Erik Ekdahl

Reading Response #2

Teaching with the iPad

Fifth graders from Flagstaff, AZ. found themselves ready to engage in a method called project-based learning. Instead of using the classic desktop computer, they were provided with iPads awarded through a grant to their teachers. Project-based learning is meant to teach real life skills such as planning, problem solving, communication, and decision making. The first step in this project-based learning experience was to conduct research, then analyze the learning process. IPads remained an integral part, culminating in the development of the final project. Along with traditional learners, special needs children and English language learners participated in equal amounts compared to traditional learners.

I love it when children get excited about learning in a new way, and that is exactly what the iPad provides. The novelty alone of having an iPad is enough to bring out passion in a fifth grader. I believe teachers should never underestimate new technology because devices like the iPad have a profound effect on the entire population, making it a truly desirable device. I can say with some certainty that fifth grade students want to feel special and unique and having an iPad to use for major group assignments will instill a sense of importance that traditional desktops will not.                              

        The use of iPads in the classroom lets student’s engage in real-world style problem solving while utilizing a digital tool. Children don’t have to wait until adulthood in order to use the iPad, an advantage not lost because these children are able to transfer that knowledge to other teachers and classes all the while given the opportunity to pursue their personal curiosities and goals. The simple mobility of an iPad can allow a student to apply it to versatile areas like recording a conversation or taking a photo and then use it to teach a first grader reading skills - all addressing the diverse learning needs of a school.                                                                               

Conn, C. (2012). Research Cutting-Edge Inventions Using a Cutting-Edge Invention/ Learning and Leading with Technology, 40(1). 34-37. Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learningandleading

Erik Ekdahl
Reading Reflection #1:

Graduate Students Find Elementary Observations Online

Cynthia Vavasseur, a passionate professor instructing the elementary teachers of tomorrow came up with an ingenious way to bring much needed on-the-job training to her graduate students while impacting the lives of struggling fifth graders. The most amazing part of this program is it’s quick success and almost limitless potential. What seems like a no-brainer idea schedules bi-weekly 15 minute video-chat sessions between fifth graders and a corresponding graduate student tutor. Colonal Chat was born and was extremely beneficial to both parties. Southern Louisiana fifth graders were apethetic about vocabulary and reading comprehension so tutors devised a set of teaching exercises and tools like oversized flashcards and slideshows to use during instruction. Preservice teachers logged precious practice hours with real elementary students while the technology and excitement of interacting with graduate students brought the fifth grader’s comprehension and vocabulary back from the brink. The relationships built through these online interactions made learning on both sides of the screen a better experience.

As I was reading this article I immediately thought how awesome it would be to employ a version of Colonal Chat for CSUSM preservice teachers. Logging really useful time observing elementary classrooms can be very tedious and not 100% effective, while a Colonal Chat program would definitely let CSUSM teaching students get their feet wet with elementary-teaching style interactions. One of the biggest reasons I want to become a teacher is to provide a safe learning environment for my young students. The relationship building aspect of this tutoring program can help children without a great deal of structure in the home look forward to learning in a creative way. Video chat tutoring is technologically savvy and cutting edge, something the young generation can appreciate while teaching styles and methods can be tested first-hand for effectiveness.

The use of technology to teach in the modern world is meant to inspire students to be creative while making them familiar with computers. The earlier students are immersed in technology the better repaired they will be for the digital world we live in. Modern teachers are required to have a closer understanding of technological teaching techniques and the early testing of methods can relay which kinds of lessons and advice are working well. Elementary students also have the responsibility to log onto their sessions according to a schedule. These benefits model the set of ISTE standards in many ways and can make video chat tutoring a uniquely modern way to teach the next generation.   

Vavasseur, C., Hebert, C., & Naquin, T. (2012). Preservice Teachers Tutor K-12 Students. Learning and Leading With Technology, 40(1), 28-29. Retrieved from: http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learningandleading