After introducing myself through sharing experiences about how the internet has changed my life the Unpacking Assumptions post set the stage for this course. Some of the topics discussed have remained pertinent throughout the rest of the course as some were addressed and some require more attention. Increased access to information has changes the way we teach and learn. Inquiry-based problem solving goes hand-in-hand with the T-GEM model of learning where planning for technology plays an important role in learning. Funding the ideal TELE has and will continue to be an issue but steps have been taken in some schools to allow for student owned devices to be used in class, or use computers supplied by the school. I still see a future where every student is connected to the internet and has the technological tools for success at their disposal both in class and at home.

Through interviewing a colleague similar issues came to light as she reflected on her use of technology in her classroom and how she would like her class setup to look like. Challenges to using technology include possible distractions and equitable access to technology for students and teachers. Proper professional development was discussed and an increase in collaboration and sharing was suggested. Districts seem to plan for technology but their direction does not always get passed down to the teachers in the classroom so it would be nice to move in a unified direction across boards and provinces in terms of technology use.

By studying four TELE’s that have been used over the last 30 years we were able to dissect each environment and discuss the pro’s and con’s of each one. The Jasper Series introduced problems with video and set the stage for real world problem solving. Limited feed back was available and the opportunities for collaboration were limited to the group or class. WISE models build on the Jasper visuals as they provide increased access to information. Videos, graphs and activities enhance the learner’s experience. Activities can be added as they become available, which is a great asset for WISE. I found that I like using WISE learning as it was sequential and I would eventually find the answer through trial and error if necessary (even though it may not always be constructivism). The Learning-for-Use (LfU) model uses technology to make math and science tasks quicker and easier to learn through scaffolding and providing experiences for students. T-GEM (technology-generate-evaluate-modify) learning engages students in real-life math and science. It helps make mathematicians and scientists out of students where they contribute, reflect, adapt and report on their work. The real challenge is to plan for T-GEM learning regularly and cover the curriculum, but is worth the effort.

Tom and I chose to look at virtual field trips as an option to “real” field trips and found that they can play an important role in the math and science class. Technology allows students to be in their class (or home, or library, or McDonald’s) and go on a field trip that is either very close or far away. It was suggested that VFT’s be used as an introduction to real field trips or as a review. They can also be used when there is a shortage of time or funding. Students can go from home toFrancetoJapanand back in a few short clicks of a mouse.

Mobile devices have increased in popularity and decreased in price significantly over the last few years. Wireless internet access is available in many schools and public places. This new technology allows our learning to become mobile. We don’t have to be sitting in a desk in a classroom to have information delivered to us. Smartphones can replace numerous devices like watches, calculators, remote controls and computers. As we study the use of mobile technology it is apparent that it will be an even larger part of our lives as we come to depend on it. We use mobile devices to communicate, do research, explore, bank, and play. I see mobile devices as technology that will be useful in all areas of business and education. It might take some convincing but the sooner we implement the technology at hand (literally) the better off we will be.