Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Welcome to the EDM 510 Course Blog

Hello, Everyone.

In June 2013, President Obama announced the ConnectED initiative. One of the major aims of this initiative is to empower teachers and school librarians with next generation broadband Internet infrastructure, information resources, and relevant training that will enable them to take advantage of these tools in their effort to provide American children with the skills they need to get good jobs and compete in the global economy.



Using the link to ConnectED provided, review the details of the President's committment and post your thoughts as they relate to this initiative and how ConnectED and its resources might be helpful to administrators, library media specialists, students, and teachers. (Focus on your subject area and grade level). 

90 comments:

  1. Future leaders begin in our schools. With that said, it is crucial that students have access to resources such as the things President Obama has listed. These things, such as high-speed internet, are very important in meeting the needs of every student in school. With the access to internet, students can work on projects and move ahead with lessons if they have already mastered previous material. These resources are helpful to not only administrators but especially teachers and students. With hopes to teach middle school, this is extremely important to me because less time will be spent on things that are not helping move students forward and more time on advancing them to future technology. -ACumbest

    ReplyDelete
  2. I think the Connect Ed initiative is a great idea-especially for small rural schools. Technology is a must to prepare students for their future. Having teachers trained to use the technology to its fullest potential is also very important. There are classrooms all over our county that have the latest technology in them but it is not being implemented in the classroom because teachers have not been trained on how to use it. Having the money for training is a very important part of teaching our students how to use the technology they will need to be productive members of society.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I believe this is the best idea I've heard for education yet. I am still shocked by all the ways technology can be used in the classroom. This blog, the wiki, and digital story are just a few tools that I've recently learned that can advance learning in my classroom. As the president said we no longer are just teaching them out of a text book. They are working together on projects and presentations thanks to technology. I thought it was a great point when he said most schools have internet that is just as fast as the internet in our houses. This is crazy to me as he stated that there are 200 times more people in the school. Giving faster internet to every student will enable to reap all the benefits that technology has to offer. It will allow them to complete assignments faster so they can move on to other assignments. I think this is a great initiative.

    ReplyDelete
  4. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  5. The focus of President Obama's address was so true. We need to train our students to be able to fill these jobs that our country is creating. He is so right in his statement that "every child deserves the chance to be successful". If we are responsible for giving students this chance, we must give them the tools to be successful in the future and its jobs.
    As a special ed preschool teacher, it is a little difficult to find ways to implement all of these tools specifically in the classroom. I would definitely need some training to understand what all of these things intel. It would be wonderful to have high speed internet available in the classroom for students to access. There are many great resources that we could learn to use to help prepare them for these new jobs. If they start using technology at a young age, it will become second nature to them as they grow older. This initiative will be a great push forward for our education system.

    ReplyDelete
  6. President Obama's was great! It is so wonderful to hear public figures speak on education and the importance that it plays in our society. Our students are growing up in a time of major technological advancement, and it is vital to their success that we help them stay up to date on all of these advances. High speed internet is a very important component of technology in schools. Without this access, student devices are just about void. Students need to be able to operate a plethora of devices so they are prepared to use any device they are given in the workforce. I can't wait to see the success that ConnectEd brings and the changes that it makes in the lives of our students!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I cannot seem to comment using my new blog. This is Kelly Nguyen

      Delete
    2. Ms. Nguyen: I visited your Blogger website. Which blog are you referring to?

      Delete
  7. I believe this initiative is a wonderful way to give schools access to the many varied technologies available. I think it's been a long time coming. I think people sometimes forget the importance of keeping our education system up to par with other countries. We are preparing our future leaders and are not doing them justice if we're not preparing them for the tools needed to survive in the 21st century. I love the idea of providing free high-speed internet to 99% of schools in America. Currently the internet provided at my current school cuts on and off and runs very slow. This inhibits the things we can do using the internet and turns many teachers off from incorporating it into their classrooms. I love that they have gotten other companies involved in helping bring technology to our schools at no cost to the government as well. I also think it's vitally important for teachers to get adequate professional development, which this initiative provides for. So many teachers would more willing to incorporate technology in their classrooms if they had enough training on how to use what's available. I know that I feel like I haven't gotten a significant amount of professional development for technology in the short time that I've been teaching. I had no knowledge of digital storytelling or wikis, which I feel like I should've already been taught about. I hope this initiative goes smoothly and comes about in the time frame they have set.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I think that this initiative is a step in the right direction. I believe that it is extremely important for students to learn more than just reading, writing, and math. In this age, these skills are not enough to create successful lifelong learners. There are very few jobs (if any) that are not associated with technology in some way, whether directly or indirectly. The skills that a student could learn as a result of this initiative are numerous. Through putting technology directly in the hands of our students, and allowing them to be creative we are enabling them to become lifelong learners. For some students we are introducing them to a new hobby and possibly a skill that they will utilize in their future career. As an educator, I can not be confident that my students are learning successful skills if I stick to just paper and pencil. I can not go home at night content with what I have done, if I refuse to teach in the age in which we reside. Students' lives are led through technology. Many children today communicate through texting, instant messaging, or other forms of technology. As an educator, I would be doing a disservice if I did not allow them to broaden their horizons with the technology they are growing up with.

    ReplyDelete
  9. The ConnectED initiative is amazing and honestly, it is about time. This program is a way to connect this digital age of students to education and enhance the American education system to keep up with other countries. Learning the three R’s is not enough anymore. Students have to know how to use technology and certain programs not only to get a job now-a- days but also to complete college assignments. This program will also help engage students more than a white board will. Interactive programs and apps are more attractive to students than a pencil and paper. The fact all of these companies donated or discounted systems, programs and items to make the initiative possible is remarkable as well as the training for school faculty. The program seems to be for K-12 schools so it does not apply to my field. However, my mother works for an elementary school and I know these upgrades will benefit the whole school.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I think it is very important that the leader of our nation expressed the importance of improving access to technology. The ConnectEd web site stated that within 5 years (from 2013) 99% of American students will be able to connect to next generation broadband and high speed internet. This is awfully good news for everyone. I realize that the lower income and rural students will benefit from this the most, but when everyone becomes more educated we all gain from it. I was glad to see that Apple, MS, and others are contributing to the cause. Although, I do think that more grassroots support is needed in local communities. Many schools need to improve their band width and help from local entities could really make a difference.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I believe that this initiative is essential to the further development of technology skills in the 21st classroom. In fact, I was a little surprised that there are educational institutions in this country that don’t already have access to high-speed internet, as navigating the Internet under any other conditions would make for a frustrating experience. As a future secondary English teacher, I understand how meaningful responsive, up-to-date technology can be for students if it is used to its full potential. Truly, it has the ability to bring books and fictional characters to life while at the same time making writing and sharing ideas an interactive, community process. In addition, academic research is almost exclusively conducted online, and, especially in higher education, there are very few writing assignments that can be completed without Internet access. As books and written material shift from print to an online environment, the 21st century English teacher must also make moves to incorporate technology into the curriculum in a foundational way. However, they must have the resources and tools to do so effectively. In my opinion, ConnectED not only draws attention to the importance of technology in the classroom, it also presents an opportunity for educators and students to have access to the resources that will encourage technology integration and literary.

