Journal 6- NETS (1,6,4)

Vaidyanathan, S. (2012). Foster in creativity and innovation through technology. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(6), 24-27. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/DigitalEditionMarch-April2012.aspx

Summary: In, Vaidyanathan’s writing she summarizes the possibilities of creating innovation by teaching through the use of technology. She argues that teachers can use the NETS (National Education Teaching Standards) and still educate students in science, engineering, technology, and mathematics through the use of  "experimentation  because it leads to creativity and innovation"  (Vaidyanthan, 2012). Furthermore, using technology often creates a open  and safe environment were students can explore with activities and inspire to improve.


Q1: What is one lesson/example in which teachers could create innovation?
A1:  Teachers could ask their students to create art with programing using the tool Scratch. With this tool student "can create geometric shapes, angles, changing angles and number of sides" (Vaidyanthan, 2012). These concepts with help teachers follow the NETS (National Education Teaching Standards) in math. Further, students could program concepts of statements, and loops. The entire assignment would create a technological atmosphere for children to grow.


Q2: What are some of the benefits of using technology for project instead of the usual hand-written/hand-drawn way?
A2: First, students can create a error-free drawing board, were erasers are no longer need because student can "undo" mistakes (Vaidyanthan, 2012). Students also can become familiar with technology at an earlier age and technology operations and concepts (NETS 6). Lastly, this software described is free and can be used at home, which is needed because of the current historic budget cuts.