21st Century Teacher

First, technology plays such a vital role in teaching today.  Things have changed since I was young, we used type writers, computers (to big and bulky to carry around) and over head projectors.  And we had to carry a boom box to listen to music.  Children today are exposed at a very young age to technology, infants, toddler, and preschoolers are called digital children.  Before the age of 5 most children have learned  to use some type of electronic, and probably better than their parents. Todays generation of youth are members of the iGeneration.  They have grown up using internet, computers, smart phones, tablets and social media (2013, pp. 3).  That is why it is impotant for me to educate myself as much as possible, I am not the most technical person but I am willing to learn so that I can teach my students.

Second, when I think of myself learning about technology I only thought about the gadgets and figuring how to use them.  The information in the text book really helped to broaden my thinking.  It has been a long time since I have been in a classroom, but the new tools teachers have today helps them to transform each learning activity.  And there are three primary ways that the technology is used: Inside the classroom instructional tools, outside the classroom professional resources and inside and outside the classroom learning resources (2013, pp.7). These tools are used to (1) help access and asses information online, (2) catalog and manage information online, and (3) structure how students will use information to promote critical thinking, creativity problem solving, and inquiry thinking (2013, pp.8)

Third, my role as a teacher will be to create exciting and effective learning experiences that will stimulate interest and and curiosity.  So what can I as a 21st century teacher to promote this within my students?  I need to start with a digital identity, this will help me identify what I can do with technology.



In conclusion, The information in this chapter has helped to show how technology has changed how students are learning and teaches need to use and continue learning about technology.  Using it as a learning tool to stimulate creativity and interest in students.