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Blog #4

 While I was unable to physically be in class the day we explored the Tech Sandbox, I was able to view all of its resources on my own time. I was shocked to see all of the innovative resources offered, and the sheer number of hyperlinks available for easy access. While many of the technologies were more math/science related and I am more interested in teaching English, I found a few of the technologies to be super cool. Namely, the Mendi headband which can be helpful for students with ADHD. Equity in learning is an important concept to me, and I think that's why this piece of technology stood out to me. Additionally, there was a dedicated page under Modules for English and Language Arts, and I found the "Integrating Technology and Literacy" tab to be the most useful. Overall, the Tech Sandbox was an incredibly informative and useful tool that I can see myself using in the future. 

I am still unsure if teaching is the career path I want to pursue, but engaging with teacher accounts on Pinterest and Instagram has been a positive experience thus far. I feel that Instagram is the better of the two when searching for information (@readitwriteitlearnit provided some great themed lesson plans). Pinterest has only provided me with an outlet to envision classroom aesthetics and things of that sort. I also think that Instagram as a platform allows teachers to utilize a comedic element. I saw a few posts attempting to relate to other teachers and lesson planning struggles (@nowsparkcreativity). Overall, Instagram has provided a much broader foundation for content variety, so I have enjoying using it more. 

In terms of our discussions about digital divide this past week, I have come to define my experience with technology and education on the digitally rich end of the spectrum. Even in elementary school, I had access to laptops and technology. We used STMath and Istation platforms and had carved out time in the computer lab each week in addition to some work on the class set of laptops that stayed at school. However, I was further spoiled from middle school on, because each student received a school issue laptop (with a touch screen nonetheless). I also had access to regular internet connection, and I have a library less than half a mile from my house, so to say I have been privileged with technology access is a severe understatement. 

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