Technology challenges by Mary Marshall

Lely Teacher

2014-04-07 12:24:06 UTC

The biggest constraint that I face is related to the wifi infrastructure since BYOD has not worked in my room pretty much all year long.

Also, I don't have a class set of iPods or iPads to work with even if I wanted to incorporate technology. I'm hesitant to have students

use their own devices because I don't want to highlight the digital divide with our students from low socioeconomic status families.

Additionally, I see technology more as a gimmick most of the time since students are already engaged in my classroom.

2014-04-07 12:32:15 UTC

As much as I'd love to use technology in my classroom, I tend to shy away from it because I feel like I'm constantly babysitting to keep the kids on the right website or app. It is a constant battle to keep them off facebook, twitter, snapchat, texting, etc. Also, the wifi doesn't support the large number of devices that are trying to connect.

Mike

michaelfagioli — 2014-04-07 12:37:56 UTC

A big concern with technology is access. Since we do not have enough tech for every class we are looking into BYOD. The challenge with this is that we cannot expect every student to own a device or want to use their personal device in class. Also, every tool encounters problems with compatibility between platforms. This becomes frustrating even for me (total tech nerd). So, I can imagine that it would be a complete deterrent to other teachers. The solution I would love to see (especially if we continue with BYOD) is a technology coordinator/coach/specialist at each school (at least a .5 position). This person can work to get technology, implement technology, and train teachers and students. The fact that I also want to hold that position is irrelevant :)

Rachel

2014-04-07 12:46:24 UTC

I think my biggest challenge is that not all students have access to internet capable devices, or uniform access. Some devices are quicker than others. It's hard enough to try to keep the students at the same pace without adding the challenge of keeping them on track with their devices.

Sharon

2014-04-07 12:47:20 UTC

I have invested a great deal of money (iPad, new computer) and a great deal of time this year to try to keep up with new technology demands, but I feel like a cave woman. I need MUCH more support on a regular basis to make my investment worthwhile. At our professional development meetings, the information comes at me so fast, within the first few minutes I am three steps behind. I used to feel like a very well-educated woman, but now I feel like a dummy! I even went to the Discovery program led by Amy Hance, and I, supposedly, am a Den Star. The only kind of star I feel like right now is a fallen star. I still want to learn, but need a slower pace and regular learning opportunities.

Robby

bakerr1 — 2014-04-07 13:01:22 UTC

Technology offers many opportunities for engagement. Its when the APP/Website/Presentation program does not work correctly that the problems arise. However, students usually are able to solve them. Small grouping is great for those that do not have a device or connection.

DJ Bruins

2014-04-07 13:03:21 UTC

Kids think that Google translate or Alta Vista translation can do their job of writing in a foreign language. Other than needing to disabuse them of this erroneous notion, I do like using on-line verb conjugation sites and dictionaries.

Scott

2014-04-07 13:05:51 UTC

My biggest problem is that students are under the impression that they are allowed to use their devises when they want not when I want them to.

Todd

2014-04-07 13:20:43 UTC

I don’t really have any challenges with technology in my room. There may be an occasional time when we have network problems or the internet goes down. In those times I just have to be creative and enact changes on the spot. I have found that the use of technology has not only changed the way I teach but also taken students’ engagement and understanding to a whole new level. There is more front loading time when it comes to planning however it makes up for itself during class by freeing me up to talk to students one on one and having critical conversations with students not only about my class, but other classes and what it means to be successful in life as well. I could never go back to teaching without it.

Aaron Chambers

achambe8 — 2014-04-07 14:10:36 UTC

I agree with many of the problems brought up here but one not mentioned is the students recording video or taking pictures without permission. I can't even tell you how many times I've had a student tell me that they just saw a video of me on twitter, snapchat, or instagram.

Jessica Duesler

2014-04-07 14:49:07 UTC

I have been exposed to many great uses of technology for my classroom. I face the issue of becomming familiar enough with them to allow their use on a regular basis without needing to devote excessive tiem to their integration. I have most frequently had success when another person has offered to walk me through it and troubleshoot along the way. I have expereinced the most success when I familiarize myself over the summer to implement the use durign the following year.

Nancy Embree

2014-04-07 15:46:15 UTC

I teach intensive Algebra and find that this level student needs structure and specific steps when learning how to do a specific type problem. They need repetitive problems and a lot of practice. In my experience, they are not mature enough to handle using their phones or other devices in class. When there is an EOC attached to my class I need every minute for practice so they have the best possible chance to pass. I know there is a lot of technolgy out there to use but I find I don't have the time to learn it myself. I would only feel comfortable exposing the students if I knew what I was doing. I feel like I have no time to learn. Another issue when you have 29 kids in the class is monitoring the kids to make sure they are on the correct website. This is just about impossible.