Using the Internet While Test Taking

When I was younger I always thought about how great it would be if were able to use a computer to help with taking our tests. I thought how easy it would be browse the internet and be able to get every answer on the test. I also thought about how great it would be having the computer as my aide, which meant that I wouldn't need to study as much. In college I had a couple tests that were strictly online exams, I did not study enough for the test and the questions were definitely much harder than what I anticipated. I didn't do as well as I thought I would have and was thoroughly disappointed. Even though this was a personal experience that appears to be against the use of computers during test taking, I definitely couldn't agree more with the side on enabling students to use technology during tests.

Both sides have valid points and arguments that should be equally assessed. The side that believes internet integration during tests is acceptable states that with the use of computers students will hopefully engage in higher level thinking situations. These situations include critical analysis, idea synthesis, or delineation of evaluative arguments which are posed to challenge the thinking of the students and push them to step out of the repetitive memorization of facts and dates. On the other end of the spectrum, individuals feel that with the use of computers while students take tests, takes away from the purpose of what the test is suppose to represent, which is the knowledge of the student not the computers capabilty. They feel that if students are allowed to use computers on tests it takes away from them doing the actual thinkings themselves and it would pose great difficulty monitoring what the students will be accessing while the test is in session.

Now knowing the different arguments from both sides and having personal experience of the issue, I feel that there are both valid arguments on both sides. I don't personally think that having the ability to use computers on every test would be wise, but for specific subjects I think it would be a great addition to the way students are tested. It makes them think of the material in a different perspective having to give answers that aren't just from memory. I definitely do think that it will help aide students down the line when they get in the work force due to the fact that technology is already such a strong asset in society. Why not prepare our students for what they will be using to assess real life situations?

Technology Integration: A Short History

Growing up in a very tech-centered society I was already somewhat aware of how much technology was integrated into our classrooms. I know some districts and schools are very well off, which ables them to provide more technology based learning environments for their students, and vise versa for the schools that aren't as well off. What surprised me the most was how many different ways technology can be used in a positive light to promote individual based learning for the unique needs of every student. I still don't think that the social aspect of school should be removed, but applying a new technological perspective to help children learn I think is fantastic. It really touched me to read that through technology students are able to take their learning environment into their own hands and feel a sense of control about what they are learning. It was also intriguing to read that with the use of technology, students can have a better handle on the higher learning goals which set for them, promoting high expectations and the needs to succeed. When used in the appropriate manner I was read that it truly helps develop students with higher-level thinking skills, creativity, and research abilities. These tools have been proven to be essential for when you are older in the work force.

Before reading the article, I was very much skeptical about technology being such a key part in our students educational world. But now having read what I have and been provided with numerous examples of how technology can complement education and the way teachers teach, shows me the great benefits that could come with this form of integration. Our society like mentioned before is very much tech driven and providing our students with the successful tools will give them the experiences and recipe for success. With such a big push for technology in our education system, major efforts need to be made to make sure that teachers are professionally and adequately taught to use this form of educating. If integrating technology into the classroom is proving to be beneficial for the students, and it being done in a safe, professional atmosphere, then absolutely there needs to be a technology function in our education environment.

Boss, Susie. (2011, September). Technology Integration: A Short History. EDUtopia. http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-history

All About Me - 422- Lauren Dotson

Hi my name is Lauren Dotson. I have always had a passion for helping others especially young children and I noticed from an early age becoming a teacher always seemed like a good fit for me. I have a long line of teachers in my family and with their guidance gave me the push to want to become an educator. I have lived in San Diego all of my life, loving every moment living close to the beach and hustle of the great city. Playing soccer and traveling have been a vital part of my life since I was young and I hope one day to be able to bring my experiences to the classroom. Learning all of the elements of a great educator truly excites me and what really gives me passion is the fact that education is a profession where growth is infinite. There is always something more you can offer your students and it is your desire and responsibility to want to give that to them.