Lab Observation Day Two

Directions for Lab Observation:

Set-up the video camera to observe a class period.
Review the videotape at a later time.
List, describe, and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of technology use, as well as the strategies used for teaching and learning.
Bring the videotape to the following class so we can discuss your reflections together.

Technology Used in Lab:

~www.freetypinggames.com was used today as one of the main websites students were directed toward for practicing typing. Each student was able to work at his or her own pace and play whatever typing game was thought the most entertaining. Most students used the time to practice correct typing and some students were surprisingly serious about learning how to type correctly. A few students already seemed decent at typing and a few refused to learn correctly. The students who were only pecking at the keyboard to type got bored quickly and caused some behavioral problems. In general, the students really enjoyed the typing games.
~Headphones were used to allow each child to hear his or her computer sound. Although quite primitive, headphones were a technology that was necessary for this activity. There were too many students in the room for each computer to be producing sound through the external speakers. The students also seemed to enjoy being able to hear the music.

Other Observations:

This lab initially seemed like a boring activity. However, the students enjoyed being able to play games and most of the students were able to stay focused for the hour. It was also pointed out that this activity was nice because the activity leaders had little planning for it and instead things ran smoothly as a result of the games designed and organized by other people. This lab also gave the instructors a break in observing the students. Most leaders took time to sit down and play the games with the students. In general, there was little to observe this day because the interaction between students and adults was minimized.