Journal #1

"Power of the Mashup” By Susie Boss and Jane Krauss

If only educators and schools had this type of technological capability when I was studying literature, I might have actually read the “Odyssey” or some book by Rudyard Kipling!  This article explains how teachers are implementing various technologies into their classes and how both the teacher and the students are benefiting from it. The article first introduces us to Jerome Burg, a High School Literature teacher who uses a variety of technology resources to help students have a greater understanding of the literature. For example, in studying the classic adventure story, Candide, he had students use Google Earth to travel along with the character and visualize the locations of the story. Student discussions confirmed that they had a greater understanding of the literature with the use of the “lit trips” than of his previous students he taught the same material to over 30 years ago. There are also other media sources you and introduce into classrooms, such as the MP3 player activities that Australian history teacher, David Fagg created. Fagg utilized the typically confiscated MP3 player and integrated them into learning. Students, using MP3 players and digital cameras, were able to research, gather, collaborate, and share material through podcasting. Not only are students benefiting from the use of technology, but the teachers are too. Teachers can collaborate and share ideas with other teachers, which allow the teachers to continually improve and enhance their own class activities.

1. What other subjects could the application of Google Earth be used?

Google Earth is a great educational tool for students to visualize and have a better understanding of various concepts. I believe teachers can use Google Earth in almost all school subjects from grades 1-12. Students studying history, geography, and earth sciences are able to type in various topics and Google Earth will give provide students with locations and data related to that topic.(As shown on the right) Examples of how Google Earth can be used in different subjects are demonstrated at this website.


2. Are there any cons related to the usage of technology in the classroom?
I believe students and teachers benefit more from technology than they are disadvantaged from it. The only disadvantages, I see, for students may be the social implications. Doing research without actually interacting and going beyond their keyboards may hinder students socially. Students may become reliant on technology in researching and not be able to find the same resources without technology. Not all information on the internet is totally reliable. Therefore, teachers must educate students on the etiquette of the internet and teach students other ways to gather information.