Friday, July 20, 2012
Project 13# Collaboration Tools
Through out this semester, it has been so important for us to step outside of the box using technologies we had either only heard of or used very little of...
For project 15, my group took full advantage of our g-mail accounts. It was always easy to send a group message that we could all see and respond back to in a timely manner. Sometimes we had several questions or concerns going on at once. It was even easy for us to share documents. Items were safely secured in our drives once shared from any one member of the group. We also found text messaging to be very useful. I don't know how much easier it gets than a quick text message to answer a question, comment, or concern.
We used Google to find almost all of the pictures and videos that we added to our iBook.
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Thank you TECHNOLOGY GODS and GODDESSES!
For project 15, my group took full advantage of our g-mail accounts. It was always easy to send a group message that we could all see and respond back to in a timely manner. Sometimes we had several questions or concerns going on at once. It was even easy for us to share documents. Items were safely secured in our drives once shared from any one member of the group. We also found text messaging to be very useful. I don't know how much easier it gets than a quick text message to answer a question, comment, or concern.
We used Google to find almost all of the pictures and videos that we added to our iBook.
Thank you TECHNOLOGY GODS and GODDESSES!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Blog Post #13
The assignment was to watch Back to the Future, a video by Brian Crosby.
I then watched A Vision of Students Today by Michael Wesch. This video gave shocking statistics about the average life of a college student. It showed how the lives of these students were directly linked to a form of technology in some way. There were so many things mentioned in this video that seemed to make the classroom of today a "misfit" for the students of this generation. In fact, students even shared that most of the time they had their personal computers in the classroom, but they were not doing anything that related to that class at all. The college class of today seems to simply be an auditorium averaging about 115 students who are their physically, but not mentally there at all. This video is from 2007, so just imagine what it is like today.
For teachers or University presidents this should come as a wake up call. Both teachers and University presidents need to understand the students of today before they can be effective.This video may open eyes showing how unprepared today's college student is for the world into which they are about to enter. Obviously, since these students are linked to technology, presidents should encourage teachers to incorporate technology in their classrooms to engage students. Even the students in the video proposed that technology alone can save them. They are probably right!
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How Will You Teach Me in the 21st Century?
This video by Melinda Kraft is a great way to get educators to think about implementing technology into teaching the newer generation of students. She shows how technology is being used by almost everyone, even grandmas!Melinda lists that she believes that students should know how to use technology, they should be able to communicate effectively and understand the impact of media on their lives, and they should have experienced interaction in a global economy.
I want my students to know and understand the importance of technology and how when used correctly, it can greatly enhance their learning. I want my students to be able to apply the technologies they know to assignments given in my class, future classes and life in general! I want my students to have experienced a sense of accomplishment, much like I feel after taking this EDM310 class. This will be an experience that moves them outside of the box into a higher level of learning and thinking!
I like Melinda's approach, but if I had to change the video I would use actual video clippings of people engaging in these much needed technologies and not all still pictures.
The Basic Technology Tool Kit
I read this blog next! It is not a part of the assignment to write anything about it but I did find it a good read. It is true, the technology tool kit of teachers today is nothing like it was in 1999. Then again, why would it be? Technology is moving fast and teachers need to be life long learners and keep up with it. Otherwise, we are not preparing our students for the world in which they will soon enter.
I commented on the blog:Hi Dorothy,
I too am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. It is great to see this list for present and future teachers. Dr. Strange is definitely preparing his future educators to carry this tool kit of today and NOT the one from 1999. All teachers should be eager to find out what new things they need to add to their tool kit. After all, we are supposed to be life lone learners and if we are not, how can we prepare the students of this technologically literate generation for the world upon which they are about to enter? Feel free to visit My Blog.
Thanks,
Angyl White
I then watched A Vision of Students Today by Michael Wesch. This video gave shocking statistics about the average life of a college student. It showed how the lives of these students were directly linked to a form of technology in some way. There were so many things mentioned in this video that seemed to make the classroom of today a "misfit" for the students of this generation. In fact, students even shared that most of the time they had their personal computers in the classroom, but they were not doing anything that related to that class at all. The college class of today seems to simply be an auditorium averaging about 115 students who are their physically, but not mentally there at all. This video is from 2007, so just imagine what it is like today.
