Reflection on 4th Discussion Ubiquitous Computing

Ubiquitous Computing

One of the articles in this discussion posting was “Teaching and Learning in a Ubiquitous Computing Environment” which had three very interesting case studies embedded in it. The other article was “Ubiquitous Computing and Changing Pedagogical Possibilities: Representations, Conceptualizations and Uses of Knowledge” which covered detail findings from the AT&T classroom. I found all the information listed extremely interesting and motivating. I thought everyone that posted added some really important points in regards to ubiquitous computing and its effect on the classroom.

Using computers for hands on learning sometimes can create the concern of are the students just pushing buttons. But I feel that if you are instructing them in a focused and positive way they are going to become positively engaged. Surfing for information and opening several links in the process can get even the best adult side-tracked but they still learning from the experience. (Even if going off track wastes valuable time finding relevant information.)

Having someone in the building to maintain the equipment and give training/support to the teachers to use the technology is very important and as most of you all say is lacking in most buildings. This needs to be more at the top of the priority list for a district because student learning and test scores will dramatically increase.

I found myself agreeing with what most of you all posted. This discussion kept my attention and I feel learned a lot that I will take with me from these discussions. Thank you all for your contributions they make us all better teachers.