Exploring Educational Technology

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In the vast realm of online and blended learning, the quest for effective educational tools is akin to a historical journey spanning millennia. From ancient philosophical debates on the role of technology in teaching to the modern-day challenges of virtual classrooms, educators are on a constant quest for the Holy Grail of tools to enhance learning experiences.

Imagine, if you will, a tale of two societies: one Canadian, the other Pakistani. In both, educators grapple with the ever-evolving landscape of technology in education. In Canada, the legacy of educational technology is rich, with pioneers like Marshall McLuhan paving the way for digital learning. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, a burgeoning tech scene is revolutionizing education, with startups and innovators harnessing the power of technology to bridge gaps in access and quality.

As we navigate these diverse landscapes, we encounter a plethora of tools and resources. Saettler’s historical account of American educational technology offers insights into the evolution of these tools, but it only scratches the surface. In Canada, educators are embracing tools like Class Dojo and Canva to enhance engagement and creativity in virtual classrooms. In Pakistan, platforms like Baamboozle and Kumospace are empowering educators to create immersive and interactive learning experiences.

But the journey doesn’t end there. The YouTube video “7 Best Easy to Learn Tech Tools for Teachers” opens a treasure trove of possibilities. In Canada, teachers are using tools like One by Wacom and ClassPoint to bring creativity and interactivity to their virtual classrooms. In Pakistan, Edpuzzle is revolutionizing online learning, making it easier for teachers to create engaging video lessons.

In my own context, the most useful tools are those that foster creativity and collaboration. Platforms like Canva and Edpuzzle allow me to create visually stunning and interactive lessons, engaging students in ways never before possible. Additionally, tools like Class Dojo and Kumospace help me create a sense of community in my virtual classroom, bridging the gap between students and teachers.

As I reflect on my journey through the world of educational technology, I am reminded of the words of McLuhan: “We shape our tools and thereafter our tools shape us.” In both Canadian and Pakistani societies, technology is shaping the future of education, offering new possibilities for teaching and learning. By embracing these tools with an open mind and a creative spirit, educators can unlock a world of potential for their students, wherever they may be. This journey from a teacher from Pakistan, who is trying to learn her ways in Canada is nothing less than a magical adventure !!

Navigating the Digital Landscape

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In the world of education, the integration of productivity suites like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace has been a game-changer, akin to the transformation seen in sci-fi movies. These suites, with their arsenal of tools and applications, have reshaped the classroom experience for both teachers and students. However, as we dive deeper into the digital era, it’s important to reflect on the broader impact of these technologies on education, all while keeping it light and fun!

Imagine a classroom straight out of a sci-fi flick like “Ender’s Game,” where students collaborate on projects and simulations using futuristic productivity suites. Sounds cool, right? This example highlights how these suites can enhance the learning experience by fostering teamwork and creativity.

While these tools offer incredible benefits, such as increased collaboration and engagement, we also need to be mindful of their potential pitfalls. Take “Wall-E,” for instance. In this movie, humans become overly reliant on technology, losing touch with their critical thinking skills. It’s a reminder that while technology is great, it should never replace traditional teaching methods.

Productivity suites also play a vital role in preparing students for the digital world. Just like in “Ready Player One,” where digital literacy is not just a skill but a way of life, these tools help students develop essential 21st-century skills that will serve them well in the future.

Privacy and ethics are also key considerations. In “The Circle,” a tech company’s misuse of user data raises important questions about data ownership and privacy. As educators, we must navigate these issues carefully, ensuring that student privacy is protected.

Looking ahead, the future of productivity tools in education is full of possibilities. Imagine a classroom where learning is personalized to each student’s needs, much like in “Minority Report” where advertisements are tailored to individuals. It’s an exciting prospect, but one that also requires careful consideration of its impact.In the movie “Dead Poets Society,” we see how the personal connection between a teacher and his students can inspire a love for learning that goes beyond textbooks and tests. This highlights the importance of fostering meaningful relationships in education, something that technology alone cannot replicate.