    (rmcmullen)

    ReplyDelete
  12. I agree with the ConnectED initiative. It is important for all students to have access to a computer and the internet. In order for our students to compete with students across different countries, they need to be educated in technology. We live in a technological world and we need to utilize the resources we have. Many schools have programs and resources that are not being utilized because staff members have not been trained on how to incorporate them in the classroom. I believe with the ConnectED initiative, our students will receive the necessary skills to obtain good jobs and compete with others around the world. Most jobs require proficient computer and leadership skills. We need to prepare our students for the competitive professional world they will be entering by keeping up to date with the newest technological resources that are available.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Connect ED initiative is essential if we want our students become 21st Century learners in a digital era. Today, distance learning is becoming more popular. Students in disadvantage rural areas will now be able to take classes on line that is not available rural schools. My niece is taking a French class online through a distance learning program because her school in Thomasville, AL doesn't have a French teacher. Having wifi at my school has helped my students tremendously in completing digital projects, collaborating with each other using their devices on projects, and doing research on topics. .

    ReplyDelete
  14. "ConnectED initiative" is a great and result oriented project. If carried out to the letter, then, we should expect a better society. Our students will be well prepared for the future. Having a laptop and a high speed internet to work with, starting from a 3rd grade student, is enough resources to enhance the development of a child. Every child according to the president can succeed. Every child needs to be given a chance.
    Having access to these high speed internet will enhance the knowledge of the teachers. surfing the web for educational resources and information will be an advantage.In fact, while remaining as a full time teacher, they can enroll in graduate studies to better equip themselves for the work ahead. These will save time and energy spent in classrooms. Due to technological advancement, important meetings could be conducted via the internet. These will reduce the cost of travelling, hotel bills, feeding and even the potential hazards involved in travelling.
    Biology students ; future scientist will be able to know latest research information on any topic being taught in class via the internet. Resources for experiments could be sourced through the internet. The internet is a tool that every science student cannot afford to lack.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Who in their right mind would not want to invest in the future of our youth? ConnectED will open so many doors for our students. I see it already happening. Several of our teachers teach an online course to students in other counties who do not have access to these courses in their own schools. I am excited about the day when all of our students have a laptop or pad they can work with in and during class. As a nation we have an obligation to educate our students. These are not only our future leaders but also the ones that will be competing in a global market.

    ReplyDelete
  16. The ConnectEd Initiative is a wonderful idea, I am 100% in support. I look around at so many other schools and they are beginning the BYOD initiative, I begin to feel bad for my students because they are unable to do so. Through ConnectEd my students will have the same opportunites and have access to computers and the Internet in the classroom. I try my hardest to incoporate as much technology as I can in order to give them exposure. Digital Literacy and Technolgy are two key components in the work world. Almost every job is connected to technology is some form and our students need to be prepared. Attending professional development throughout the years has opened my mind to many different technological uses in the classroom. Technology can open the door to Global Citizenship and Entrepreneruship for our students. ConnectEd is a wonderful initiative and is just the beginning of the success of our students.

    ReplyDelete
  17. I really enjoyed listening to President Obama's speech and reading about ConnectEd. It is a great plan and is much needed in our country if our future generation is going to be able to get jobs and compete in the global workforce. I really appreciate the focus on professional development and instructional coaches. I think not knowing how to do something and being worried about making a mistake is one of the biggest reasons teachers are reluctant to change. The more I learn about the Standards for the 21st Century Learner and information literacy skills the more I can see the need for an improvement in this type of instruction. As a classroom teacher having access to this new advanced technology and internet opens up a whole new world of teaching with more opportunities for our students. I think one of the biggest advantages discussed was how quickly instruction could be individualized and students could have access to classes that were not offered in their area. As a library media specialists this will increase collaboration between the library media specialist and the teachers. This initiative will also create a way for more students to work together on research and projects. I am looking forward to the day when this initiative is in full force and teachers, students, administrators, and library media specialists have access to such innovative teaching tools and resources.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I think that the ConnectEd Initiative could benefit so many students if carried out fully. Having access to high speed internet and laptops for every student would be great for schools. There are still so may schools that don't have enough computers, let alone the internet speed that they need. There are many schools in Mobile that have only a few computers in their libraries and none in the classrooms. These teachers only get to bring their kids to the computer lab once per month which is not nearly enough time for them to learn and implement new technologies. I am hopeful that this initiative will help these schools have gain more access to technology and provide more successful learning experiences for the students.
    (ifurlong)

    ReplyDelete
  19. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete


  20. Austin SmithJune 28, 2014 at 12:55 AM

    I always have a healthy skepticism of anything coming out of Washington D.C. That being said, I really like the points the president makes about what students today need to stay competitive with other young people throughout the world. We need to give our students every advantage we can to help them get ahead and learn more and develop more skills, both technical skills and life skills. If everything the president said they plan to do happens, it might be the best thing any president has done in recent history for young people as far as helping prepare them to be successful in their adult lives.

    ReplyDelete
  21. I really do think that this is a great initiative and if it is able to happen, make a huge difference in student's lives. All students regardless of where they are living should have equal access to education. What's great about ConnectED is that the more rural schools won't have to suffer due to geographic location, which is completely out of the children's control. Another great thing is that teachers will also greatly benefit from the additional resources. Because of these, they will better be able to do their job. I can already see that technology involves parents more in school. My mom can check my brother's grades whenever she wants and can schedule conferences online.I loved President Obama's idea of having students in Spanish class Skype with Spanish speaking students in other countries. How great! More access to technology means the more available knowledge there is for students and that can only lead to improvement. Administrators can gain easier access to strides made in the classrooms and can assess where struggling classrooms need improvement in. I'll be teaching fourth grade and I definitely plan on using some of the technology we have learned in this class, such as wikis and digital stories which is only available with the high speed internet and many laptops available at my school.

