Internet is Down

After a week of traveling and moving, I was finally able to settle down at home. What was the first thing I did? Turn on my computer. What immediately set me on panic mode??? My internet is down!

I attempted to calm down and decided I would go to bed early and tackle the problem early in the morning. (That was an almost pointless attempt to sleep because I just tossed and turned.) I called Time Warner first thing in the morning and the earliest they could come by to check it out was Tuesday. WHAT?!? There's not a digital wand that will fix it through the phone? I was highly disappointed...

Off to the library...

Awareness

I have always been fascinated with technology. I may not have had all the latest materials but I have enjoyed what I have. After reading Bonk's book and having to be consciously aware of the technology around me, I have realized that in a way I have been blind. It may have been from not paying attention because I didn't want too feel bad that I can't afford the latest of things or it could be that I felt that I was too old and too young for the latest stuff ( too old because I'm not at a video game age myself and too young to have kids that play with games like those).

Those were decent excuses to not be aware; however, they're no longer good enough. As most games for fun are invented, there is always a market for educational things. Those are what I need to focus on to be a better teacher. I need to find the benefit of these technology to help my students.

I sat in an airplane for four hours with three children in front of me. They probably varied in age from 4 years to 9 years old. They were polite and engaged the whole time. Although they did some old fashion coloring too, they were mostly dealing with technology. The two brothers were messaging each other part of the time on their DS, what a great way to practice writing and helping the young brother to practice reading. ( Not to mention, helping the dad keep them quiet for the rest of the passengers and have a break to read his paper.)

Sitting behind them just reassured me that I need to find better uses of technology in my room and better ways I can get parents to get their children to practice at home.

tech on vacation

Today I was able to help a classmate on vacation. Ideally I should be able to talk to her and be able to go online, but with a room charge of 14 dollars a day for internet, I could not afford that. So, we talked, got off the phone, accessed internet on my phone to just help. I was glad to help.

It does make me think about the internet access. I would think that a location like this would provide free access but it doesn't. I was disappointed. I'm glad that my phone had some access.

Bonk in The World is Open had me reflect on how the world is changing with the use of the web. Today as I started my travel, I am more aware of all the technology that is in use. Compared to five years ago, I noticed more smartphones in peoples hands. I saw less books but more on Blackberries reading emails and a couple reading off kindles. Ohhh how learning occurs whether its travel for business or pleasure.

m-learning:

In this course, I have been exposed to various formats of learning. One of which is m-learning. So...what better way to do one of my blog post, that through my "m"obile device.:) He's a trial post for now. I will do a longer reflection later.

Tech_onomy

Teach 2.0

Initial Page to blogging about Teach 2.0.

More to come later!