Assignment #1

The three articles all discuss literacy instruction through technology.   The term “new literacies” relates to new types of learning through digital technology.  New literacies include developing online reading comprehension skills, that is needed by the internet and other information communication technologies (ICTs} through video and audio sites, blogs and e-mail.  Students are not just reading but they are able to explore the web, find and evaluate information, communicate and attain skills that are essential to their life.  Technology is constantly changing, and it connects with the way we read, write and communicate.  As time passes, learning has changed and its impacted by technology.  The internet and other ICTs are being used in learning polices around the world. It is important for educators to adapt to the changes; however, it can be difficult since many teachers are used to the old way so to speak before the integration of technology in the classroom.  Educators should attend workshops to study new strategies that use ICTs in the classroom.  It is also essential that parents get involved as well by working with teachers and students to understand the new literacies and how they can learn and benefit from it as well.  We as a whole need to prepare our children for these changes that’s taking place now and changes that are to come.

Assignment #2

Which ideas from the PPT reflect what the ELA teachers you interviewed are currently doing to integrate technology with their literacy instruction?

The ELA teacher I interviewed currently uses iPads in her classroom with literacy.  With the IPads students can go on different apps.  There is an app that is specifically catered to learn about shapes and building blocks for the little ones.  There others that are designed to develop literacy through music and games.  There are websites that’s fun for kids and helps them develop multisensory skills through pictures, words, and coordinated movements.  Students are having fun and learning at the same time.

How can you help change their instructional practices to include the use of technology and the internet in their literacy and content-area curriculum?

I am not sure at this point whether I can help change any instructional practices since I see that teachers are developing and using technology within their lessons.  I see many using the IPads, different apps and other ways to integrate technology.

What professional development and/or resources will they need in order to make these changes?

I always recommend that teachers attend workshops and professional development to be aware and be trained on how to integrate technology in their classroom.  It’s always great to do research and educate yourself about new technologies and how you can implement it in your classroom.

What ideas do you have for grouping students so they will have equal access to technology in the classroom?

I personally don’t like to group kids with the same levels together.  I think it’s good to group higher level students with lower levels students so they can help and learn from each other.  This is a good way to have student interaction, social skills and they are able to achieve higher academic standards.