The Technology Enthusiasts' Argument

I found this chapter to be very insightful. I would have to agree with the two arguments proposed in regards to using technology in education.

We must be proactive in our approach to teaching our students about the progressive technology that is being implemented into almost every aspect of society today. They must be prepared so they can be successful when they leave the schooling environment and enter into the real, working world. I agree with Brown when he states that adults must master their computer skills in order to accomplish their future tasks. At this point, we are training adults but it is time to start the process early and begin integrating it into early education and building upon throughout their entire educational careers. There is a large gap in the innovative technology that is being introduced into society everyday and what we are teaching students. The technologies that schools have is outdated. It is like in the article when it states, "It is like teaching someone to fly a rocket ship by teaching them how to ride a bike." Our educational institutes must be better equipped to meet the demands of every changing technologies. For example in my brother-in-law's high school they have 3-D printers. This is what needs to be in place at every school so they can be trained and prepared for the technologies they will be encountering when they are out of school. The way we are thinking and communicating is constantly changing and we have to keep up. We have to teach our students the ins and outs of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and many more websites they will need to be able to navigate.

The second arguments, that there is a need for enhanced capabilities for educating learners is also essential in today's society. The "Just in time learning" model is very prominent in today's technological world. With a click of a button you can get the help you need. Whether it is a video off of YouTube or a help button on a program, it will get you the answers you need to troubleshoot your situation. You become your own tech support and by doing so, establish enhanced capabilities. Moreover there is the customization aspect in which the internet and technology become to your liking. Your preferences determine what you would like your technology to be. This is important for instilling enhanced capabilities for educating learners because it allows them to customize technology to the best uses for themselves and allows them to utilize their skills with the best customization.  There are many other aspects of this arguments such as games and stimulation, scaffolding and more.

I agree with the technology enthusiasts' arguments and that computer-based environments promise a revolution in schooling. In order to help our students succeed in this revolution we must prepare them with the best resources possible. We must help them be adequately prepared to take on the new technologies they will face and give them an edge to work with.

Reflection on an Integration to Technology Video

This video, An Introduction to Technology Integration, was very insightful. I agreed with the notion that technology is an educational tool that should be utilized. It should be used to enhance activities and to make them more efficient. I agree that if an activity can be done without technology it should be done so, however if technology can be used to better it, then it should be used in that manner. With technology becoming so prominent in today's society, it is important to keep our students up to date and relevant so they are not lagging in the world.
The video also showed footage of students working on various projects and creating different pieces. Through this they were able to express their ideas, thoughts and even learning as the speaker said. They also went on to say how when you create you are taking ownership of your learning and by doing so you are better reaffirming that information and translating into your own processing and understanding. This helps with the learning process because you are interpreting it through your own learning lens.
Lastly, I felt the part of being globally connected was very important in today's world. With so many things taking place all over the world, it is important for students to be able to be connected to it and gain a well rounded perspective. I am planning on strongly utilizing technology in my classroom and finding ways to incorporate it in an effective way.

Unexpected events.

It is not easy to change your life but when you find something worth the effort, the challenge becomes less strenuous. One thing I have found worth the effort is my marriage. Although it took me completely out of my comfort zone, I found myself wanting it more and more. My once inflexible demeanor became malleable and open to new suggestions. I wanted to be the person I felt she was worthy of being with. With that came the need to change certain aspects of my life. It sure wasn't easy, but when I visualized my goal, it all fell into place and I knew what I had to do. Not only did I know, but I was sure I would do it. I would change for her and I would make her the happiest person in the world, no matter what it took on my part.