Technology+Integration

Below is a short editorial response to an article hand picked from a list of ranging technoligically-based subject matters. I made the decision to research the notion of online classroom and virtual education. This is a very intriguing subject matter, as I feel that it could adversely affect the classical sense of my job description. With all its pros and cons, it is comforting to know that this is now an as-needed conceivable option for a child acquiring an alternative education.

The article I chose to view and reflect upon was titled “Meet a Virtual Principal: How to Lead from a Distance”. It is a brief look into the daily work life of a man named Jeff Farden. Jeff is a Principal, but not of any conventional school one might think of. He oversees virtual schools. These are schools where computer based learning modules sit at the precipice of importance. In lieu of students learning from a lectured base classroom setting, each individual can go through a program and advance at one’s own pace. Why then, is there a need for a principal one might ask? Principal Farden frequently visits and monitors classrooms while adding viable input on moderating instructors concerns. Every movement needs a leader. I enjoyed this video. I liked the fact that these types of school settings are gaining prominence across the nation. There must be options for students if students stand a chance for success. In my previous career as a Youth Advocate for at risk teens I had the opportunity to see firsthand how schools like this can help students achieve goals who normally would be more apt to fall short due to extenuating life circumstances. It is paramount that the classrooms of the 21st century rise to the standards of a 21st century world. To cite an example, a paralegal would not utilize an encyclopedia written in 1982 from a dusty, backroom archive hall to find an answer to a particular question. He or she would research from a digital archive using multiple search engines and any technological aides made available. Teachers, along with the students they educate, must be afforded the same tools of design. I do not claim to be the world’s most tech savvy person. I do though embrace the notion of utilizing technology in the classroom whole-heartedly. I intend on using the World Wide Web, delivery pristine, visually driven, computer-based presentations and offer alternative modes of teaching by way of technology integration. My main concern is of a fiscal matter. How is the county I shall work for going to be able to pay for upgrades? Smartboards don’t pay for themselves and I am going to be spending the rest of my life paying off the equivalent of a small house in student loans. As an educational community, we all stand with the paramount dilemma in front of us. The answer is simple: government taxation and increased privatized funding. Our nation is dumbing down as we speak and no one on the top end of our country seems to be earnestly concerned. I would have no qualms whatsoever if a little extra tax dollars fell out of every American wallet to help out our nation’s future workforce. But that’s another discussion for another class. Until we reach a point of complete technological support from the tiered ladders above our heads, it is up to each individual educator to offer the best they can, as much as they can. I intend on doing my part with the utmost technological standards made available..