Sunday, May 10, 2009

Week 1 Reflective Essay

Reflection #1
The article written by Reigeluth and Joseph is one in which I can relate to at this point in my career. The school in which I teach at is driven mostly on test scores. As a middle school teacher I am highly advised to teach mastery and to do so by using as much technology as possible. I currently work at a charter school and we are constantly competing with public schools for student enrollment. Competition with public schools means that we are always trying to improve student test scores even if it means constantly switching methods of instruction. I am a big proponent of technology in the classroom because I have seen a rise in test scores in my classroom over the last several years by using more technology on a daily basis.
Neil Postman states that “Any problems that schools cannot solve without machines, they cannot solve with them”. I think technology enhances classroom instruction but it does not solve social problems in schools. Technology in my classroom lures students in because they feel that it is more interesting. Students have interests in various technologies such as iPods, cell phones, computers, and video games. When used properly these devices can be used to enhance instruction however, using technology in the classroom does not solve behavioral issues. In regards to Postman’s article, I feel as if technology is important but it is not the solution to many of the problems facing schools today.

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