Educational Technology Presentations #8

This week’s reflection will summarize our group presentations based on the educational technology prompts chosen.

Alt+ernative Travel Cowgirls

Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.

The first group explained how virtual field trips offer students a way to explore new places without leaving the classroom, using tools like VR, 360° videos, augmented reality and live streams. They shared that virtual field trips could reduce barriers for students who struggle with mobility through building a more inclusive classroom community. Their main point was that virtual field trips make learning more accessible and exciting. This group did a screencast for their artifact.

Alt+ernative Travel Cowgirls presentation

Unplugged or Unprepared?

Photo by Veii Rehanne Martinez on Unsplash.

This group focused on less technology in the classroom. Their podcast explained why digital literacy and online safety are important for young students. They highlighted the concept of a low-tech classroom with teachers only relying on technology for a purpose, arguing that students need to understand that technology is a tool and not something to rely on all the time. This group did a podcast as their artifact.

Unplugged or Unprepared presentation

High Tech, Low Tech, No Tech

Photo by Ales Nesetril on Unsplash.

This group explained the differences between high-tech, low-tech, and no-tech classrooms. High-tech classrooms would include tools like tablets and computers used regularily in the classroom. Low-tech is defined by classrooms that include simple supports like timers or whiteboards. No tech focuses on hands-on learning without the use of technology. My opinion is that teachers should use the technological tools that are available to them in balance, and be mindful that too much screen time can be harmful. This group did a screencast as their artifact.

High Tech, Low Tech, No Tech Presentation

Finding the Balance

Photo by Aziz Acharki on Unsplash.

Finding balance when using technology in the classroom was the topic for this group. They explained that students need space to think, slow down, and use their own ideas before turning to devices. They reminded us that technology should support learning, not replace real thinking or face-to-face connection. Their main tips were to use technology only when it supports the lesson, teach digital responsibility, and ensure students receive hands-on learning. Their message was that balance is key and that teachers need to be intentional with tech use. This group created a website as their artifact.

Overall, my classmates’ presentations showed how useful and creative educational technology can be.