Alison Q. - Article #1

Article #1: Five Smart Ways to Use Wearable Technology in the Classroom (https://gadgetsandwearables.com/2019/12/15/wearable-technology-in-the-classroom/)

This article describes 5 ways to incorporate wearable technology into lessons and learning activities.  First, wearable cameras such as GoPros can help students create video projects in an easier way.  Once they put on the cameras, students don't have to worry about positioning or moving their equipment!  Next, activity trackers such as FitBits can teach students to become more aware about their activity levels, learn about nutrition, and keep track of things like heart rate and sleep cycles.  Smartwatches, like the AppleWatch, can also be useful by helping keep students on track and on-task.  The article mentions that students could potentially use smartwatches to cheat, and so teachers should be mindful of this when using smartwatches in the classroom.  Wireless or Bluetooth headphones also have practical uses in the classroom.  They can allow students to listen to music that can calm them or help them focus without distracting other students in the class.  Another benefit to wireless headphones is that students do not need to have them physically connected to their cell phones, which can minimize distractions.  Finally, virtual reality (VR) goggles can take students on any number of field trips without ever physically leaving the classroom.  This provides endless possibilities for teachers to provide valuable learning experiences to students when, without this technology, time and money might have stood in the way.  

I really liked this article because I thought it provided suggestions that almost any teacher could use in one way or another in a school setting, regardless of grade level, subject taught, or the teacher's experience and comfort level with technology.  As a Spanish teacher myself, I would love to use the VR goggles in my classroom to have my students explore Spanish-speaking countries.  While our school does run a trip to a Spanish-speaking country every few years, only 15-20 few students in the school are able to go.  With VR goggles, so many more could benefit from a cultural learning experience.  I also like the idea of wireless headphones for listening to music or other audio sources in Spanish!  They allow students to listen at their own paces, to adjust the volume for optimal comprehension, and to fast forward and rewind as needed.  I also thought it was beneficial to discuss drawbacks or difficulties with the technology, such as the increased ability for students to cheat.  It can be helpful for teachers to know what to watch out for before utilizing any new technology in their classrooms, because with this knowledge, they can create a smooth learning experience for students from the very beginning.