Emerging vs. Obsolete Technology Module 2

Obsolete Technology

Dr. Soloway (2009) discusses his experience with the Palm Pilot, which was a new device in the late 1990’s early 2000’s that allowed individuals to perform tasks similar to the programs on the computer, but in the palm of their hand. The Palm Pilot was a smaller, mobile device that was a lot less expensive. The early educational adopters, like professors and teachers, found the device to be a benefit to the classroom (Laureate Education, 2009). The size and cost made it a great tool; however, it did not catch on because there was so much money invested in desktop and larger model computers, that innovations were created to match models already available in the classroom. The other technology that eliminated the use of the Palm Pilot was the creation of the smart phone. It is evident that the Palm Pilot may not make a return because other technologies are being created to perform the initial role of the Palm Pilot, but the idea of having hand held educational tools in the classroom has evolved.

References:

Laureate Education, Inc. (2009). Emerging and future technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Enhances	Obsoletes
1.        2.      The palm pilot allows for easy portability of numerous applications. 3.      Instant updates, revisions, and corrections are provided to the user. 4.      Very affordable and can change the ratio of “computers” to students by growing closer to a 1:1 ratio. 5.      Reduces paper consumption. 6.      Educational applications, games, learning tools for students “…to take the paper and pencil curriculum, we call it ‘mobilize,’ transform it into lessons that would fit on the Palm (Soloway, 2009).”< /span>	1.        2.      The palm pilot was created in the late 1990’s and the early adopters began using it around the year 2000. Unfortunately, individuals are still designing for large scale computers and are not implementing small hand held devices in schools. It is the Palm Pilot that is obsolete in the classrooms
Retrieves	Reverse
1.        2.      Downloadable applications 3.      Games 4.      Calendar 5.      Calculator	2.                    3.                  It looks as if the Palm Pilot will be replaced by the Smart Phone and Net books.

Module 1 discussion - emerging technology in the classroom

Although it is not a new “technology” in the school system, an emerging practice among educators is the increased use of social media for collaboration.  Many teachers are now utilizing Facebook, twitter, and other social media networks to increase communication.  Edmodo is now being implemented in many classrooms and has a structure similar to Facebook.  Teachers are able to post pictures and comments as well as educational material and resources.  Students have the ability to interact with the materials, take quizzes, leave comments, and discuss topics with the teacher as well as others in the classroom.  Using this type of media is increasing the flipped classroom model where students listen to lecture and review materials outside of the classroom and participates in group discussions and complete projects during class time.  The idea behind this type of classroom model has many benefits, but does not take into consideration students who come from low income households.  Students of low socio-economic backgrounds may not be able to benefit from classroom settings where the majority of the information is gathered outside of the classroom and brought in for discussion.  Teachers may have to make some accommodations for students who do not have access to this type of technology at home.  The good news is that computers and becoming more affordable and soon the majority of students will be able to work together without being confined by the hours of the school day. 

www.edmodo.com