Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Video Response

Each part of the video was interesting and thought provoking.  I want to comment on the role of young adult's online existence in the classroom.  I thought it was interesting to hear two different perspectives from teachers.  One teacher spoke of feeling out of touch with the technology that her students are so accustomed to.  Another teacher, who seemed to have more technological abilities, is willing to accept the changing atmosphere of the classroom as a result of advancing technology.  He brought up the point that for students to walk into a classroom without technology must feel like walking into a desert.  

This is a complicated issue with many sides.  I feel as though educators must find a balance in the middle.  A teacher who uses a computer as a resource in the classroom may better connect with students, but at the same time I feel it is important for students to take a break from the fast paced world of technology and get back to basics.  It is scary to think of young adults not reading books like they used to.  Also frightening is the issue of online cheating.  With so many issues already facing teachers today, this adds another complicated area.  What constitutes cheating now as compared to when we ourselves we in grade school?  How can we monitor student work with so many websites giving shortcuts or even answers?

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