Week 4: Chapter 3 & 4, Question # 3

3. How do increasing computer power, decreasing size and wireless communications make technology enhanced classrooms more flexible? What is a virtual environment? What potential does it hold for education?

Computers have changed drastically in both size and methods of use. The decrease in their size from oversized desktops in 1976, to the development of the laptop in the early 1980’, to the rise of the latest improvement net books there has definitely been a revolution in today's society. Even though computers have decreased in size the capacity and speed that the system posse remains consistent with that of larger computers. The possibilities of enhancing an otherwise normal lesson with technology become limitless as computers continue to decrease in size. Laptops have a variety of advantages over desktops, which make a technology – enhanced classroom more flexible. These advantages range from size, weight, capacity, travel, and personal to connectivity.

Due to the mobility and reduced size of laptops these are the greatest advantages. Laptops can be taken virtually anywhere. All of the newer laptops also have Wi-Fi capabilities, which is also an advantage. Wi-Fi allows movement of computers with internet access. This allows the system to connect to the internet using a wireless network. “A wireless network is a network in which information is transmitted via infrared, radio wave, or microwave technology rather than wires (Lever-Duffy, McDonald).” This allows teachers to take advantage of every teachable moment. The size of the laptop and its wireless capabilities allow technology stations to be moved around the classroom. Due to the lack of network cards the learning environment isn’t limited to the inside of the classroom. The mobility of laptops gives teachers the opportunity to mobilize the classroom. In the event that the teacher has to be out due to illness he / she could actually teach a lesson from home or provide information to students in remote locations. Teachers can actually plan a field trip that will include completion of a research assignment. While on a field trip as a research topics arise Wi-Fi provides the capabilities for internet connectivity and onsite instruction. Learning doesn’t have to be postponed. This will provide students with a memorable experience that is sure to induce learning.

“Virtual learning environments are fully rendered environments in which the users become emerged. It creates a digital environment in which you can interact (Lever-Duffy, McDonald).” This software is used to support teaching and learning in educational settings. Though originally created for distant education, it has most recently evolved into face to face classroom activities. Using virtual reality implementations teachers can create virtual field trips. On these field trips students can visit places they would have never been able to visit. It also provides opportunities for students who may be out of the country or on a leave of absence due to illness the ability to continue their education. The software can also be used by students who have physical disabilities. It will allow them to experience moving freely while in the “virtual world without impediments (Lever-Duffy, McDonald).” “Learning is breaking out of the narrow boxes that is was trapped in during the 20th century; teachers’ professionalism, reflection and ingenuity are leading learning to places that genuinely excite this new generation of connected young school students – and their teachers too. VLEs are helping to make sure that their learning is not confined to a particular building, or restricted to any location or moment. (Virtually There).”