Is Technology Invisible?

Today we were asked the following question in class: Given we are immersed in technology, how do we "see" it in order to evaluate its utility and impacts?

I answered: Generally, I don't think we "see" technology very well until it does something we dislike. For example, we drive everywhere all the time without thinking about it, but when our brake fluid line breaks, we get incensed and curse our car to no end.

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A Technology Mantra

For class today, we were asked to quickly come up with a mantra for using technology in the classroom. My mantra is: Technology will be used to enhance and invigorate the learning experience without compromising learning integrity.

The Read/Write Web

The second article in Educational Leadership's December 2005/January 2006 issue that we read is called "The Educator's Guide to the Read/Write Web" by Will Richardson.

Through blogs, wikis, podcasting, and other formats, the web is becoming more than just a place to consume information. As it becomes easier for students and others to publish information on the web, educators have a responsibility to not only manage these emerging technologies, but to encourage student competencies with them.

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Smaller Computers and Education

Today in class we were asked the following question: What impact will the increasingly interactive and diminished size of computers, communicators, and handhelds have on education in secondary schools?

I answered: I have yet to see the gains from today's personal technology in the classroom. Although a minority number of students have cellphones and/or ipod-type devices, none of them use technology in the classroom to help with assignments. All of them have computers at home, and most of them use them for e-socializing, and occasionally homework. I have not seen a lot of "tech-head" kids who are really into cutting edge equipment.

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A Fledgling Technology Culture

For class, we were asked to informally assess the technology capabilities at the Juneau-Douglas High School. The following is an overview of the assessment. Click on the link below to access the entire document.

When I first walked into the Juneau-Douglas High School, the number of computers I saw amazed me. Every teacher has one in their classroom for their own use. There are at least three fully equipped computer labs, and sundry other computers throughout the school. My classroom has six computers, but they are hardly ever used. I believe they are mostly for the yearbook. And every classroom has a television, DVD player, VCR, and full cable. When I was in high school, none of this was available.

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Read the complete "Anthropological Assessment of JDHS's Technology Culture" by clicking here.