1. §126.22. Computer Science I (One Credit).
(c) Knowledge and skills.
(1) Foundations. The student demonstrates knowledge and appropriate use of hardware components, software programs, and their connections. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate knowledge and appropriate use of operating systems, software applications, and communication and networking components;
2. §111.35. Precalculus (One-Half to One Credit).
(b) Introduction.
(2) As students do mathematics, they continually use problem-solving, language and communication, connections within and outside mathematics, and reasoning (justification and proof). Students also use multiple representations, technology, applications and modeling, and numerical fluency in problem-solving contexts.
As a student in High school I never had the opportunity to use technology other than a calculator. As a teacher I would like to use programs like Mathematica in my classroom. Students need to experience this type of program before they enter college. Programs like Mathematica not only help a student calculate, they also have a programming feel to them. So by doing a problem by hand, then "programming" the problem into Mathematica, it will help you remember the steps in solving the problem. Once the student has completed the problem they could then print it out so that they have a study reference. Teaching by use of technology may seem difficult but with programs like Mathematica the student could work on problems at home and get credit for their math class and computer class. I believe that any time a teacher can bridge two subjects the student benefits.
3. Reflection
I do not think that one Tek is more important as long as each student has the same opportunities to learn. Then there isn't a more important Tek. If the question was are Teks important then I would say yes they are. I think that all teachers would agree that his or her class is not the most important. They would simply suggest that their subject receive the same attention and study as any other class. As a math student and future teacher I would like to think that math is a very important class, but I can't deny that an English class is just as important for the growth of a student. The growth of a student should matter for all educators, and I believe that if they didn't feel this way they wouldn't stay in the profession. I know that Technology is new in the field of education and each teacher must adapt their class to include technology. I find it strange that technology hasn't been implemented into more Teks.
Hi Brek,
ReplyDeleteI think of TEKS in the same way. It sounds too narrow-minded to say one is more important than the other. It also puts knowledge in a box. However, knowledge is not always (in fact, seldom more than often) linear. I think Math is very important too, but there are some processes that a human brain cannot perform as efficiently as a super computer would. Even though the logic comes from "us," the dirty work goes to the technology at hand. This is when students need to be able to decide what the best thing to do would be to solve a problem. For all we know, a student may have to stare at an artwork before something "clicks" that allows them to solve a complicated Computer Science problem. That happened to me when I was in high school. Hence, we can never say what it would take for students to learn something -- sometimes, it's what we least expect.
Karissa Blasquez
I think you picked a great TEK that you can compare/contrast with how schools are changing and so is the world. In all of my classes we didn't use anything that was technology related except for a calculator every once in a while, unless we used our own computers at home to help us. I think its great if you would use a math program in your class because once they get into college your teachers don't really give you any information on how to find things you need to know how to find them on your own and check yourself. I too feel that any TEK is important as the next, but if you were to look at each subject you could find one TEK in that subject that is better than the other TEKs under that same subject.
ReplyDeleteAmanda Isham
You make alot of sense when you say any one TEK is not more important than another. It really is hard to choose which TEK is more important because they all cover such a broad spectrum of teaching and learning, from mathematics (my subject area as well) to technology. Without any of them, students can't fully get the proper education they deserve. I also feel that using technology in any subject in school is a great booster for students and their desire to learn. Having that visual aide will make learning more fun, and I hope to be a outgoing fun teacher that helps their desire grow as well.
ReplyDeleteMeagan Hockett
One thing I notice while searching within these TEKs was that they are more focused on Math and English. Although, they may have an Arts section it is very controlled in regards to the subject. For example, its more pointed in the direction of Graphic Design, Animation and Film. It is a little upsetting not to see original art being included within the technology craze. By original art I mean, drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and ceramics. I feel that what you said about students working in Mathimatica and printing out their work for study material is a great idea. I know in High School I would have benefited greatly if technology was at this stage. I could have possibly better enjoyed math rather than dislike it.
ReplyDeleteNicole Acosta