Technology in the Classroom

After having the opportunity to observe the seventh grade students at Centennial Middle School with Rachel and Jess, I have come to the conclusion that technology has greatly benefited the learning curve. We had the chance to sit in and observe students in their technology and engineering class. They were in the process of constructing mini bridge models out of thin bass wood strips. Their goal was to use basic engineering skills, that were previously taught in class, to make a bridge that would sufficiently withstand a machined pressure/weight test. If a student's bridge could withstand over thirty-five pounds of downward pressure, then he or she would receive an A. I was deeply amazed at the ingenuity of these students. They were smart and dedicated. They were focused; I give much credit of that ambition to the computer program that was learned prior to the direct construction of the bridges. It was called Bridge Builder 2006. It was amazing! We got to use the program briefly and I must say that the program threw me for a loop; I wasn't able to make one bridge that could hold up a truck. When I finally made one that could support the truck, I realized that it cost over two million dollars. This program was able to supply a number of different materials and material sizes all while keeping track of the cost. The students in the class were challenged to make a cost-effective bridge that had little weight stresses. The instructor added that most of the kids were able to do it. I think it helped exponentially in their learning curve for their bridge building assignment. Technology had completely aided these students in learning.