Power

The power of technology can be awesome and overwhelming at times.  Technology in the classroom must be used with purpose and not just to show off new gadgets.  If there is purpose and engagement, the learning experiences of students will multiple beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom.  It is up to educators to evaluate the technology and the purpose for using it in their classrooms to create these amazing and overwhelming learning environments.  Think of the students in your classroom that could benefit from such an experience!

But we must not lose site of our goals!  I found myself this semester trying to impress my new colleagues and administration with my knowledge and implementation of technology in a social studies classroom.  I succeeded, but along the way on occasion, I forgot what the real purpose for technology was… it was for the students, not for me to impress my peers.  I would have weeks where I was wrapped up in the technology-based lessons and then come back to earth with a crash when the lesson just didn’t work or the students could not demonstrate their knowledge on a traditional assessment.  However, as the semester progressed I learned to balance my love of technology implementation with the needs of my students.  Isn’t that what life is all about compromise, not power???

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