Post # 1

Since Principles of Instructional Technology was scheduled as my first class at Ashland University I was unsure on what to expect.  After only a couple of weeks into the course I am pleased that it was scheduled early in my Ashland University coursework plan.  I believe technology is becoming more and more relevant in the classroom and it is important to be aware of what technology can offer.  The first two assignments were to create an information portal via the web and to create a newsletter.  I plan on applying both to my future classroom.  The information portal and the newsletter would be helpful for presenting information to my students and/or the student’s parents.    

At my current job at the Buckeye Ranch we supply children with opportunities to access our computer lab.  The computers have programs the children can work on that features games in the subjects of math, science, social studies, and English.  I am encouraged by how many of the children work on the program but at times I wonder whether they are actually taking in the information or are simply playing the game.  Regardless, I suppose at least they are playing games that have knowledge incentives. 

I believe there are many advantages to using technology in the classroom.  Technology may benefit in keeping the students engaged in the teaching material.  Presenting information in a variety of ways, opposed to the standard lecture, can keep the students interested.  I also believe that technology can serve as a helpful supplementary aid for students with disabilities.  Technology such as a computer or calculator can reduce the impact of a student’s impairment.

Some arguments of technology in the classroom could be that students may not realize the danger of posting information on the Internet.  When students are using a computer they should be informed on what they should and should not post.  Another argument could be that student may become too reliant on the technology.  For example, a student in math class that can work on problems with computers and calculators, but did not spend enough time working out problems by hand.