This week in class we talked about how to integrate technology into the classroom and how it can be a helpful tool that enables us to do activities and lessons that we would not have been able to do previously. We did an activity exploring the SAMR (substitution, augmentation, modification and redefinition) model, where we explored how technology has the ability to substitute previous activities in teaching and make those activities even more effective. For example, our group talked about digital art in the traditional art classroom. Not only can digital platforms replace the traditional canvas/pen and paper, it also adds in useful tools such as reshaping and drawing perfect circles. Additionally, it enables a 2-D medium to become animate through the use of videos and other digital platforms. I think that this was a helpful activity to think about the role of technology in lesson plans.

Another thing that we talked about that I found interesting was the concept of Cognitive Overload, which is the idea that our brains can only process 5-7 ideas/concepts at a time and sometimes the simpler the lesson the more effective it will be. It also mentioned how as an educator, you have to be mindful of teaching a concept and getting the students to remember that one before moving onto something new, otherwise it is too much information.

Overall, I think I am learning the role of technology in the classroom and how to use it effectively. However, I still think that there are times when a break from technology can be super beneficial for students. Recently, I worked in out of school care and I noticed a difference in students who had limited screen time and those who did not. The ones who had limited screen time were more open to socializing with other kids and they were able to be more creative with the activities they played. Hopefully, as an educator, I will be able to find the balance of when to use technology and when to take a break from it!