Hello all!
(This is my first time posting a blog and I'm a little excited! It seems similiar to posting in a discussion board, but I guess I shall soon see if that is true.)
The reading from this was very interesting and provided me with insight on technology and leadership that I had not necessarily researched prior. The one thing that stood out to me in the Anthony reading was the debate on when is it appropriate to introduce computer education in the school systems. The reading gave mixed feelings and the majority of the reasons seemed valid on both accounts. Some argue that the upper grades would benefit more from computer education because they are beginning to learn career skills. On the other hand some mentioned that the "earlier the better" approach would greatly prepare students and enhance their ability to perform computer skills. I feel that the latter approach is the better of the two.
In teaching kindergarten, I can see first hand the benefits of introducing students to computer skills at an early age. In my school the kindergarten students are all enrolled in a program called "Breakthrough to Literacy." This program is built around literacy skills but it requires that students know some of the basic computer skills. Students have to use the mouse, click on objects and select them. Basically the students are being introduced to the computer screen and using the mouse through this computer system. However, this year at my school each kindergarten class is going to have Computer Lab as one of their related arts times. Hence this will also give our students more exposure to computers.
I feel it is important to introduce students to computer education at an early age because society today has almost everything driven by technology. Just as teachers prepare students by teaching the reading, math, science, health, etc; it is equally as important that they have some knowledge of computer skills. Therefore if these students are exposed to computer education at an early age, then will have the foundational skills that they need to build upon for their upcoming school years and possible career choices.
When I read this in the book I also thought about how it is recommened to teach students a second language while they are young because it is easier for them to comprehend and retain. The same can be thought for teacher computer skills. I'm interested to see how you all feel about this issue. Seeing that we have the kindergarten teacher point of view, mines, what other careers do we have in this class that could add insight from another perspective? Perhaps a middle school teacher, high school teacher, related arts teacher, school administrator?
Yet another thing that struck my interest was in the Hall reading. The three types of learners depicted in this book are all knew defintions to me. When seeing these comparisons, I feel as if I'm a sensei leader. I definitetly agree with the perceptions of the sensei leader: engaging, but freely delegates as needed. I see this in my style of teaching in my classroom. I am the lead teacher in my kindergarten classroom but I also have an assistant. In order to have the structure of the classroom flow smoothly, it is important to me that I have a certain level of respect and understanding with my fellow teacher. Therefore I do "pull my weight" in the class but I also tell my assisstant what I need done. This was difficult to do when I first got into this teaching position because my fellow teacher is twice my age; I'm only 23. However as time continued on I found it easier to delegate responsibilities as the respect level was established.
Which this leads me to the question, does age play a factor in determing what type of leader someone is? Perhaps if someone is leading children as opposed to an adult, their leadership style will vary. Also can someone have a particular leadership style in one setting and change to a different leadership style in another setting. I say this because, I know that I can be a sensei leader with my assistant teacher but more of a sage leader. Thanks in advance for the insight on the questions!
