Discussion

Discussion topics will be posted on alternating Tuesdays. Remember to reply to the discussion topic by Thursday of the posted week. Your reply will be worth 5 points (see rubric). Please reply to two classmates by the following Tuesday. Each reply is worth 2.5 points each (see rubric)

=Discussion Topic 1: "21st Century Teacher" (posted 9/18/2012)= What is a 21st Century __#|Teacher__? How would you define one?

Dear Rebecca and Carri, I really liked what you posted and the fact that teachers now a days have to stay updated with the growing technology. And that they incorporate the use of technology into the students studies. But do not let them depend solely on technology to help them figure our problem solving. -Natalie Ventura

Dear Carrie, Emily, and Joe, I am very thankful that you touched on the idea that even though technology is very important and needs to be present within a 21st century teachers philosophy that as educators we should not forget to use “old” technology as Joe stated in his reflection. Emily and Carrie also brought up the idea that technology could be hindering to students if they do not use learn critical skill on their own and without the use technology. This is already relevant in today’s society, through our own generation and our elders. Our elders had to learn all kinds of calculation equations in science and math __#|courses__ and our generation has had the use of a graphing calculator. Some students cannot even do simple math without the use of a calculator, let alone convert a covalent bond per say. Technology is beneficial but if a student cannot cope without it then what will they rely on? -C.Huff Dear Jaylyn, I liked how you stated that __#|being a teacher__ in the 21st century will require educators to be even more sacrificial of their time and how teachers will need to maintain their own curiosity and excitement to learn new things when working with technology. I personally wish to shy away from technology, but when you presented technology as being a new adventure it makes me want to become more acquainted with the new forms of technology, like you stated in your reflection. Not only do we need to evolve with technological education we need to make it fun for ourselves and for our students, which is the overall goal of making learning more fun and interactive. Thanks for the new perspective on how to view technology. -C.Huff

What makes a 21st Century Teacher in my opinion is that they have the ability to __#|incorporate__ up-to-date technology in the classroom for educational purposes. Technology is ever changing and growing it is important to stay with it because the generation that will be taught will be living with the newest technology and it is important for them to know how to use it and use it in a way to their educational advantage. I define a 21st Century Teacher as one who knows how to use technology for fun and educational ways, but at the same time knows the line and still teaches children hands on activities to teach them problem solving skills without the dependency on technology.---Emily Nelson

Emily Nelson You make a perfect point when you mention that a 21st century teacher needs to stay up to date with the technology because it is growing; Every year, month, sometimes week they have invented some new piece of technology and as a 21st century teacher we must stay up to date and know how to use the next "big thing" in our classroom. I also loved how you said that the teacher can use the technology for fun and educational ways. I also agree when you say that it is ok to use technology for fun but always know when to draw the line, because like you said they need to know how to problem solve without the dependency on technology. -Jaylyn Packard

Emily, I agree with you when you say that the teacher needs to know the line between teaching __#|students__ with technology without teaching them to be solely dependent on technology. I also like the fact that you pointed out the fact the a 21st century teacher has to be up-to-date on the new technology because it does change rapidly and it even changes before we even know it so it is very important for the teacher to know what is going on and to keep up-to-date -Chris Dawson

A 21st Century Teacher uses any resource available to make teaching easier for the students. They could use computers, smart boards, calculators and anything else that can be useful in the classroom without it being disruptive. They also figure out who their students are and how they learn in a classroom. I would define a 21st Century Teacher as someone who can bring technology into the classroom without it being a hindrance to the students learning. Making it fun and inviting yet knowing when certain technology is appropriate at different times. Also, knowing how a student learns with the different types of technology used today. By: Rebecca

Rebecca- I really enjoyed reading your response! I thought that you had a very great point on that teachers need to be able use technology in the classroom, but without it being a hinderance to your students! You made many great points and especially making technology fun! **Bayle**

I think that a 21st century teacher should know what technology is available and recognize it's appropriate place in his/her classroom. They should be equipped with the knowledge to teach students about technology in our ever changing and technology driven world. But they also need to have a good sense of balance and a way to make sure that the technology used isn't, in a word, crippling the students ability to problem solve without dependence on the computer. They also have a hard job in making certain that the technology in the classroom is being used solely for education.

-Carri

Carri: You are 100% correct when saying a good 21st century teacher needs to be able to use technology appropriately in their classroom. I liked how you addressed where we stand with technology today and how it's always changing. You did a great job of answering the question and made some valid points!