For teachers or University presidents this should come as a wake up call. Both teachers and University presidents need to understand the students of today before they can be effective.This video may open eyes showing how unprepared today's college student is for the world into which they are about to enter. Obviously, since these students are linked to technology, presidents should encourage teachers to incorporate technology in their classrooms to engage students. Even the students in the video proposed that technology alone can save them. They are probably right!
How Will You Teach Me in the 21st Century?
This video by Melinda Kraft is a great way to get educators to think about implementing technology into teaching the newer generation of students. She shows how technology is being used by almost everyone, even grandmas!Melinda lists that she believes that students should know how to use technology, they should be able to communicate effectively and understand the impact of media on their lives, and they should have experienced interaction in a global economy.
I want my students to know and understand the importance of technology and how when used correctly, it can greatly enhance their learning. I want my students to be able to apply the technologies they know to assignments given in my class, future classes and life in general! I want my students to have experienced a sense of accomplishment, much like I feel after taking this EDM310 class. This will be an experience that moves them outside of the box into a higher level of learning and thinking!
I like Melinda's approach, but if I had to change the video I would use actual video clippings of people engaging in these much needed technologies and not all still pictures.
The Basic Technology Tool Kit
I read this blog next! It is not a part of the assignment to write anything about it but I did find it a good read. It is true, the technology tool kit of teachers today is nothing like it was in 1999. Then again, why would it be? Technology is moving fast and teachers need to be life long learners and keep up with it. Otherwise, we are not preparing our students for the world in which they will soon enter.
I commented on the blog:Hi Dorothy,
I too am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. It is great to see this list for present and future teachers. Dr. Strange is definitely preparing his future educators to carry this tool kit of today and NOT the one from 1999. All teachers should be eager to find out what new things they need to add to their tool kit. After all, we are supposed to be life lone learners and if we are not, how can we prepare the students of this technologically literate generation for the world upon which they are about to enter? Feel free to visit My Blog.
Thanks,
Angyl White
Mr. Webb did a great job with these students and you can tell that he is very passionate about his work. He advocates allowing students to take control of their learning through technology. It was inspiring to see that he used legally blind Carlton as a main actor in the video. Imagine the confidence this student was given. I would like to incorporate this form of learning in my classroom.
We Are Using IPads in Room 6 at Pt England School
It was inspiring to see that even 6 yr olds in England have begun to use technology in class. Technology is rapidly taking over and I cannot wait to be a part of it!
Monday, July 16, 2012
Project #15: Smart Board Project Part 2
Group 3
This is a Smart Board lesson for 3rd grade on the elements of a story:
1. Setting
2. Characters
3. Plot
4. Problem/Solution
This is a Smart Board lesson for 3rd grade on the elements of a story:
1. Setting
2. Characters
3. Plot
4. Problem/Solution
PLN :Post #2 (Final Report)
This class has given me so many tools that are sure to be of much assistance when I begin my career as an educator. The PLN is one of the most important tools discovered. It is very easy to create and it allows for you to have EVERYTHING you need all in one place. Originally, I had no idea what a PLN was, but now I understand that is has endless benefits and I definitely plan to continue to use and build upon it. A few weeks ago, my PLN was a blank slate, much like my mind was (technologically wise) when I entered EDM310. Today it is full of resources to promote my life lone learning. I am so glad I have been introduced to such a wonderful source. EDM310 definitely knows how to prepare "top of the line" (plugged) educators! Visit this SYMBALOO WEBSITE to start yours today!
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C4T #3
What Ed Said
Comment#1:
For C4T #4 my blogging teacher's name is Edna Sackson. Edna Sackson blogged "What would you do if you could change the world?" on June 30, 2012. In this post, film maker Genevieve Bailey explores the world in the views of 11 year olds through a video. This is particularly interesting because like the video stated, they are not quite children, but not yet teenagers. It is interesting to see how they view the world around them; a world that everyone older than them has created. Genevieve asked questions to all kinds of eleven year olds she encountered in fifteen countries over a period of several years.
