Today, many businesses have come to depend upon technology to increase efficiency, reduce overhead, and maximize competitive advantage. However, Collins cautions that technology should not be regarded as a potential panacea for all that ails a company.
In a blended learning school, Brilla will be blessed with technology at our finger tips. However, technology is NOT a substitute for a teacher. What do you think the biggest advantage of having technology int he classroom will be and how do you see yourself using the data the computers will produce
At Brilla, technology is the biggest tool we have to help close the achievement gap because it empowers students to learn. Technology helps us manage limitations in understanding and reinforce instructions. Through use of smart phones, podcasts, video and multimedia we provide students with visual and hands-on experiences that stimulate learning, understanding, responsibility, independent work, and a sense of triumph. As students become proficient in the use of technology they can help others and thus develop leadership skills. They also learn word processing skills which they will use throughout their academic life and in the work place.
ReplyDeleteIt is even more helpful for at risk students because they are only two or three “clicks” away from new experiences such as virtual field trips or writing to students in different countries. Technology in the form of tutoring or skills learning programs make learning fun because they showcase age appropriate graphics, music, and colorful animations to stimulate young minds. Students have fun while learning. They are encouraged to develop a positive attitude towards learning because computers are less threatening to them especially if they have already had bad experiences in other schools. Most importantly, technology helps to increase the quality of instruction and help students increase their achievement levels.
Ms. Ortiz,
DeleteYou are absolutely right about how important it is to keep children enthusiastic about learning! WIthout that enthusiasm, students begin to agree that learning is "boring" or not "worth" it. By keeping our students constantly engaged and stimulated, we will be able to keep them on track to higher education and achievement. Thank you for your reflection!
The real advantage of having technology in the classroom is the ability to tap into multiple learning modalities and create a multi-sensory approach to education. Since all students exhibit different learning profiles, technology in the classroom helps differentiate instruction across multiple levels, giving students the highest possibility of learning and retaining information. Technology also increases engagement and time on task because students generally enjoy using technology in the classroom and feel empowered as learners (while also buying into the illusion of choice technology can offer). Technology will act as support to classroom teachers because students will receive extra instruction at their independent level in a way that is differentiated.
ReplyDeleteHowever, it is crucially important to remember that technology is not a substitute for strong Tier 1 instruction provided by classroom teachers. Technology can aid in the strong deliverance of materials because it can provide in the moment data that reflects students’ academic levels, leading to daily modification of plans in order to meet students’ needs. If we utilize the data that we receive from iStation and other programs to supplement our instruction, our scholars will have much greater access and exposure to the materials they’re working on. If the data reveals that the student is having a difficult time with cause and effect, during guided reading, classroom teachers can provide more at-bats for cause and effect in a small group.
My biggest takeaway from the Collins’ caution is that in order to provide the strongest instruction possible, we need to view technology as a resource and not as a replacement for strong instruction and teacher implementation of data.
Ms. Barry, I had a similar takeaway from the word of caution regarding technology in "Good to Great". Technology can never replace good teaching because technology is not our hedgehog. Even though the debate is still going at what our hedgehog IS, I know that implementing technology is not what we strive to be the "best in the world at." We want to be good at it, sure, but it will not drive our every decision. It will support them.
DeleteThe biggest advantage of having this plethora of technology in the classroom will be the ability to mold the material to the learning of each individual student. This technology will further help us scaffold our lessons and tailor to the needs of each student. While we will have time to allow students to explore technology on their own, we will have freer time to instruct students individually on any difficulties or questions they may have. Furthermore, we can challenge students through technology, as they begin to master lessons, technology can pose questions that will be more difficult and require longer processes, but truly challenge them.
ReplyDeleteWith that, this is the reason why technology is a great supplement but would be a terrible substitue. In my opinion, teachers instruct and teach the original content, they understand their students on a personal level and know how to best instruct them. They deal with the challenges of introducing each student to new material. I believe that technology is a more check for understanding, practice, and product to provide examples. This is exactly when one-on-one instruction is needed.
