As well as you Melissa in order to effectively promote the inclusion of all learners I am going to use computers and projector to ensure that I cover VAK and enable all students to participate in my next session.
We use Android tablets (Asus - Nexus 7 http://www.asus.com/Tablet/Nexus/Nexus_7/) in the classroom, they come cheap and deliver a wonderful experience to all students. Using a classroom management software (SmartClass http://www.radix-int.com/Classroom-Management/SmartClass-for-Tablet...), we can collaborate and focus our attention to students who really need the extra help. We mostly like the co-browsing and the tablet screen broadcast function, but we also use the remote assistance and student hand raise functions.
Just like with laptops and desktops in the past, I can't imagine how our class would be without this.
In my opinion,using technologies such as computers and ipads in the classroom are crucial tools which can make learning process more interesting thus not so serious and difficult as it was regarded in the past. It increases interest and motivation among students and also produce positive feelings towards the subject.
Using cutting-edge devices in the classroom involve all learners thus promote the inclusion and bring equality and diversity in every session. Bearing in mind diversity and promoting equality every teacher should be able to create a positive and equal learning environment.
like Emma I am also based in Performing Arts but specifically the singing side. The students have to learn about vocal anatomy, so to help them do this computers and internet are used to show videos to the students that demonstrate different elements as to how the voice works. The students have said that they find watching the videos fascinating and it helps them to get a better understanding of the topic. This way of learning would not be possible if we didn't have access to this technology. Like Mel has said, this technology allows me to cover VAK therefore helping to promote equality and diversity.
Hi Jo, the internet is geat for teaching but also learning. For every example I used on Youtube to demonstrate my lesson points the students threw back just as many they knew. On youtube it was a very fast and broadening experience. I loved the way everyone had a bank of things they like and know on youtube. If anything the problems are setting parameters for the students to work within the new technology. At the end of the day technology is only technology and allowing it to encourage ideas is the challange in the classroom. Just recently I tried to introduce my class to a new software package and I suddenley realized everyone doesn't learn software at the same pace...some felt great because they were streaking ahead but at the same time others were feeling left out because they were being left behind ..not good equality., same problems as convential learning but with new technologies.
I've previously posted about the website edudemic that focuses on the latest trends in education technology and web tools for teachers.
"We’re always trying to figure out the best tools for teachers, trends in the education technology industry, and generally doing our darnedest to bring you new and exciting ways to enhance the classroom."
Other teachers in this forum have commented that it is a 'wow' site featuring relevant information in education and in trending technology for the classroom.