Back It Up, Back It Up

So, this week was pretty awesome! I read chapter 8 in Teachers Discovering Computers: Integrating Technology in a Connected World (7th edition) and learned a great deal of information. I explored the importance of computer security among many things and realized how important it is to backup data.  Backing up data helps us protect and keep copies of important files, information, and records.

Prior to this chapter, the only thing I knew how to back up was my car (just joking)! When I analyzed my backup habits, I realized that I didn't have any. At work, it is easier for me to backup data as we are provided with a shared drive that is supposed to safely store all of our data files. In case of damage or disaster, these files are easily restored. However, at home I usually don’t back up my data. After reading on the importance of backing up data, I see that saving just isn’t enough!

So, I went on a quest to find solutions for backing up data. Off-site locations are a great option! Users can backup important data at another location, which is vital when we factor in disasters such as fires or floods. In surfing the web (I am getting good at this surfing thing), I came across online backup services. Carbonite, claims to be the easiest online backup software to use. Subscribers sign up for this service (a 15 day trial is provided, but a yearly fee is involved) and are able to automatically backup files online. Restored files can be reached at anywhere, anytime. IDrive, is yet another online backup service that offers a limited free account to users. Other backup options include USB Drives, CD's, and external hard drives.


With so many resources available, I think it is important to backup data! As educators and professionals, so much time is spent creating ideas, materials, lesson plans, products, etc. It would be ashamed for years of work to go to waste. With this in mind, I challenge you to back it up!

A Penny for Your Thoughts...

I took one look at the cartoons below and couldn’t help but think how much technology has changed education! Have you ever questioned whether technology brings out the best or the worst in our students? I have heard ideas from both ends of the spectrum.

The Goods

Technology definitely has its wow factor! It has broken down walls and opened classrooms to new opportunities. For example, the Internet opens doors to an abundance of text and multimedia resources that can aid in research and further learning. Moreover, the Internet allows us to communicate with individuals all over the world. Not to mention tablet computers, laptops, and other devices that makes learning and teaching more accessible. Virtual reality, simulations, YouTube, Facebook, online tutorial, and interactive games and websites are just a few resources that instructors can use. Common pros of technology include:

·         Technology increases computer literacy

·         Technology promotes multi-tasking skills

·         Technology enhances learning

The Bads

Just as I have heard the good, I have also heard the bad. Some believe that technology hinders student learning. For example, my best friend teaches English and always mentions that spell check and Sparknotes are the enemy! She feels that students rely heavily on spell checkers, and technology makes it easy to cheat. I must admit, I am guilty of utilizing spell checkJ. Other prevalent cons include:

·         Technology decreases imagination

·         Technology can be a distraction (i.e. texting in class, moving a lesson off track, etc.)

·         Technology decreases human touch/interaction

Where I stand

Honestly, I can see both sides! I’ve seen instances where technology brings us together yet tears us apart. For example, as an online student I have lost the physical interaction and connection (to a degree) with my instructor and peers.  At the same time, I wouldn’t be able to write this very blog without technology! The pros and cons of technology in the classroom has been an ongoing debate.  I would love to read your thoughts!