Wolfram's talk about using math describes the use in math in real world situations through various career paths. The general message is that math is not strictly this subject where you learn how to "calculate." He suggests that math helps people to use technology to help with daily automated tasks. Understanding the foundation of a calculation helps people with critical thinking skills when using computers to be able to apply math to create models, design structures, and analyze large amounts data to draw conclusions. The traditional ways of teaching math through drill and practice may not be the best way for students to apply their knowledge. This idea is true among all content areas. While some drill and practice may be necessary for aiding in the foundations, it should not be the only way to learn the content. The structure of drill and practice also needs to evolve with time. Traditional pen and paper activities may help build some skill, but applying the same skills with the aid of technology can enhance learning and provide rich opportunities to delve into understanding the concepts in more detail. These ideas apply to all aspects of learning. Technology has enhanced the professional careers and should enhance learning.
This talk is very inspirational to the use of technology in education. Wolfram's search engine is a great example of how computers can bring content to life. It is a powerful engine that provides significant data about any topic, and potentially offers 3-D models of concepts. This talk could help teachers understand that traditional methods of teacher may have some value, but the behavior of the world is changing, and therefore we should prepare our students for the technical world they face with their careers. The world is much more automated and digitized now, than ever before. If the trends continue, technology will just keep getting better and more accessible. This video could be used as a tool to deliver that message to teachers, that technology should be taught within the content to learn how a professional, in that particular field, might use technology.
This talk is very inspirational to the use of technology in education. Wolfram's search engine is a great example of how computers can bring content to life. It is a powerful engine that provides significant data about any topic, and potentially offers 3-D models of concepts. This talk could help teachers understand that traditional methods of teacher may have some value, but the behavior of the world is changing, and therefore we should prepare our students for the technical world they face with their careers. The world is much more automated and digitized now, than ever before. If the trends continue, technology will just keep getting better and more accessible. This video could be used as a tool to deliver that message to teachers, that technology should be taught within the content to learn how a professional, in that particular field, might use technology.
When working with teachers and attempting to instill the value of technology, the process can be enhanced through the use of technology to allow teachers to collaborate. Many people don't recall that the internet was initially a giant collaboration experiment to allow scientists to quickly share information. Now, the internet is a powerful tool that connects the world. Collaboration is all around us. It is now much easier to "meet" with a group of professionals to accomplish a task than it was years ago. Prior to technology many collaboration projects required each person to physically be present for meetings. With the aid of technology, collaboration is much easier, and fits into any individuals agenda. When teachers start to work together or with a tech integrator they need to understand that collaboration is a give and take partnership where each role does what they can to participate in a respectful manor to arrive at the same goals. Teachers often worry when they need to work with each other, because they always feel as though they might be the person to carry the group. Collaboration is an important aspect of learning. It teaches the individual how to work with others and learn from others to arrive at a common goal. In the way of the digital, automated world, individuals need to collaborate frequently to develop new products, and brainstorm cutting edge ideas. Finally, a collaboration partnership is one that is relies on trust. The individuals collaborating must understand that there is a certain level of trust where each team member has a responsibility to participate, be respectful, offer appropriate constructive feedback and not destructive feedback, and needs to be flexible to "go with the flow." Collaboration efforts are almost always impacted with unexpected changes. If the appropriate trust is gained, group member's will understand and adapt when changes occur.
References
Wolfram, C. 2010. Teaching kids real math with computers. retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/conrad_wolfram_teaching_kids_real_math_with_computers.html
"The individuals collaborating must understand that there is a certain level of trust where each team member has a responsibility to participate, be respectful, offer appropriate constructive feedback and not destructive feedback, and needs to be flexible to 'go with the flow.' I really like this statement because so many times during meetings I hear one or two people talk about what is being presented in a very negative light and make it sound impossible to implement. Collaboration can be such a great thing, but it can also be very stressful if someone is resisting and bringing down the morale of the group. I think that establishing that trust, like you said, is a great way to make sure things get done and everyone is sharing ideas with each other. Great post!
ReplyDelete" Finally, a collaboration partnership is one that is relies on trust. " Julie and I are on the same page here! Trust is integral between not only teachers but the teacher and integrator. We are all here for one reason... the kids. So being open to what is going to work best for our students is an integral part of collaboration and technology integration. Collaboration is key to a Professional Learning Community. It is built on trust and respect and the understanding that all teachers must work together to analyze data. This data shows what is working and not working, who is better at teaching what, and who needs help. That goes for the teacher and the student. Teachers are not perfect either and need to ask for help sometimes. A lesson in humility.
ReplyDeleteCollaboration is the key and it is a huge plus. If you have one teacher who is extremely proficient utilizing technology then it only makes sense for them to serve as somewhat of a mentor. Teachers who are willing to do this make it much easier for the TI. Teachers encourage group work and creativity in their classrooms they must impress that same model on themselves and use this to learn new strategies to benefit their own professional and teaching relationships.
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