    ReplyDelete
  22. It's hard to find anything wrong with the ConnectED program. We live in a world that heavily revolves around the use of the internet. I was shocked that less than 30% of schools across the US lack the proper broadband to teach using today's technology. I would have thought it would have been a higher number but I love the idea that by 2017 99% of American students will have access to next-generation broadband. This kind of technology has never been readily available for small, rural schools or schools located in low-income areas. With this kind of technology students can access information a whole lot quicker and they will be able to explore more than what it is in their textbooks. Teachers and Administrators can communicate with parents with more ease. Librarians can use digital books or audio books that they never could have accessed before. I love the initiative and hope it meets its goal by 2017.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Working with the private sector is a great advantage. Technology companies are always eager to make their product the standard. Therefore, making their products available to students helps their goal. Students that learn using a certain product will likely prefer that same product in their personal life and in their future workplace. Private sector collaboration is also beneficial because it does not cost anything to governments/tax-payers.
    Nowadays, it is mandatory to have good internet access at schools to provide a good education. A lot of work is done through the internet and with computer technology. How can a school prepare students for the workforce if they are not using the same skills and equipment? It cannot.

    ReplyDelete
  24. The ConnectEd initiative sounds like a very necessary step in keeping the students in this country where they need to be with technology. I really like the idea of involving the community and believe they are just as responsible for educating our young. When students see this kind of collaboration going on it will be inspiring, showing them how many care about their education. Teacher education is also important, because there are so many successful teachers out there who were not born with a smart phone in their hand. I do not yet work in a public school, but I am happy for the students to have these needed resources to help them prepare for the future. I have seen personally how technology can improve learning and reinforce skill in an entertaining positive way. As an Early Childhood teacher I look forward to encouraging these skills in developmentally appropriate lessons.

    ReplyDelete
  25. The "ConnectEd iniative" is an awesome idea, one that will equip American students with the technological skills needed to be prepared for the 21st century as well as present day. It is no secret that the United States, although one of the largest countries, ranks low on the totem pole when it comes to education as opposed to countries such as China and even South Korea. By 2016 the ConnectEd initiative is suppose to come to fruition. President Obama proposes that "99% of American students will have access to next-generation broadband" in the classroom with income not being a relative factor. That is three years from now. However, as an educator I do not see it happening unless several major changes take place, One change that has to take place is the provision of adequate funding on the federal, state, and local levels in order for the President's goal to become a reality. Secondly,the curiculum "must" include opportunities for students to actively partcipate in the "technological boom" happening on an almost daily basis. At my school, students are allowed to go to the computer lab twice a week. Usually they are directed to do some type of training that is preparing them for some type of test they are required to take. I had two lap top computers in my classroom last school term. How could I have instructed twenty four students on any new technology using two computers? Out of the twenty four students, only five of those students had access to computers outside of the the school. I am all for ConnectEd, but we have to find a better way for the dream to become a reality.

    ReplyDelete
  26. I think the "ConnectED" initiative is a great idea for all schools around the country. I think library media specialists need this just as much as classroom teachers and students. I feel with ConnectEd it is a great way to bring in more technology and for students to experience new ways of learning. However, with ConnectEd, schools need the resources to be able to use it to the best of its ability. Being in a title one school and in third grade, its a major grade for students to be able to use the internet to learn. ConnectEd does have its perks for state testing. Mobile County takes the ACT Aspire all on the computer. The internet has to be working in order for students to take these test. Last year, we had so many issues with the internet and computers before testing started, that the students were even frustrated because it never worked. It is so important for ConnectEd to always be ready and working. We cannot have something given to us that is said to work, and it not work or not all schools benefit from it. ConnectEd would be a great tool and resource and would love to see if this would help with testing and even students learning.

    ReplyDelete
  27. I think the ConnectEd initiative is a great idea. In order to be successful students and teachers alike need high speed internet at home and school. Teachers also need the proper training in order to be successful in teaching the curriculum using up-to-date technology. Before reading this article I had no idea that "fewer than 40% of America’s schools have the broadband they need to teach using today’s technology." That is clearly unacceptable. As a second grade teacher, we use the internet on a daily basis. There is a great need for it to be fast and dependable. Not only do I use the internet to teach lessons, but our administrators use it to keep us informed by sending us emails frequently. We also use the internet to keep up with grades and inform parents about upcoming events. I guess I just assumed everyone has access to high speed internet, but clearly that may not be the case. This initiative was a necessary one.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Every school district should make high speed internet and technology the number one priority for all schools. Our students are the ones suffering. We, as a state, are so far behind the education curve. How can this happen? Who pays the bill? I feel all of our schools are financially unable to pay the bills when it comes to keeping up with today's technology. I know this is happening, but it needs to happen more: local companies that are depending on our students for their future should step up to the plate and help financially and train teachers and students on newly purchased equipment. It does take community support to educate our students.

    ReplyDelete
  29. I really hope that ConnectEd becomes a reality. I live in an area where there is internet available in the schools and all students have either a macbook computer or an iPad. It is hard to believe that there are schools that don't have this technology but that is our world. I think this would help students in so many ways. It would help them to learn in more ways in their classroom and it also helps them to prepare for the future. Technology is such a big part of our world these days that if students don't have the access to internet and abilities to use technology, they will be behind when they enter the real world. I really hope that all students will have access to this high speed internet and it could make such a difference in their education. It will give teachers the ability to teach in new ways that may be more helpful to struggling students.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chelsea,
      ConnectEd does sound like an incredible program, I can't wait to be a teacher and be a part of it! I have done my student teaching in Mobile County where students are not provided laptops or Ipads but I would love to visit across the bay to see how the students interact in the classroom with these tools. I agree 100 percent that having these computers and tablets will help them be better prepared for their future! I would love if Mobile County could implement this type of plan as well!

