Second Class BLOG

It may seem ridiculous that after two classes I think that I am more comfortable with technology, but I do.  After going over the BLOG and WIKI last night I realized that trying can lead to knowledge.  In addition when I heard Dr. Ransom say “nobody showed me how to blog I just kept messing with it until I got it.”  That is key.  Knowing ahead of time that I can’t do any real damage makes me more comfortable exploring these new technologies.

The programs for young children that we were showed towards the end of class were really amazing.  I wonder if anybody in schools or that has children in schools has seen any of these programs being used?  Ideally every child would have access to these types of programs, however the cost seems astronomical.  In a world where teachers have to purchase supplies for their  classrooms where does the money come from for this type of teaching tool?  Plus at what age is it appropriate for students to be on the computer and not using the tools of the “old days”?  There will always be a need to read and write.  If the technology prevents youngsters from mastering these skills they will not be as successfull.  As we enter the world of teaching we must remain vigilant and teach students the basics then have technology creap into their lives when appropriate.

On Tuesday night I had the oppurtunity to watch a program on PBS about the internet and the youth of today.  There was some very scarry stuff discussed relating to CyberBullying.  In the extreme case presented the young man actually killed himself.  Once the father was able to break into his online accounts post-mortem he found that his son was not only bullied but also encouraged to take his life.  In one disturbing post someone wrote that he had talked about it long enough and it was about time he went through with it.  He did, that night.  There was also good stuff discussed about the internet but it remains clear, it is up to parents, teachers or any trusted adult to monitor the happenings on the web.

Scarry First Class

Welcome to the future. 

I feel like Rip VanWinkle waking up in a new world after sleeping for a real long time.  In high school I took typing and that was the extent of the computer age.  By the time I finished college in 1997 we were writing papers on the computer and using the internet to look at naked people.  Ten years later and technology is blowing my mind.  With the phones, musical technology, internet, e-mail, this blog thing and stuff that the average five year old knows about and I don’t.  At least I am still taller than the five year olds.  I don’t fear technology as much as I can’t afford it or keep up with it.  However the days of waiting for the return of typewriters and face to face conversation are over.  I need to be tech savvy in order to help the students I hope to teach one day be successfull.  Even if in my heart of hearts I still think kids should spend way more time playing with the cardboard box that the computer came in. 

I am excited about this course and the new technology I will be exposed to.  The first night of class however made me feel a little old.  I am pretty good with my home computer (PC), but these Macs are pretty amazing.  I was actually struggling with the mouse.  Every time I touched it it was as if something happened.  Dr. Ransom I ask that you be patient with me and understand that this is new to me and most other people over the age of 30.  As the son of a true immigrant I now know how my father felt some 53 years ago when he came to this country.  As I navigate my new world I will be looking to you to be a patient and gracious host.