I have visited schools before that were considered
technologically advanced, however, the trip to Shirley Warren Primary was extremely
eye-opening to just how far behind those schools were in terms of technology
and how it can be incorporated within the curriculum. I was amazed at the
variety of media opportunities the school was offering the children, from presenting
on a radio station to filming in front of a green screen. It was also interesting
to see the simplicity of the programmes demonstrated as they were
child-friendly and teacher friendly for those who may lack confidence. However,
it was mentioned in the talk that the school were ‘lucky’ in terms of how they
were able to afford so much. For other schools with a budget I do not think it
would be as easy to purchase new media opportunities. I think the trip last
week and the following visit working with the children will enable me to explore some new media that I may not have
considered using myself.
Unfortunately I was unable to visit Shirley Warren however your blog entry has fascinated me into what resources the school have in relation to technology! I look forward to going and experiencing first hand and think it must be a strong ethos of the school to incorporate media and technology across the curriculum. And although you say they were lucky in what they could afford, maybe schools could do it on a budget? For example, children could record a radio show simply with a recording device on a laptop/dictaphone. I'm not sure how feasible it would be but it could be a possibility.
ReplyDeleteI think that the majority of schools who have a budget would be able to buy certain aspects of the technology just not a lot at one time. Shirley Warren seemed to have been lucky in terms of public sponsorship, whereas not all schools would have that opportunity. However, schools could easily fundraise to help increase their budget.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your idea about trying to use other forms of recording devices to create a radio show or commentary. I think with the right, motivated ICT co-ordinator most things are possible.
Yes definitely. And I agree with what you say about the right ICT co-ordinator. Likewise with a headteacher, if it's something the school values they will be able to gain what they need.
ReplyDeleteToo true, you need an ICT manager who is not only passionate about ICT but understands how it can be used with children and the skill set it brings with it.
ReplyDeleteIt isn't just about using the computers but about the cooperation the collaboration, the discussion, the problem solving the list goes on and on. But you do need that sense of hey if it goes wrong it goes wrong as well Tom was a brilliant choice to share his expertise with us all