The implementation of devices at Riverside over the past two years has shown positive results. Students and teachers are generally happy and enthusiastic about using technology in their classrooms. The weekly technology meetings for teachers provides a great opportunity to support each other with their devices and to share new educational apps that make teaching and learning more enjoyable for everyone. Currently, the use of devices is only required in core academic subjects such as Science and Math and are only used occasionally in elective subjects such as Technology Education. Through my inquiry and research I plan to implement the use of devices into Technology Education so that it is used as much as it is in other core subjects but, without sacrificing the practical hands-on knowledge. In my opinion, Industrial Design will be the best course to begin implementing the use of devices into Technology Education.
Industrial Design combines many different aspects of Technology Education into one comprehensive learning experience. Therefore, Industrial Design may provide an excellent platform to utilize devices in a variety of ways. Students learn how to design and plan ideas both individually and collaboratively with peers, they also learn the technical hands-on skills that enable them to create their designs, and finally they are taught the skills necessary in order to market and commercialize their products. Thus, the use of apps can play a role at each stage of the design process.
One benefit to having devices is to be able to instantly share information. During the design process, devices will extend the research capabilities of a student drastically. Furthermore, students will be able to share information with peers to collaborate and improve on each others ideas. Examples of apps that could be used are: Notability, Educreations, Google Apps to name a few. These apps will allow students to collaborate in real time from anywhere. Access to devices provides access to an endless number of resources through the internet.
Websites such as Google, Youtube or Instructables can provide students with instantaneous access to learn and discover any topic imaginable. If a student wants to learn how to build a robotic 3D printed arm, the teacher may not have the necessary knowledge. Though, the required resources can be found instantly on the internet. The idea of a maker space classroom has led students to be more motivated and engaged in their own projects related to their own passions. So-called passion projects at Riverside Secondary propel students into conducting their own research, devising plans and following instructions all on a device at their side while working. Although these capabilities are possible without a BYOD program, they are simply made easier and accessible. But, in my opinion, the greatest component of the BYOD program is the ability to share with others.
In a typical Technology Education setting, once a student completes a project they might bring the project home and show their parents, or they might be lucky and have it displayed in the school foyer. In contrast, with a BYOD program the student can now share the project with the world. Apps such as Deck, Piktochart, Edublogs and Instagram allow a student to showcase their work that can be viewed by millions of people. All the students at Riverside Secondary have Edublogs (e-portfolios powered through WordPress) where they post their completed assignments and projects, etc. Technology Education is not a designated page on these Edublogs but I intend to change that. Students should be able to display to their parents, teachers, peers, and anyone else what amazing work they accomplish in a Technology Education classroom. Furthermore, they have the possibility of sharing not only pictures but instructions, resources and other information that viewers may want.
Ultimately, devices in a Technology Education classroom should be used in ways that will only improve or accelerate student achievement. Students will have instantaneous connection to a world of information and resources that will help them excel to learn practical skills while doing something that motivates and interests them. Then, they will be able to market their achievements in a way that connects them to the global community. The use of devices in Technology Education will boost the critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration, problem solving, and practical skills that will help prepare students for the future.