Technology Defines the User
I don't have a problem reaching Gen Y with a White Board, Colored Pens, Handouts, Scientific Calculator, and a good teaching strategy.
Am I doing something wrong?
Ben,
yes, enthusiasm for our subject is the most important thing, followed by good instructional technique.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I am a big fan of new technologies. I don't incorporate them as a standard in my teaching. I am open to using them when the student(s) requests it. What makes me a successful teacher, above all else, is my enthusiasm for what I teach. Big picture = technology is just a small piece.
I fall into that same boat. Our curriculum is very restrictive. And at times I find it very difficult to reach them knowing there are better ways if I could just show that you tube video. As for the cell phones I constantly struggling with them to keep them from using them during class.
No. I think it's good to stay one or two generations behind the technology. The kids are burnt out on it, they like an old fashioned "chalk talk." Let them talk to each other, too. They rarely do it anymore. And let them turn in an actual paper, rather than submitting it digitally. Call me old school.
Someday, you might try using You Tube or PowerPoint. They're not the enemy, as long as you use them sparingly and intelligently. But I can see, you're someone who would do that.
I am greatly limited in the classroom as cell phones are not allowed and the internet is also not alowed to be used. I am restricted to using only the approved curriculum, with use of the white board.
