Problem-solving using computers:
Acquiring problem-solving skills is essential to have when completing any school work. The steps taken towards problem-solving are also beneficial in real world problems as well. I agree with the textbook explaining real world problems are more complex than 2x2=4 and you often to deal with a give and take type of scenario (Maloy, Verock-O’Laughlin, Edwards and Woolf (2013). Many computer programs and games give children the same type or real world simulation. One option they choose might affect a future choice. I agree these are important skills to have. As educators, we are preparing the students for the real world and job market which do not give you road maps on how to solve every problem you are faced with. Many of us play online games all the time online, through a game console, or on our mobile phones. It would be beneficial to take the new generation’s entertainment and turn it into a learning opportunity that will build on skills that will used over and over.
Visual Thinking:
A blank page is imitating for a student of any age or grade. Having that mental block and not knowing where to start can be frustrating. Many students rely on the instructor for that push on where to start or never do the project due to the overwhelming anxiety of not knowing where to start. There are so many online tools now that help solve that gap. The use of visual tools is very important especially in elementary schools. Concept maps and outlines for any project are great for older grades and higher education. These visual tools like Kidspiration are also interactive as well, which will reach every type of learner being able to hear it, see it, and try it hands on. I think these tools need to be used to the fullest when possible, I plan on using them in my own classroom.
Electronic Communication:
Although it is impossible at this time to reach every parent electronically the limitations are growing smaller. Reaching your students beyond the classroom or the students being able to revisit a lesson you just taught would be amazing. Being able to record all the notes taken that day and saved electronically gives every student the opportunity to access them anywhere anytime. It would be amazing as an educator to instantly communicate to parents via e-mail and sending out information they need. This eliminates the chances of something getting lost or miscommunicated. As a future educator, I plan on using this form of electronic communication as much as possible. The benefits of accessing the information from me or the school will be so valuable and help the students and parents. Communication online goes beyond the short classroom time and every teacher I think will agree there just seems to never be enough time.
Resources:
Communicate - Poster by nmlyon22. (n.d.). Retrieved May 29, 2015, from https://www.canva.com/design/DABSYYjOL3g/pL0cICwgTsA2pUHpl4ZUFA/edit
Kidspiration - The visual way to explore and understand words, numbers and concepts. (2015). Retrieved May 28, 2015, from http://www.inspiration.com/Kidspiration
Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin, Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
