Week 5 Blog Kelsi Vidal

I thought having the iTECs come in and introduce us to new educational technology was very beneficial!  It also kind of made me feel like I wasn't a digital native because I wasn't familiar with some of the stations, but I guess its hard not to feel that way when technology is constantly changing and evolving into something new. I think learning about all these new technologies will put us at an advantage and help us bring new ideas into the classroom. I actually didn't get to explore many of the stations, so I am looking forward to seeing everyones presentations and use of technology.  I think it is fascinating how many different ways technology can be presented and used in the classroom as compared to what we used to have growing up.  

I think students will appreciate the use of technology in the classroom because their lives are centered around it. Technology will have the ability to connect us to our students and "bridge the gap" between teachers and students. I think students would enjoy using blogs, digital stories, skype, or comic strips to communicate or present information.  I know last semester when we visited the 4H Children's Garden and Norm (the man that showed us around and worked with elementary students when they visited) said students loved to post of the Wonderwall which was technology based.  

The classroom I am placed in is a kindergarten classroom that doesn't use much technology.  They have computer class once a week and really enjoy it, but don't use technology in the classroom at all.  I wasn't sure if that was because it was a kindergarten classroom or the teachers preference?  The computer room has a smart board in it, but I have never seen it used besides for a projector.  I know this is a great tool and they are lucky to have one, I am just wondering why it isn't used and taken advantage of?