At Gesu Catholic School, where I am observing for the semester, I have been able to learn more about the technologies available and how they advance the learning of the students. By observing and conversing with my cooperating teacher, I have been able to see how she utilizes technology in the classroom. I have also had the opportunity to meet multiple staff members who specialize in the area of technology.
Mr. Janson is the school’s current technology coordinator, and is who teachers and other staff members call when facing technical difficulties in the classroom. My cooperating teacher described him as being very helpful and an expert in his field. Although I have not had the opportunity to meet Mr. Janson, I intend to before the end of the semester. Mr. Stuber is the school’s Educational technology Specialist who students meet with once a week for computer class. During this designated period, Mr. Stuber focuses on keyboarding with the students. He also includes many educational games during his class. Mrs. Rownd is the head librarian at Gesu, where students also have access to multiple technological resources. I have had the opportunity to sit in on a few of Mrs. Rownd’s classes with the second graders. She allows students to look up books and conduct research during this time.
Outside of the library and computer room, students can access multiple technological resources in the classroom. In the second grade room that I am currently in, there are a total of 2 computers and 4 iPads that students have access to, all school property. These resources are always in the classroom, however only used during center time in the school day. When students are sent to the tablets or computers, they use their Gesu School login to gain access. Students often use these resources to listen to audio books, conduct research, and play educational games.
The technology coordinator is who controls the firewall blocking access to the applications. Only websites that are deemed appropriate for students are accessible. If a website is blocked, a message will appear, telling the student that it is unavailable. The restrictions on websites are less for students in the higher grades (6th-8th), since research is more prevalent for these children.
By speaking with professionals and observing a multitude of settings, I have been able to learn a lot about technology in the Early Childhood setting. The students at Gesu are very fortunate for how accessible technology is. I am excited to see what I have yet to learn!
Haley's Educational Technology Class 