The data we as teachers will receive from technology I believe will be huge. In terms of dreambox and iStation, we will be able to better understand what specific aspects of a lesson a student doesn't understand as well as how the best learn new material. If a student is underachieving on tests or homework, but it's because they only don't understand one particular topic, we will see that and be able to correct it.
Mr. Larsen,
DeleteI agree that technology is more of a check for understanding rather than a substitution for teachers. The feedback we receive from the various programs will allow us as teachers to best address obstacles that our students face individually. I also agree that the technology will be able to transform our lessons and inspire our students to work harder.
There is no substitute for quality instruction provided by a classroom teacher. Technology is not a substitute, but it is an effective tool that will enhance students and teacher learning. Technology is another resource in the classroom that helps gives students exposure to the skills that were covered during instruction. It is also a resource that appeals to all learning modalities and provides another form of differentiated instruction for the students.
ReplyDeleteOur technology will allow all scholars to get more opportunities to see similar information that were working on with their teacher during the course of instruction. Technology also brings the learning to life for many students. I just want to caution everyone that yes were are using great technology programs, but do not rely on those programs as a crutch. You are the instructional leader in your classroom and not the computer. You as a teacher need to know were your students stand academically and use your curricular expertise to make adjustments the computers will not do that for you.
The data that is produced by the blended learning programs is remarkable. This data that is provided is a useful tool to aide teachers in informing instruction. Teachers will get this in the moment data that will give insight into where students stand. The data should be viewed on a daily basis and used to key on specific areas. The data should also be shared with students and families, so everyone is on the same page and know where students stand. The data will also be used to assist with lesson planning and areas of study that will need to be emphasized. Data analysis is what is going to take our school to the highest heights. The things we do with that data to push our students is going to be at the basis of this. Once again I will reiterate my point from earlier yes there is technology, but even then there is still work the teacher needs to do when the technology is done.
It's obvious that technology creates that important data, but moreover, it's being able to access it, provide it to students and their families, and use it effectively that will take us to the next level as educators. Because the data is constantly updating and it's real time data, we can use it to our student's best interest. I totally agree that the data is remarkable and can't wait to begin delving into it!
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ReplyDeleteI Agree technology cannot replace in any way the effect of the personalized attention of a dedicated teacher. However, technology driven classrooms promote learning in a manner that most work and college environments operate today. Mostly everywhere, we are expected to know how to handle ourselves in highly collaborative and tech centered environments.
ReplyDeleteSome of the advantages of tech-driven classrooms are:
- Personalizes learning by enabling students to learn at their own pace, in their own way
- train students to learn new technology skills they can use later
- Promotes independent learning which is a necessary skill for college
- It is interesting and motivating
The data that computers produce can be used to identify the need of each individual student among other things. For example, no student will be overwhelmed because he or she is missing fundamentals in a lesson because the computer will repeat material until each lesson has been sufficiently mastered. The use of computers and other technologies in the classroom certainly have advantages and disadvantages; however, given the role that education plays in preparing students to go into the world, it seems clear to me that there should be a connection between the world and the classroom and technology is a reflection of it. Unless education reflects the world in which we exist, it has no relevance for the students.
As fantastic as technology is, I think that it ultimately comes down to the teachers that are facilitating the learning. Great teachers will find ways of how to use technology to their advantage by engaging students, cultivating interpersonal skills and ultimately prepare them to the world they will face.
I concur that it all revolves around a great, dedicated teacher. What is data and information if there isn't a teacher to analyze and understands how to apply it in their classrooms? The relationships we build with our students are so meaningful and can impact their lives greatly, unlike a computer. I totally agree that we need to use technology because that's just how our world is today. I can attest that a great amount of my learning in undergrad and graduate school have been in some shape or form aided by some sort of technology. We need to prepare our students to be successful in all types of environments-whether it's an environment that focuses on paper testing or computer testing.
