Mike+N.

Discussion 1-2 9/24/13

I have only been a teacher for six years after changing careers from a Fish and Wildlife Biologist. I teach Earth Science and Astronomy at a small school in Vermont. I hope to earn an M.Ed from SNHU and also gain an endorsement as a technology integration specialist. Technology is changing so quickly, there are boundless opportunities to use new tools in the classroom to enhance education. Although, technology can be integrated into any aspect of life, and is not limited to education. Tools like Google Apps, dropbox, box, WorkFloy, Pocket, Blendspace, Pinterest, Diigo, Wikispaces...etc all could have uses outside of education. These tools could be useful for organizing schedules and tasks in life, they can be incorporated into the workplace, used for socializing and other personal tasks. I use google apps for most things in life. The calander syncs to my phone to help keep me on time, I use google drive to store all files online to have access just about anywhere (as long as my phone is charged). Technology can enhance education and other areas in life. It depends on how you use the tools and why you use the tools.

Technology evolves so quickly, that there are new tools almost every day. As new technology is discovered, society will change an adapt with new tools. Look at how much impact the industrial revolution had on society. Technology suddenly changed the world, making tedious chores simple. For example, prior to the industrial revolution ironing clothes consisted of using large heavy Irons that were heated on the stove, which had to be on and heated to extreme temperatures. The iron would have to be returned to the stove often to stay at the appropriate temperature to press the clothes. With an electric iron, that is much smaller and easier to use, this chore becomes faster, and less of a chore (Cowan, 1976). As technology becomes better and better, society will change in stride. Ideally, technology will make larger tasks simple, and require less time to accomplish. Look how easy it is now to communicate. I can text someone with my cell phone and get a response almost instantaneously.

References

Cowan, R. S. (1976). The" Industrial Revolution" in the home: household technology and social change in the 20th century. //Technology and Culture //, 1-23.