Journal #4

Basham, J., Perry, E., & Meyer, H. (2011). It's in the bag. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(2), 25-26. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-september-october-2011.aspx

The education in the United States is predominately geared around a tight structural organization. It has been engrained in the minds of students to come to class, takes notes, and ask questions. This structure leaves little room for leading, problem solving and the ability to think for oneself. The idea presented about a Digital Backpack is a fantastic way to incorporate developing student’s technology skills as well as promote individuality and problem solving skills. I think that this idea would be difficult to find funding for by the state, but it should be implemented in as many classrooms as possible. The main objective of the Digital Backpack was to meet and cater to the diverse learning goals of various students. Each child has different ways and levels of learning. Some students are visual, while others are more hands on. Some students are also a little slower in understanding the material. The Digital Backpack brings all of these elements together, if utilized and administered properly. It allows for students to work at their pace and gives them the tools to solve their own problems. Hopefully in the near future, the world will recognize that technology is only growing faster and faster. It is something that will be in high demand for a while, therefore it is imminent to allow students to grow with the forever advancing world.


Questions:
How would a potential teacher utilize this resource in his or her classroom?
~ I think this answer depends on the age range and grade level of the students. Younger students could use this to create digital art projects given certain programs with instructions. They could also use particular pre- installed apps to become acquainted with technology etiquette such as the prevention of cyber bullying or plagiarism. Older and more advanced students could use this resource as a means to complete digital projects and interactive apps. If the teacher had an online class blog, a Digital Backpack would be handy in pulling out during class to read and comment on each other’s blog entry during class.

How would you find that balance between flexibility and time efficiency?
~It is important to recognize that this device needs to be utilized properly in order for it to be effective. It has to allow for flexibility as well as time management. Students should be able to quickly grasp the concept with the instructions provided and be able to finish their assignments by a particular due date. I think a good way to administer these concepts would be to dedicate particular days of the week to a Digital Backpack session. This would allow students to focus on one thing throughout the day. You would have to be careful of scattering their brains with too much at once.