I would love to mentor my students in-person any day and be around them more than ever a technology can be !

In conclusion, productivity suites have revolutionized education, offering new ways to teach and learn. But it’s essential to approach these tools with a balanced perspective, considering their broader implications on pedagogy, digital literacy, privacy, and ethics. So, let’s embrace these technologies, but let’s also remember the importance of human connection and critical thinking in education.

The Evolution of Education

I am a Millennial and I remember those weekly video watches for our class rooms and those special movie days for almost whole school in an auditorium 😀 Oh boy, what delight it would bring to my whole existence where I would just love to learn through a non traditional method and oh yes how can I forget special project days where we had to do things other that the same old methods. I could surely and fairly say that new methods with the help of technology would bring a lot of joy to my whole self and would make me so eager to discover new ways.

In a world where technology reigns supreme, the impact of audio-visual (AV) technologies on education cannot be overstated. Neil Postman’s quote, “We now know that ‘Sesame Street’ encourages children to love school only if school is like ‘Sesame Street,'” sheds light on a profound shift in the way we perceive traditional schooling.

When Postman speaks of “Sesame Street” undermining the traditional idea of schooling, he’s pointing to the engaging, fast-paced nature of the show that contrasts with the structured, disciplined environment of traditional schools. This raises questions about how AV technologies, from the earliest film projectors to today’s smartphones and interactive educational shows, are reshaping the format of schooling.

AV technologies have the power to transform education by making it more interactive, engaging, and personalized. Platforms like YouTube, Khan Academy, and Crash Course offer a wealth of educational content that can supplement traditional teaching methods. However, they also raise concerns about the overreliance on technology and the need for a balanced approach to education.

The integration of smartphones and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies in classrooms further blurs the lines between traditional and modern schooling. While smartphones offer access to a wealth of information, they also present distractions and challenges in maintaining focus in the classroom.

Looking ahead, the future of AV technologies in education is exciting yet complex. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect more immersive experiences, personalized content, and the integration of artificial intelligence. This heralds a new era for education, where traditional boundaries are challenged, and new possibilities emerge.

But, i know for myself that how sesame street school brings colors and visuals with audio and emotions to the whole teaching experience and with today’s world and with the revolution of behavioral needs how truly it has been decided that learning needs for all are different and can not be just met by following one way. I personally am a learner who gets bored and impatient with anything that is dragged and long 😀 and it reminds me how I would love playing Mario and this duck game as a child..

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In conclusion, AV technologies are changing the way we think about school by challenging traditional notions of teaching and learning. While they offer new opportunities for engagement and interaction, they also require educators to adapt to new formats and technologies. By embracing these changes thoughtfully, we can harness the full potential of AV technologies to create enriching learning experiences for all students.

Which theories of knowledge and/or learning underpin your own teaching philosophy and classroom practice? How have your beliefs shifted or changed over the course of your teaching career thus far?

Today, let’s talk about learning theories and how they influence our teaching philosophies. One theory often discussed is Skinner’s Teaching Machine, which suggests that learning is a response to external stimuli. However, many of us, myself included, have moved away from this theory, recognizing its limitations.

In my teaching career, my beliefs about knowledge and learning have evolved. Initially, I leaned towards behaviorist approaches, believing in strict reinforcement for shaping student behavior. But as I gained experience and explored more educational theories, I embraced constructivist and socio-cultural perspectives. As a Sociology teacher myself I am strongly of opinion that nurture plays an integral role in any individuals’ life and how me humans behave is mostly from the learnt behavior from day to day experiences of ours. I feel even as a teacher when I would be with my high schoolers I could just mold then with the social experiences which would be created for them.

Constructivist theories propose that learners construct knowledge based on experiences and interactions. Socio-cultural theories emphasize the role of social interactions and culture in learning. These perspectives have deeply influenced my teaching, leading me to create collaborative and interactive learning environments.

