Michael stated an advantage that he liked was “instead of having to write out the essay on paper, hand it in and having to it risk getting lost, you can type it up and send it to your teacher.” Michael uses the Microsoft Word application to type his essay, then uploads it as a Turn-In so that he can get feedback from his teacher in a shorter amount of time. He then has a copy of his assignment on his device in case things get mixed up.
Shania shared a disadvantage, “well a disadvantage is that when you go on some websites they are blocked and you sometimes can’t get the information you need.” Michael added to her statement “Even if we needed to get on YouTube or a website like that to find information we wouldn’t be able to do that because it’s blocked.”
Many of the students that we spoke to seemed frustrated that You Tube was blocked, as for us, it is one of the ways that we learn; by watching videos. As a way to meet us where we are, some teachers are using videos from Discovery Education or PBS and sharing how to access more dependable resources that are available to us through BCPS One.
I asked “What is your favorite resources on your laptop?” Michael and Amina both said Microsoft. It’s pretty cool that you don’t have to go to the library to type a paper or make a PowerPoint, we can do it from any location. Many of our photography and art students said Adobe Photoshop is there favorite resource. They are able to create in class, at home, or anywhere.
I asked several of my classmates how teaching has changed since we have gotten devices. Michael responded with this answer, “It’s faster, it’s easier, and you can get in contact with teachers much easier using the message app, as well getting assignments with ease on the calendar or lesson tile.” This allows Michael to get feedback much quicker than before.
Shania came in with “I definitely agree it’s so much easier to turn in assignments using Turn In and being able to do our assignments using Microsoft.” Amina nodded throughout and simply said “definitely.” I believe the Lighthouse program is definitely improving our education in many ways and making it easier for everyone to communicate while completing assignments. It’s easier for teachers to get information to students and improve the communication between teachers and students.