Joural # 2 Computer Technology in the Classroom 101

To be a competent teacher you must not only know how to use a computer, you must know how to use it well. It is not acceptable for students to know more about computers than their teachers. In order for teachers to be able to utilize technology in the classroom they must understand and be familiar with the following skills.
Teachers should be able to send and receive e-mail and send attachments. This is an important tool of communication between teachers, students and parents. Teachers should know how to copy information from floppy disk to hard drive and vice versa. This is important so that students can know how to copy school work for home or school use. Teachers should know how to use Word processing software. This is an important tool for students to learn how to edit their writing. Teachers should know how to use spreadsheet software like Excel. This is an important tool for students to use for organizing data. Teachers should know how to use presentation software such as Power Point. This is an important tool for students to use in giving classroom presentations. Teachers should understand Windows OS for PC's and the OS operating system for Macs. This is important for students to understand the theory behind the two systems. Teachers should have their own web page and know how to make a web page. This is important communication skill for students to know. Teachers should know how to use the Internet effectively. This is an important skill for students to learn to help them save time in doing research. Teachers should understand and use a digital camera and a scanner. This is important so that students know how to gather and incorporate new sources of information. This article provides the names and locations of websites that provide additional knowledge on developing the previously mentioned skills.

1. Is there a suggested time frame when students should know how to use the skills mentioned in this article?

The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) mandates that all students have a command of basic skills by the time they complete the 8th grade.

2. When there is limited computer access in the classroom, how are students suppose to learn these skills?

Parents can take their children to the public libraries where they can be taught these skills by librarians in the children's section.

Journal #1 Intro Letter

My name is Tawn Kent and I am a native Californian. I was born in Los Angeles county. When I was three years old my family moved to eastern San Diego county. I attended different schools all located in the same town. As a child growing up I enjoyed the company of my extended family. My siblings, cousins and I did many things together including climbing, hiking, swimming and going to movies.
I have used personal computers for the past twenty years in my prior employment. I am familiar with word processing software, and a variety of spreadsheet programs that I used for updating accounting and maintenance records. My knowledge of and use of computer hardware and software was limited to what I used on the job. Only recently has my knowledge expanded beyond the requirements of my employment. I am now becoming more familiar with the Internet in researching a variety of topics. The more I learn the more ignorant I realize I am. I have a strong desire to learn more and I see the Internet as an extension of the classroom for both individual students as well as for families.
I have a strong commitment to see our nation become a place where all men and women from all backgrounds or persuasions can achieve and enjoy the great opportunities and benefits that are available. I selected the CSUSM Credential program because of its emphasis on preparing teachers committed to the principles of diversity, equity and social justice for all people. I fully embrace the objective of preparing myself to be a thoughtful educator and to help institute and advance professional practices. I recognize that it will require patience and endurance in a collaborative approach to overcome the impediments that will be experienced in the course of realizing these objectives.