I chose this picture because the information we obtain inside and outside of the classroom in this day and time is "wireless", right at our fingertips. A whole book we can read from a small device compared to a large book along with the ability to research almost any topic we want.
Leander begins Ch. 2 by giving us the example of Ridgeview Academy and how they struggled with contradictions between traditional schooling and ubiquitous (found everywhere) internet access. I thought it was interesting to see how one teacher described it as "You're openings Pandora's box (the internet) and trying to stick it into a different box (the school). I do believe the internet should have restrictions and not just completely open because there is too much on the web for children to see that they do not need too. Also I believe the social networking might distract students from academics (which they use their phones to do this while at school) yet if they are given open access maybe the feel of being unrestricted will give them a sense of accountability. This school "rewired"or closed off and anchored in ways that reproduced school space-time. Leander follows Hodas' insight. Hodas examined how technologies were as value-laden as school itself. This chapter takes an inside look at Ridgeviw Academy and their wireless journey.
This chapter makes it evident as I am teaching students my students I need to step out of the norm and try new things technologically with my students even though they are just in kindergarten. I thought is humorous when they referred to Ridgeview as a virtual kindergarten. I incorporate technology in my own classroom but I know I can apply more "new literacies" if I just take risks and try new things with them. I would love for all my students to have laptops (even Ipads or Ipod touches) so they could experience more of the virtual world (applying this chapter to my content area). My three year old loves to explore the Ipad and she learns from it while having fun along the way.
Great post! I am glad you used the phrase "take risks"! I believe that is the key solution for today's teachers. Yes, there are dangers and inappropriate content online, but if teachers were serious about incorporating technology then they should set the appropriate boundaries, take a risk, and proceed on. I felt like Ridgeview had such potential learning opportunities available since all the students had a laptop, yet they did not take any risks and really make the most of the learning tools that are available.
ReplyDeleteYes, I would encourage using iPads at the elementary level. I think one of the great things about iPads is that you can have students use apps, rather than just expose them to the entire web. That way you can ensure that they are going to be safe while still learning technological skills in an interactive way.
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