Assignment #2 – EdTech Presentation: Unplugged or Unprepared?
As student teachers, Dakota, Shae, Grace and I all immediately connected on our stance that meaningful learning doesn’t require constant technology use. We all prefer classroom environments grounded in traditional, hands-on practices, and we agreed that students can succeed through traditional, interactive teaching approaches without relying heavily on digital devices.
My personal stance on technology in the classroom is that it can be a useful tool when applied purposely and in align with BC Curricular Competencies. Smartboards are now present in most classrooms, and I can see myself using them occasionally—especially for programs like UFLI, which I’ve observed effectively implemented at Lindsay Park Elementary. Some subjects like ADST require the use of technology and I think there is a lot to be learned, especially with how the world is going, around different technology platforms and methods. However, I don’t see myself relying heavily on technology in my own teaching practice. I prefer more traditional, hands-on approaches and value the consistency and clarity they bring to learning. I feel like I will use technology to supplement learning, not for providing the foundations of learning.
I strongly believe that one of the most essential aspects of technological education is teaching students to be safe, responsible, and thoughtful online. Internet awareness is something I will prioritize and intentionally build into my classroom practices. Teaching kids about the risks and benefits of what they watch, how they use and what personal information they give away online is very important.
My previous assumptions and biases were based on my belief that technology is being overused in classrooms. Based on what I’ve seen and heard, it seems that technology has become a huge part of learning—much more than it ever was when I was a student. Due to this, I recognize that I may naturally lean toward preferring the more traditional, low-tech learning environment I experienced growing up. I also know that most kids spend way too much time in front of screens from the time they get home after school, till they go to bed. I feel like school can mostly be a break from screens and technology.
We really enjoyed the process of creating questions for our podcast guests, learning from their expertise and pulling it all together to answer the questions for our presentation. We might have gone into this project with some significant biases, but what we found out was very helpful and informative. I believe that this project will shape a lot of what we do in the classroom, both as a full-fledged teacher and as a student teacher, during our practicum.
