Today's Tech-Savvy Kids
Different children acquire knowledge in different ways, as there are different learning
styles for all of us. Some of us learn visually, some are auditory, and some
are tactile. The same thing applies to our students. They each learn
individually and at their own pace. As a teacher of children in lower
elementary school I believe it is my job to provide an environment that
students can learn skills they will need to succeed and thrive in the 21st
century.
In my classroom I utilize different ways of integrating technology and engineering into my lessons and teaching practices. I work in Smart Notebook, which engages students physically, providing a tangible means of learning by doing. I also incorporate laptops as part of differentiated instruction. Students can get tailored lessons and activities according to their ability and academic needs. Video, music, film, interactive books and read-alouds are all components of my lessons throughout the year. But we also build and construct using real-world engineering concepts and principles such as "potential & kinetic energy" - for self=propelled cars, "tension" and "compression" - for bridge-building and "momentum" - for roller coasters. Students are provided with a problem to solve and are actually given the opportunity to try to figure out the answers on their own. I also believe in teaching students "HOW" to use the Internet safely. Digital citizenship is an integral part of my curriculum. Teaching children the norms of appropriate, responsible behavior with regard to technology is important especially in the lower grades. Keeping students informed of the rules of the Internet, the dangers and permanence is paramount. Technology plays a major role in my classroom and incorporates all learning styles however, I also believe in a balance. As with everything in life there needs to be a give and take. Children need to have time to work with technology as well as time away from it in order to develop their social and imaginative skills. |
Check out my Pinterest Board all about Integrating Technology and Education in Elementary Schools!
Visit my Smore page to check out more great websites that I use to teach Universal Design for Learning.
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Link to my Technology Philosophy |
Link to my Technology Portfolio |