Rethinking Education Chapter 9 Reflection

                Chapter 9 was a relatively short chapter that focuses on the meaning of everything presented in the book thus far. In the beginning of the chapter the author mentions the use of video games and how as teachers we should keep up with what student’s are doing outside of the classroom. A large issue with integrating video game play into a classroom would be the argument about how children become violent and are wasting their time. In response to this, there are many alternative games to play that are not violent. Some games may be violent, but are suited to teach about historical events and wars. The game called Making History which is a WWII strategy game. The game comes with a curriculum, supporting materials and tools that allow teachers to customize the game to their lesson plans. I would definitely consider using this video game in my classroom, but I would want to of course play the game first. Another thing I would check for when bringing a video game into the classroom is its appeal to both sexes. If a game is important enough to bring into the classroom, it should be a learning experience for everyone.

                The book brings up the point about how parents express concern that their children are not spending time reading books. This is something that I hope to address in my future classroom. I love books and love to read, so I admit that with this topic I may be a little biased because of that fact. I strongly believe that reading is something that should be done by students on a daily basis. I am uneasy about allowing students to use video games for reading practice because although most games do include text, most include audible directions so students are not even paying attention to what the text says. I would be more comfortable providing a broad range of books that would appeal to any interests, or be willing to suggest books that students may be interested in.  When playing video games the focus is on progress made in the game rather than reading skills. If a video game was designed for the sole purpose for students to engage in reading I would be more willing to integrate it into my classroom.

                A third point I would like to address from the chapter is the topic of budgets being cut. With all the funding for schools on the decrease it will be more difficult to bring the best technology into the classroom. I will apply for any grants that I can, but there are only so many grants available to apply for. I am optimistic that funding will be able to be raised in order to bring more effective teaching practices into place for our future generations.