Blog #3

Microsoft Word

My school district utilized Microsoft Word beginning in lower grade levels. As soon as first grade I was taught to create, edit, and save word documents. This continued along with increased usage throughout all of my elementary and junior high career. We had many projects, essays, and assignments due through Microsoft and Microsoft Word. In addition to this, our teachers often demonstrated use of it through projected examples, worksheets, and assignments. In high school, I joined a program known as the Early College program where I receive college credit for classes beginning my freshman year. One required class was information technologies and through this class you learned about in depth use of Microsoft Tools where I was even certified in the end. However, towards the end of my high school career and into college, I've noticed a shift towards Google and it's applications. Specifically, I find it more beneficial to use Google Docs for collaboration and ease uses. Overall, I have been lucky enough to have extensive experience in Microsoft Word.

Copyright

To be completely honest, I have not been exposed to in depth copyright and fair use of materials. I was taught the basics of not using others' work and putting it in your own words, citing on online websites it you do use, and quotations. However, I feel as if it is a topic that should be explored more in an educational environment. As a teacher of a young grade level, I would be charged with teaching the basic concepts of these. I would probably have to explain and lesson on not stealing others' words and creating your own instead. In upper elementary, that is where summation of ideas would be taught.

Technology Implementation Issues

Student Privacy is an important issue to address from a young age. I believe in my future classroom I may be able to help in this. One possible solution I have would be informing young students of the danger of sharing private information online. This could be done through a lesson, video, game, etc. But, the earlier you address it, the less likely it is to occur. Another important technological issue that is becoming increasingly prevalent is decreased productivity. Access to distractions is increasing and affecting student performance and attention. A simple solution to this would be parental supervision on student technology along with different applications's aid. This can include time limits, site blockers, and warnings.

Comments: Alina Korray and Alexis Durlacher