can plug an equation into a calculator, but unless one
understands why and how to use that equation the answer is completely
useless. That being said technology
allows us to increase our understanding in ways that were not possible in the
past. We have access to mass amounts of information literally at our fingertips
and for the curious mind there is no limit to what you can learn. The problem
is that the majority of people, and I am guilty, do not use technology to
increase our understanding or knowledge, but to update our facebook status or
tweet about the coffee we just had. As teachers we have the power to reverse
this trend and optimize the use of the technological advances that have been
made. We must inspire our students to increase their knowledge and
understanding and make use of what they have to do so.
2.As a product of the technology age I am used to and
comfortable with technology. We always had computers in our schools and in my
home, I have a smart phone that doubles as a computer, and I use social
networking (maybe more than anyone person should). I am not a computer wizard
and if my computer does not work properly there is a good chance that I will be
yelling at, but when everything is working smoothly I know how to use my
computer to get on the internet, use office, access different things within my
computer, and keep my computer clean and healthy. On a scale of one to five, one
being inexperienced and five being brilliant with computers, I would give
myself a four (Journeyman uses technology with competence). There is still
things I can learn, but I know enough to get through a lecture in a classroom.
3.While at WKU I have used or had modeled many different
technologies. The one that I have learned to rely on is the computer. I have
used the computer to take classes, do homework, notes in class, to analyze
data, and to read labs. I have also used the projector, microscopes,
calculators, smart boards, and smart pads. I have a TV interactive class and
two online classes. I have used my own personal technology to help, or hinder,
my attention in class. I have been exposed to many different types and ways to
use technology at WKU.
4.At WKU I have used
mostly the computer. I have used it both inside and outside of class. The
computer and knowledge of it is vital to success at WKU. I have used the Smart
board in one of my SMED 101 full teaches along with projectors. I have used
microscope in almost every lab I have taken along with an array of different
lab technologies. In my math classes I have used calculators to help me ( the
math impaired ) to get through the class. I have become dependent on multiple
technologies at WKU.
