Some Reflecting...
It has been five weeks since I asked the question: How will reading intervention change with 21st century learning? How will technology (ie: eBooks, podcasts, computers) affect reading strategies in students? After researching online, reading different articles, and reflecting on my own practice I am still not sure that I have a solid answer. It is nearly impossible to predict how technology will continue to advance and influence educational practices in the future. While the benefits of technology in the classroom are plentiful, I am still skeptical of our reliance on technology. I am not convinced that should forgo memorizing phone numbers, dates, or proper spelling because technology remembers it for us. However, in terms of reading intervention, I am optimistic that technology can help improve students’ reading levels and teachers’ effectiveness if it is used correctly. Technology can not take the place of an educated teacher or an involved parent but it can be used to reinforce and support student learning. With the use of technology, students can listen to audiobooks, practice phonics skills, and improve reading comprehension. Teachers can also improve their lesson planning, instruction, and assessment by incorporating technology. Technology in the classroom requires a management system whereby students understand and view computers, iPads, and tablets as learning tools instead of toys. I believe limiting or avoiding technology in the classroom is a disservice to our students. It is necessary to incorporate the use of technology in schools in todays society. Students must be prepared to work and live in a digitized world. Students are also often motivated by and engaged in the use of technology. Teachers should do their best to incorporate this technology in their classrooms to connect with student interest. For student learning to be most successful, a balance is still needed between computer use and social skills. Physical activity, parent involvement, communication, and empathy among peers are just some examples of student needs that cannot be met with the use of technology. Teachers should take time to learn about all of learning tools that support literacy strategies in the form of technology. If these tools are used along with effective teaching strategies, technology can help improve students’ reading development.
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Technology & Aboriginal Content For another PME class, I have been focusing on increasing Aboriginal content in our guided reading program. My classroom currently uses books from the Circle of Life literacy program. These paper books had me wondering if there are any apps or technology tools that can incorporate Aboriginal reading content in my classroom. Through my research I found four picture books funded by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. I found these to be the most intriguing as Saskatchewan is the province I teach in. All of the books are free and available for download on iTunes and IOS. 1. Askî and Turtle Island 2. Nipi and Mother Earth 3. Kon and the Circle of Life 4. Tate and the Flyers Students listen to and interact with the stories through the tablet or computer screen. The tradition of oral storytelling is very important in First Nations and Métis culture. This is how language and traditions have been passed on for many years. These stories and the knowledge they hold are now preserved using technology. The books audio recordings were done by community educators and Elders, which preserves the oral history for future generations. All of the books are available in five different languages: English, French, Cree, Dene, and Michif. The stories are grounded in First Nations and Métis holistic perspectives on learning. All of the stories incorporate traditional beliefs and perspectives. Through the stories students learn about the many beings that live together on Earth, how all beings are interconnected, the Circle of Life, and the Medicine Wheel. These stories are a quick and easy (and free) way to combine Aboriginal content and technology in the classroom. I plan to download them now and use them during a listen to reading or technology station during literacy centers. |
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