Blog #11-Non-Computer Based Technology

I believe that a good technology that is not computer based is the Alpha Smart keyboard. I have just recently discovered the best uses for this product. This keyboard can be attached to a computer but can also function alone as a word processor. Up to five files can be stored and then can be imported onto the computer once it is plugged in. This can be used in schools where the number of computers are limited or to let students work at their desk all at once. This is a technology that is cost effective and easy for students to use. Using them regularly could also improve typing skills in younger children which would be a beneficial skill for children to develop earlier.

Blog #10-ERIC project thoughts

After seeing all of the ERIC research projects, I feel more informed about uses of technology. One of the most interesting topics was the assistive technology presentation. It is something that all of us need to know because there will always be students who have special needs in the classroom. It is also beneficial knowing the different levels and how to use low tech things in our classroom to help in small ways. Through my own research, I was able to learn about the pros and cons of using technology in the elementary classroom. I learned a lot and am excited to find ways to integrate the technology into the classroom in a safe, and effective way. I still feel that using technolog in the classrom is an important and will use it in my classroom when I can.

Blog #9 -Website Review

The website that I found was called internet4classrooms.com and is a technology guide for teachers to use in their classrooms. The content covers all ages, K-12. There is a section for links to other websites for lessons, ideas for activities, and even movies or story books online. Another section is devoted to helping teachers prepare their students for assessments for all grade levels. Several other sections have links to helpful websites for students to use or for teachers to give their students for projects or research. Overall, the website seemed very informative and useful. All of the grade levels were equally represented and so were all of the content areas. The only downside seemed to be the fact that there were so many different links it could get confusing for students or would be easy to stray from the original website. However, with more practice it would be a good resource for teachers to use. Though I did not spend too long looking around, the links to other websites appeared to be credible and quality websites to use as resources for lesson planning.
The link is provided as the title of the Blog post so feel free to visit the site as well!