A 21st Century Teacher is someone that recognizes that technology can be a very useful and valuable teaching tool. It can be use to reach many students on many different levels throughout the classroom. The 21st century teacher should know that technology is such a huge part of our society, and especially with children today. They should be able to recognize when it and when it should not be used. Teachers today have so many powerful learning tools in their hands, that allows them to enhance the learning of their students in a more quick and accessible way inside the classroom while keeping a structure balance of teaching without technology. - Bayle

Dear Bayle,

I mentioned in class that I think you had a very good view of a 21st century teacher! Technology is a //huge// part of our society, and even our culture, that will not stop becoming more and more so throughout the rest of our lives. It is very important for teachers today to equip their students to be ready for that. But I was very excited when you mentioned that they should know when it shouldn't be used as well. You've made your point very clear and precise, thank you! -Carri Klooz

A 21st century teacher needs to be able to relate technology in a useful way to his/her students. It is also important that the teacher introduces the students to technology and explains to them how it is evolving the world we live in today. I think a 21st century teacher would be defined as someone who has the perfect balance between using the technology when necessary and making sure that it doesn’t become a distraction. Lastly they need to figure out how students learn and incorporate certain technology to help them acquire information more proficiently. -Treg

Treg, The point you make about not letting technology become distracting is SO true! So many times teachers use technology, just to use technology, when the exact purpose of it is to help the students learn and gain an understanding of the subject. It is very important to find that balance. -Joe Hirsch

Dear Treg, I think you make a valid point on balance because a teacher has to find a balance in the classroom to create a a progressive learning environment for its students. The fact that you recognize technology as a possible distraction and effective tool to accuire information promotes balance. I respect and completely argree with your response because you see both perspectives of technology, which I feel is the first step to becoming a 21st century teacher. ~Krystina Powell

I would define a 21st century teacher as a teacher who wants to inspire, electrify, and communicate learning objectives in a positive way through the use of technology. These teachers instill universal skills into their students by using technology and maintaining or exceeding standards in critical thinking, collaborative work, communication, curiosity, and imagination. 21st century teachers can reach this goal by taking the time to learn about new technological advances, staying open minded, and assist their students to the best of their capability. A 21st century teacher main goal is to still teach and expand young minds, but with the help of technology. -Courtney Huff

Courtney Huff I loved how you defined your 21st century teacher as person who wants to inspire, electrify, and must communicate. I agree with you that those three are key parts in today’s society as a teacher. As teachers today we need to exceed the standards set and go above and beyond and you stated that perfectly in your definition! -Jaylyn Packard

Huffy I love how you described the way a 21st century teacher should feel towards the use of technology in the classroom. Keeping a positive mind set about things in the classroom really make a difference throughout the day for the teacher and the students. Taking in the use of technology and its capability with an open mind could really expand the young minds of the students. This kind of attitude can really make a positive impact in the classroom.:) -Natalie Villegas

I define a 21st century teacher as an instructor that is able to adapt to a constant changing atmosphere of technology and integration of their students. A teacher must be able to ignite and open the minds of their students in a positive and energizing way. 21st century teachers are the beginning of a new age of learning through technological advances and hands on opportunities. They understand the responsibility that comes with technological surplus and see both the positive and negative presence of technology in the classroom. They are opened minded. -Krystina Powell

Kp Just from knowing who you are I know keeping the students energized through learning in the classroom, would be a piece of cake for you.:) I agree completely about being able to adapt to change. During field experience observations, the classroom is filled with change and with thinking on your feet when things don't go according to plan. I like how you mentioned that teachers should not only know of the positives of technology abilities but they should know the negatives as well. This would help keeping in mind that not everything goes as planned. -Natalie Villegas

Dear Krystina, I agree with what you have to say, it is very similar to mine. Something you said that really caught my eye is use technology in a positive way! You are completely right; so much of today’s technology and internet is used so negatively or non-constructional. We need not to only integrate technology in classroom like you said but show kids how to use it to benefit them. The most important thing you said is for the students to learn the responsibilities of technology!--Emily Nelson

A 21st century teacher is an educator who is always changing and adapting to the new world around them. Every day there is new technology coming out and teachers are challenged everyday with how they are going to use the new invention in their classroom. As the teacher we will have to put in extra hours working with a new device and be comfortable with it and then begin to use it in our classroom. As a 21st century teacher we must be inspiring, thinkers, go-getters, and be openminded with our classrooms, teaching and using the technology. We must be able to bring the education world alive with the new technology. Make learning more fun! -Jaylyn Packard

Dear Jaylyn, I completely agree with your statement! I really love how you said that teachers are going to have to work harder now with technology and I think you’re right. I’ve never thought of it like that before, but you’re totally correct. With technology changing teachers have to keep up with it, find useful ways for it, and make it educational those vague topics alone are a lot of work. My favorite thing that you wrote and you worded it so perfectly is “Make learning fun!” that is my philosophy as well!—Emily Nelsonn

