Three technologies effectively used in the classroom.

I plan on teaching Kindergarten Language Arts. The SmartBoard, Google earth and Kidspiration are three ways to incorporate technology into the classroom. The SmartBoard is a useful tool because it requires hands-on activity for the students. It also gives the teacher a chance to observe the children who may have a difficult time understanding the lesson. Google Earth is a specific tool useful for virtual learning. My virtual tour on Google Earth was called Virtual Vacation to five different countries. It took the students to five different and they were required to follow directions when they clicked on the country. Google Earth can be set up individually, as the vacation to five countries is, or it can be set up as a group project, preferably for younger children. Kidspiration is also a hands-on tool in the classroom. It is used to set up group, oral assessments, or it can be used as a guide or learning map.

Learning Games are not always appropriate for teaching a child. Games can be distracting and they can lose their meaning quickly. Learning games should be a privilege for students who as advanced to the next level in the lesson. Games should not be used in the classroom as an actual way to teach students.