Blog Post #5

     So far I have enjoyed using twitter. I have not had a twitter account since briefly in middle school, and though I have heard about it and seen posts before, the way it works is fairly new to me. I have been following various news sources, along with educational related material, most of it being research. I can see how twitter can be useful in getting information fast, especially new research and news worthy events. This could be helpful in a future career as staying up to date on certain events and research will be important no matter what field one is in. 

    The digital divide can affect student success in a few different ways. One way is if assignments require technology access/knowledge outside the classroom, where technology and instruction is provided. This divide may also continue outside of public education, leaving those who have lacked technology access in a position to make up for lack of technological knowledge/skill with little to no help. Factors such as socioeconomic status, and location can effect the technological divide. As a teacher it will be important to teach technological skills while limiting the use of technology for a grade and assignments outside the classroom. 

    One thing I think would be interesting to use in a classroom to have students become aquatinted with technology is Google Docs. Google Docs is a relatively simple program that we could use collaboratively as a class. The class could be split into groups and each group responsible for one section of some sort of document (essay, informational flyer, etc...). Another program that could be interesting is FlipGrid. This could allow students to use technology and engage in discussion in an interesting way, although I would have to ensure access to required technology is available in class for those who don't have access outside of school.