DeleteI agree that the independent learning aspect will be an extremely important asset as they continue into their education. It will place a level of responsibility on each student and will greatly benefit their education.
DeleteAs I am not familiar with the programs that our children will be working with, from what i have heard they sound like great innovative programs that will be excellent additions in the classroom. As many of us had pointed out, technology should never replace a teacher, rather it should be a resource used by the teacher.
ReplyDeleteTechnology had improved do much throughout the years that as teachers we are now able to keep this generation of students fully engaged in learning, not only with our great spirits and upbeat delivery :-), but with games, interactive lessons, and hands-on learning that we never experienced as children. Whether we want to admit it or not, this generation of children have shorter attention spans and are motivated by things in the form of television and video games. In order to keep up with the ever-changing culture, technology is a must in the classroom. There is nothing more engaging or motivating for children than being able to break up the normal teaching model and use technology in order to learn. As mentioned before though, it should never replace teaching, but enhance it.
In response to using the data, again i am not familiar with the programs the students will use, but i would imagine that these programs will be able to give us clear, organized, real-life data at our fingertips. This is extremely helpful in that, add much as we all love data, gathering it, organizing it, and making a clear picture of it all is time consuming. These technologies will take some of that weight from our shoulders. I could see myself using this data for continuous monitoring of reading/math groups and comparing it with other classwork.
Technology definitely is an asset in todays world, but could never replace the real-life, reliable, flexible and open-minded educator in the classroom!
Ms. Maxwell,
DeleteI completely agree with your view.
As technology becomes a greater part of our lives, it can never replace the interaction and reaction of a real classroom with a real life teacher! We have the toughest job but also the most rewarding.
As others have expressed above—one of the main things we must always keep in mind is that technology is a resource/supplement in our classroom that of course cannot replace actual teaching; however there are so many benefits to having technology in our classrooms. On one level is the benefit it has for the students. The first thing that comes to mind for me is my students being able to become fluent computer users. In a current day and age where so many things now rely on computers our students need to be fluent users, including basic things like typing. I did not have a computer in my house until middle school and I never learned how to type correctly—hindering the quickness at which I could takes notes during my Penn classes (for example). Another benefit is that it teaches our students a certain level of independence. Students will need to be able to manage themselves for a solid 20 minutes, which can build their stamina and independence in the classroom as a whole, which is crucial for kindergarteners and first graders.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore using these programs are very beneficial for teachers as well. While I am not familiar with the programs we will be using; I have heard about what some programs look like. The biggest advantage of having technology in the classroom is real time data, similar to quick checks and CFUs. Seeing how students are doing on these programs should affect how you are teaching your students (i.e. maybe “Jamal” needs more work with manipulatives in math while “Anthony” is ready for pictorial representations). Moreover is should affect how you group your students. Unfortunately sometimes students may be in a GR or Phonics group that is not on their level (maybe because they have not been tested in a few weeks) and it goes unnoticed. Hopefully we can use the data from the computer programs to inform our grouping to ensure that student grouping is always fluid and appropriate.
I am excited to learn more about these programs and all the ways we can use them in our classrooms!
Ms. Cuevas,
DeleteYou bring up a good point that I've seen in my previous school. Some students are stuck in guided reading for long periods of time. Technology can give us a heads up that students need to move up or down sooner than the next testing period. This will absolutely benefit our students so they aren't in over their head or finding things to be too easy. I'm so glad you acknowledged this benefit because it is an actionable goal we can make sure to take into consideration.
From seeing so many schools across the nation that use computers in different ways I beleive what Brilla is going to do is a happy medium. Rocketship schools in CA literally has 120 minutes per day in the lab on computers and the computer teaches them. In many other schools there are 2-3 computers per classroom and the students have a chance throughout the day to get on it.
