Introduction...

Hello all, my name is Jabari Edwards, I've been teaching for about 8 years in the New York City public school system and I have witnessed the transformational power that technology has on learning and teaching. I have used everything "under the sun" (almost) in the classroom relating to technology: laptops, desktops, Smart-Boards, Smart-Tables, Elmos, Wiki Web 2.0 technology; the phenomenon that I have formally and informally observed is the motivational “power” that technology possesses. Activities and or lessons that incorporate technology tend to motivate and engage students —regardless of their love or disdain for academic work— as opposed to activities without.

Today’s students are immersed in a world that requires that they negotiate with technology; technology is ubiquitous, except in the classroom. Cell-phones, PDAs, iPods, and other self-regulated gadgets have become integral components of students’ lives but these devices are all banned in NYC public schools. Technology, when present in the classroom, is regulated and navigated by the teacher (Smart Boards, laptops, printers, and scanners). In essence, a divide between home-life and school-life has been created; there is no congruency. When students come to school they enter a technological world far removed from their own.

The impetus behind this blog is to share--with all that view it--my thoughts, experiences, and knowledge pertaining to technology with the hopes that it positively impacts your pedagogy. I hope you find value in what you read and view...let the games begin!

Post your thoughts on the embedded video below.