Technology is great…when it works!

That was the unfortunate motto that both my students and myself used way more times than I can count over the last 5 years. That was when there was a huge increase in technology in the classroom: both hardware and software. There has always been lots of technology initiated in my district. That is one thing I loved about where I taught. There is a progressive philosophy about everything…with the core ideal being that if it is good for our students, let’s give it a try.

I have grown to really like my Lenovo tablet. It is portable…lightweight…and had the capabilities to do almost everything I needed this year. I especially loved how I could take my work with me everywhere and access it whenever I needed it or wanted it…with the help of the Web. I wasn’t sure how I would transition to “swiping”, but I am a convert. I don’t look for that Microsoft “start” button on the bottom left corner quite so much now. I also know that I have more to learn, but I like that I can do that at my pace.

There were some things that I didn’t and still don’t like about the Lenovo tablet. The main thing was the Bluetooth keyboard. I had problems with it from the very beginning and they never really got resolved. It was so frustrating to struggle time and again with trying to have the tablet recognize the keyboard! There were more times it did not than when it did. I finally gave up and bought my own Bluetooth keyboard and have had no problems with it…to date…we will see is my philosophy about tech.

The other problem I had was the size of the screen. It is so small that I have to hunch over to see what I am working on. To accommodate its portability and weight, the size had to be sacrificed. I am not sure my eyesight appreciates that. I am dealing…

One last issue I had was carrying everything for it. The cute little black case is nice, but what do I do with all the cords and the dock and the extra outlet thingy…etc. Sooo, I bought a case to carry all of it.

I deem these complaints (except for the Bluetoothh keyboard) as minor “cosmetic” problems. Overall, I like it and I will continue to use it as a professional tool to help me with my work wherever I may be and whenever that may take place. I am very thankful to Lenovo for giving me this tablet. I had a vital role in the success of my fellowship goals.

Thank you!