Topic 4-YETC

Spending time in the YETC lab helped me learn about a lot of different technology available to me. I hadn't realized how many different features were available to use while I go to school. What was especially useful was learning how to use the technology in my classroom. For example, I learned how I can use podcasts to show real-life simulations of events that I can't actually bring into the classroom. I can also allow the children to experiment with the technology themselves so it is more meaningful for them. I also learned about online sites that show how different aspects of science work and how we can show that on the computer. I enjoyed being able to play around with it and becoming more comfortable with the technology. I would like to use some of these programs in my future classroom. I think that real-life hands-on experiences are great ways to teach and I want to use those as much as possible, but when that isn't an option I think using technology to simulate experiences is great. It allows children to experience many more things than they would be able to without it.

The generation of students that I will be teaching are growing up with a technology rich environment. The majority of students will have technology in their homes and have it available to them. I need to create lessons that meet those students needs and keep them interested while still challenging them. I learned that a lot of those needs can be met by learning more about technology myself, and then taking it back into the classroom. Today was a great opportunity for me to realize how many different options and resources there are for using technology in the classroom.