Utilizing (not resisting) technology in the Classroom :) By: Jannessa Hilliard

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           This class has really opened up a world of possibilities for me when it comes to technology in the classroom.  Before now  I probably would have considered myself "old school", not jumping at the oppurtunity to embrace and master technology.  However, what I know now is that technology is a great and amazing asset to us as educators.  We have truly unlimited oppurtunities to enhance our learning and open our student's eyes to the world.  We need to embrace our ability to use technology to enhance and deepen the learning in our classes, not to take place of or make learning easier.  Technology is our friend in the classroom especially when we are preparing to teach such a technologically savvy generation. 
          Here are some really fun examples of ways to enhance learning using technology.   For example, when learning about the planets and everything around them you can let your students explore on Google Earth (http://www.google.com/earth/explore/products/).  Google Earth can be used for other units too such as oceans, mountains, finding locations, ect...  Another example would be using the tool ToonDoo (http://www.toondoo.com/) for an English class at any age.  ToonDoo allows students to create books or cartoons and present them to the class.  Having students create an online book instead of traditionally writing one would be inspiring for students.  A third example would be Khan Academy (http://www.khanacademy.org/).  Khan Academy provides online videos and tutorials for virtually any subject.  This way if a student is behind or struggling to understand a subject, we can refer him to Khan Academy. Student's are able to watch videos from anywhere and can seek help when trying to complete assignments on their own. 
        This is just three examples; imagine what it would like in your own classroom if you used one webtool a week.  Learning how to use webtools and internet resources is not difficult and look at the benefits and oppurtunities it provides.  Learning in this class about different tools and websites out there really opened my eyes to all the different ways I could use technology in the classroom.  Our future students are growing up on technology and we must incorporate it into our classes if we want to keep up with and engage such "techy" kids.