Journal # 3

"Keeping the Peace" analyzes the pros and cons of instant messaging, a seemingly double-edged sword with regard to its usefulness to educators and students. Levinson comments on how each generation saw the applications of technology - IMs in this case. Older generations would've seen it only for its technological value, an effective means of communication. Newer generations saw the same use and took it a step further with entertainment uses (the larger category of blogging for example). And there’s the rub, it would seem.

After introducing laptops into their school, educators immediately encountered misuse of their educational tools. Similar messaging applications like Messenger and iChat soon became the new means of furtive correspondence between students. Over time, it would seem like it did more good than harm, especially to teachers that actually found suitable and proper uses for it – provided they managed to figure out the laptops themselves.

On that note, the need to train teachers unfamiliar with the technology soon became apparent. Prior to the start of school years, teachers underwent a sort of technological boot(-up) camp to familiarize themselves with the technology that students so easily grasped. Such seminars closed the gap between students and instructors and allowed laptops to reclaim their intended use in the classroom.

Is there any use for laptops and IMing in your classroom?
Traditionally, I would have to say “No.” In my opinion, the true nature of the teaching process lay within the real and actual interaction and instruction between teachers and students. Laptops (and IMing if necessary) would only serve as perks and enhancements to the process, not the primary medium and means of communication.

Do you see technology as helpful or a hindrance?
When used properly, it can enhance any lesson/lecture to the students benefit. When used improperly, it is merely a distraction and unnecessary element of the classroom.