Reflection: Emerging Technology

“If at first, the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it” Albert Einstein


Many of the emerging technologies that I learned from this course, at first, seemed absurd. How “absurd” is it for teachers to incorporate multi-user virtual environments (MUVE) into their instructional activities. However, as many students eagerly participate in MUVEs and online games, this instructional approach has merit. The multimodal feature of games and virtual environments encourage students to work collaboratively and to apply their creative thinking skills to complete a given complex task (Gee, 2005). Although some of these online games and simulations include violent scenarios, I have found an intriguing MUVE, the mystery at the museum. Students work in collaborative teams and use critical thinking and problem solving skills to solve a crime of theft in a virtual museum. Imagine students using mobile devices to interview virtual characters, analyze information and clues, and being able to communicate in real-time with team members!
In addition, I’ve learned about cloud computing, another “absurd” idea that will elevate teaching and learning. With cloud technology, all a student needs is a web browser and an Internet connection to access social networking tools, share documents, and participate in collaborative teams. Students can use any computer at school or at home to perform tasks, save, and access their products stored in the cloud. In addition, many collaborative tools as Voice Thread, Ning, blogs, and wikis use cloud-computing technology. The major advantage of using cloud-based applications is its cost-effectiveness

The course encouraged me to take a more proactive role, as teacher leader, to persuade my colleagues to adopt emerging technologies into our school’s technology plan. My report describes a viable plan and possible funding sources that I will present to my school to purchase a learning design system, digital games, and a multi-user virtual environment. I have learned about different leadership styles and the importance of being an advocate for teaching students essential 21st century skills.

Gee, J. P. (2005). Good video games and good learning. Phi Kappa Phi Forum, 85(2),
33–37.