Journal #6

Vaidyanathan, S. (2012). Fostering creativity and innovation through technology. Learning & Leading with Technology, 39(6), 24-27. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/DigitalEditionMarch-April2012.aspx

Summary:
The article talks about how digital art can help build creative thinkers and engage a class useful free online tools. There are many tools to have a class interested in making digital art an one of them is Scratch, which lets students create an online game. For students, it is good to utilize class material learned in class at home and be able to have fun with it as well. The article also brings up how students like when they draw something and can erase easily because there are not big mistakes and using too much paper or resources. Although it is not sticking to traditional art it at least lets the students be able to have creativity in the classroom without worrying about a budget. Lastly, digital design is made up of a blend of engineering, mathematics, science, and art. All of these subject can be used through one digital art program that may let the student use 3D engineering or a geometric shape in a video game while also calculating the corners of each shape and edge in that particular design.

Question #1: How will I use digital art in the classroom and what kind of tools could I use to implement standards as well as creativity?

I would let students create video games and digital art in some of my class time so that their creativity can be used to enhance their thinking in the classroom. By using these tools it is fun for the student to not only do it in class but also at home, which saves my class time as well as making them interested in what they're  learning in school. This can also implement standards by having them use not only art but math and science by creating shapes and different patterns while having their own uniqueness and making it fun.

Question #2: Why is it important to get students ready for AP science courses or STEM project at an early age? How will this help them in the future?

It is good to challenge students to learn real technology and not the typical drag this image and drop it here. A digital design tool can help students realize that technology is relevant and exciting in elementary school levels. It helps to show students what is out there and want more that also give them a safe place to experiment and be creative. This can help them to not be scared in the future about the sciences or math in later school years. It will also help to make the AP courses and STEM projects less difficult and more fun.