ReplyDeleteWhat I see at Brilla is the computers only come into use at the point that as a human we can not think of enough questions on level for each students but a computer can. The hardest thing when I was teaching was to scaffold questions to meet students and than as TLAC puts it give students enough at bats. I always fell short (never enough time to plan all of this) but with a computer it can do many things I can with knowing the level of the student after ever question an giving question after question.
I mean if we teach as good/better than the other top charters and our students get this much individualized attention at the computers I can only imagine the results we will get. Just remember the computer is not a replacement or a babysitter it is a supplement to your teaching.
What a blessing to be able to go out and encapsulate what others are doing. As a newbie, I am excited about the possibilities! I agree with you,
DeleteTechnology is great but it is not a substitute for teachers. It should be used as tool for enhancement. I too, can not wait to see the results .
Mr. Gillaspie, I am glad that at Brilla we are going to have a happy medium in terms of technology. While I have not seen a school that spends 2 hours on computers (and maybe they have great results), I think nothing beats actually being in front of a teacher for most of the day. On the flip side it's unfortunate that some scholars do not get computer time at all. While I am never seen a (great) computer program in a school I am hopeful for what Brilla has in store--particularly the real time date. I also think the at-bats are crucial. Scripting scaffolded questions is something I have worked on a lot with, with my coach; and even then you can never really plan every single Break-It-Down questions (without going crazy or having no social life!). So I am excited for what these programs have to offer!
DeleteEven though I am new to the Blended Learning model, I believe that the greatest advantage will be the constant feedback/data we will receive as teachers and administrators. Being able to constantly and consistently gauge our students' development will be a huge resource as teachers. By reviewing and reflecting upon this data, we will then be able to better plan and personalize our lessons for the students. An abundance of data offers teachers a better insight into how to best reach and excite our students about learning.
ReplyDeleteThis data will also help to keep us all accountable. By knowing where our students lie academically, no one will be able to plead ignorance when the annual New York state testing results come back. We will have known and understood our students' progress all along and thus be able to cater to their needs.
In addition to these other huge advantages, this Blended Learning Model will keep our students' abreast to modern technology and all of its wonders. Our students will be on the same level as other students and privy to the same advantages that come with computer literacy in the 21st century.
I agree that the amount of data will help us and the students tremendously. I am excited to see the variety of things we will be able to apply the data too, as well as seeing how the students can use and synthesize some of the data themselves.
DeleteBecause we live in a constantly changing world, we also need to alter our methods to cater to all types of learning styles. Technology allows us to enhance the learning process in school and at home. In a world where students are on electronic devises such as smartphones and tablets, we need to reach them at their level and engage them in what they’re comfortable using. Technology can empower them and simultaneously tutor them—without them even knowing. It all starts with a great teacher, but computers can practice the same material over and over again to give the student enough opportunities to experience the material, practice it, and then master it.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, the data produced by computers can guide a teacher’s focus. Technology can offer great access to information that we might have overlooked or didn’t correlate to other needs, thus holding teachers accountable for that first encounter with a specific skill. We live in a technological world and we should prepare the students to be successful in every way possible.
We definitely need to reach students at their levels. Is disheartening to see schools in which the teachers don’t have training into how to integrate technology in the classrooms and as a result students perceive them as ineffective. I’m glad that at Brilla teachers will have the necessary training and tools to integrate technology and use it as a tool to meet students individualized learning needs.
DeleteI think the degree to which we will use technology will help to differentiate us even more than we already have on so many fronts. We have a phenomenal faculty & staff on board, a low-overhead, grassroots approach to recruitment, and a culture and learning model not often seen in public charters. These things already make us unique, but our use of technology will push us into our own category.
ReplyDeleteTo me the biggest advantage technology will bring is the ability to meet each and every student at their unique level each and every day. While I echo what's been said already that a computer is absolutely not a substitute for a great educator, I would also point out that without those computers, we would not have unique and quantifiable, real-time data on each and every student's progress on a daily basis, and therefore would also not have the same opportunity to adjust to each student's particular needs as easily.
