Chapter 3 Reflection
Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?
It is a fact that technology is changing and advancing at rapid speed. New technologies are being developed probably as we speak. According to Morrison & Lowther (2010), the NETS for students recognize and emphasize the importance of students using the appropriate digital tools for education. Without knowledge of the basic digital tools, students cannot maximize their use. In other words, “If we don’t know what a digital tool does, how can we know if it will help us?”
Most desktop computers do the same things as mobile devices, so why do teachers need to use both?
According to Morrison & Lowther (2010), there are pros and cons to both the desktop computer and the laptop computer. For example, desktop computers have the advantage that if an individual component needs repair or replacing, each component can be easily replaced or repaired. Monitors work great for groups of students at the computer because they are usually larger. Unfortunately, desktops also are very heavy, immobile, and take up a lot of desk space. Laptops, on the other hand are good because they are portable and can be used in multiple locations. They are also smaller and compact. Because they are mobile, they are at greater risk for theft or dropping them. They also tend to have smaller screens so it is hard for several people to view it at the same time.
How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are often limited in number and scope?
As I have mentioned before, I have been a nursing educator in a community college setting for 19 years. I certainly have seen many changes. I also know that the use of technology and digital devices is crucial. Nursing education is grounded in critical thinking and problem solving because it is impossible for students to learn everything there is to know about every patient’s body and disease processes. They must gain a foundational knowledge and then master critical thinking and problem solving to individualize their practice. Morrison & Lowther (2010), note that according to NETS-S “Students use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools and resources” (p. 59). A specific example in nursing education is the constant discovery of new medications. Pharmaceutical companies develop and market new medications almost daily. If students only purchased and used a textbook, they would not be able to keep current with the latest and most effective treatments for patients. By using digital devices, students can get updated information reflecting evidence-based practice.
Chapter 4 Reflection
There are so many types of software; how do I know which ones to include in my lessons?
The first step is to determine what I hope to accomplish in my classroom by using the software. Secondly, I need to be familiar with the different types of software and their functions and capabilities so that I can match my need with the software capability. As a nursing educator, I have found many different types are useful in the classroom. Certainly productivity software is essential. Students have many writing assignments, as well as presentations. Graphic organizer software is especially helpful in nursing education because we use concept maps frequently to make connections between patient data, disease processes and symptoms, nursing interventions, medications, and evaluation of these interventions. As Morrison & Lowther (2010) note, graphic organizers can be used by students to expand their learning “by creating models and concept maps” (p. 97).
I understand why students should use educational software and the internet, but why should my fourth-grade students learn to use spreadsheet, database or video editing software?
It’s never too early to start! Children have been exposed to technology since infancy in many instances (Leap Frog products, etc). As an educator in the college setting, I have seen many students who are not prepared for today’s world technologically. The NETS-S assist teachers to integrate “21st century knowledge and skills into their everyday teaching practices” (Morrison & Lowther, 2010, p. 6). By beginning early in elementary school, students in the college setting will be prepared.
How can student use of different types of software help improve scores on state tests?
Specifically in nursing education, the ultimate goal after graduation from a nursing program is for graduates to pass the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN). By having students use software that assists them with test-taking skills and strategies, and by having them take practice exams, students are more prepared when they sit for the NCLEX-RN. In my program we use software from a specific company, Assessment Technologies Inc, (ATI) that follows the students from pre-entrance to review after graduation. ATI has entrance exams that our students use for admission. Once in our program, students take exams each semester to determine if they have mastered the subject area. If they do not meet our benchmarks, they have remediation testing and tutorials through ATI. This continues until after graduation, when graduates can then complete a thorough NCLEX review through ATI.
References
Morrison, G., & Lowther, D. (2010). Integrating computer technology into the classroom: Skills for the 21st century. (4th ed.). Boston, Mass. Pearson Publishing.
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