Theories of Critical Thinking by Taylor Bradford

     Technology has become the forefront in today's society and how we communicate with and learn from each other. As a young educator I had the opportunity to grow up using technology in the classroom. I have now been teaching kindergarten for two years and have been able to witness firsthand the developments that have been made in the classroom. Technology is used more frequently and with greater purpose than it was ten years ago. All five of the articles detailed reasons of why and ways in which technology has been integrated into the education system. The use of technology has been backed by many forms of research and theories including those discussed in the articles. By using what we know about the technologies available today and the data proven by these theories we can create a unique opportunity for our students to develop their literacy skills that was not possible before. 

    In the article that referred to Bloom's Taxonomy the two highest levels of the hierarchy were discussed. I think the information discussed in this article helped me to define what it truly meant to be able to synthesize and evaluate information. As I went on to read the other articles I had a lightbulb moment that I hadn't realized before. Technology has opened the door to a brand new world for what it truly means to teach and to learn. As much as it has changed our perspective as teachers, it has also changed that of our students as well. Having access to this brand new innovations allows our students to express themselves and learn in their own style.

    In the articles they also discussed Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences. This is one of the main reasons I started studying technology and the ways it can improve instruction in the classroom. Being a teacher has shown me how different people think and learn. The different ways to explain your ideas and learning are endless. These articles help to define the ways in which technology can make this possible for so many. As educators we have to be mindful of our students and their varying needs. 

    With the use of technology and digital/media literacy we can focus our efforts on ways to provide for our students. I am very passionate in the use of tech in the classroom and the benefits we can reap from the use of it. Being a young educator I have faced difficulties working with more seasoned coworkers. They can be hesitant to trying new things, including technology. It is my hope that I can use my knowledge from these articles and my other courses I have taken to help encourage them to use technology. I think that once the begin to see the effects/benefits they will be pleasantly surprised.