Blog Post #14

Teacher Knows if You Have Done the E-Reading

David Streitfeld wrote the article Teacher Knows if You've Done the E-Reading. The article is about students using electronic textbooks. The teachers can track when the students use their book, how long they use their book, and what they read in the textbook. The professors at Texas A&M love the electronic textbooks. Students probably not so much as teachers. Many of the major textbook companies have started using them also. The dean at Texas A&M says he would not reject if they were offered in every classroom.

If I were offered the new electronic textbooks in my classroom, I would take them. I think teachers would benefit from them, as well as students. I would make great use of them. I think it is a great way to make sure students are completing homework, reviewing lessons, and reading chapters. Students who do not complete their work can be determined in a much easier fashion. I would be able to accommodate help to those that needed it the most.

Honestly, if the new electronic textbooks were used in my classes now, I would be in serious trouble. It is not all the time that I read the assignments, or even study when I am suppose to. I am not punished for it now, but what if my professors knew I was not doing my assignments on time. Although I should complete assignments when they are assigned, I do not always have time. I think the electronic textbooks are beneficial, but I probably would not like them as a student.

If I were able to speak to the teacher discussed in the article, I would ask her a few questions.

1.)How does she grade assignments when she knows who used the textbooks and who did not?

2.)What are the penalties used for those who do not use the textbook like it should be used?

3.)How often do you use the electronic textbooks?

4.)Do your students like the electronic textbooks?

5.)On a scale of 1-10 how much do the electronic textbooks benefit you?

If I were able to interview the students, I would ask them a few questions also.

1.)Do you always complete assignments knowing your teacher knows who have done them or not?

2.)Do you get penalized for not using the textbook?

3.)How often do you use the electronic textbooks?

4.)Do you like the electronic textbooks?

5.)On a scale from 1-10, how much do the electronic textbooks benefit you?

I think this new technology is just the beginning. Electronic textbooks are going to become even more advanced over the years, so we may as well get use to them now. I think they are a great idea for teachers and students. I have not seen any at the University of South Alabama, but I am almost positive it will not be long before they arrive. I think they are a great tool for teachers to see how well his/her class is studying the material and so on. Students can really benefit from them too. Their teacher will notice that they are making an effort, which will prompt the teacher to help when needed.