Our paper is short this week, but it’s not lacking in content. It was quite interesting to explore the prevalence of digital technology in the classroom. Considering the campus is so wired, it’s somewhat surprising to talk to professors that don’t support the total integration of technology in the classroom.
At times, I certainly find my laptop to be a distraction during class time, and I understand why one might limit laptop
usage. But the debate over the effectiveness of seemingly innocuous technology like PowerPoint gave way to points I hadn’t before considered. Maybe PowerPoint does provide a reason for students to check out, especially if the slides are later posted on Blackboard. The solution to classroom tech concerns, at least for now, seems to be use in moderation.
I approached the gathering of friends in memory of Lauren Astley with great care. Emotions were, of course, very raw and very real at the gathering, and I did my best to cover a sensitive subject thoroughly but respectfully. During the memorial, the magnitude of Lauren’s strength and kindness became abundantly clear. She touched so many people during her lifetime, and her story continues to affect so many more.