When technology is used to support culturally and linguistically diverse students, it is often remedial. Some students find themselves using technology that has been designed for younger learners simply because the vocabulary level matches their current language acquisition. This types of remediation via technology can be frustrating to use. Imagine yourself living in another country, trying to learn its language, and being asked to learn via remedial software. What concerns would you have about this instructional approach? What other options might be found to avoid remediation when it is instructionally unnecessary?
I would have problems if I am not fluent in the language of the country I moved to. There would be communication issues. Translation issues would definitely affect my understanding due to the barrier. I would have problems following directions due to the barrier. I would not know if I am asking the right question or receiving the right answer. I will need wireless Internet so that I can have translation software available on a mobile device. The use of translations software will enable me to communicate with others. If no Internet is available and I have problem using my application I will use translation book. I could always seek a person that speaks English for assistance.
Chapter Five: Any, Question 2
Discuss the cloud storage. Why is it advantageous for educators to share resources and programs on a network? What concerns are associated with program sharing?
Cloud storage is data stored at a remote location that can be accessible online. Dropbox is online storage that I have used before for class. Many types of data can be stored such as applications, videos, images and data files. The advantage of using cloud storage is it can be accessed online anywhere and it does not require a lot of technical support. Cloud storage is an easy application to download and easy to use.
The use of cloud computing is affordable especially for schools that do not have a lot of funding. Cloud computing does require the user to login and stored data is synced, so when changes are made by one user the updated data is available to all that has a login. Disadvantage is cloud storage is not available when the Internet is not available. Although programs and data can be shared the information is available to all with a login. No private information should be added. Provisions should be taken that viruses are not uploaded especially since resources are shared.
Chapter Six: Question 1
After considering the various types of digital technologies presented in this chapter, what three pieces of equipment do you think you would most want for your future or current classroom? Explain why you selected these three and how you would use them for teaching and learning.
I would choose wireless Internet, mobile devices, and cloud computing. Wireless Internet is a great source that allows teachers’ access to the Internet in their classroom. I have visited schools that did not have Internet in the classroom that the student had to go to the library to complete online assignments. Wireless Internet allows instructors to use apps for teaching resources as part of their curriculum, and teachers have access to other resources such as lesson plans, and videos. Students can use apps for many sources for example to play online games, research topics and the list goes on and on.
Mobile devices are another great source that includes iPad, tablet, drawing pads, or even allow students to use their mobile phones for teaching and learning. These devices benefit teachers and students in performing assignments. I would use drawing devices for certain assignments for artworks. Each student can use these devices to complete assignments. Mobile devices can be used anywhere. Educational apps can be used as teaching tools. Students can share sources, perform research in the classroom without going to the library to read books. The cost is less than purchasing computers for each student.
Cloud computing would be a great source. All information can be synchronized and teacher can download apps that students will have access to do assignments. Software and files are available to each student with access. Using the cloud is a time saving method, and it saves for the cost of printing and passing out printed materials. All three resources work together to make the teaching process easier.