      Delete
  30. I really enjoyed this video and think that ConnectEd is a great program and initiative. I have been in several school where the students are surrounding by technology and this gives all the students an opportunity to live and learn in a technology environment. This would help students and teachers prepare and get ready for all the advances and changes our world is making. There are schools out there that are being left behind and these students will struggle in the real world without the proper learning tools. I could not always say that but I feel like that is the case now. I was recently in a school where the internet was constantly breaking down and the computers were very slow. This would make their librarians and teachers life so much easier if the students were able to surf the web fast and get what they are suppose to get done. I am a big fan of this movement and I think teachers could really take learning to the next level.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I was impressed with ConnectEd and hope it really does come true. My school just got wireless internet, but we do not have one on one devices yet. I think children who live in poverty will really benefit from the ConnectEd program. They can learn life skills that will help them get jobs in the future. I think some teachers will be excited about this and I think some will retire because they don't want to have to learn something new (which isn't a bad thing). While it's a great dream, I have to wonder who will pay for it? Who's responsible for the device? These are questions that can easily be answered, I'm sure. I know technology has come a long way just in the six years I've been teaching, and I can't wait to see where it is going!

    ReplyDelete
  32. I believe that this is a GREAT initiative and will be worth the wait for 99% of students to not only have wireless access, but also have high-speed access. Students need opportunities to learn and grow through technology in each of their classrooms and all content areas. With the broadband Internet infrastructure, information resources, and relevant training the world is as big and broad as your imagination as well as your fingertips. The additions of all these wonderful promises coming true will encourage student research, creativity, and an added bonus of higher test scores because learning has the potential to take place from so many teachers all around the world. I tried to find where this initiative was as of this year, but I couldn’t find anything. I know we don’t have to respond to one another, but if anyone knows I would love to know how close the United States is to have ConnectED integrated in to all states.

    ReplyDelete
  33. ConnectED is an awesome initiative and I can't wait to see it come to fruition. One of the ideas that really stuck out to me was that "a tablet costs just as much as a textbook." I have often wondered why school districts are paying $200 per textbook when most of the information is available online. I, personally, select approximately 35-40% of the readings we do in 9th grade English from the internet, because it is more up-to-date and often more relevant than what is located in a textbook.
    In a world where information is updated instantly, why are we reusing the same resources (namely literature textbooks) for 7-10 years at a time? Even the new textbooks MCPSS adopted two years ago have "news" articles published in 2009; in 2015, that's practically ancient history! Providing all students with high speed internet (and the devices to utilize it) is something that can really bring our education system into the 21st century.

    ReplyDelete
  34. With higher speed internet, there is so much that can be accomplished. Without it, all that we are doing in this class is never going to be implemented in our own classrooms. We also need devices, Mobile County does not have them but Baldwin County does and others have adopted a Bring Your Own Device policy. The great thing about the ConnectEd initiative is that teachers will receive professional development. It would not be successful if all this innovation was pouring in and veteran teachers were left to cope on their own. That would be outsourcing jobs to younger, more technologically-versed teachers.
    The other really good thing about education, is why not open schools up for companies like Verizon, Apple, Sprint, and Microsoft? Apple CEO Tim Cook has now done so much for Baldwin County schools and other districts across the country. Big businesses like these are probably receiving an incentive (i.e. a tax break) for getting involved, that bureaucracy was conveniently left undiscussed, but as long as it isn't an unfair advantage to other business, I see no reason why a company shouldn't give back to the very same middle class americans that are supporting them and consuming their services.
    Lastly, Mr. President never said how he was going to connect schools with jobs (he was as vague on that as he is on lots of other things) but if we could work the logistics out, this would be incredible. There are so many young people going to college and very few in the work force. Our work force is mostly supported by previous generations. There is nothing wrong with going to a technical school or being part of an apprenticeship program. That isn't to say that that student won't ever go to college, but maybe they work a few years and save up. I wish I had had a skill that I could have done that and avoided student loans completely. The work that Mobile County has put into the new Academies program for students to enter a prospective track for their future, I think will help them to make sounder decisions for their future and put them in a better position to get a job post- high school. With the incentive of hiring such well-trained employees in technology-related areas, I think we could make this more of a reality. It may take a few years to catch on, but with the right incentives, businesses could be coming to schools to look for the next employees.

    ReplyDelete
  35. ConnectED is such a great initiative. I appreciate the concern for American students and the desire to better help them become successful beyond the classroom. Technology is advancing constantly and our students and teachers need to constantly be up-to-date on the advances.We are a country where we expect free WiFi with our country, why shouldn't we want this for our students?Our students deserve better and incorporating technology into the lesson will help them do so. Having access to high-speed internet will the the students the opportunity to search the web,stay updated on information, as well as being able to stay in contact with their teachers and peers about assignments. This will motivate our students to learn.

    ReplyDelete
  36. I think the ConnectED initiative is amazing and a necessity for the era of education we are living in today. I have gotten to see the benefits first hand, as I have high school aged sisters in the Baldwin County Public School System. The use of technology in these schools is astounding! My sisters have had opportunities to learn tools, software, and media that I never even saw until my undergrad. The partnerships and outlets that are available through this initiative will prepare students for higher education, the workforce and beyond. It also challenges the educators to continuously develop their strategies which makes for better teachers!

    ReplyDelete
  37. I think some good points were brought up during this speech. Good internet access is so important. It is true when he said that people expect high speed internet with their coffee at the local coffee shop so why not expect it at school too. So many future jobs are technology based, so why are we behind in technology at our schools? Being behind in technology is hurting our students. They need to be ready to "make it" in the real job world. I also like the idea of using Skype for students who are sick and unable to be in class. We are learning through this class that there are many ways out there to also get the parents involved in the education process. If we as educators can find a way to involve more parents, students will be more successful. An important step in the education process is highly trained teachers. Teachers need to be trained and have continuing education classes so that they can keep up with the ever changing technology. A teacher who just goes through the motion year after year, needs to be held accountable.

    ReplyDelete
  38. This is the first time I have heard of this initiative. The president made some really great points. I really like the fact that he said that parents need to be involved in their child’s education. I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for my family being so involved and pushing me to be the best that I could be in school. I also like the fact that students will have more technology. This is definitely crucial for students to be prepared for the future. I also like the fact that the president mentioned schools having the best teachers possible. Unfortunately, there are a lot of teachers out there that are just there to get a paycheck. I think to be an effective teacher you really have to have a passion for what you do. Teachers are not just teachers, and we have to be prepared for that. I am not a teacher yet, but I am a substitute teacher and I have learned that teachers do a lot more than just teach!

