Journal 8: “I Can See Me: Webcams in the Classroom” NETS-T 2

Frey, T.J., Houlton, A.L., & Gruis, E.D. (2010). I can see me: webcams in the classroom. Learning & Leading with Technology, 38(3), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-november.aspx

SUMMARY:
This article was about how using webcams in the classroom has benefited students in improving in their speech, reading and being able to identify their own mistakes. Students would have to read aloud in front of the webcam. During this process they are being recording visually and audibly. After the recordings, educators would sit down with students to identify mistakes and to praise them for all the correct words read. Students really loved this method of teaching. It has proven to be very effective and encourages students to be more confident in reading and speaking in front of others. I found this article to be very interesting. As I was reading, I thought about how I can implement this type of program with my future speech therapist students.

QUESTION 1: Would using webcams in classrooms be financially burdening for schools?

ANSWER: Using webcams in classrooms as a teaching method to encourage and engage students to learn while enjoying themselves is a great and inexpensive tool. Webcams are very affordable and easy to install. The schools can purchase the Logitech Quickcam that cost no more than $80. This type of webcam works very well and will do its purpose for students to record themselves, talk to other from all over the world and can upload videos to share.

QUESTION 2: Do you think students will get tired of the webcam method in the long run?

ANSWER: I think the use of webcams in the classroom will be very effective and enjoyable in the long run for all students. I believe that students like watching themselves and want to improve in every aspect in their schooling to be successful. Also, the webcam in classroom can be used to do video conferencing with other students from another city, state, country or on the other side of the world. Students will love to see what others their age is learning and doing. So webcams as a teaching tool will be a great investment in the long run.