Socially Networked Classroom- Chapter 1&2 Reflection

Chapters 1 and 2 of Socially Networked Classroom provided useful information about how technology has quickly become an individual’s connection to the outside world and examples of activities to use in a low tech environment. The beginning of Chapter 1 caught my eye very quickly. The author speaks truth when he discussed the scenarios where each ends with someone pulling out a cell phone to reconnect with the world.  Cell phones and social media have sort of taken over our lives. It seems as if the world has discontinued the personable social interaction and are solely relying on social media updates, texts, and phone calls. I am currently a social worker for the head-start program and the teachers are not able to use technology in the classroom because of the organization who has the funding and the age of the children. But I found Chapter 2 useful in providing activities that can still be used in a  low tech head start classroom. One activity that early childhood development teachers could use is reading aloud to the students and then having them watch the movie to the book. I can remember reading books in school and then watching the movie and realizing that there were many differences between the two. Discussing the differences between the two with the students is a great way to have them use their thinking skills. Also, I have taken several collegiate courses where our first discussion has been “What are your earliest recollections of reading and writing?” This question allows the teacher to determine what past experiences a student has as well as it gives the student time to reflect and think about what they have learned and what they may need help with. I always enjoy this assignment because each time I can come up with something different which help me with the course.