Erika Shields

I wouldnt use the word impressed, but I was a little surprised with how much we
rely on technology for aspects of life other than social interaction. It has become a
huge part of our lives in most ways and I never noticed how far that extended.
Digital Immigrants are constantly astounded by the use of technology and I am as
well. Think about it: I read all the articles on a screen versus from a book, I am
typing this paper rather than scribbling on a lined sheet.

Technology is becoming a huge part of the classroom and I need to be prepared for
the 21st generation. I have identified with all the articles on some level, but the
Knowing Your Learning Target was the most relatable by far. I love how she
stresses the importance of having purpose. I didnt see this as much of an issue in
elementary and middle school but high school was at least 75% filler and busy
work. The worst part of all is most of the classes that come to mind were displayed
as upper level classes (advanced placement or honors courses). My hunch is
that classes like sociology allow more creativity or it depends on the teachers effort
level. Its also possible its a combination of both. The set lesson plan can make
having relatable lessons hard but as teachers we need to give effort to help our
students understand why we are telling them to do something. My senior year in
high school, I decided to take A.P. Literature. Even though the course itself was fine,
my teacher was clearly burnt out and left in the middle of the year. We spent a
whole semester doing busy work on books weve never read and a different
substitute every day. This article hit on the head with the Jane Eyre example how
essential it is to give meaningful work.
Even after reading all these articles, I dont think the purpose of education has to
necessarily change. Its more essential that we change how we view technology. As I
mentioned earlier, this upcoming generation is technologically savvy and we have
to follow that trend with them. They are being exposed to so much through screens
so we need to teach them how to use this new tool properly to learn.

The article, Top 10 Characteristics of a 21st Century Classroom hit all the
characteristics of todays students on the head. The teacher is becoming less of a

Erika Shields
kind-hearted dictator and becoming more of a kind-hearted guide. It also hits how
mutual respect is becoming a more common thing; its no longer the teacher knows
all but rather we learn from each other, collaboratively. Technology gives the
student an edge on directing their own learning. Computers, iPads, etc are
becoming more of a presence in the typical classroom which makes learning more
interactive and fun. As a whole, we are moving towards team work in the classroom.
The material change merely made me realize how much more I can trust my
students with learning. They can learn so much from themselves because of
technology.

As a prospective teacher, there are so many little things Id like to learn about
technology
and teaching. The main big thing Id enjoy learning is how to balance teaching and
keeping the basics of teaching while incorporating technology: example, learning to
write letters in
kindergarten or the reading center in a classroom.