What I find most confusing about technology is, once I figure out how to do something well, the technology changes and I have to start all over.
I remember my fathers first computer. It was an IBM that took up two desks. He told me it cost around $15,000. My father used it to help run his construction business in the1980's. Computers in the classroom were something that was unheard of, and typing (on a typewriter, not a keyboard) was an elective.
By the time I hit college (the first time around), there was a computer lab, but no one had their own computer. I took a computer class my freshman year. We were required to purchase 4 x 4 double density floppy disks. We were taught the basics of LOTUS, however, that did not stay around long. By the time I graduated from college (the first time) computers had become more prevalent. My dads two deck top computer had shrunk to a single desk and the speed was up ten fold. Throughout the 1990's I watched computers processing power double at what seemed to be a six month clip. It felt like I spent half my time updating my computer system. When I look at what I have on my desk today, compared with my first memories of my fathers computer, I am amazed at how far we have come in such a short time.
I dont look at a computer today as a luxury, but rather a necessity. Computers are very important and do serve a purpose in the classroom. The speed and ease with which computers allow information to be accessed, optained, and transfered as well as fundamental use are essentail to help prepare students for the future. To be able to compete in the work place, students must be computer literate. We in education are laying the ground work for the students success. We should be willing and want to use all tools to ensure that the student has the best possible foundation for success.
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I can definitely relate. Good recap of the evolution of the pc - I lived it with you. It's amazing our kids' iPods containing 1000 songs today are smaller than the 4.5" floppies we jammed into the IBM machine to run one - yes one - lotus 123 spreadsheet!! Wonder what tomorrow will bring!??!
ReplyDelete"What I find most confusing about technology is, once I figure out how to do something well, the technology changes and I have to start all over."
ReplyDeleteThis comment summed up my most predominant fear about teaching. Anytime I learn something new and fun and engaging, it becomes not new, not as fun as other programs, and not engaging for students. But I know, as teachers, we are expected to model lifelong learning so our students will also be lifelong learners..... so I guess we will be lifelong learners of technology.
So now that you know that you should want to teach and learn technology do you actually want technology in your class? Personally, I struggle with it. I know I should enjoy technology and sometimes I do. Other times, I feel like I am creating more work just to ensure I am using technology. I'm working on finding a balance.
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