To me a 21st century teacher utilizes all resources available. Yes they should use all the new technology. They should use internet to find videos to immerse the students in the subject they're learning. They should use laptops and iPads to the same extent as internet to really get the students interacted with the subject. When you can get kids excited for the subject you are teaching then, to me, you are succeeding as a teacher. But I also think that we shouldn't forget all they "old" technology, such as a simple paper and pen, or crayons, or individual chalk boards, sometimes simple is better. A 21st century teacher leaves "no stone unturned." If we are to reach ALL students then we need to TRY all the available resources, new or not. -Joe Hirsch

Joe I really liked how you thought about keeping it simple and still usuing the "old" tecnology. Too many times we can only think about how we need to incorporate the "new" technology and forget about the most basic tools. I think it is a great idea to still teach our students how to do research the long way by looking through books and writing it down with pen and paper. -Rebecca

Joe: I really like your response to the question! I agree that teachers need to get their students excited about the subject to be effective at their job. Lastly I strongly agree with your "old technology" statement, students need to be able to do both. -Treg

Joe- I liked how you stated that teachers have to use both old and new technology in their teachings. I agree that if a teacher gets their kids excited about the subject then they are succeeding as a teacher. As teachers we can use both sets of technology to reach our students and make learning fun for them and as teachers its our responsibility to make that happen for our students. -Chris Dawson

A 21st Century teacher to me is a teacher that uses technology and all the resources they have to make teaching and learning easy for themselves and the students. As a teacher we should want to use technology to teach our students in ways that keeps them attentive and wanting to learn the subject. Whether its using Skype and iPads or even text books and pen and paper no matter what technology the teacher has they find a way to teach the material in a way that makes it fun for the student and makes the student want to learn. A 21st century teacher to me is a teacher that no matter what can find a way to make learning fun and help kids become better in every aspect of their lives and help them grow and prepare for the real world. -Chris Dawson

Chris, I totally agree with what you are saying! Our job is to teach students and try to engage them in the subject we are teaching. Technology will always be "growing" and we have to try to grow along right with it. But not let it get distracting.-Joe Hirsch

Chris, I agree 100%! If teaching isn't fun then you as a teacher are not going to get the attention you want, epsecially from the younger grades. Kids depend on teachers to get them ready for the future and if what they are learning isn't fun then chances are they will have a harder time remembering things then when it was fun.--Ashley

Dear Chris,

I agree with your response! It reminds me that the goal of 21st century teachers is the same as teachers throughout all the centuries, to create a love of learning, no matter what materials are available.

Carri Klooz

A 21st Century teacher is an educator that is able to adopt to all the changing that up and coming generations bring to the table. I feel like with all the new types of technology being available to the classrooms, educators should be able to use all the resources within the classroom to teach the curriculum. Teaching can be taught in many different ways whether it be methods from the past or methods that are just now rising. I believe that in this era of generations being raised into a more techy environment, a 21st century teacher should be just as informed of the technology as his or her students. I think if the educator knows about the surroundings of their students including the forms of technology they use on a daily bases, brings an advantage in the classroom when forming lessons or mini lessons for students. The creativity can make the class learning fun and make students want to continue to learn.-Natalie Villegas

Natalie, I agree teachers should be just as up to date as the students if not more. I think the students learn a lot about technology outside the classroom but there is so much they learn in the classroom so the teachers should be prepared to show them how to learn through the technology.--Ashley

I think a 21st teacher is someone who understands how to make technology useful in the classroom but doesnt totally rely on it to teach the children what they need to know. Since technology is changing everyday the teacher will have to learn how to adapt to the different kinds of technology because all of the students will be up to date. I think teachers also need to know how to make the technology age appropriate. For example a first grader does not need to use a iPad but maybe a desktop computer because they are harder to break. -Ashley Schlicht

Ashley- I really think that you made a valid point with the age factor. I do think that even though technology is growing and growing everyday within the classroom there is a time that it is important. I really liked how you stated the teacher needs to be able to stay up to date on all the new technology. Great Job!!! **- Bayle**

Ashley I really enjoy the fact that you brought the age appropriate factor into a what a 21st century teacher should be. I couldn't agree more that smaller children shouldn't have fancy equipment because of the fact that they are very easy to break. My old high school has actually given IPads to the 3rd and 4th graders this year to use in the classroom, and I had to think to myself if that was a smart investment. - Rebecca

I think a 21st century teacher is someone who can use technology in a fun creative manner to let their students have fun but also have them learning at the same time. They show students how technology has advanced in the years and what we can do with it now. A 21st teacher is someone who has adapted to this new advancement of technology and still be able to keep up with the advancement still to come and to incorporate it into their curriculum. -natalie ventura

Little Nat I admire your take on the emphasis on creativity and fun to promote learning in a technologically enhanced environment. Your primary focus is your students and I feel like that's how it should be. I agree with your take on technology as we, not only the students, adapt to new advances inside the classroom. ~Krystina Powell