Mathematics with Technology

I watched the podcasts and I could tell Judy Chandler was well versed in the use of technology in math courses. It is a way of engaging students with hand on applications. This is great because students are actively participating. Ms Chandler feels that technology use in math classes in important and can enhance the educational experience although some others would disagree. With a hands on technique students actually learn what they are doing and they don't just practice for a test. They retain what they learn so the education is not wasted.

Technology in math classes can offer an immediate response to the students work. In this way, students will know if they are doing it right before they commit it to memory. Students can have better resources for their math studies with the use of technology in their class. Ms. Chandler believes that technology should become a part of the curriculum and not just something to add on the side. The student will benefit from actually seeing how problems are worked and what the results are and while they try to apply the knowledge they get immediate feedback. They don't have to wait for manual tests to be graded and returned a week later when they have forgotten the concept.

I am finding the use of technology in the classroom more and more appealing as I learn about it myself. I am all for anything that will challenge a student no matter what their ability. Computers keep student's attention and engages them in their educational process. Most students don't enjoy sitting in a classroom and listening to a lecture. It is hard to focus and become interested. But , by using technology the student once again takes an active part. The technology is out there and students need to incorporate it in as much of their education as possible and that's what I want to do in my classroom.

I know that there will be "old school" teachers out their that would not agree with me but, I think it is because of a fear of the unknown. They don't have experience with it and are intimidated by it. If they can get past their fear they will find an improvement in student's performances. I am all for making learning more interesting and fun. I don't want to be stuck and let the tech world paast me by without joining and learning.