Prompt #10

"List the chapter # you are reviewing and then discuss how you would integrate some of the online resources identified in the chapter for teaching that particular core subject area in a P-12 classroom."

Chapter 9, Mathematics

As a mathematics enthusiast and future teacher of elementary and middle school mathematics, I naturally flock to viewing and learning all that is possible for mathematical instruction. More so, I enjoyed ideas I learned regarding the integration of technology in mathematics using Chapter 9. Some of the ideas I enjoyed most included utilizing calculators, allowing assistive technology, enabling textbooks on devices, engaging students and families through a mathematics blog, and incorporating games or activities on devices.

Something I believe would be beneficial is to first have the students compute and solve problems using pencil and paper, longhand, before using a calculator. This will allow students to see what kind of process the calculator needs to work through in order to find the answer, just as they completed a process to find the solution. I also would like my students to use a calculator to check for accuracy and correctness of a problem and not complete their assignment as soon as possible without using higher level thinking and while solely relying on a calculator. Calculators and mathematics programs on devices play a vital role in comprehension and deep understanding for students with exceptionalities. I would strongly encourage these students to use assistive technology if this was something they need to be successful.

I would prefer my students to not carry a heavy textbook to and from school and home each time I assigned a project or homework. I would advocate for textbooks on devices and textbooks that can be accessed using the Internet at school and at home. Additionally, I would provide my students with websites and articles to access at school and at home using the Internet. If Internet access happened to be an issue for a student, I would graciously print the document(s) so that the student would be able to complete the mathematical exercises. I also would like to use mathematics games and activities and mathematics programs to check and quiz students on their mathematical understanding. I believe that using technological programs on computers and laptops will allow students to show what they do and do not know. Students may write their mathematical process on a piece of paper or using the computer program so that I, as the teacher, may see the students' thought process as they completed the task.

Lastly, I would like to create a class blog or mathematics blog for my students to access. My blog would include homework assignments and projects as well as their explanations. My students and their families would be able to access this blog whenever they would like. I would add explanatory videos, websites, and other resources on the blog related to the material we cover in class so that students could gain further understanding at home, when completing homework, or if absent. Two of the websites I would consider adding to this blog include www.mathplayground.com and www.mathisfun.com. There are so many wonderful technological resources that are available and I would like to increase the understanding, competency, and success of my students by utilizing each one to its maximum potential.

Prompt #9

"List the issue # you are reviewing and then identify which position you believe is most accurate/valid, and explain why."

Issue #15: Student Screen Time

For many reasons, I do believe that educators should limit the screen time that students are able to utilize. First, students have access to screen time in almost every place they go. Students may use computers, laptops, television, iPads, iPhones, music devices, and cell phones at school, home, the library, family and friends' homes, doctor's offices, stores, and more. Students may watch a show, play a game, listen to a song, or do just about anything they please. School should be a time for social interaction when students work together by communicating verbally and non-verbally. Students should spend time collaborating on projects in groups, helping one another by editing a paper, or even participating in discussions as they are face-to-face.

Also, an educator should be weary of how much screen time is used at school as he/she may not know how much screen time a student receives at home. It just may happen to be that, upon arriving home at the end of the day, a student uses frequent screen time after school all the way until bed time. Then, this student spends time using screens at school through lessons, individual and group work time, and sometimes for testing purposes. A student may spend the entire day fixed on a screen of some sort!

Lastly, heavy use of screen time is not healthy for a child of any age, as they are growing and need to keep their minds and bodies active in order for appropriate development. Where else will students be able to spend a majority of the day with same age peers as they experience, learn, and grow? Students need to become strong communicators, interact with peers and adults for social growth, and experience emotions, all which can stem from in-person interactions. These skills are ones in which students will need for their future education and career. Overall, I believe it is best if educators limit screen time during the school day.