In the first chapter, the author states it is, "Not a matter of if but when we should use images." I would argue to further this a bit more. Over the past five years, since the book was written, media-rich materials have become even more popular. So let's flip this question, with our English classrooms in mind: In what instances should we not use images?
A section of the book is a comic about computer history and art. He talks about ( and shows) different reactions from artists in relation to computers (pg 71). Using his words, does technology today make you feel like a master or slave? How often do you "fling the door open" with new technology?
The author on page 62 argues that readers are not asked to see anymore, but instead interpret code. Do you think the multimodal explosion from the last 15 or so years is a rebellion movement against too much print? Could we looks at this as a "nature"-image/"nurture"-print pairing?
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I'm not sure when we should not use images. My first thought was in written work, especially descriptions since that is when we usually priortize words over images. Wouldn't it be interesting, though, to have students describe an image using only other images? I think that might tell an interesting story.
ReplyDeleteI would say, though I am fairly comfortable and successful with the technology knowledge i have, I still feel somewhat like a slave. I rarely want to try new things with technology. I am afraid of becoming frustrated, of failing. However, I am slightly MORE afraid of my students knowing more than me in this area. I can't decide whether this is a justified and good feeling--as it would motivate me to be more engaged in learning new technology and thinking about how to incorporate it OR that it is simply my internal selfish preservation of my own image. Either way...I would like to overcome this fear of learning new technological things.
ReplyDeleteAbby--I relate to a fear of frustration and failure, and what I've come to is that I have to work to tolerate discomfort (as it's necessary for learning). It seems a lot of resistance to technology comes down to fear, so at least applaud yourself for your willingness to try new things with technology. I think it's important to let go of our need to know as much or more than our students--why not acknowledge their authority and learn from and with them?
ReplyDeleteOften technology feels like running on a treadmill. There’s always one more step to take, if you familiarize yourself with the latest tech devices or programs within a year, month, or even as short as a week there’s going to be something new. Every day is already so packed with school, studying, work, volunteering… honestly sometimes I feel like I rather just get by with what I already know than take the time and energy to learn something new. Because I grew up with teachers as parents I realize that you don’t gain more hours in the day when you become a teacher. I feel like this class is sparking my interest and motivation to jump back on the treadmill of technology (haha I’m actually laughing out loud at my own analogy) and hopefully get “in shape” before I enter the classroom!
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