I am so excited to teach using the many different technologies available for presentations, research, accessibility, and the possibilities of international interaction. However, I wonder if it will become socially isolating from the people that are sitting right next to you. Because computers are designed for one user I think it would be difficult for younger children to learn equally while sharing a computer or doing small group work on a computer. I am just worried that social networking and various forms of technology are so individual that when they are not being used for bullying or "group think" they become isolating for students that are not naturally extroverts. What do you guys think? Is technology socially stunting?
The secret may be the placement of technology. I was considering the idea of a blog in place of the daily journal used in many classrooms. However, like in our daily lives, students need to learn how to separate themselves from technology. Computer based brainstorming should complement, not replace group problem-solving in lesson plans.
ReplyDeleteI plan on using technology every day in my courses. Kristen, you are smart enough to figure out how to use your iPhone to help your kids learn. Your going to be teaching children " Technology Social Skills" SUCH AS SHOUTING!!! or how to start an effective communication line via messenger or text..... The kids will be yours to mold and make into little technologically advanced angels.
ReplyDeleteit's all of the above
ReplyDeleteThe key to all of this is balance. If you think it is too much, then don't use it as much. However, it sure can streamline tasks and make the classroom much more interesting.
ReplyDeleteOh, the back was scratched. Please return the favor.
ReplyDeleteI think that a healthy balance is a must. I think that technology can serve a great purpose, but too much technology could also promote children to become reliant on the devices.
ReplyDeleteI think it can be socially stunting, and at some point there's not a lot a teacher can do about that. I hope to be able to find a way to keep a discourse going between my students in the classroom and whatever they do on their social networking site, is out of my scope.
ReplyDeleteYes, like I mentioned on Jason blog, too much technology can create a world full of hermits unable to function in the real world.
ReplyDeleteHopefully we can create an engaging enough classroom that all the little hermits technology has created want to come out and play!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great question Kristen! I think that technology is great for adding dimension to the classroom. However, I think that relying strictly on technology can isolate certain students - especially if it is not their preferred learning style. While it is important to implement technology, I believe it should never replace face-to-face interaction or student collaboration.
ReplyDeleteAs with all group assignments, each child needs to be held accountable for contributing to the group. If you combine computer work with other socially engaging activities I think you would have a great classroom.
ReplyDeleteYou make a great point Kristen. I agree with the other comments that there needs to be a good balance in the classroom between using technology as a teaching/learning tool and providing socially engaging activities. From a social standpoint, I would argue that technology has become somewhat isolating. I've noticed a decline in my own social skills during the last few years. It's gotten so easy to have a lengthy conversation via text or to interact with people on facebook, yet having those same conversations and interactions face-to-face can be intimidating for some.
ReplyDeleteTechnology can become isolating if we let it, and that mean to us as teachers every bit as much as for our students. Over use of technology can be just as damaging as the refusal not to use it. We as teachers need to set the example and balance our use of the "fun toys" as well as the old fashioned pencil and paper.
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