Teachers Merging Traditional and Emerging Technologies

In comparison to the traditional education from years ago, education has been altered a lot. No two teachers are alike. Their styles of teaching are uniquely their own.

Years ago, nothing but traditional classrooms existed with the authority, or lecture style teaching. This teaching style is teacher-centered and frequently involves lengthy lectures or one-way presentations. The expectation for students were to absorb information and take notes. The problem with this style is that this style may be acceptable for higher education with large groups of students. However, it is questionable for teaching elementary because it requires little to no interaction with the teacher. One must consider that not all students respond well to just one particular style of learning. The teaching style that is most suitable for today's students would be a hybrid approach which blends everything a teacher has to offer including technology and plentiful resources. Today's teachers have to develop styles that work well in diverse classroom settings due to the evolution of technology. Technology has forever enhanced education and educators. With technology infused with learning, it complements the 21st century learners. The 21st century learners are digital natives, meaning a person brought up during the age of digital technology making them more naturally familiar with the internet and computers. Educational Technology in the Classroom

Welcome all.

Hello. My name is Mrs. Thomas and I am super excited to be your child's teacher this fall. In 3rd grade this year, we will be having a lot of fun learning with technology. The next few months will be busy as we explore and grow together. I am ready to learn all about your children and their diverse learning styles, but first I will tell you a little about myself. This is my fourth year teaching this grade at Crystal Cove Elementary. I went to school in Broward County my whole life-- Hallandale Elementary, Gulfstream Middle, Broward College for my undergrad, and Florida Atlantic for my Bachelor's and Master's in Elementary Education. My educational philosophy is to focus on why I teach, what I teach, how I teach, and how I measure my effectiveness. My teaching style is the hybrid, or blended style. This style has an integrated approach that blends my personality and interests with the students' curriculum appropriate methods and individual needs.

This is an exciting time to be in Mrs. Thomas' class!