As an Adult Education and Computer Literacy Instructor, I have students of all levels and backgrounds and typically teach students ranging from the ages of 16 to 70+. This involves a lot of high-risk teenagers, individuals who recently got out of prison, and many parents who dropped out of high school to raise their children.
My ideal classroom would include a SMART board, laptops, desktops, and a very capable printer. I positioned my desk in the center so I am able to see what the students are up to on the computers. In my experience, many of the students waste time on the computers when the facilitator is not looking. Time in my classroom is always logged and critical in regard to Adult Education, especially if they are on track to earn their GED. A certain score on the Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE) is needed in order for the student to qualify for GED testing, and regulations are set forth which only allow a TABE to be administered after 40 hours of studying have been completed. The majority of this studying is completed at the computer so if I am able to see what the students are up to, I can ensure they are not logging non-studious hours. On the other hand, a lot of studying goes on that does not involve the computer which is why there is one long table in the center. The SMART board would be used to get students math, social studies, and science skills up to par.
Google Sketchup was magnificent in helping me structure the perfect classroom. I could definitely see this software incorporated in a subject such as science or as an advanced skill in my computer literacy classes. In science, I imagine this could be used in terms of measurements (i.e. volume). After exploring this software a bit more, I saw that this pretty much has limitless possibilities. A city can be built, buildings developed, and interior design and landscaping can be illustrated, to name a few. New components are also continuously being developed in the 3D Warehouse. For my computer literacy students, I know that having them experience building something as easy as a backyard may engage and inspire them to learn more about computer careers.
April, good for you! I admire your classroom management strategies. It is my experience that students to take advantage of their privilege when using computers. I love that you can keep an eye on them.
ReplyDeleteI have a couple questions for you though. Being around computers and technology on a regular basis, how do you deal with new innovations coming out regularly. Does it affect what you teach and even how you teach. If this is the case, what actions do you take to stay up to date with technology?
Furthermore, what is your advice for catching the older generation up to speed in terms of their technological awareness? Should teachers be required to take a class like this during the summer? What do you think?
Great post! Sorry for all of the questions but I am definitely curious what you would suggest.
Hi Preston! Well with new technologies being released on a regular basis, I've come to terms with the fact that by the time I learn a new technology, it'll most likely be obsolete or an improved version will be be available. I simply embrace this. There's always a component or feature I wish was available or just something missing that would make the software fantastic, and as new technologies spring up, I see that developers notice these short comings as well. I don't think it affects what or how I teach because learning new software only makes my students more comfortable and prepared for what may be ahead in regard to new technologies. It's more of an exciting skill to have. To stay up to date with technology, I mainly use social media. I follow people with similar interests on my personal blogs and microblogs, connect with professionals in the same field, and I also use my fellow grad school classmates as a good resource.
ReplyDeleteAs for the older generation, it's been my experience that as long as we give them the tools and help to get acquainted with technology, they are all for it. One of my elder students did realize that he could keep in better contact with his grandchildren if he learned how to use a computer. He also wanted to be regularly updated on programs through the VA and was informed that email was the only way to get this type of service. I know many elders do not take to technology, but letting them know the benefits does motivate most.
I think all teachers need to go through some sort of computer technology class, primarily because we are now dealing with students who are digital natives.
Well I definitely enjoyed your questions, thanks Preston!