1. The first time I really personally got involved with computers was freshman year of high school when I took keyboarding 1. That course taught me the fundamentals of typing, and also, some basic applications on computers. The second time I really got into using computers and using many different applications was my junior year of high school when I took a computer applications class where I learned about Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint. I did use computers to look up different information before high school but did not learn to understand the different applications until high school.
2. I plan on teaching fifth grade and a way of integrating technology into my classroom is to have assignments done in class which requires students to look up information on the computer and then begin to use the basic forms of Microsoft Office to do the assignment by either typing it up, or working in a group and making a short Powerpoint off of it. This will give students the chance to begin learning how to use a computer and some of the applications on a computer which will make it easier on them when they continue on in school since they will have already been introduced to it.
3. I believe the most challenging thing for me when it comes to integrating technology into the classroom will be to get the students wanting to use computers on more of a weekly basis rather than just on a random assignment that requires them to do so. I feel like this will be the biggest challenge because at that age, parents do a lot for their kids, especially when it comes to technology because usually a fifth grader does not check his own e-mail or just use a computer everyday like someone does when they get older. So getting the student to even use a computer at home, rather than having their parent do it for them, will be a big challenge and if I can get students to accept that challenge, it will be very beneficial for them and make them be a step ahead of other students their age.
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Michael - You had a very limited experience with technology in your K-12 education, but your experience is more typical than atypical (unfortunately). Your idea for creating in-class assignments is a good one, as it will allow you to teach the children how to use the computer while accomplishing curricular goals. This is what I mean by "seamless" technology integration. Also, it will head off the problem of equal access for all, as some of your students will not have computers at home. However, beware...research and writing projects such as these take a HUGE amount of time and require creative planning concerning the logistics. I don't bring this up to discourage you; I just want you to approach such endeavors with a realistic plan. As far as your concerns about getting kids excited to use technology (which I don't totally agree with, simply because kids I've encountered love all forms of technology), start with a really fun (but still quasi-educational) and really simple activity that will get them jazzed about computers (I hope to show you many possibilities). You'll have no trouble after that!
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