Journal Entry #8

"Tabula Digita Debuts Free Science Game," by David Nagel, T.H.E. Journal, 1 July 2009.

Tabula Digita, the maker of educational software such as the immersive 3D math game DimensionM, has introduced its first educational science game, The League of Scientists. The League of Scientists is an immersive 2D game developed in conjunction with the ISTE Monsanto Fund. The game is comprised of four interactive games where students create avatars to answer questions, solve puzzles, and defeat opponents in the areas of biology, geology, and astronomy. The game is being offered for free use by students in grades 3-5. The maker of the game feels it will assist in supplementing learning inside and outside the classroom by engaging students using an interactive gaming system.

Question 1: Are "video games" a good technology tool to be used to enhance and supplement learning and development in education?
Answer 1: While I feel that video games can in no way replace the use of standard lessons in education, I feel that video games when used in an educational sense are a good use of technology to engage children in new activities. When used in small doses, video games can be a fun way for children to learn information already taught in a classroom setting.

Question 2: Are there subject areas other than science where video games can be used for educational purposes?
Answer 2: Definitely! If created properly with the main intent of using the games for educational purposes, video games can be used for reading and language skills, math, history, social studies, social skills, and home economics. There is no limit of how video games can be used for educational purposes or to create a fun environment where children can learn or enhance their knowledge.

Journal Entry #7

"Research Shows Schools Making Small Progress Toward Technology Rich Environments," by David Nagel, T.H.E. Journal, 2 July 2009.

It has been reported by a study presented at the 2009 National Educational Computer Conference in Washington, DC, that although schools improved greatly in the area of broadband access in schools, schools are still weak in the use of technology for assessments and providing educational equity. This study was part of an initiative created by the Software and Information Industry Association, referred to as Vision K-20. The Vision K-20 website offers educators the opportunity to use technology and electronic tools to improve student achievement and learning opportunities, enhance teacher effectiveness, and also provide better understanding of technology for students living in the 21st century. The annual Vision K-20 survey showed findings of improvement from the 2008 survey to the 2009 survey, with educational institutions improving in 17 of the 20 measures included in the survey. However, not much improvement was found in the overall scoring of points from the survey, leaving much room for improvement in many of the areas.

Question 1: Is it really necessary for schools to improve and increase their use of technology for their students in the 21st century?
Answer 1: YES! Computers are here to stay, and it is of utmost importance for American schools to remain highly competitive in the technology arena. If our children do not use technology as young students, they will be sent into the world as adults lacking the technology savvy necessary for success in the world of business.

Question 2: Can American schools try harder to adopt technology standards into the school system in order to create a stable technology educational environment?
Answer 2: YES! I believe most states are aware of the need for technology in the schools, but I fear that some states may still lag behind in this area. It is important for all the states of America to be on the same page in this area, otherwise efforts to improve technology in the education system will be futile.