Online AOW

Summary: Technology is becoming a part of life in today's society. In order to keep with the times, schools are increasingly starting to find ways to incorporate technology in the classroom. Some classes already have access to iPods, iPads, and other software. There will likely be an increase in technology in the U.S. as the government  is making advances in this growing field of learning.

Technology can give teachers a great way to involve the classroom in a relevant way. I am amazed at the things that can be done in the classrooms with electronics. Such methods could increase student learning in the classroom because the students will enjoy engaging in the material.  I think this could lead to more focus, understanding, and interest in the lesson at hand.

The first article brought up a good point of whether students should be allowed to bring their gadgets to school. If the students are using them for educational purposed (note-taking) or during down time (such as a study hall), I see nothing wrong with students having them. However, if they are permitted in the classroom, there should be set rules on when, or even where, to use them. If they want to take notes on an iPad, the teacher could have those students sit in the front row.

I loved that Ruggieri allowed her students to play an actual part in the classroom procedures by having her students vote on the order. What I also like about her is that she is not afraid to try new things. She is very innovated and seems like she would try whatever it takes to get the most out of her classroom time. I hope that I am like her when it comes to trying creative things. I believe high school teachers will soon be expected to have materials online for students to use--just as college students do. For example, if a professor at EU does not use Angel, then he/she is considered outdated and it may be harder to organize materials and keep track of items for the class.

I love the information in the third article. I love that the government is moving forward in education and looking for equipping their students for the future.

I will shift into Ciara mode for a moment: The second article's grammar was horrible. I know that the writer must not have been required to have an editor look over her finished piece. Also, there's no such thing as the Dexy application anymore, which I was disappointed to find out.


Bafile, Cara. (2010). Teaching? Learning? There's an "App" for That! Education World. Retrieved from http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech254.shtml

Knorr, Caroline. (2012).  Do High-Tech Toys Belong in School? Common Sense.  Retrieved from http://www.commonsensemedia.org/new/do-high-tech-toys-belong-school


Toppo, Greg. (2011).  White House details plans for more digital learning. USA Today.  Retrieved from http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/story/2011-09-16/digital-promise-white-house-education/50419910/1