DEPENDENCE ON TECHNOLOGY

Reflection on Session 5 (Field Trip to Odyssey Preschool)
27 August 2014

Today was the worst day ever. I forgot to bring my wallet! I never knew how important the cards in my wallet was. Even though I only had cards in my wallet, I literally couldn't live without it! I could not board the bus to school, I could not withdraw money, I could not use the prepaid cards to get food, it was absolutely frustrating! 

Technology has brought so much convenience to me. I have so much assess in one card. My Ezlink could be used to pay for my purchases, transport, food, and borrow books. Moreover, my Ezlink card also provides assess to my POSB account as I applied to link them using GIRO. This might have it's own set of benefits, but it also comes with other disadvantages. 

Today, we visited a childcare center to observe about how technology can be included in the classroom. During the visit to Odyssey preschool, I observed many forms of technology, such as light boxes, OHPs, interactive white boards, and Ipads integrated into the classroom. Teachers are each provided assess to a iMac for portfolio purposes. Even if classrooms for young children, as young as 2 years old, children are provided with assess to light box and OHP with constructive materials for exploration. Older children have assess to interactive white boards, bringing new enthusiasm towards learning. 

Apart from these technological tools, children are also provided with assess to recording devices like professional cameras, DSLR cameras, and video cameras. Using these recording devices, children are also working on technology projects such as Stop motion animation. Inquiry skills are also included into the curriculum, allowing children to ask questions about technology and learning by questioning. In one of the classroom, I observed a chart that allows children to brainstorm about how life would be like without certain technological tools. 

Including technology in the classroom can be beneficial for children in terms of learning and brain development, however, technology can also bring danger to children. With assess to technology, teachers and parents have to consistently ensure that the children are using the internet and technological tools in a safe and correct way. I observed that teachers are always present to scaffold children's thinking and staying nearby when the children are using the computer or technological tools. 

After the visit to Odyssey today, I believe strongly that technology can be included into the classroom, regardless of budget or space. What's most important is the teacher's ability to use cost-effective technological tools in creative ways.