Chapter 7 discusses a lot about how educational software supports and promotes problem solving and inquiry learning. The whole time when I was reading the chapter, I was thinking about the class discussion we had on Mine craft. Last week was the scholastic book fair at the school where I student teach, and all the boys in my class were buying this book called "Minecraft The Official Beginners Handbook" and I just though it was so ironic. The chapter mentioned that a computer software that allows students to use high order thinking skills is a indication of it being a good software to use, which had me thinking if playing "Mine craft" had an educational value. I can see how some would argue that it promotes problem solving. I personally love the idea of using computer games in the classroom. Students, like the little girl Rosie mentioned in the beginning of the chapter are fascinated by computer games. Using computer games can be seen as a motivation in any lesson, which will capture their attention. Like the chapter mentioned there isn't a profession that doesn't use computers or some type of informational technology. Using educational software will prepare students for when they get into the real world. I think it is very important for teachers to make sure that the video games or computer games they choose to use has educational value. I think it is also important for them to let parents know as well about which educational software's are beneficial or not.
Focus Question
Teachers usually are not allowed to add their own software to the school system network. Do you agree or disagree with this practice?
Do any of you use educational software in your classroom like kidpix? Is it beneficial?
Nena, I couldn't agree with you more as far as the educational aspect of software and games. They are definitely both motivational starters in any lesson. I believe that teachers should be allowed to add their own software to the school system network by permission from Administration. There are many different types of software and video games that should not be used within a school. If a teacher chooses to use specific software, then he or she needs to present the pros and cons in order for acceptance.
ReplyDeleteNo I never heard of Kidpix until now.. I actually just googled it to see what software you were talking about. I think I would use it for my lower levels since its a drawing program that's simple to use for the younger kids. It would be beneficial because the students could be creative and explore the different functions/tools on the software.
ReplyDeleteNena, I'm curious as to your own experience about adding software to school computers. In the school I am teaching at now, as well as schools I've been in for practicum experiences, teachers are encourage to seek out appropriate software and internet games to incorporate in their classrooms. In my current school, our technology teacher comes to classroom teachers asking for suggestions as to which games to include in his classroom too. Games that are a bit more challenging or complicated can be introduced in technology class through the tech teachers guidance, then we can use them in our own classrooms once students are able to work through them independently. I think this type of collaboration between classroom teachers and the technology instructor are key to a fluid integration of educational technology throughout the school.
ReplyDeleteHi Nena,
ReplyDeleteFor you first question, personally I agree that teachers should be allowed to add the software they consider to be appropriate softwares. Because the teachers know their students best, therefore the software they choose should be more effective to be used in the classroom.
Nena,
ReplyDeletei think i have to say that i agree with teachers not being able to add in their own software. i think that administration should know which programs their students are using and why they are using them. i believe that teachers can suggest new programs to administration and then if they think they are appropriate enough the teachers will be able to use it within his or her classroom.
Nena, I really enjoyed your post. I thought the connection you saw with Minecraft in your classroom was great and proved that that case study really is current within schools. I do think that teacher's not being allowed to chose their own gaming systems is good. I feel this way because some might take it too far or what might seem appropriate to some might be seen as inappropriate to others. Therefore with consent and approval all teachers and parents can be on the same page about what they want their children to be exposed to in the classroom.
ReplyDelete