Technology Literacy

1. I know enough technology to write research papers using Microsoft Word, create presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint, and I have had some training in using Microsoft Outlook. I send and receive emails, I know how to use instant messengers, and I have created web pages using geocities.com. The aspects of technology I would like to work on have to do with problem solving when a Word document will not seem to look the way I want it to look. For example, sometimes when I try and align my title to the center, the rest of the paper moves to the center. I never started having this problem until Word 2007 was installed on the computers. There has got to be a way for me to fix this problem I am having. I also need to start typing correctly. I type fast, but I do not always use the right fingers on the right keys. I also would like to become familiar with the Smart Board and all its components and know how to trouble shoot when the program is having problems. I need to also refresh my memory of what I learned in high school about Microsoft Outlook. Finally, I want to learn about that program that enables us to talk to people in another location on a video screeen.

2. Technology should not replace the teacher, but it should enhance the learning experience. Technology can enhance learning by providing research resources to students and teachers alike. It should help teachers locate quality resources to create excellent lessons for their students. Technology should aid in keeping track of student grading and there should be a system where students can check their current grades online and track their academic progress.

3. I can help students meet Standard 1 by showing them how to properly start up and shut down the computer. I can teach them the basics about using Microsoft Word and how to file and save as. If my students are constantly using the computer to write papers they will become proficient in the basic uses of technology. If I have a smart board or overhead in my classroom I can teach students how to run that equipment so that when they do presentations they will be able to set up ahead of time with little help from me. I can help students in my classroom meet standard 2 by teaching them how to research and properly give credit to their online sources using a particular format (i.e. MLA or APA). Students can learn about social issues and attitudes surrounding technology by researching and learning about areas where there is not much technology (i.e. Amish community or a small village in Africa). They can brainstorm ways technology can help reduce poverty in the world. I can also show students websites where they can keep journals (i.e. blogspot). At blogspot.com students can respond to books they read inside and outside of class by posting a blog and communicating with other students. I can teach students how to create resumes using Microsoft Word. In order to help students develop a positive attitude toward technology I can show them how to have fun with technology by helping them create videos using the smart board and I can show musically inclined students how to record their songs using computer programs. Of course, I will have to learn how to do this first. I can help students meet Standard 4 by having them create a PowerPoint on a topic they are researching. Writing blogs and communicating with their classmates through blogs will also fulfill Standard 4.