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I am a middle school teacher with about a 10 years of experience in the classroom teaching Language Arts, History, and Humanities. I believe that by providing them with real connections between the curriculum and the world around us, students experience more ownership and authenticity in their learning. The answers to the perennial questions about why history, or any subject, is important can be found in the headlines, galleries, and voices that will be featured on this page.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Your Brain on Computers: Times Series and Interview with Author

On the road with some gadgets...minus iPhone, external drive, and iPod.

Over the last two years, both my previous and current school have flirted with idea of having an "Unplugged Day".  I believe the thought was that students and teachers could revert to the days of limited distraction for a day or two. The scientists in the first article would definitely agree!

I am interested in how we can combat over-stimulation in our students. In large part, the premise of this blog is to find connections between the traditional ways they access the curriculum while providing them with an embedded experiences of what is happening right now. So, for me, pulling the plug would be tough.

Below are three articles from the "Your Brain on Computers" series in the New York Times followed by today's interview the author of the articles, Matt Richtel, on NPR's "Fresh Air".

These could be great readings for in-service, teacher training courses, or to share with students.

To be honest, I can easily answer "yes" to every question in the "Warnings of Tech Overload" graphic in the second article listed below.  I know that I am addicted to my phone, to news streams, twitter feeds, pitch-by-pitch baseball scores, and the weather where everyone I know lives.  I am convinced it has effected my sleep and ability to be entertained. However, I do feel more informed and connected to what interests me.

All of the articles provide excellent insights into the world we, and of course, our students, live in. 

Share your thoughts in the comments!

Outdoors and Out of Reach, Studying the Brain

Attached to Technology and Paying a Price

A Side Effect of Digital Devices: Brain Fatigue

 

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