In my classroom, I aim to create a space where students actively engage with their experiences by resonating with the existence of other fellows. For me the strongest rationale is that no theory, content or equipment can not be enough if basics of understanding of cultural aspects and learning behaviors related to that are not met.

I feel since I have moved to this whole new experience of an immigrant the biggest challenge and learning experience for me has been about understanding what is expected and is cherished about me in a new culture as a primary need of existence and I am sure my students would learn in the same way. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s continue to explore the world of education together!

Looking forward to hearing from you 88+ Aesthetic Shiba Inu With Glasses - l2sanpiero

Personal understanding of educational technology

 

Hey grad buddies! Imagine our education journey is like a magical kingdom, and educational technology is the wizard casting spells to make learning super cool. Ready for the adventure? Here’s my story, simplified and spiced up with easy words!

EdTech, or the learning superhero, isn’t just about computers. It’s like a superhero toolbox with stuff like virtual reality, online quizzes, and smartboards. Learning feels like a game now – you won’t believe the fun we’re having!
Back in the old days, I thought edtech was all about ancient projectors and computer labs. But today, it’s like trading a rusty bike for a turbocharged spaceship. We explore Mars from our seats, and it’s like being in a sci-fi movie, right in the classroom!
Now, imagine time-traveling through the coolest tech history. From radio lessons to AI personalizing our learning, it’s like upgrading from an old flip phone to a sleek, futuristic gadget. The journey is as wild as a rollercoaster – zooming through the past and future of edtech!
Philosophy time – no need for heavy stuff. Dewey and Vygotsky said learning should be hands-on fun. Apply that to edtech, and it’s not just buttons; it’s students creating, exploring, and owning their learning adventure.
But there’s a twist! Our rollercoaster also hits some ethical loops. We’re talking about being fair, keeping secrets (like not sharing cotton candy), and being good digital buddies. It’s about creating a tech world that’s fair, cool, and open to everyone.
So, my grad student tech adventure is like riding the coolest rollercoaster in the funfair. Nostalgia meets futuristic thrills – hands inside the ride, let’s enjoy the edtech magic! 🚀🌟

Technology in the classroom enhances learning

 

Benefits of technology in education

https://www.educationcorner.com/benefits-of-ict-in-teaching-and-learning/

A BIG YES !!!! Technology can enhance learning and the whole experience of knowing new things to the next level !! As a teacher from past 10years I am an eye witness to the fact that how technology has evolved the whole learning experience for the students of whole age !

Experts say that using technology in teaching and learning can increase children’s engagement in class, more than an old school textbook can as devices and apps are where today’s students live their lives.

This is a benefit for all learners as apps cater to all levels of ability and use various teaching methods to support learning. Apps also help to give teachers new ways of teaching the same thing, from games to virtual field trips.

Technology being accessible anytime from anywhere has just eradicated all the concepts of space restrictions and has made learning available for all with the help of gadgets and newly introduced age appropriate apps ! With top universities like Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge there are so many courses which can be done online and with blended classrooms provides edge of learning multi culture values. I personally enjoyed my distant learning experience in this course which resulted for me to meet people behind the screen with their wisdom and experiences and this type of learning becomes possible with the usage of technology in side the class room 🙂

Social media is ruining childhood

Cartoonist Gary Varvel: Children playing mobile devices

How many of you remember having pen-pals while growing up??? How did it add value to your life or made you experience something which you had no idea about. Think ! Ok so coming to today’s scenario we see children now a days using social media for socialization purpose and just learning from there to have a better idea about how life is for them ?But it is not always this simple as much it seems. With such bombardment of exposure and different avenues are we actually in an era where childhood is all ruined because of social media? Answer to that is both Yes and No !

For real I feel social media is actually a tool which has helped the children in achieving their milestones for development quite soon and quick but with that what ever else has come with it is something that can not be denied! too much of exposure to everything has made their young vulnerable minds also to have access to the things which are not even age appropriate and has also resulted in learning behaviors which are negative in nature as well at times and may lead to massive emotional and physical eruption at times.

