Monday, August 25, 2014

Advancements in Technology


The key developments that I think have been most significant include the black board, projectors, computers, internet, smart phones, and social media. Even though technology has advanced from black boards to interactive boards, black boards were still a huge step in the advancement of education when they were invented. Black boards and projectors allowed teachers to better instruct students and provided a better education for students. Computers, internet, smart phones, and social media advanced learning to a whole new level. Developments in technology today have opened more options for individuals than ever. Without the advancement in technology, it would be very difficult for individuals, like myself to advance in their education. Face book has also helped me to stay connected and communicate with friends.   



 Have you ever thought back for a moment what it would be like to live a hundred years ago or more? My experience with technology in the classroom includes chalk boards, overhead projectors, and some computer use. I have not been in a classroom setting where I have experienced the high-tech interactive white boards. Check out this you tube video to gain knowledge on interactive white boards. They are amazing! 

Black boards and overhead projectors were a great tool when I attended elementary school, but looking back now as a student, technology has progressed so much. I had limited access to computers when I was in elementary school, but my knowledge about software, computers, and the internet really advanced when I was in high school. I was able to take courses learning how to operate programs such as Word and Excel. During high school, we were allowed to use the internet for some reference, but we were still required to go to the library to complete research papers. We now have so many resources, it’s amazing! Having access to the internet alone has opened several doors to advance our learning.

The use of technology has increased my learning dramatically. My husband and I got the iphone 4 a few years ago. I was scared to step out of my comfort zone and advance my learning with a smart phone. After having a smart phone, I will never go without it. It is so convenient now that I know how to use it. It is amazing how educating yourself a little bit goes a long way. I know there are so many tools out there that I havn’t even explored. I often catch myself saying, “How did anyone ever get anything done without the technology we have today?” I am very thankful for the progress of technology as it has made it possible and more convenient for me to attend college and working toward receiving my bachelor’s degree. I recently downloaded the Ashford App on my iphone, which has been incredibly helpful. I recommend downloading the app. I have been able to research so many different things on the internet that advance my learning. Technology such as pinterest has also helped me to “think outside the box” and be more creative. This is one area that I have always struggled with, and I am so thankful that social media has helped me to progress in this area.