Blog Post 1

I think computers, especially in this day and age, are a fundamental aspect of the educational experience. Many children have at least some experience using computers, and know, to an extent, the value of the Internet and common programs (such as Word). Computers allow a large variety of information to be conveyed easily to students and will be beneficial to use in the classroom. The days of using projectors and transparencies, along with whiteboards, are over, or at least will be relied on less to teach students. I think there is a chance that students or teachers could misuse computers. We've all heard about people who send naughty emails from their work computers, or who are so absorbed in their emails that they ignore their students. Students could spend their time on Facebook or Myspace instead of doing their intended work. But many schools have securities on their computer to prevent certain websites from being accessed, and I think this will help prevent students AND teachers from using computers for the wrong purposes. I agree with the issues raised in Chapter 1. Computers are extremely important in the education field, but must be monitored to ensure proper use.

I will use computers in a variety of ways. I'll allow my students to learn and explore different ways to find the information they need on the Internet. I'll teach them how to use Word and PowerPoint to complete various assignments, and also use these programs in my own lessons. I'll teach my students how to create spreadsheets to present data. When students behave or do well on assignments, I'll allow them to play educational games on the computer (such as Oregon Trail) for an allotted amount of time. I hope to learn how to use Excel in this class, because it is the program I am least familiar with. I also look forwarder to learning new ways to convey information that I didn't know before.

I've been thinking about double majoring. I'm not completely sure which other major I would select, but I'm thinking either Psychology or Business. Psychology really interests me, but I know just having a Bachelor's degree in Psychology won't really help in getting a job. I would major in business because it's been my life goal to open and own a bakery.