Week 7 Reflection

[Lindsay]

I think that technology is an extremely helpful tool when modifying
lessons and assessments for the diverse learners in the classroom.
Technology is something that the students are interested in, and it
keeps them engaged. I know that my students LOVE using the computer
whenever they can. I try my best to incorporate technology into my
lessons whenever possible. Technology allows you to reach all of the
different learning styles in the classroom. This past year we received
Promethean boards which the students find fun to use. This allows the
kinesthetic learners to get up and manipulate the different items on
the screen to enhance their learning. Technology can be used to assist
struggling learners by using remediation programs, text-to-speech,
speech-to-text, and text enlarging tools. Technology can be used to
assist gifted students by allowing them the opportunity to conduct
their own searches on topics that interest them. (This can also be
used with struggling students with teacher assistance.) Technology can
also provide all students with different options for assessment.
Rather than giving each student a paper and pencil test, you might
have them respond to a blog post, create a digital story, create a
VoiceThread, create a PowerPoint presentation, or create a podcast.
All of these tools allow the students to show what they know in a way
that works best for them. I think that technology can be a helpful
tool when integrated into the curriculum. Teachers should not be
afraid to try new technology in the classroom because it will help
prepare our students for a global workplace.