Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Wacky Wednesday's Weekly Windup...

Well, we just completed our second class meeting. I really enjoy these because I get to hear different views and opinions about certain topics regarding this course. The question we spent some time on was who really are the illiterate ones in this generation? People who do not know how to work on a computer and use it to his/her advantage really are the ones who are not empowering the children of this generation. This is the 21st century which is a technological generation. We need to focus on computer skills and what students can use to their benefit. However, with that said, we can not forget the basic skills that go back generations and generations. We can not overlook the fact that reading and writing are still and will always be the building blocks to understanding.
I believe that change is good and we should all embrace it. Literature and technology is something we need in our society! By incorporating the use of technology into the classroom, will only engage students more which will ultimately lead to comprehending and enjoyment. In this day and age, it seems like we are the ones having to keep up with the students, not the other way around!

The presentations on Ch 7 and 8 toight were great! I knew a lot of the information they covered, but still found it to be extremely informational and comprehensive. Group 1 talked about using back-up files, the different kinds that are out there and how to use them properly. They also discussed, as did group 2, the importance of protecting and safeguarding your computer. There are many harmful viruses out there that are "bogus" ploys that can ruin a computer forever. Group 2 focused on evaluating technology and how to go about it properly. Again, they emphasized on the need to be careful because some can be detrimental to a computer. How do we know if something is safe to use or open? Group 2 said that if it is from a governmental source or professional organization, then it is usually safe. They also talked about creating evaluations like rubrics, and webquests. Getting students involved in this process keeps them engaged and excited. One last point i want to focus on is the idea of some of the awful things that can happen to children on the computer. Just another reason to make sure you are informing them of all the right things to know when talking or searching online. Dont we all want the best for our students/children. It all starts with giving them information, which will ultimately lead to power!

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