When I look at my family at home I see that we are all “busy” with some technology “device” – playing a video game, watching a food recipe video on YouTube, learning a preschool counting lesson, learning on an online session with classmates, … and me? I’m watching NCIS on my Smart TV. How cool is all this? Actually when I do take notice of how we look as a family, we change it up. My granddaughters move away from their I-pads and role-play with their dolls. Then we adults sit in the living room and have a nice conversation.
Also,
I know that technology makes learning convenient and fast right at the tip of
our fingers. But I still like tangible textbooks. I want my grandchildren and
students to KNOW how to use the dictionary to know the meaning of a word, how
to use the phone book, how to actually use the table of contents in a book, to
cuddle up with a book and read, read, read.
I enjoy teaching children from different places and diverse cultures. We learn to respect each other, being sensitive to all cultures. We learn from each other. We can ask each other how to say, "Good Morning!", "Hello", and "Thank you!" in each other's language. There's even a phone app that helps to translate words and sentences. Technology does help to teach English Language Learners with numerous resources from the Internet. My goal taking this course is to master navigating into educational technology, especially to create meaningful ESL anthologies.
This is a great reflection, Mae! This generation is now more focused with the technology and age does not matter. From the youngest to the oldest member of the family, each one is paying more attention to their device whether it is for fun, or entertainment and for learning.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, Our world has come a long way with all these technology devices that takes a lot of our family time from each other. Everyone is on their device even at the dinner table. There are plus and minus to to using the technology for education, work, recreation, etc.
ReplyDeleteWith all the various devices available to manipulate, yes, everything is at one's fingertips. BUT . what happens when the power goes off and those same devices can't be used? For many it may seem like it's the ned of the world (take it away from them and a display ensues). I agree with having children go outside and be adventurous with nature, to talk to each other in a respectful manner minding others feelings.
ReplyDeleteThe dynamics in a home have a wide range of needs and wants and lately that 'entitlement' sense of being.
Technology is fantastic though it is time consuming in ways that takes away from the personal touch.
Great reflection! Certainly, technology does wonders, but it’s also important to know the basics in the event there is a power outage. Knowing the best of both worlds is important, so continue to navigate with technology, but at the same time, have a Plan B. Moreover, I also enjoy greeting others in the different languages. Embracing cultural diversity brings richness in one’s instruction. Good luck as you continue to empower your students!
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