The Net Geners

The assigned reading of chapter eight was very interesting and I enjoyed seeing statistical data about the usage of technology. It is not a secret that the majority of educational settings have computers and the ability to access internet. High-speed classroom connectivity is good, but for some reason, internet isn’t used in the classroom, but most often Internet usage takes place in media centers or computer labs. This I found surprising, because the capabilities of the internet are endless and I believe teachers can find very useful and appropriate tools from the internet which can improve children’s education. Youth are engulfed by the internet in their free time, but educators neglect to find ways to use it in an educational setting.

The study went on to suggest that Internet re­sources are not yet fully integrated into the day-to-day classroom routine. This was so disappointing to me and I am so happy that I am taking this course which can help me integrate technology into my classroom. The study showed that 56 percent of respondents to the study identified integrating technology into the classroom or learning experience as their top technology challenge. After participating in this class, incorporating technology wont be a challenge and I will use technology effectively and usefully.

What surprised me in the readings was how “Net Genres” are using technology in the undergraduate levels. Undergraduates reported a positive impact of the Internet on their aca­demic experience, but when analyzing the data, it showed that internet usage beyond e-mail remains relatively low. This was surprising to see from a generation which grew up and used these technologies. I do admit that I would respond to the questions the same way, but I thought that the internet would be used for much more because of the amount youth use the internet.

I really enjoyed all of the questions and thought that the information was useful and can impact the way people view technology. One question I would add, is ask undergraduates what they would do to improve IT services, so that it is used for more then email and asking about grades.

The Confusing World of Copyright

When analyzing copyright, the law can quickly become confusing and easy to break. Copyright really covers many categories, most of which teachers use in an educational setting. Teachers really have a difficult time managing copyright laws with the use of internet and how easy it is to find and use useful information for the classroom. It is now very easy to put resources into digital form, copy and share information amongst colleagues. What makes this idea even more difficult is how much leeway teachers are now given. The guidelines of the law can easily become blurred.

What I was surprised to discover is how many teachers actually neglect to follow the law. I have seen many teacher copy work books, textbooks and other resources. They may believe it should be considered fair use, but I believe publishers and creators of the resources would fight the notion of fair use.

The more I learn about copyright, the more I feel that it will become my job to teach students to respect copyright laws. The law covers a lot of activities that students engage in on a daily basis, and they should know the law. I will do my best to continue to review the law and interpret the information in plain terms for my students, so they are not overwhelmed by the length and complexity of some of the language involved in the law. If my students are aware of the law, then they will understand what is right and wrong and there will be no excuse for breaking copyright laws.