Developing skills without overwhelming students is critical in the classroom. I agree with Dickson on how students have to practice the skills. Learning everything at one time is not going to help the learner out in any way. It takes time. Playing a game is a great way for elementary students to practice the skill. It can also involve technology in the classroom if played on a computer or tablet.
In elementary, middle, and high school technology was not used in the environment. There were computers, but never laptops. There were only computers in the library, but sometimes they were not working. In elementary school we watched videos on the box TV that was in the corner of the room. As I started getting to middle and high school the technology seemed more advanced because they were starting to get it in more classrooms. Teachers often used projectors to display powerpoint or videos. My high school biology teacher was old school which meant we still used the box TV in the corner to watch science videos. As I am observing elementary students now, I see that technology is used a lot in the classroom. Each student has a Chromebook at the school I am observing at. The teacher had the third graders go on a website to play games, watch videos, and see more information about space. In a different activity they were learning about sponges so they googled to found out more about the topic. I love how technology is used in the classrooms today; however, not all schools are like that.
As Dickson said, using supply caching is helpful when first learning something. I liked how she brought up computer shortcut keys for a certain demand. Relating to this, sometimes I forget what shortcuts to use on my MacBook but when I click on, let’s say file, it shows me the shortcut for print, close, etc. I never really paid attention to this before and how often I use it. The example of using pictures as aids for learners by using the two pictures of pretzels built into the countertop is something that I have seen often but did not realize how it could help a learner who was struggling.
For teaching lower elementary I think the environment is important to them because they are always looking around, exploring, and have a lot of curiosity! The classroom should have knowledge all around while making it feel like a safe place for them to learn. My idea of this is having posters on the wall to grab their attention, making them feel more interested to learn. A way to integrate technology in the classroom is by using videos during lesson or even activities that require a Smartboard so they are hands on. Students could also use their laptops and tablets to look at websites or activities provided to them. Personally, I like the idea of the children using their own tablet in a game to answer questions. Seesaw is a good way to incorporate parents and the class. It is a great way to communicate and the parents know what is going on in their children's’ lives.