Time for Tech

[Stephanie Middleton]

My students review for a test using Quia, the LCD Projector and Eggspert! They LOVE it!!! And say the tests are easier cause they remember playing the game.

A couple of my students using Audacity to record their pieces of script for a moivemaker project we did over the Middle Ages.

I love using technology in my class. To those who know me this statement is no surprise. And I always try to make sure the technology I'm using is pushing my content forward and making it more meaningful. I don't want to just use tech, so I can say I used tech. But the one thing (as always for teachers) that can be prohibitive to using tech is...TIME! Especialy if it's a new technology. And you can always count on stumbling blocks.

BUT - least you think this blog is for complaining, I'm here to offer encouragement not griping. Even though it's time consuming and often frought with challenges (sometimes to the point you just want to cry), it is worth it!!!

I included the pics of my kids using just a couple of pieces of tech...and I will tell you (only a couple of kids in the first one knew they were being photographed) they get SO involved and engaged in what we're doing.

So I offer this week an encouragement to teachers who think they don't have TIME to add technology to their class. TAKE THE TIME! The impact is HUGE. I have high school kids adn they get SO excited like their young again. When I'm using technology my kids are more focused. They want to get their hands on it. It takes forethought, planning and prep...But once you muddle through the first round, the next time is SO much smoother. And you will find the more comfortable your kids become with using a technology (hardware or software) the easier its implementation.

Don't be overwhelmed. Take it slow. YOU use it first without the kids and figure out how it works, then when you're comfortable intro it to the kids.

I love it not only for for it does for my content, but my kids are gainig skills that will aid them their futures. Even if it's only a small thing they learn (like how to turn off a pop up blocker), that's a skill that can serve them in their real lives outside of school...

So take the time for Tech...you won't regret it:)

[Karen C. Seddon]

Stephanie,

You enthusiasm and encouragement is not only contagious in your classroom, it's got me fired up!

Thanks for all that you are doing.

K