Assessment 1 Week 2

Assessment #1 Week # 2

Rewrite

 

After some feedback and some self reflection regarding this assessment, it is apparent that my initial interpretation of this was wrong. I am taking the opportunity now to rethink what I wrote and edit my thoughts.

This activity of working in a completely new medium (Wikis) and discussing the use of mobile phones under the DeBono's hats scaffold was very eye opening and an interesting process.

First, working in a new medium - that being the Wiki- and navigating through the labyrinth that is a Wiki was an exercise in frustration and patience. Frustration simply because the Wiki idea was completely new to myself and patience because I was not going to let this beat me.

Second and most importantly was the discussion topic of Mobile Phones in the Classroom. What purpose to they serve (if any) and if they have a purpose where would they then fit into my future classroom? The DeBono method forced me to really look at all sides of the argument and consider another opinion. I can openly admit that initially, all I saw was the negative. Black and white (two of the hats incidentally) but amongst that were all the other arguments and considerations.

I believe -in general- humans are averse to change. Change is unsettling and the fear of the unknown really can play mind games. This applies to the idea of Technology (including mobile phones) in the classroom. I admit one of my initial fears is that of redundancy. Will my purpose as a teacher be superfluous? Can a machine, or a avatar do a better job than a living breathing teacher? People may scoff at this as being silly but think about it for a second? Is this possible?

 

 technology can only do so much. It can be transient and can become obsolete very quickly. What is a constant though, is the teacher in the classroom who across the world at this very moment and tomorrow morning will be putting the needs of their young people first, finding the best fit to ensure that everyone achieves more than they ever dreamed possible.
http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/teacher-blog/2013/jun/20/technology-not-replace-teaching-learning

I find this sort of article comforting and reassuring. My future classroom will encompass technology as it benefits and augments my students' learning. That may even include mobile phones (but I'll take some serious convincing!!) This weeks activity challenged my original bias' and for that I am grateful. I don't know it all, and I am here to learn and develop a new deeper understanding and respect for Technology and how it may assist me with my future as a teacher.