I look forward to being a part of the data analysis process, working with each educator to evaluate and analyse our data to fine-tune lesson plans and to continue to make our teaching time the most efficient it can be.
Mr. Martinez,
DeleteI agree with you. The ability to evaluate quantifiable data and look at progress on a daily basis definitely helps us target skills that require more attention. We have a lot of hard work ahead of us and knowing that we have advanced technology in place is exciting and reassuring. I'm not familiar with the programs but I look forward to learning how to work with them to meet the more specific needs of our students effectively.
Mr. Martinez very strong point on how computers allow us to differentiate instruction. Computers do provide teachers with data that can be quickly turnaround. I can look at my data one day, and see that a certain group of students may need more practice with subtraction. I can make those adjustments for those students the following day. The computer assist teachers with differentiation and meeting every scholars needs.
DeleteAs a blending learning school we are not just combining technology with face-to-face instruction, although that is part of it. We are also using our creativity to give variety in our teaching and presentations within our classrooms. It is an enhancement not a substitute.
ReplyDeleteI hope to help meet student expectations and build student skills.
And develop a program that allows for more flexible scheduling that will also help develop independent learning skills. What do the students need to know and when do they need to know it? What is there learning style and how can I use technology to help them be better learners?
Having Problem based questions to help explore the many avenues to answering a variety of questions. Once we get to know the students we can use this valuable tool and create a classroom filled with eager learners who can’t wait to go to Brilla everyday!
Ms. Acosta, I really agree with your point about computers empowering students to become independent learners. Sometimes with teacher-driven instruction, we sense that they are having trouble so we stay on guided practice for extended periods of time. Even when we release to independent practice, we circulate and provide a lot of feedback. Having a dedicated time each day where students are responsible for guiding their own learning but where they are still being held accountable for engaging will be incredibly valuable! They will develop the skill of being able to maintain focus on an independent activity for an extended period of time without advocating for assistance. What an incredible life skill to adopt at such a young age!
DeleteI agree with the points many have already brought up. Technology is an invaluable tool when it comes to differentiated reinforcement of taught material to help students master content. It is efficient, and saves the teacher valuable time, not to mention provides teachers with data of a student's progress.
ReplyDeleteIn addition, technology often provides more engaging and interactive learning opportunities for students to enjoy independently, and in whole group learning. Technology can be utilized in the classroom, as well as at home for extra practice that isn't tedious for students.
Working on computers for practicing and drilling also establishes discipline in the art of repetitious practice, something that many kids today no longer have the stamina for, and teachers/parents often do not reinforce. I attended Kumon as a child (as a form of childcare, my mom didn't believe in sitters or daycare- every opportunity was one to learn and "get smarter"), and as an educator today, I understand why Kuman has a bad rep and why many teachers are against it. There is no proper instruction, it's just practice practice practice, until you get every question correct. However, that is USEFUL. I mastered math when my peers at school took too much time to get through problems that I breezed through. Technology can reinforce this, only making it much less tedious, and it can change material quickly and more accordingly based on the internalization of content.
Even simple videos that can be shown in class are valuable. Technology is shaping our world, and teachers have no choice but to embrace it, and use it to our advantage. Showing simple clips in class draws students in, hooks them, and leaves them wanting more. We are able to show our students things we cannot possible show in the classroom, things that occur in nature, around the world, scientifically too small for the human eye to see, ANYTHING.
Ms. Wang, I could not agree with you more. As teachers we need to embrace technology and use it wisely to engage our students. We want to take advantage of and use the momentum that springs from students when they are allowed to use a computer and motivate them to have fun while learning. As they become disciplined and master their skills, they will also acquire a positive attitude towards executing their tasks and taking ownership of them.
