Journal #4: It's In the Bag (NETS-2)

Basham, J., Perry, E. & Meyer, H. (2011, September). It's in the bag: digital backpacks for project-based learnign. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-september-october-2011.aspx

The digital backpack is a very innovative idea that can help create a huge amount of learning through technology. The fact that it has been tested on all age ranges is also important because not only can this be a great tool for teachers to use inside the classroom, adults all over can use this as well. One of my favorite aspects of this digital backpack is that it helps build multiple skills though many different ways of communication, as well as problem solving and includes critical thinking. Since it is 2011 more and more technology will be used in classrooms and so I believe that the digital backpack is a great start!

Question 1: Which component out of the 3 different components would be most beneficial is my classroom?

- I believe that the Modular Technology would be my main focus in my classroom because it is of interest to me. For example, the fact that it uses different types of technology like the ipod, or camcorders really intrigues me. This is different then just the simple computer programs that are a part of technology, this goes beyond the usual. The idea of using a camcorder for a classroom project seems like an awesome idea. Making things interesting for a classroom full of students keeps kids intrigued and I think technology is a great way to do this,

Question 2: How can the digital backpack be used outside of the classroom?

-Like in the article, when the class went to the zoo and they used technology to capture video, pictures, and sounds of animals to record for their projects, there are many more ways to use technology outside of the classroom. For example, if you can incorporate ipods with a classroom exercise related to music and artists would be a great lesson. With a higher grade level something like twitter is also a great way to communicate outside of the classroom and this way students can get help from other students when needed. 

Overall, the digital backpack seems to be a great idea to introduce more technology into the classrooms and world today!