WEEK 3 - Philosophical - 21st Century Learning

This week's blog response comes after two very interesting videos. The main point it seemed that the videos were trying to make is the importance of technology in classrooms. However, the importance is matched by other factors. One of the questions in the assignment is; When you job search and interview, what will you look for in a district and in a school? 

In the video Chatam High School one point that is mentioned and I strongly agree with is that teacher need to become more of entertainers than just teachers. This is something I would keep in mind when looking for a teaching position. I think I am one who can entertain a group and make their learning experience more enjoyable. I would also look at districts that have the most advanced technology. In the video they were focusing strongly on smart boards in classrooms. This is important to make sure kids are learning with technology. Another point they made that I always wanted when I was in high school is having a podcast so kids could go home and listen to the lecture over and over again. Years ago when a student missed class they would have to ask someone else for the notes. Now at any time they could listen to it and not have to worry about contacting a student for the notes that might not even be accurate. This should help to keep everyone on an equal playing field, especially if all kids will have access to use school computers at all time.

The article also covered similar points with the overall concept being teachers needing to go the extra mile and work with students rather then just teach them. This leads to the change that teachers now need to learn both the material and the best route to go to teach. This leads to teacher to teacher meeting and discussions with students even more important than before. I also really enjoyed how honest the one teacher was in the video as she stated that if she doesn't know how to use a certain technology tool she would just ask a student how to do it. Being open minded is an important part of being a teacher and a good way to improve on how you teach.