DeleteMs. Wang,
DeleteI love that you brought up drills and discipline. I had been thinking about how engaging technology can be and hadn't thought about how its independent practice is very much teaching discipline. Students must be engaging themselves and having them participate in this activity every day does, in fact, become a drill. If they know they have this technology time every day, they will become masters of the independent routine and not only the content.
This is Noah's blog post since his computer is acting up =)
ReplyDeleteHarnessing technology in a the proper manner, while not a panacea, can be a great equalizer in the education space. I began my career working for a quantitative based hedge fund that utilized algorithms and super computers to trade. The upside of this strategy was that they no longer cared about what stocks they bought or sold, or how much they cost. The algorithms simply looked for opportunities for arbitrage (places in the market where stocks were miss-priced) and bought and sold in heavy volumes to take advantage of these discrepancies. The role of the trader in this type of strategy shifted from being all about qualitative research and instincts to being all about being able to recognize when the algorithms were wrong and being able to take corrective action. The computers and technology will produce mounds of data for us and we have to become skilled at sifting through it quickly, analyzing it, and utilizing it for the empowerment of the students at Brilla.
I think there are two major advantages of technology in the classroom: engagement and data. Students LOVE computers! They love buttons, automated sounds, graphics, and games. This is the tech generation! Having this opportunity to enhance their learning will really increase their excitement about practicing skills. And it's practical that they should develop fluency with using computers and other forms of technology at an early age! It's a life skill!
ReplyDeleteThe other major benefit I see with computers is their ability to generate data. It may take teachers time to circulate around to students and provide feedback about student performance. Computers can give real time feedback! Instead of a 30:1 ratio, there is a form of instruction that is 1:1! The amazing sophistication of computers allows them to assess how students are doing and adjust the next question to meet the nexus of challenge and ability.
All this being said, computers obviously do not have the nuanced ability to target the exact misperceptions that are occurring in student mistakes nor are they able to ensure that a student is actively engaging with the computer-based explanations being provided. Therefore, personal interactions with a teacher are necessary not only to give more personalized feedback and guidance but also to maintain a sense of warmth and connectedness and motivate the students to apply themselves to the fullest!
I agree with you, computers are an excellent tool to reach students and fulfill their needs. However, they can never replace the impact that a great teachers can make.
DeleteComputers are a great tool and they do give teachers in the moment data that is actionable. Computers are a great supplement, but there is no replacement for the human capital that is in the classrooms.
DeleteThe biggest advantage of technology at our fingertips? Individual instruction, engagement and experience. You all have done a fine job of explaining how incredible technology can be in challenging each individual student. The differentiated instruction is something that will provide each student with exactly what they need based on data. That is truly remarkable. You have also included how engaging technology can be for students. It's true - they love it! I just want to touch one other simple advantage that may be overlooked. The experience of using technology! Technology is everywhere you look. There's no doubt our students will be required to use technology in college and future careers. The sooner they learn how to use and explore technology as a tool, the further they soar! Think about how much technology we used when we were in elementary school. Barely any, right? Now look at us! We are posting on a blog to one another. Can you imagine what our students futures with technology will hold?
ReplyDeleteI fully agree that technology is not and never will be a sufficient substitute teacher. Although this is the case, we can still see technology as our teammate. It's there to help us be the best we can be. The data it can share will empower us to look at the details we may have missed. The data will inform us what we can do better and what we've done we'll. Isn't that what a teammate is for? I look forward to using every piece of information I can from technology to give each student the individual attention they deserve.
Ms. Mann I totally agree with you. The only thing I remember about technology when I was in elementary was playing the Oregon Trail (though it was awesome). I agree that knowing and understanding technology is a vital part of education. When you get to college, so many things are done virtually now!--you see the class syllabus, you register for classes, you submit assignments, etc. (There are even online classes now!) Even thinking on a closer reality of the future--I just found out today that in the future (not sure when) NY state tests will all be by computer!!!! (Shocked me!) So with this in mind we need to prepare our scholars to be computer savvy students!
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