Week 10

The most valuable thing I came away from the video presentation was the knowledge that several technologies can be used naturally and effectively in a classroom unit for younger children. For example, in the video “I Love Spiders”, the teacher of the class in Virginia incorporated the following technologies into her class’ unit on spiders: audio and video presentations, disposable cameras, and the internet (relaying pictures and information between two classes using a website). I was impressed by how naturally all of these technologies fit the subject matter and made for a more interesting unit. If I had been a student in that class, I think the technologies used would definitely enhance my learning and make me excited about the subject matter. I also thought this was a great example of how more than one technology can be used to enhance learning. The technologies were used in giving background information, in a hands-on activity that allowed students to gain firsthand knowledge both in the area of using specific equipment as well as the content area being taught, and then in a larger-scale endeavor that reinforced knowledge gained by allowing students to share their knowledge with others. I would love to find ways to use technology like this in my future classroom. I believe that trying to think of activities that would enhance both knowledge of technology and knowledge of the content area would be more effective.