Technology Standard I

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Technology Standard I

Technology Standard I: All teachers use technology-related terms, concepts, data input strategies and ethical practices to make informed decisions about current technologies and their applications.

Teaching in a 6th grade setting, so much of our technology use must revolve around the issue of safety.  It is important that I help my students comprehend that they are creating their very own digital footprint each time they log onto a device.  How is this personally relevant?  Why is this issue so important to them?  It really goes to character education in the technology realm.

In our district, students are taught at a young age to authenticate as soon as they receive a technological device to use in the classroom.  This authentication process ensures they are linked to our district website, eliminating access to any educationally inappropriate sites.  In our classroom, my mentor teacher and I share iPads and computers with the rest of our team teachers, which often leaves us short of devices when teaching a technology infused lesson.  Many of our students must use their own devices.  This makes it even more critical for me to confirm that my students have started their work only after they have authenticated onto our district's website. For their safety as well as the safety of their peers, I need to be diligent in making sure my students do so.  With this accomplished, students may now creatively and courageously enjoy exploring the amazing avenues open to them through technology.
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