Journal #6

Journal # 6:Fostering Creativity and Innovation through Technology

Vaidyanathan, S. (2012). Fostering creativity and innovation through technology. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(6), 24-26. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/DigitalEditionMarch-April2012.aspx

Summary: Integrating technology into STEM subjects (science, engineering, technology, and math) seems appropriate, especially since the use of iPads, SmartBoards, and various forms of hardware and software are embraced and used across most school settings. The article discussed how creativity and technology could be integrated in a digital design program that is being piloted at the Los Altos School District. Students are learning how to be both creative and innovative using technology. Various projects have been created using multiple programs; for example, Scratch has been used for game design and Google Sketch Up has been used for creating 3D models. The article not only summarized the student engagement of both students and parents, but the amazement at the ability of how students can learn, be challenged, and be both creative and innovative when given the right tools while embedding technology in the STEM subjects. They understand the material better because it is applied in a real-life setting; connecting to the lesson in a practical, creative, innovative way makes the learning experience make sense and become long-term.

Q1: Although the cost of the program did not seem to be a factor in the article, it seems difficult to create digital design programs when basic PTA funded programs such as music, art, and PE are being cut. Although beneficial, engaging, and necessary to incorporate technology in the classroom, how do we recommend to district administrators the need for such programs when basic technology resources are limited and/or unavailable?

A1: This year, my school site needed to use site funds in order to have iPads in the classroom. The investment was controversial, specifically since basic programs needed to be replaced and the computer tech. and reading tutors were let go. It was a risk that the site needed to agree on and it is obvious that the technology component using iPads created an engaged, innovative, confident school-wide movement that seemed ahead of the trend in comparison to neighboring schools. Creating a digital design program seems appropriate; if you have the hardware, then the instruction should follow. However, districts are making drastic cuts including teacher layoffs. I feel that teachers should be required to credential and/or hold a technology certificate and learn how to embed and integrate technology in the classrooms' core academic subjects. If teachers become more effective at integrating technology into the Common Core using iPads, Smartboards, iPod touch, etc., than creating a digital design program can be a realistic vision for each school site.