There's an App for That! Learning with Technology

All the time we hear, “There’s an App for that.”, “Just Google it.”, but what does it mean? Technology, that’s what it means. Technology exists in every aspect of our lives. We use it to communicate, to simplify, to make things easier and less manual. It has changed the way people interact.

As I think about the new technologies I've learned to use, my mind wanders to when I was in junior high. The tragedy of being taught how to type on a typewriter and how painful it was physically. I couldn't keep my fingers on the keys. Every time I missed a key my finger would scrape on the metal. I remember thinking "I never want to be a secretary! EVER!"

Shortly thereafter, I was surprised with a fabulous gift from my grandparents...my very own electric typewriter. Grandpa said I'd "do well in the world if I practiced my skills." Well, I'd like to say I jumped in with both feet, however, that was not the case. I think fear of past pains kept me from becoming a great typist in my early years. However, during my senior year I was using an electric word processor with a mini screen that allowed me to preview before I printed...Absolutely Amazing!

As the years flew by, I got my first computer. It took two people to move, but I loved it. Today, I have a laptop, an iPad and a smartphone. I use these devices everyday. I am fascinated by new technologies and that is the reason my career goal is to become a teacher. I want to share with students the amazing technologies at their finger tips.

Preparing to become a teacher in the 21st involves learning and using many different types of computers and technology. Today’s teachers are using technology to teach, as well as connect with their students. Some of the computers and technologies used by teachers today include: SMART Boards, Microsoft Web Apps, Smartphones, iPads, and laptop computers. Technology has changed the way students and teachers interact.

 

Some technologies used for learning and communicating are portable computers such as; Smartphones, iPads, and laptop computers. These devices allow access to phone calls, emails, contacts, calendars, notes, Office documents, voice recognition software, and the internet, just to name a few. Teachers have the capability to learn new technology, create lesson plans and enjoy their favorite music while waiting in the doctor’s office, walking on a treadmill or having lunch in the park. These devices give teachers the connect ability needed in this generation. I believe the interaction among teachers and students has been revolutionized by technology.

It is essential for me to continually learn and use new technology to prepare to teach the next generation’s workforce. Technology intertwines in every aspect of my current education. I need to become technologically literate and stay current as new programs, hardware, software, and apps become available. Technology continues to change, because people are creating new technology this very moment.