My Blog-My Vision 4/3

Some patterns I witness in regards to the success and failure of technological innovations with such obvious potential for empowerment are the use of the computers in the classroom, the internet, and the use of various software programs. In every classroom on my campus we have at least three computers for student use, but for the amount of time in the classroom these are rarely used. If students were able to use these computers to search for their own interest or projects then I believe more students would be engaged in the learning process. Secondly, educators and students need to know how to use the internet and derive accurate/inaccurate information. All to often people accept what they find on the internet as fact without checking to verify the validity. As educators we need to empower students to find accurate information so the internet can empower students and teachers in the learning process. Finally, with all the software programs available we rarely give students the option to decide how they want to complete a project. I have seen mandated outlines given to the students on how they are to complete the project, but if we allowed them to choose (moviemaker, powerpoint, word, word art, etc.) there is no telling how much more interest the students would take in the process. When the students’ interest peaks then the teacher becomes the facilitator.

Perception One
The fundamental role of computers in the classroom is to extend capacity of teachers to provide individualized tutoring to learners, thus compensating for the disparity in each individual’s capacity to achieve. I selected this perception because the teacher should become the facilitator in the classroom and allow technology to be used to the learner’s needs.

Perception Two
As the third millennium begins, it is evident that the development of digital technology has had, and will continue to have, a profound, pervasive impact on the course of global civilization. With easier access to technology the information world is at the fingertips of each student. News is brought to us immediately over the internet and students can learn about what is happening in other countries. We need to embrace these developments with technology in order to be successful in global civilization.

Perception Three
The mind coupled with a computer infinitely amplifies its capacity to perform the basic cognitive functions. Yet, there is no configuration of microchips that replicates the intricate, vital interface between mind and emotions-a basic limitation of computers. Even with easy access to technology we have to develop trusting relationships with our students. If this trust is not there then we only hinder the learning process, if not stop it completely. In order to become the facilitator I believe we have to capture the student’s trust before we get him/her to learn.

Perception Four
Computer technology has been adapted to amplify the capacity of professionals in virtually every aspect of society-with the exception of the teacher. Rationalizing this reality becomes increasingly difficult, since teaching and learning is an information-intensive process. I worked in a couple of the big four accounting firms before going into education and I found that in the business world professionals use a couple technological applications consistently. However, in education there is a multitude of technological resources available to the teachers and to the students. With so many technological applications to use many teachers are either unaware or don’t know how to use the technology. As educational leaders we have to do a better job of introducing this technology to teachers and providing time for them to practice with it.

Perception Five
The new literacy-interactive multimedia-offers teachers the opportunity to improve the fidelity, the relevancy, and the accessibility of the information driving the teaching-learning process and thus enhance student achievement. Many children entering our schools for the first time have been using interactive multimedia since they were two or three years old. This interaction with video games, the internet, and hand held electronic devices captures their attention. This single innovation, if used correctly, has the opportunity to greatly enhance student achievement.

Perception Six
There is ample evidence that after more than a quarter century of high expectations, dedicated effort, and substantial expenditures, computers have failed to improve what happens in the classroom. Additionally, it appears there has been no serious attempt to analyze and thereby learn from this failure. I disagree with this perception. Many of the younger educators have grown up with this technology and implement the available technological resources into the learning process. Furthermore, I feel the use of technology on any campus is a reflection of the technological beliefs and resources of the district and campus administrators. I’ve seen many campuses improve what happens in the classroom by using technology with the students and their parents.