Matarazzo+Final+Reflection

Katie Matarazzo In response to the principle I would say… Every day our world creates new technology that is being used in the workforce. Our future will depend on technology; therefore the younger generation needs to be well equipped to use it. I do not believe that students in schools should solely depend on technology while learning material because they still need to apply themselves and work hard to comprehend the information. However, technology will play a huge role in their lives so it is also important for young students to gain a strapping knowledge on how to use it. Computers have now been around for quite some time but there are newer programs and internet tools to help speed up learning. The internet offers tons of websites with information that goes beyond what a teacher has time to teach the students. I believe that the internet helps children learn in a more interesting manner because it gives them a break from listening to the teacher lecture. Also there are fun videos and games online that cover almost every subject and are great ways for teachers to assess the students understanding.  Aside from computers teachers can also use overhead projectors or smart boards to incorporate technology into their classrooms. Overhead projectors can either project a textbook on the whiteboard for the class to see and follow along or it can project a computer onto the board. This is a great visual tool for students to have while learning. It enlarges the texts and is a more enjoyable way for students to take notes rather than copying from a blackboard. Also the smart board is an interactive technological tool that either allows a student or teacher to use their finger as a mouse or requires a special marker to digitally write on. Technology can make learning easier and save time and can also benefit students with disabilities. Technology is going to be our future as well as the younger generation. It is our job as teachers to enforce the use of technology by integrating it into our teaching. ** From the beginning of this course I have had the same beliefs involving technology that I still have now. The difference between my reasons for technology then and now is that before this course I said technology was important because I thought that was the right answer to have, whereas now I have developed a better understanding as to the importance of it. This course has taught me to appreciate technology and the benefits it provides as well as giving me helping ideas and ways to incorporate technology into a lesson; even a math lesson. **