Reactions to Chapter 9

Big Shift #4: Teaching is conversation, not lecture.

This is by far one of the most true statements of the entire book. All of the technologies presented in the book require collaboration and conversation, active learning and participation, not lecture. Whenever I plan lessons, I make sure it appeals to at least two, if not all three, different learning styles. Lecture appeals to ONE learning style. I believe the most ineffective teachers are those who do all the talking....because he or she is also doing all the listenening.

Big Shift #9: Mastery is the Product

What I like most about these technologies is that they do not require the standard pencil and paper, scantron, and key. These technologies require students to show their mastery of skills in an authentic, practical way that allows students to apply their knowledge for real audiences.

I'm excited that my teaching skills have widened through knowledge of new technologies, but also very timid. OK, what happens when I have mastered these skills? What next? What will the next Big Shifts be?