Learning first, entertainment second. Technology in the classroom.

Lots of talk lately has been whether or not technology can improve student learning.  I believe, when used correctly, technology can drastically improve understanding of concepts .  Using the virtual world destroys the boundaries we encounter in the physical classroom.  In all fields of education, we need to start using all tools available and not just the "traditional" tools that were around when we were in high school. 

When my SmartBoard was first installed in my class, I truly believed I was utilizing technology to its full potential everyday, by writing my notes on the SmartBoard.  Sadly, I have then realized all I had in my classroom was a glorified whiteboard.  This then caused to me think, "Even though I might have technology in my class, unless I am using it in a way that requires that certain technology, I am not using it correctly".

How do we utilize such technology?  Below are apps described by "eSchoolNews", and what the sites claims to be the top 10 iPad, iPhone, or iTouch apps.  The list could go on and on, as more and more educational apps are created daily.   No matter what technology we use, however, we need to be aware that its use should be promoting student learning and not just for entertainment.

^[1]
Name: Word Lens
Best for: Language Classes
Cost: Free
Features: Instantly translates signage from one language to another through the camera application
How to Use: Language teachers can use this program for scavenger hunts
^[2]Name: Molecules
Best for: Science Classes
Cost: Free
Features: Allows users to view and manipulate three-dimensional models of different molecules
How to Use: Visual learners can see how protein molecules are composed and can download new molecules from the RCSB Protein Data Bank
^[3]Name: Blackboard Mobile Learn
Best for: Students and teachers whose campuses already use Blackboard
Cost: Free
Features: Course listings, organizations users are involved in as well as access to any readings
How to Use:Users can enroll in any classes or organizations that they have registered for and download any assignments there instructors have posted
Name: Today in History
Best for: History Classes
Cost: Free
Features: Lists notable events in history as well as important figures who were born or died on a specific date
How to Use:Use for trivia quizzes or facts of the day
^[4]Name: Math Ref Free
Best for: Math Classes
Cost: Free
Features: A free version of Math Ref, this app offers 600 out of over 1,300 formulas, figures, tips, and examples
How to Use: Use as a formula study guide or to view graphs of different equations
^[5]Name: PI83 Graphing Calculator
Best for: Math Classes
Cost: $0.99
Features: With over 100 math functions, the graphing calculator is a clone of the TI-83 without the $70 price tag
How to Use: Use in place of any calculator to input data, make graphs or matrices


^[6]Name: Star Walk
Best for: Astronomy Classes
Cost: $2.99
Features: An astral telescope; Star Walk adapts its view to wherever the user holds it up to, highlighting constellations and planets
How to Use: Use for guided tours of the night sky or to find the location of any specific astral objects
Name: Cram
Best for: Anyone in need of test prep
Cost: $3.99
Features: Both teachers and students can create flashcards and tests and import and share them with others
How to Use: Use to study for standardized tests or exams, or create study materials for students
^[7]Name: Essay Grader
Best for: Teachers pressed for time
Cost: $5.99
Features: Essay grader comes with a bank of pre-written comments and helps teachers cut down on grading time without writing the same comments over and over again by hand
How to Use: After assigning a grade, teachers can then eMail the grade sheet directly to the student or export it to the computer for editing and printing
Name: eClicker
Best for: Teachers looking for classroom feedback
Cost: $9.99
Features: Providing instant results, eClicker charts the class responses, showing which areas are understood and which need more work
How to Use: Students select a response to a question composed by the instructor and are then able to participate without fear of being wrong, since only the teacher views the results

---

Educators first, entertainers second.

"If students are having fun then they will learn more."  This was a comment I heard and decided to look more into this idea.  Most people understand the meaning of the words "engagement", "entertainment", and "meaning", but do people understand that engagement and meaning does not imply entertainment?

When I look back to a couple of years ago, I would start my class with a funny YouTube video or a funny website.  I believed that these videos and sites convinced students that what I was about to teach was worth learning.  Unfortunatly, I was being decieved by this notion.

Students want and need to have fun, however not at the expense of learning.  I believe true student engagement can be fun, but it doesn't have to be.  Recently, I have asked some of my students which of the two enviornments would they prefer:

Option 1: A class where you laugh and joke, watch funny videos, but do not understand the concepts being presented

Option 2: A class that is very structured where no jokes are allowed, but you can completely apply the knowledge and concepts you have learned.

Most either said option 2 or a mix between the two classes.  Not one student picked option 1.  As educators we need to realize we are not doing our students or ourselves a favour by showing non-relevant material in class.  The question then is “How do we engage students on learning and allow them to also have fun?”  The answer is simple; create activities that relate to the outcomes not to entertainment. 

To introduce non-permissible values in math, I showed an example on how 1 could equal 2.  I then asked the students to find the mistake.

The mistake is at one step you have to divide by 0 which is breaking the law in the world of math.  Was this task as fun as showing a video where a kid runs into a stop sign? Absolutely not, however this task was more meaningful to the students.  As teachers, we are not entertainers but educators, and sometimes we need to be reminded of this.