Chapter Four – Emerging Roles Within the
Knowledge Community
Summary
of Chapter
Many teachers are currently “digital immigrants” who are
learning how to navigate modern technology. They did not grow up using these
tools and are often not as comfortable with it as their students. Teachers can
capitalize on the knowledge of their students and utilize their knowledge in
the classroom. In addition, teachers can use technology to collaborate with
other teachers in their own school, in others schools, districts, states and
even other countries. Collaboration enables teachers to share ideas, showcase
lessons and activities that work and offers the opportunity for unbiased
feedback. Collaboration with other community organizations and resources is
exciting for students and brings meaning to otherwise “boring” activities.
The
role of teachers is changing and students benefit when teachers allow them more
control in managing their learning. Teachers should focus on helping students
solve real world problems in the classroom using technology such as email,
Internet, ipads, digital video cameras, etc. By releasing some control and
letting go of fears, teachers can use this type of discovery learning combined
with technology to provide exciting and hands on learning.
Reaction
to Chapter
This
reading really resonated with me. I am indeed a digital immigrant in the modern
world. I frequently ask my 7 year old son for assistance in operating our
television so that we can access Netflix and I am unable to use our new X-Box
Kinnect without his assistance. It is indeed a role reversal, but I am
unashamed to ask for help and it makes him feel competent and knowledgeable to assist
me. I imagine students would feel the same way when assisting teachers with
technology.
In
addition, I worked at a large investment firm for 14 years prior to deciding on
a career change. I was a database content manager for the RFP group. One of my
duties was to learn how to use the new software that the firm purchased and
train other members of the team on how to use it effectively. Often the firm
would purchase and install software with short notice and no input from our
department. I would attend “training” seminars but gained the most knowledge
from “playing” with the new software on my own. Knowing that I was fully
responsible for training my manager and colleagues motivated me to learn
quickly and to gain an in-depth knowledge of the software. My manager gave me
the ability to manage my own learning within parameters and I ran with it. I
hope to one day have my own classroom and I would like to offer the same
opportunities to my students.
My role is similar to you and your son's role, I am the person that most of the people in my building come to when they need help with technology. However, I wish that public schools would send teachers to trainings for new technology they purchase for the students and teachers, but it rarely happens that way. Most of time it is like Dr. Cullen stated, "I got this over the summer...here try it out and tell me what you think."
ReplyDeleteArriving at work to find new software on my system with no training or warning was one the most frustrating experiences. We would also be expected to figure it out on the fly even if we had a project due that day. One good thing was that it required me to be flexible, a skill that I imagine I will need as a teacher.
DeleteI am constantly impressed by how well children understand technology today. It is certainly not universal, but it seems more common than when I was young. I think it is wonderful that you know how to and are so willing to ask for help as well as work things out on your own. they are two useful skills that are worthwhile to have developed. I enjoyed reading your post, and look forward to reading the rest!
ReplyDeleteIt seems that most children today are not afraid of technology. They will try to figure out how to use anything on their own before asking for help. It is great that they are willing to help 'old folks' out and I think it really does make them feel important and self confident.
DeleteYou make a good point regarding instilling pride in students by asking for help. I too am a immigrant to technology. Often, I do not want to ask for help because I am too prideful- shame on me! As teachers, we are not only responsible to teaching our subject area but also are responsible for the develop of future citizens. I think it sends a powerful message to our students that we can set aside our pride and ask for assistance. Vulnerability and unknowing are not a weakness, but instead provide an avenue for cooperative learning opportunities. Acting by example and showing mutual respect teach the qualities I would like to see resonate for generations to come.
ReplyDeleteWow I agree! I am usually afraid to ask for help when I am in a classroom full of other OU students. Shame on me too! Oddly though, I have no problem asking for help from young students. Maybe they are less intimidating! You are right, letting students see you ask for help sets a positive example for them. Learning and seeking guidance from others is something that we do throughout our lives. It does not stop in the classroom.
DeleteIt is true that a lot has changed and is continuing to change as far as how education is being taught with the use of technology today. The rate that it is going, it is important that teachers adapt to the changes in technology by becoming familiar with it so that they can help foster their students' understanding of the material.
ReplyDeleteYes and if teachers are able to use technology to reach students it may help to make learning more meaningful for them. The use of technology helps to spark the interest of today's students and may help motivate them to learn.
DeleteI think a lot of people will say that you will learn from "playing" the new stuff, not from "attending" workshop, because workshop will only provides you the basic knowledge for how to operate this new stuff, so you need to actually play it for a bit then you can know better, then to teach/train your colleagues
ReplyDeleteI also feel that sometimes attending training sessions can feel overwhelming, depending on how quickly the instructor is moving through the material. When you sit down with the technology or software and spend time using it yourself and learning through trial and error, your comfort level increases.
DeleteSometimes it is so hard to ask for help, but young people are so eager to teach and share their knowledge. Teachers get so caught up with feeling like they must have all the answers. I liked your insight with this chapter.
ReplyDeleteChildren are very eager to share their knowledge with others and letting them share what they know helps to build their self confidence too.
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