The classroom climate and culture at Southside Middle School in the 6th grade classroom is immersed in its technological use. The students are growing up in a classroom culture that embodies the use of technology in 90% of their daily activities, assessments, and lessons. Students using technology who struggle to comprehend text and reading are able to use the option on their computers to have worksheets or other assessments read to them, along with a voice to text option if they struggle with typing, spelling, or grammar. Students are able to build agency in their learning process in several ways. Students are able to learn new digital media strategies and immersive learning opportunities are often presented to them. Students are also building independence in their learning process. In the classroom I am in, students are now being encouraged to take notes in their digital notebooks independently with little modeling or guidance. Students are learning different strategies, along with developing their strategic learning skills.
When teaching my unit plan, I incorporated the use of technology, along with paper and pencil assignments, that way students could use different digital media, while also having the option to physically write and complete their work. This also helped the students who did not have computers for any reason. Students were able to do their Bell Ringers each day, along with daily assessments using their computers to either write down definitions, watch informational videos, or look at different maps and artwork from Ancient Greece in order to compare and see the lasting influences. Students who do not have computers can learn how to communicate and work with other students efficiently and respectfully. I think the integration of technology in schools is great because students are growing up in the 21st century and have to learn how to become ‘digital’ citizens in a way since technology is constantly evolving.