It seems that teachers, administrators and students are curious to know what technologies will 'stick' around next year. It's good to know that many technologies the article talked about are not just fads, but technologies that actually enhance student learning.
Last year we did an action research project at our college using 'Clickers.' Both faculty and students were excited to try them and saw their potential for monitoring students progress in English Language classrooms. Clickers, or any student response system, has the potential to engage learners in their lessons beyond mere memorization and worksheets, develop critical thinking skills, while at the same time providing real-time data to teachers. I see great potential and so do many teachers and administrators. Since these tools are still a bit pricey, I'm hoping to find some effective and viable alternative options to try.
It looks like many teachers, and administrators are also seeing the benefits and potential of "cloud" computing. Cloud computing has great monetary benefits as well a being a technology to enhance student learning. One nifty tool I use personally is DropBox. It's the easiest way to store, sync, and share files up in the 'cloud' I have found using my mobile phone, my laptops- both at home and at work. Try it out, it might help you to be a bit more organized.
Furthermore, both teachers and administrators are finally seeing the potential for web-based instruction at the k12 level. Here is where the potential of Moodle, a virtual learning environment, can move into k12 education. Moodle can enhance and enrich learning, both inside the classroom and at home.
Overall, a good outlook for technology trends in 2011. Teachers, administrators, and students will have more tools to learn to use next year. Remember, learning is a continuous process.
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