One down, many to go

The "Critical Issues" paper is done!!!! At least the draft of it is done. Now there is much sleep to be caught up on. Although I did not find the research to be surprising, I did find it to be quite interesting. The "digital divide" is still a major problem in this country. I find the research interesting because I get to experience it first hand. Greenfield is certainly a high poverty area, with over 80 percent of students on free and/or reduced lunch. Our school has a nice computer lab with one computer for each student. Yet we do not have a computer teacher, no students are enrolled in a computer elective, classrooms do not really have computers that students can use. Research has shown that if we want students to use the computers to find information, computers with internet access must be placed in the classroom.

On the project, it is beginning to take shape. Students have selected their groups, by Monday they will have selected their topics, and script writing will begin shortly after that. I have already enlisted the help of a few other teachers where students can record their podcasts in peace. However, there is much work to be done on my end that needs to be done in terms of learning the ends and outs of garage band software.

Happy computing everybody!!!

UPDATE-OCTOBER 8

I have to keep this short. I just wrote 941 words on the reading reflection, re-read the email, and forgot that we have to do the webpage review also. Anyways, I found Gorski's articles to be the most thought provoking. It is funny how we applaud the increase of computers and internet access in the classroom, and how quickly we forget that unless used properly, they really are just "digital flashcards" (dont remember who said that in one of the readings). These readings have really made me rethink my approach to technology, as I am really the only person who uses technology on a daily basis in my classroom, while the students sit there quietly admiring my greatness. Time to get them actively involved.

Have a great week everybody