Blog Post #3

      I believe that the creation of copyright has aided the use of technology not only in the classroom but in arguably most aspects of life. People often look for shortcuts and the easiest way to do something and thanks to copyright, intellectual and creative work can be protected. As a teacher, fair use is very helpful because sometimes it is best to teach using material that has already been created rather than having to make your own. For example, if I am teaching a geometry class it would be more productive to use resources that have already been proven to be effective in teaching the concept rather than creating your own from scratch. With that being said, it is necessary to give credit where credit is due and ensure that if you are using someone else's material it is properly cited. 

    When it comes to decreased productivity due to technology implementation in classrooms, it is evident that having access to such widespread technology makes it much easier for students to do less work and have the internet give them answers. The solution I would propose to this issue is driving home the idea that students will get out of the class what they put in. This will promote work ethic and show students that they will be treated as adults rather than children. It is also imperative to have a conversation with your classes about what your expectations are when it comes to using technology to aid in schoolwork. Overall, technology can decrease productivity, but if used correctly it can be extremely beneficial for students.

    Before the Newsletter Design assignment, I had not touched Microsoft Word since I was in sixth grade. I was not confident in my skills and had to ask friends for help on multiple occasions. After some work I got more comfortable with the software, however, I would not say I am anywhere close to proficient. My favorite skill that I learned was creating word art- I had fun playing around with different design options and seeing what I could come up with. The skills I have learned will be used in my future career because I will more likely than not have to work on Microsoft Word at some point. I appreciate having to learn skills and techniques now rather than when I am working in a professional environment.