Since my last blog I have completed several assignments to prepare me for my new job as a librarian. I'm learning such things as cataloging, MARC record information, and in this class, all about technology. As I said in my first blog, I have much to learn. One true statement about technology of almost any kind--it's expensive.
I just found out that I have received $10,000. to spend in my fictitious library! Oh how I wish this was a real situation-then I would have found my dream job in a very generous district!
My first monies would be spent on Kindles, eReaders, iRexs, iLiads or some other form of downloadable book. This may sound odd for a librarian that takes care of hundreds of hard copy books to want Kindles, but as you will see as I spend this fictitious money, I believe students should be exposed to technology of all kinds to help them in their educational career. If students have not seen or used a downloadable book, chances are they will. Kindle's sell for between $100 to $700. So I'm pretending I found them for $400. and will purchase 10. Library classes could be prepared for students from 4th grade and above to teach students how to use the Kindle and how to download books. Even very young students could be exposed to this technology. The list of books available is expanding every day. Prices to download books vary greatly, but if I only start with two books for each grade level (my imaginary school is a junior high, grades 7, 8 and 9), and spend $20.00 per book, I will only spend $400. per grade level. The devices will cost $4,000. Reading through two books would give the student a good feel for the downloadable technology and help them decide if this is a form of reading that they would enjoy.
My next monies would be spent on two Tablet PC's. These come under the names of Elitebooks, Lifebooks, or iPad. Because Tablet PC's are pricey, I would only invest in two and rotate my class through, exposing them to this computer technology that definetely has all the bells and whistles to impress students. With a full screen (which rotates), and ability to use a stylus instead of the keyboard, Tablet PC's will interest students as something a little out of the ordinary. Students can use the Tablet for research or typing assignments, as well as searching the web, or viewing podcasts. Prices vary from around $2,000. to $3000. I found a bargain and bought two Tablets for a total of $4,000.
Although my money is going fast, I'm going to buy two portable media players. These devices have many of the same functions as MP3 players, but because many students already own MP3's, I've decided to invest in a technology they might not be as familiar with. I will invest around $400. for each one of these devices. Students can use a portable media player to view, or review, previously recorded lessons or videos pertaining to lessons.
If I had $1,000. left I would buy a UMPC. An Ultra Mobile PC is small but allows many of the same functions as a full size computer; complete with Windows XP and wireless capabilities. As classes rotate through the library classes, one student could use the UMPC.
I could go on and on spending my fictitious money! I think this technology interests students today, and handheld devices are some of the best cutting edge technology. I realize that because I teach very young children I might not be aware of all the uses these devices can afford, but as I said in my first blog, I am learning so much....I have come a long way....but still have a long way to go!!!