    ReplyDelete
  39. ConnectED has the potential to positively impact all students. I have been in classrooms where all students have their own iPad, and I have been in classroom where there are only a limited number of computers in a classroom of 18 plus students. In the little bit that I saw on the video about ConnectED I thought that it was a little vague about how schools would receive the funds to attain the technology to use broadband internet. If 99% of classrooms are provided with broadband internet that is wonderful, but if they don't have the technology to use that internet, then what good is it? This may be outlined and addressed in a more detailed description of ConnectED. WIth that being said I think that the resources that teachers and students can use with the implementation of ConnectED could be unlimited. The internet is always changing, and new resources are being added everyday. Teachers can use iPads in the classroom to let children play educational games or let children use their creativity by blogging or podcasting, etc. I really thought this could be beneficial when Obama mentioned that the apps would be updated continuously rather than textbooks which can become outdated. Students could be more connected by having their school work accessible through the internet as well.

    ReplyDelete
  40. I think the ConnectEd is a wonderful program. I teach in Baldwin County where every student does have a Macbook or in elementary school an IPad and the things I see these students do amazes me everyday. I think these students will be much more prepared for college and the work force than we ever where. Parent involvement in the school is a must for any school to be successful. I think we need more training for teachers so they can learn to implement technology on every level.

    ReplyDelete
  41. With the fast growing technology advancements of today, it is important for it to implemented in our schools, no matter what grade. As an elementary teacher, I have seen how necessary a quick internet is for computer activities and research for the students. It can be quite frustrating when internet is not up to date, as well as the computer itself. Therefore, I believe that technology resources for our schools should be high on the priority list in America. With that being said, training and professional development for our teachers is necessary for the resources to be utilized. I've used SmartBoards, iPads, computers, and different computer programs as a teacher and they are very valuable to the children's learning experience. In conclusion, ConnectEd is an awesome idea, as long as it is implemented. It is going to take time, but it will be worth it.

    ReplyDelete
  42. "Our schools are working with the same broadband connection students use at their homes, except there are 200 times as many people at schools." This is completely ridiculous. How can our students benefit from the technology that schools offer if the internet speed does not keep up with the number of students who are trying to use it? The President has such a great idea implementing ConnectED into our schools. Our school systems need to be up-to-date with technology and the latest tech tools to ensure that our students succeed! I know some school systems in our area have laptops for all of their students, but how great would that be if EVERY student was provided a laptop to take home? When we incorporate technology into the classroom our students are guaranteed to be more interested and learn more. In science class, we could do so many activities online and watch experiments that were too difficult or unsafe to do at the middle school level with a faster broadband connection. ConnectED sounds like it will be a momentous program for our students and school systems. I can't wait to be a part of it!

    ReplyDelete
  43. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  44. The idea of having high-speed internet in the classroom and giving every student a laptop would be very beneficial, but unfortunately not all schools are given this opportunity. I hope that this happens for every school system over the next five years, as Obama mentions in the video. I have observed in schools where each student has a laptop and they are all involved in the lessons being taught through collaboration of technology. In health education, implementing technology can be very useful using a tablet or laptop. There are multiply programs available through apps that can track physical fitness, calories consumed, and even personal workout plans. This type of technology would be perfect for the health education classroom, and students can track their own personal fitness and share it with the rest of their peers or turn it into a competition. As Obama states "every student deserve equal opportunity to learn and succeed," which I couldn't agree with more. Through ConnectED, I believe it is a step closer for students to gain this equal opportunity in the classroom.

    ReplyDelete
  45. This is a great foundation for the 21st century learner. Hi-speed internet is a major requirement that would keep us connected to this fast pace world. The idea of just connecting with your classmates has been broadened to various locations; this makes the world a smaller community of interactions. As the President stated hi speed internet and updated media devices should be a requirement. The books that we use in schools can become outdated within one year and textbooks are rarely updated yearly. But with hi-speed internet and apps information can be updated as it happens increasing the 21st century learner’s chance for success.

    ReplyDelete
  46. There are many benefits to this program. For administrators, I think the biggest factor is the ability to offer students and teachers a better atmosphere for learning and teaching. Teachers who have access to learning opportunities to better utilize the internet, will inadvertently create more learning opportunities for their students. Students who have increased access and appropriately integrated lessons will enhance not only their technology skills, but communication skills, as well.

    ReplyDelete
  47. ConnectED is a great program. It is important that schools expose students to technology, and that we teachers instruct students how to utilize this technology to benefit their education and future careers. Before teachers can effectively do this, they must receive training on how to utilize the technology within their classrooms. This starts by giving the classrooms access to the internet. I currently teach in a very rural area. I am thankful that my classroom does have access to the internet.

    ReplyDelete
  48. In order for our country to truly “bring education into the digital age,” as President Obama says, the first phase is to provide all schools, not just privileged ones, the resources and tools they need to acquire equal access to technology and online information. Technology greatly enhances the way students learn. From my time spent observing in schools lately, most students have the desire to learn to use technology and to use it for learning in the classroom. If the school system is to put students first, as it should, it should adapt and tailor learning methods to meet students’ needs. As emphasized in this speech, this movement will not only benefit students during their time in school, but just as importantly, as they enter the workforce.

    When I teach Secondary Ed. ELA, I believe it will truly benefit my students if we can make newer technologies available for them to use both in and out of the classroom. I really liked how Obama said, “I want to see a tablet that is the same price as a textbook.” Textbooks are great, but they can’t provide current news or unlimited access to information through different sources. Although the transition into this shift in education might be strange for those who prefer older traditional learning styles, I think if proper resources and training can be provided, many will come to agree that basing student learning around technology and building tech skills will make a very positive impact on the U.S. School system and in the future of our nation.

    ReplyDelete
  49. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  50. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  51. I believe that the ConnectEd program is a great initiative in theory. Even though I teach in a school where every student has a MacBook, I do realize that most school systems do not have this luxury. I think that in order to create citizens that are ready for the workforce outside of high school, we must push for more technologically integrated lessons. The ever-evolving technology in our society today can not be simply learned after high school.
    Not only would this benefit the students going into the workforce, it would also help for students entering colleges. In higher education, it is almost impossible to become successful without personal access to technology such as computers, tablets, or Internet. I think that it would greatly benefit today's youth to go ahead and have that technology throughout their grade school career in order to prepare them for careers afterwards.

    In my Spanish classroom, there are many different resources that are available to my students online. Often times, it can be better for students to hear someone other than me speaking Spanish. Using Youtube, Vimeo, and other internet sites, my students are able to better grasp the target language.

