Reflection- Chapter 3

For some reason my original posting of this reflection did not work on my learning log. That reflection was due over two weeks ago but I assumed doing something was rather than nothing. Also I foolishly did not save the original reflection from that week but rather just copied and pasted it from a word document to the blog website. This is the revised version of my reflection but many of my points will hopefully be the same, if not better, as before.

Chapter 3, Experimenting with technologies, is about how students can investigate or examine various technology in order to become proficient or able to use them effectively. Some of the types of technology discussed in this chapter include microworlds, simulations, video games and virtual worlds. I think I would definitely consider using some of the components of each of these types of technology in my future classroom although I would carefully consider the sources before implementing them. Although I am not certain which grade level I plan on teaching I would definitely have to take that into consideration before exposing my students to things such as various virtual worlds or video games. The video games we were shown in class involving Darfur and third world farmers were incredibly graphic or emotionally disturbing and would not be appropriate for elementary aged students. There are many games and simulations that would be beneficial for students though including types of simulations that can not be replicated in a classroom like ones that are expensive, dangerous or take too long to complete. One downside to these types of simulations though is that students may come to believe that every simulation they are shown online is accurate. This may not always be the case and hopefully students will learn from my teaching of credibility and accuracy (as discussed in chapter 2) will help students to understand that everything they learn online must be confirmed with triangulated sources. I may even try and prove to student’s that the information I show them from online is correct by showing how I triangulated sources every time I present to them online material. Regardless of age though I do feel that there are many types of technology that can be successfully implemented in the classroom and that it is simply up to teachers to research which ones work best and to ensure that the information and activities used by student’s are instruction is safe and accurate.