A teacher's use of technology in the classroom may rely on a number of reasons. However, I believe the most concerning factor is the school's funding. Sure, most teachers probably WANT to implement technology in their classroom, but they simply may not be able to based on their school/district. Wealthier school districts are most likely to have several current means of technology to help students, such as SmartBoards and tablets. These students are at an advantage in this way, because obviously, technology can be crucial in order for some students to learn. Regardless of funds, some teachers may be reluctant to use technology for other reasons. They may feel like it will be a distraction to students rather than a helpful tool, or they may not be up-to-date with current technology themselves. Because of this, I believe it is important for educators to be taught themselves about the uses of technology and how it can be beneficial.
I feel like the ISTE standards align with the way I have ever had to use technology in an educational setting. Each standard is significant in its own way, and all the standards intertwine to create a beneficial, safe, and fun learning experience. A standard that is important to me personally is "Research and Information Fluency: Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information". I feel like this standard is the most practical, and it most reflects the main way I have had to use technological tools. A standard that may be difficult for me is Creativity and Innovation. I have never been very creative, and I have always had to rely on other people and examples for inspiration in my work. However, this is something I would like to work on.
I believe the term "digital native" is closed minded and insulting. No person has any control over the day and age they are raised in. Having more access to technology has little, if any, impact on a person's character. Our society, however, is characterized by innovation. We will continue to grow and invent more devices and implementations of technology. Eventually, the "new" devices we have now will be obsolete. Every new generation to come will be born into a more technologically advanced world, and that is not going to change. Rather than seeing technology as a distraction or entitlement, it should be seen as the beneficial tool it really is. As a "digital native" student, using technology in my classes has always seemed like a common experience. On the other hand, my "digital immigrant" teachers sometimes struggle with using technology, even in ways that younger people may see as easy. I hope that as a grow older I will stay up to date on how to use different tools and not have to ask my future students for help.
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