    ReplyDelete
  52. It is extremely important for students to have every tool needed to gain the best possible education available. "Every child can learn and succeed" as President Obama stated. In order to succeed in education, the schools and libraries have to updated virtually. As President Obama stated, high speed broad band internet access and being connected in order for various technologies to be used to educate both the student sitting in the general education classroom, as well as, outside of the school environment. Every student should have access to devices and educational technology learning tools to further his or her education. ConnectEd is a great idea, but funding plays a huge part in the process as well. This is a great tool for all students to give them a better future. I especially love the idea of using ConnectEd for those students who are not able to attend school due to certain circumstances, such as, a child who is in the hospital but wants to get an education with his or her friends.

    ReplyDelete
  53. The initiative of connectED allows our students to access more technology, in turn, accessing more resources. One of my fellow teachers made the comment to her students the other day about using resources. She said, Sstudents, we give you resources for a reason. Use them!" Thanks to the connectED initiative we now have wifi in each classroom.

    As a Special Education teacher, those resources can help me go deeper into the struggling students mind. I can pull new activities and ideas from the internet. Those students can now use the technology to enhance their learning. For example, our school has purchased reflex math for our struggling students. Thanks to connectED, those students have a new way of learning. Finally, by offering technology to those students, will better their future and give them more opportunities in their future endeavors.

    ReplyDelete
  54. This initiative introduced by President Obama is a key help in moving our students into the digital age within the classroom. Thanks to the ConnectED initiative, students will be able to have access to the most up-to-date information available to them through the use of tablets and computers that have high-speed internet access. This means no more out of date classroom textbooks that are 5, 10 and even 15 years old. This is an important factor in preparing students for the workforce through skills training for the jobs of today, or as President Obama stated, the "jobs of tomorrow".

    For teachers to be able to see in real time the students who are failing or struggling is also important. As a special education teacher, this is so important to me personally. These students often struggle and even fail and, thanks to today's technology, teachers are able to see it quickly and have the opportunity to reteach and offer other help to the struggling student. The resources available to classroom teachers through the internet is so vast and this initiative makes them more accessible, thus furthering the preparedness of our students for the best education and best job skills set needed.

    ReplyDelete
  55. The ConnectED initiative levels the playing field in our schools so that all schools, no matter where they are located, offer access to the internet and technology. Access to this technology allows the students to explore the world outside of their classroom. It gives them the opportunity to collaborate with their peers on projects and explore the world while sitting in their classroom. They can communicate with other students in any location. By allowing all students access to this technology, they all have the opportunity to learn, and the possibilities of what they can learn with access to the internet are endless.

    As a future special education teacher, I realize that many struggling students don't learn well in a traditional classroom setting. Many special education students learn best with hands on or visual instruction. Access to technology and the internet will be very useful with these students.

    ReplyDelete
  56. ConnectED is crucial if we are going to increase access to the internet and new learning initiatives to rural and lower income areas. Too often resources that are available to middle-class and upper-class school districts are not available to students of the same abilities and age at other schools. Offering this access helps to engage students in the lower income areas and hopefully keeps the students engaged into further exploring opportunities in their fields of interests.

    ReplyDelete
  57. The ConnectED initiative was designed to enrich K-12 education for every student in America. With the expanding technological advances and a demand for a more skilled workforce, it is becoming increasingly important for students to be proficient with the use of technology. The ConnectED initiative is providing access to the internet and technology to students. We want all of our students to have equal opportunity and be provided with experience using technology. As the English Language Arts teacher for grades 3-5 in my elementary school, it is important for my students to have access to the internet for research and to access various educational programs. We have a fully equipped computer lab in which our students utilize during each school day.

    ReplyDelete
  58. The ConnectED initiative was designed to enrich K-12 education for every student in America. With the expanding technological advances and a demand for a more skilled workforce, it is becoming increasingly important for students to be proficient with the use of technology. The ConnectED initiative is providing access to the internet and technology to students. We want all of our students to have equal opportunity and be provided with experience using technology. As the English Language Arts teacher for grades 3-5 in my elementary school, it is important for my students to have access to the internet for research and to access various educational programs. We have a fully equipped computer lab in which our students utilize during each school day.

    ReplyDelete
  59. The school system is consistently trying to add technology and internet usage into the curriculum. With the ConnectED initiative, students are able to use technology in an easier, more efficient way. Allowing student to use the internet regularly for assignments prepares students for the future, because technology is being increasingly more popular in many professions. Students also take end of year standardized tests on the computer, so allowing students to have hands on experience throughout the year will improve test scores. At my school, we have four computers, two laptops, an iPad, and a SmartBoard in every classroom, along with a computer lab that the students attend twice a week. The effects of the ConnectED initiative can be seen in schools today, and hopefully will be seen even more in the future.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Preparing students to compete in the future is not a new idea. I believe whomever is/was in the White House would have worked on the issue of connectivity, speed, and availability of devices to students so they may compete globally for jobs and such. The E-Rate discount program was created in 1996 (during Bill Clinton's administration)to assist schools in purchasing what they needed at lower rates. The companies offering the e-rate are then reimbursed through a small amount added to our phone bills. The ConnectEd Initiative, stated on its own website, is funded through e-rate discounts and existing federal funding to schools. The districts must use the professional development funds already given to fund training. Many companies, however, have awarded grants and donations to schools the needed services and technologies. I completely agree with the need for internet and student technologies to prepare them for this ever changing digital world. Schools and teachers must convince districts to spend the existing monies on technology and training. I plan on taking a seminar or two on grant writing. I think if I could learn to write a successful grant, I will be able to purchase the new technologies to give my students in 2nd or 3rd grade a solid foundation. DRound

    ReplyDelete
  61. After watching the video and reviewing the website, I see that we are making progress in this initiative. We have to have the high speed internet in the classrooms in order for the technology to be successful. In my classroom, there have been several times that we could not use our promethean board because the internet was either down, or very slow. Without the internet in my classroom, we cannot use our curriculum. We have to go online to access it. We only have one computer for our students to use. We have to keep pressing forward to make sure that this initiative succeeds and helps us make our education system better again.

    ReplyDelete
  62. President Obama's ConnectEd initiative is spot on with what is now a necessity to teach and learn in the 21st century. Teachers and students throughout our nation deserve the security and the resources to ensure that student's can access learning beyond a textbook or a physical classroom. I can only imagine the effect that this initiative will have on rural and under developed schools and communities through out our nation. While the internet has served our classroom for a while now, it is important to note that this modified initiative to what is already in place can redirect Education in a new direction to provide the speed and durability to manage the Internet in real time.

