Tessa Warn - week 1 Where do you stand at present on using new technologies in the English Classroom?

Where do you stand at present on using new technologies in the English Classroom?
 
The ever increasing use of technology by children can be seen as a hindrance or an aid to learning. I feel that one of the main concerns to both parents and teachers alike is that the influence of new technologies on children (for example: the viewing of too much television) may mean that there is less time for activities that support the skills children are learning at school.

However, I don’t feel that this means new technologies are something to be resisted; as parents report that children generally lead lives that are well-balanced and that their children’s engagement with new technologies and media promotes speaking and listening skills – thus supporting their development in school (Marsh et al, 2005).
I can also see the benefits of using technology in the classroom with tasks such a differentiation. For example, on my School Experience I observed an English lesson where a child that had severe dyspraxia used a microphone to record her answers to a comprehension activity. This meant that she was able to engage with the task, and not feel unmotivated or frustrated – which she would have done if she had been made to write down her findings. Before observing this lesson I was unaware of the unique advantages that technology provides for English lessons and now view it as an entirely positive step within education. 
 
In regards to this module I am very excited to learn more about using popular culture and technology in the classroom. However, I do feel slightly nervous about being able to use the different technologies proficiently and therefore would have to gain more confidence in this before using them in the classroom. 


Marsh, J., Brooks, G., Hughes, J. et al (2005) Digital Beginnings: Young children’s use of popular culture, media and new technologies [online] Sheffield: University Of Sheffield http://learn.winchester.ac.uk/pluginfile.php/357889/mod_resource/content/1/Marsh%20-%20Digital%20Beginnings.pdf (25.09.14)