Blog Post #1

I think that computers in the school system are important because technology is such a big part of today's culture. Children need to have exposure to technology as soon as possible because it will be so prominent in their adult lives. Technology in the school system is extremely important, however, there are many challenges that come with it. Like chapter one states, there could be financial, time, and cultural restrictions. It would be very expensive to give every student their own compatriot work with, so classes now get a limited amount of computer stations. Plus, with every classroom having a computer station, the Internet access slows down tremendously which takes away from the efficiency of computers and the student learning time. I, personally, have seen slow Internet access at my high school. It was very frustrating when I was trying to complete an assignment for class. Also, this chapter discusses the cultural bias in some schools and communities; specifically about how they would prefer to spend their money elsewhere, such as after school programs for working parents. I agree with the issues that this chapter has posed because I think that the lack of technology could slow down the learning process, as well as too much technology. Schools must find the right balance for their students. I still believe that technology in the classroom is important, but there is no doubt that there are issues as well.

As a teacher I would use computers to help organize my lesson plans, communicate with my superiors and my students' parents, and develop presentations to help support my teachings. I am a very organized person and I think that computers will help me keep track of everything I will need to be a successful teacher. I hope to learn how to quickly and efficiently use technology in this class. While I use technology everyday, it is still not my strong suit. I hope that this class gives me the confidence I need to be successful with technology.

I do agree with the term "digital native" as a whole, but I also feel like each generation becomes more and more familiar with technology whether or not you grew up with it. I am a "digital native" but I continue to struggle with basic technology, while my sister, who is six years younger, knows how to do anything she wants with technology. I think that the term is a grey area and that in a way we are all digital immigrants since there is always something new to learn. To be a "digital native" you have to grow up with technology. Throughout middle school and high school, even some in college, I have seen how there tends to be a disconnect in technology when it comes to students and teachers. Many teachers tend to stick with what they know, such as Power Point, but students have found a way to change that up without help from teachers, such as Prezi. While there can be a disconnect, I have also seen how teachers keep up with the technological advancements that keep happening. Many of my teachers used Twitter as a way to offer extra credit and projects done through video taping instead of papers. I think there will be a difference between me and my future students because there is always something newer and more advanced being invented. They will grow up knowing how to use it while  I will be learning how to use it.