    ReplyDelete
  63. I believe that if America wants to keep up with the technology in the world, it must start in the schools. The federal government's committment to provide the infrastructure for the best technology possible within the schools is a great step for the future. Teachers and schools must be equipped with the proper resources if we want our students to learn the latest technology. I hope to teach science on the secondary level and I believe access to the fastest broadband conncetion is a must. I would be able to access research and many other articles pertaining to the lessons I present in class.

    ReplyDelete
  64. I think this initiative is great for the next generation. I love how he compared South Korea to us and they have %100 of kids with high-speed internet, to our %20. After looking at the website I was glad to see how all the companies from Verizon, Microsoft, and National Geographic are contributing to ConnectEd. It is one thing for him to give this speech and talk about dreams, but it's another to see all the people backing this dream. I agree with the fact that textbooks are in the past because you can not keep up with the new information out there. Discovery Education, backed by Discovery, has a tech-book for science and social studies. This is what I believe he pictures kids using in schools. It is a great tool and is similar to a textbook in that you have chapters and a teachers guide, but it comes with all the online tools you would hope for. Examples include presentation, online quizzes, and resources to make learning fun.

    ReplyDelete
  65. I think the ConnectEd Initiative is wonderful and I hope it continues to be funded and supported when President Obama leaves office. It is shocking to know that only 40% of school have access to the high speed internet they need to teach and use the newest technology. I am glad to see that private companies are getting involved in the initiative as well. I think private companies have the resources and reach to make a huge difference in public education; hopefully, they realize it is in their best interest to have a well-educated and informed citizenry and consumer base. I hope this initiative will help to lessen the gap between what kids think of as useful/fun technology they use in everyday life and boring/outdated technology they experience in schools.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Personally, I believe the ConnectEd initiative is a creative approach that will benefit students in our country. Students must have access to technology and computers in order to truly be involved in the world. Like President Obama said, students are no longer just working with textbooks. Students can participate in projects, wikis, blogs, and even make their own movies. When we allow students more access to the internet they are able to have a wider audience to view their work. In addition, using the internet in the classroom allows students to have first hand experience with a valuable tool, the computer. In today's society most jobs require applicants to be well versed with technology.

    ReplyDelete
  67. The ConnectEd initiative is a resource that will benefit students in the ever growing expanse in technology. It is vital that students be aware of the technology being used in today's market for numerous reasons. Marketing and communication seems to be the biggest that come to mind for me. I'm glad to know about this initiative.

    ReplyDelete
  68. I believe this is a step in the right direction. Students really do need to have access to the internet. Like the President said, students aren't only working with textbooks anymore. We are in a technology age where information is resting at our fingertips. We are past the time of going to the library and consulting an encyclopedia or paper copies of periodicals for research papers. By embracing the technology in schools, we are helping out students learn valuable technological skills that they will need in the job force no matter where they go later in life.

    ReplyDelete
  69. I am still stuck in the pencil and paper with math. Yes there are programs that help like Khan Academy, but too many programs are just multiple choice questions instead of actual engaging activities that make the students think. This initiative is great for English classes and the like, but what about math?

    ReplyDelete
  70. I personally feel that this is a great step towards each student's productiveness in school. The traditional textbook and pencils are no longer the only means for students to grasp information. Technology is apart of our daily lives; in order to keep students engaged, technology must be offered to them. Even in my preschool class, we have a tablet and a touch screen computer for my students. It amazes me to see just how fast they are on the computer and tablet at just three years of age!

    ReplyDelete
  71. This seems like it will be a great step forward. Students today feel they need access to the internet to learn anything. If the students don't believe they can learn without internet, then they won't try to learn without it. I think the access to books is great as well. Students today won't go to the library to find the books I want them to or go to the library to do research for hours at a time. This access will help them do this better and quicker. Also, students do need to learn Prezi and Powerpoint. They can't function in a business environment without this ability. Hopefully, program will help our students to move forward.

    ReplyDelete
  72. This is the first time I have heard of the ConnectED initiative. Education is more than pencil, paper and textbooks. Teachers need to be able to give the students resources to learn the technology they will need for future jobs for the 21st century. The ConnectED will give the teachers the support and tool that they need to meet this need to prepare our students.

    ReplyDelete
  73. I believe that this is a great move towards enhancing the future of tomorrow's leaders. The infusion of "new school" (technology) and "old school" (books) will be a great way to ensure students are equipped on both sides of the learning spectrum. ConnectED will also grant teachers the tools required to prepare students for the global market. Education is the gateway to success in any area, and with ConnectED, educators with open new doors for our future.

    ReplyDelete
  74. I feel that the ConnectED initiative is a remarkable educational resource and decision made by the White House. For one, there are so many jobs in technology so educating students to be well versed in technology so these jobs will be available to them. ConnectED will also give teachers the resources they need to prepare students for the present and the future.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Although many teachers are stuck in their ways and are oblivious to how important it really is, the utilization of technology in the classroom is crucial nowadays, and it really enhances the learning process. The ConnectED initiative is great in that it is a huge step toward giving students the resources and knowledge they need to learn more technologically advanced and even get jobs in the future. Digital literacy is crucial in basically any career field now, as well as in everyday life. This initiative will definitely help prepare these children to have successful futures.

    ReplyDelete
  76. I love the ConnectedED initiative and I think is a tremendous resource and giant step into giving students what they need to learn for the future. Students will be walking into jobs where they are expected to know how to use technology. As we are progressing in our economy we have to progress in our schools. I love that ConnectED will help the teachers to. It helps the relationships with the students and teachers and gives them the resources they need. In an Art classroom, high speed internet would help teachers and students find up to date information on artist and art history. Students can find inspirations to create art projects by looking for recourses online. They can use apps on ipads to create photography and other projects, wikis, blogs, etc. Children need to learn these programs when they are young so they are able to build there future. I hope this program helps us to more forward in our technological world.

    ReplyDelete
  77. ConnectED was new to me in that I hadn't really ever done research into this initiative. After further research, I found that this initiative was a great step in the right direction in including technology in our educational system. I truly believe that as technology advances we should have it readily available for our students. Because I teach Kindergarten I find it difficult to include technology in everyday tasks. However, this initiative would give me the opportunity to be able to further include high speed internet in the classroom. Things such as blogs, wikis, etc. could be included on a more regular basis. This video was very informative and I enjoyed watching it! Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  78. As technology has advanced, so has the opportunities for its use in the classroom. My last school adopted a one-to-one policy where each student was to own their own personal laptop or tablet for use in the classroom. The ConnectEd initiative can be seen in our schools today with how many textbook resource companies are changing all their resources from a print version to an electronic version, in preparation for the 21st century education.

