The Evolution of Technology in the Classroom

For the second interactivity we were all encouraged to look at the history of technology in regards to education. As supplementary information, I have found this website which outlines major technological advances in the classroom starting in the mid 1600s. 

http://edudemic.com/2011/04/classroom-technology/

Here we can see many devices used for instruction that may have not even heard of. Among many include the horn book, the ferule, and the magic lantern. Interesting is also to note the descriptions given to each item as that it gives interesting insight to not only function but historical context. For example, the horn book not only had printed material in order to help one learn but it was also shaped like a paddle being that corporal punishment was rampant during that that time. 

Additionally, it is also interesting to note the progression in which various instruments came into existence/practice. Here I am particularly referring to the use of chalkboards before pencils. Before this many students used slates but the mass production of the pencil was very important not only for taking notes but for assessment activities as well. Additionally, ballpoint pens did not make their appearance in the United States until the 1940s selling for around ten dollars each, obviously a major difference from the pricing standards of today.

By reading this article, I encourage us all to carefully examine every instrument that has been used in the classroom and determine how each can be used in our specific content area. I feel that it is vital for us as future teachers to become accustomed with the various technologies that surround us and tailor them to fit the needs of our future students. Furthermore, it is also essential to become accustomed with new technologies as they emerge in order to find useful ways to incorporate them into the curriculum to better benefit the students. For example with modern technology I would use the Dropbox application/website in order to have students submit their work to me in Italian. Additionally, I would have them each set the language of Dropbox to Italian so they would become more accustomed to a wide range of vocabulary. Additionally, I would also recommend that they set their Facebook pages to Italian as well. By doing this they will also be able to learn modern vocabulary that will prove useful in the future. Furthermore, since most of them are probably already accustomed to Facebook in English they will be able to learn the meanings of various words based on their positioning on the page. This way students will be learning new words without even realizing!

Works Cited

"The Evolution of Classroom Technology." The Evolution of Class Room Technology. Edudemic, Apr. 2011. Web. 8 Feb. 2012. .