Monday, October 20, 2014

Week 3 Reading

#3
Is technology making education easier?  Software such as voice recognition may be the future’s way of “writing” papers.  Note taking software may replace a notepad and pencil with a tablet and a stylist.  In the not so distant future many other kinds of technology will be introduced into our classrooms.  However, what is the purpose of the technology?  Is it to make studying easier, more fun, or is it simply something the students will want to do?
Already software such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel has changed the lives of students and teachers for the past 20-15 years.  The days of handwritten papers and hand-drafted spreadsheets, for the most part, are in the distant past.  PowerPoint has allowed teachers to throw away their growing collection of handwritten transparent sheets and hot overhead projectors.  Now the entire overhead screen can be filled with color and bold, crisp font.  Graphics such as maps, photos, and videos can also be added to highlight the lesson.  This software has also given students the ability to give presentations as well. 
A lot of technology can be used to cater to the visual learner.  There are many photo editing, clip galleries, and graphic-centered software that can aid a teacher to enhance their lesson with great visuals.  This includes the use of videos into lessons.  Videos are not only beneficial to visual learners, but also make what is being taught relevant when students see what they are being taught in live action.  

Technology doesn’t have to stop in the classroom.  Teachers and/or school districts can setup class or grade webpages.  These webpages can include what each subject is covering, homework and project assignments, a calendar of events, etc.  This kind of technology is beneficial to teacher and students.  Students can go online at any time to see when assignments are due or to print out a study guide for an upcoming test.  A webpage can also allow parents to understand what is going on in their child’s classroom.

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