Week 5

This week we discussed internet and computer safety, as it relates to keeping computers free from viruses, spyware, and spam.  While none of this is new to me, it was a good reminder to do a diligent job of using protective software and keep it up to date.

Proper ergonomics and taking rest breaks were two good ideas that will help discourage health issues that could arise from prolonged computer usage.

One other idea, that was mentioned only briefly, was backing things up.  We can do everything in our power to keep our computers safe, but viruses and other malware will still get through sometimes.  Reliable backups are important to retain our data and prevent us from repeating our work, unnecessarily..

Week 4

This week we talked about safety concerns regarding students, however it was also clear that we must be concerned for our own safety as teachers.

We cannot afford to be oblivious because we function as legal guardians while students are under our watch.  Even when they aren't directly under our watch, we have the responsibility to communicate with parents and try to keep the learning environment safe.  Most of this discussion was focused on the online world.  It is easy to restrict use of the internet, but then you sacrifice some of its benefits as well.  "Work-arounds" are sometimes possible, but often clumsy.  "Safe" educational resources are typically more limited.  Potential risk factors are numerous and even something as seemingly benign as Facebook has the potential to cause problems, whether directly or through misinterpretation of information.  Perhaps compromises can be found in the future, but we are forced to err on the side of caution for now, both for our students safety and our own legal liability.

Week 3

During the last class, we discussed formative and summative assessment.  This discussion has carried on throughout the week.  Yesterday, with the preclinical teacher and last night with some dinner guests.  We all agreed that there is definitely value in both and they need to be collaborated in some way, but the general consensus was that formative assessment is greatly underused.  


My technology background is a case in point.  Myself and other IT colleagues are encouraged repeatedly to get certifications for various software packages.  This could even be tied to a bonus, but it is questionable how much real world benefit there is.  Most people taking the tests would just memorize the prep materials and pass easily, but when confronted with a real life scenario, they were often unable to solve the problem.  This is a shortcut for bosses who don't have the patience to assess the employee through other means.  Similarly, teachers can also be guilty of over-relying on standardized tests with their students.  Learning how to learn should definitely be a priority.

Week 2

Although there have always been the "haves" and the "have nots" when it comes to education, I do think the "Digital Divide" increases the gap even more.  The extent to which some schools are underfunded in technology is a huge handicap.  This, of course, corresponds with economic classes and the amount of local tax applied to each student's education.  Some environmental differences are (seemingly) unavoidable, but perhaps it is a question of extremes.

Teachers can be creative in the use of resources, but technology can undoubtedly provide a substantial aid to practicing reading, math, etc.  While some students can overcome the obstacles, a greater percentage may slip through the cracks just because budgets for these resources are lacking in their district/school.  Perhaps schools need to re-evaluate how funds are allocated and look more at long term cost savings (i.e. e-textbooks).  There are no easy answers, but this problem should not be ignored.  

Week 1

The use of technology in teaching will assist me in reaching each individual student.  As a volunteer, I have been able to work with individuals and small groups to promote learning concepts in both Math and Reading.  Teachers are able to stay on track with the entire class, while I devote special attention to some.  Similarly, computers can help provide individualized instruction, especially with tasks requiring repetition and immediate feedback.


Growing class sizes and the diversity among students are challenges that all teachers face.  Even volunteers and teaching assistants are not enough to always complete the task adequately.  Technology alone lacks a personal touch, but it does provide an aid to learning and helps students to stay on the same page.