Videogame Development

I think that if teachers tried to match the technology used in the classroom to the amount of technology that students used at home, then the students wouldn't ever get off the computer. The classroom is a place for learning, and yes it is good for teachers to use a wide variety of technology in their classroom, but matching the amount the students use? I think that would be excess.

In theory i think that online chats and instant messaging is a great way for students to communicate with one another about classwork or to help each other, but realistically they would abuse it. I worked at a fortune 500 company that did headhunting and the CEO had to take off the instant messanger because his employees didn't use it for what it was intended. If adults can't use it right, what makes you think high school kids will?

I'm always a fan of face to face communication, but i think if a student really has trouble with accepting criticism face to face, asynchronous communication would work for them. I just think making everyething text based is taking away from our communication and personable skills.

I think podcasts are a great way to get information to students if used properly. If the teacher relies on them for every day use, then i think they need to reevaluate their teaching style. Using too many podcasts takes away from the teaching itself. It seems lazy to use them all the time, but there are podcasts that have very good information that students would do good knowing. It kind of falls in the same group with watching movies and films in class. If theyre helpful and informative, why not. Just don't show them every day.

I never used videogames when i was growing up to study. I did it the old fashon way i guess. I'm sure there are videogames out there that will enhance student learning, but i'm also sure that they don't follow the exact specifications of the teacher. They don't have online games that are specifically tailored to the curriculum. There are plenty of skills that you would gain from it though. "Self-regulated learners must develop the understanding that they in control of their learning, mastery of tasks, and attainment of goals" (Ferdig & Boyer). I agree with parts of the article, but i don't think i would let my child play video games every day. I think that if a person spends all day on a computer or playing a videogame they miss out on things that happen outside of the home. I want my child to play their games outside.