    President Obama shared many remarks that I believe are necessary for this idea to work. It is about "Every child, everyday!" Parents must be involved in the process, not passive, assuming that its only the schools responsibility to educate their child. For this to be applicable for all schools, new infrastructure is required so that all schools can be connected with higher speeds of internet.

    Knowledge of objectives is no longer confined to just the teacher and pace of curriculum will soon be determined for each individual student by the rate at which he/she learns. To allow for schools to be successful, each system must choose how to adapt with this ConnectEd initiative and prepare its teachers to be effective in educating the students it is responsible for.

    ReplyDelete
  79. I loved the reference to our expecting free Wi-Fi in our coffee shops, so why not in our classrooms. Years after this speech, we are beginning to see the fruits of this initiative in action. Over the past few years, our school has installed high speed internet and Wi-Fi in our high schools as well as our elementary schools. I have attended several workshops on integrating technology into the elementary classroom. I think teacher training has been one of the most beneficial aspects of this program. All the technology advances are great resources only if we as teachers know how to use them. This week our class is completing a weather unit and writing workshop. Through the use of the technology initiative, I am able to use videos to give students a real view of different weather conditions. Students have access to online books for research that are not available in our school library. I hope our local rural school will continue the push to be able to reach the levels of laptops for every student to have individual access instead of the few iPads and desktops we share.

    ReplyDelete
  80. I feel a bit ignorant admitting this, but I was not aware that the increase in technology in the classroom was implemented by the government. I hadn't spent much time thinking about how it was implemented, I had just assumed people were staying up. I am pleased to see that the government cares enough about the future of its youth and the future of the United States to take action to provide students with updated technology. It is important for the middle class to take advantage of everything the education system has to offer so they are prepared to enter the workforce and help stimulate the US economy.

    One goal of the ConnectED program was to provide the fastest and most reliable internet connections to schools all around the country. I would be curious to look up the exact statistics of the influence this program had on schools, but from my understanding most schools are indeed provided with high speed internet.

    I think that is extremely important to provide training to teachers. There are many teachers who have been teaching for well over 20 years. Obviously, time has changed things dramatically especially in regards to technology. Those teachers should be provided with enough training that they are as confident implementing technology as those teachers who are relatively new and may have taken course similar to EDM 510 that provided them with updated technological information.

    After watching this video I immediately thought of the perfect example for how technology can be beneficial to students. There is a young girl in the 6th grade class I am currently observing that suffers from a vascular issue. Her condition requires her to use crutches, a wheel chair, or simply stay home when she is having a flair up. Additionally, doctors have her undergoing surgery with lengthy recovery time that will require her to be out of school for over a month. Although teachers are understanding and flexible with her grades she often falls behind on subject matter and (if graded regularly) she would often receives failing grades. When she is able to stay in the classroom for an entire chapter her work does not suffer. She has a good grasp on information she is able to be in class to learn. Her parents are trying to find a solution so she can remain in the comfort of her home or as the hospital when needed. Numerous ideas have been presented, but nobody has suggested the use of Skype or FaceTime yet. I am not sure the school or the teachers would be willing to accommodate, but it is definitely a suggestion worth making.

    There are lots of examples of how technology can benefit the class room and how I look forward to staying in the loop!

    ReplyDelete
  81. Technology is growing at such a fast pace. Our teachers and administrators need access to high speed internet in the schools in order to keep up with the growing technology. Educating our students with the use of technology is proving to be useful and a necessity.

    The use of tablets in the classroom instead of textbooks would be a great way for the students who miss a day of school to keep up with their studies if the textbook was available online with a code. Also, having high-speed internet in the classrooms would help facilitate teaching and using technology without the lag that can occur when trying to access the internet without high speed internet.

    ReplyDelete
  82. I believe the ConnectED Initiative is the next logical step in the progression of education. As we have learned in this course, technology is being integrated in more and more classrooms everyday. One of the classrooms I recently observed was at a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) school where kids were allowed to bring devices and school instruction was tailored around technology. However, as we all know, there are socioeconomic barriers that some students face and so the school was required to provide additional devices that the students could use if they didn't have their own. In addition, all of these students connected to their lessons using the school provided internet. This is a perfect example of how the ConnectED Initiative helps to move schools into advanced technology driven instruction AND allowed those students who didn't have their own devices the same advantages in engaging learning through technology.

    Imagine classrooms where textbooks were online, viewable on devices using high-speed internet provided to the schools and instruction included all of the multimedia available today. What a wonderful world!

    ReplyDelete
  83. America has fallen way behind in literacy when compared to other developed countries. This is surely translating into the digital realm and I think that Former President Obama's initiatives are tailored to help bridge the existing digital divide. This includes bringing teachers and administrators up to speed with the movement of technology in our society, along with ensuring equal access to resources for all of the stakeholders.

    ReplyDelete
  84. I have never taught in an American secondary school, but I can't imagine a university that wouldn't provide internet on campus and expect students to have access to a computer at home. If students are going to be expected to already know how to use the internet in the college classroom, why wouldn't we feel it is our job to teach them how to use it while they are in grade school? I think having internet in public schools is a must for American educators. It is helpful for the students, and new teachers are taught to teach using technology. If it is not available in their schools, then that is wasted effort and confusing for the teacher when they enter the school system.

    ReplyDelete
  85. The ConnectED initiative is essential for a successful education in 2017. Better training for teachers, newer and more technology for students are ways to ensure the integration of different technologies in the classroom. If I remember correctly, Baldwin County saw the benefits of this program. I believe in 2011, some of the schools had Mac computers, but in 2013 or 2014 everyone in Baldwin had Asus laptops. I thought the switch to the lower cost laptop was part of the connectED initiative. An Asus will do what is required of a middle school and high school student. I always thought the Macs were extravagant. I was glad to see the lower cost option because it meant the county could purchase a larger number of laptops.

    ReplyDelete
  86. ConnectED is a step in the right direction. As society evolves, the education system must evolve with it in order to produce a generation that can be competitive and successful in the adult world that they will live in. Teachers need to be better trained and students need more and newer technology. I am a proponent of these things. I will be teaching Science in a secondary school in the future. Technology is so integrated into science now. Teachers need technology to help produce the scientists of the future.

    ReplyDelete