How social media is fueling a disturbing new trend in Australian schools that has parents and teachers on edge https://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/search.html?s=&authornamef=Zak+Wheeler+For+Daily+Mail+Australia

An underground fight club is erupting on social media with kids filming each other in ‘horrifying’ bare-knuckle brawls in school yards across Australia.

Social media groups are being created by students at private and public schools where videos are posted of boys and girls brawling or ambushing victims.

It is part of a disturbing trend which has grown in popularity online and now concerned experts are stepping in to try and change the culture and help prevent lifelong trauma to the victims of this violence.

In past we have many examples where we have seen children at a very young age achieving things in education field or in terms of financial scenario as well but with it we have more of examples where children being young and undecisive failed to understand about the right usage of technology and social media. We can not at any point deny the fact that before time provision of too much information has indeed led stray the childhood and with supervised approach best results can be attained.

Technology has led to a more equitable society

"A more inclusive and equitable society for all” | Society, Inclusive ...

How easy is it for us now to learn a new language or to know a new dish recipe now a days?? How many of us exactly know what our itinerary would be for any country and how easily we manage our whole plan right from accommodation to  entertainment spots ?? How many of us now a days watch shows of different genre or order brands of our choice online with just a click ! ? Answer to all of this is many of us !!

As a matter of fact we all now how technology has led to a society which is equally there with potentials and opportunities for all ! It has become a platform which has just shrunk the entire world and opportunities for everyone. Right from acquiring education to doing degrees online or to moving towards the online business is a platform which is open for all. We can not deny the fact that this whole structure has become possible not only for limited group but for people globally. Technology has indeed led to a more equitable society leading to unlimited opportunities and an equitable society for everyone.

Mentioned below as per one of an article published in MIT technology review it is clearly stated that how role of technology has not only evolved but has developed the need of reconsideration in the need of assessing how it has changed to an extent where it is leading to such a balance in society that it is undeniable. The way it has created opportunities for balance in work opportunities has to be a highlight and with it eradicating any sort of gender discrimination.

“Our relationship with technology as a whole will have shifted dramatically post-pandemic,” says Yoav Schlesinger, principal of the ethical AI practice at Salesforce. “There will be a negotiation process between people, businesses, government, and technology; how their data flows between all of those parties will get renegotiated in a new social data contract.”

https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/05/18/1024910/evolving-to-a-more-equitable-ai/

Mentioned below is the link with the facts Microsoft of 2022: Doing more with less and how technology has played a foremost role in it.

https://youtu.be/0IZGiReli-o

The technology leading to an equitable society leads to a point that how beautifully with the help of technology and presence of human factor, this whole society can work in an equitable way.

What role should schools play in supporting students in the development of their digital identities?

Digital identities nowadays have become stronger than the social identities for any individual ! It is ironical that how I know so many people who create social media profile of their kids right after they are born and start posting their data on it.  Usage of social media is such that it’s existence can not be denied in our lives today and to be able to understand well can help to work around it better.

Schools are an integral part of lives and as soon as students enter the schools they start learning through different platforms which cover the learning milestones with the help of digitalization.  All the educational apps usage at school and exposure of social media related activities at home do give exposure to the youngsters about the unlimited world of internet. As educationist we can not deny the responsibility which comes on school’s side in creating digital foot print of students. It has to be a compulsory part of education to create awareness about ethical considerations which comes with the usage of digital media and the most important thing is to just not create your own identity but also to respect the presence of others around. All the bullying which has come with the day to day media’s influence is also a huge matter of concern and should be dealt by creating awareness from the school’s side. Teachers along with the everyday teaching can surely create a balance of the digital identity for students as we can not deny the fact that huge part of our curriculum is also based on digitalization. Overall emotional grooming along with the digital foot print formation can help the students understanding the balanced usage of technology.

Building Your Digital Footprint