Edna showed this video to students at here school who were mostly 11 year olds as well. They enjoyed it and afterwards were able to have a Q & A time with Genevieve. Most of their responses included making the world around them an equal opportunity for all races and making most things if not everything free. This shows how much attention even an 11 year old is paying to the society in which they live. On a separate blog, other questions were asked including: What do you like least about being eleven? What do you worry about? and Would you rather be clever or good looking? These youth gave some amazing answers which really let me know that I may have been one of the people they referred to when a lot of them say that they are underestimated as an 11 year old.
I commented:My name is Angyl White and I am a student at the University of South Alabama. Being an elementary education major I was truly inspired by your blog post. That video was a wonderful look into the views of not just 11 year olds in America, but everywhere. It really shows how different, but alike a lot of 11 year olds are. I visited the blog of the other students with the other questions that were asked. When I read these responses I was immediately convicted because I realized that I may be one of the adults that several of them referred to saying that they were underestimated.
This was a great post for me! Thanks
Comment #2:
What Ed Said Again!!!
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On July 11, 2012, Ed blogged, "Do you waste learning time?" Ed shares his thoughts of the classroom that does things the same way all of the time just because it is the way that things have always been done. In the beginning he starts off with the phrase, "I used to think...now I think". I especially like this because he goes on to explain that this phrase is a part of an important thinking tool. He says, "It allows you to grow, without having to have been wrong. It allows me to develop my ideas, change my practice, increase my understanding, deepen my thinking… and change my mind." I thought this was a great way to view this phrase because many people often believe that if you make up your mind about something at one moment, then your mind cannot change. For an educator who is continuously learning like they should be, this would be a ridiculous thought because if you were actually a "life long learner", you would continue to explore and THINK and of course come up with new thoughts, ideas, and reasons.
Mr. Ed gave 2 scenarios, one where the students sat in a circle and the teacher asked questions and the students had to raise their hands to answer. He pointed out that in this traditional way of a group discussion, the teacher spent most of the time encouraging the class to listen to others, wait to be called on, sit down or even to be quiet. He also pointed out that some of the student may not even be paying attention. The THINKER can change this situation and like in Ed's second scenario, he/she can split the children into groups. In scenario 2, the students are having a regular conversation with a smaller group and the teacher walks around and listens in and raises key questions. Ed points out that in this way, the students practice effective communication by listening and speaking one at a time. They don't have to raise their hands and all students can be more active in the conversation. These scenarios prove the importance of being a thinker. For example, I used to think that the best way to understand whether your class really understands a certain topic is to bring them all together and have a class discussion, now I think that splitting students into groups is a better way.
I commented:Wow! Another inspiring post. I am going to be sure to make sure I “think” back and remember the importance of this blog when I get into my own classroom. It is wonderful that you have pointed out the importance of student interaction for effective teaching and learning. I especially like the way you summed up the thought behind, “I used to think…now I think”. I have always wondered the best way to present this as an argument when I change my mind about something. Most people think that once you make up your mind about something, you can’t change it. Ridiculous! If you are experiencing, learning, and most of all THINKING, you will MOST DEFINITELY change your mind about some things. Please visit My Blog. Again, thanks for sharing another great post!
Comment#1:
For C4T #4 my blogging teacher's name is Edna Sackson. Edna Sackson blogged "What would you do if you could change the world?" on June 30, 2012. In this post, film maker Genevieve Bailey explores the world in the views of 11 year olds through a video. This is particularly interesting because like the video stated, they are not quite children, but not yet teenagers. It is interesting to see how they view the world around them; a world that everyone older than them has created. Genevieve asked questions to all kinds of eleven year olds she encountered in fifteen countries over a period of several years.
Edna showed this video to students at here school who were mostly 11 year olds as well. They enjoyed it and afterwards were able to have a Q & A time with Genevieve. Most of their responses included making the world around them an equal opportunity for all races and making most things if not everything free. This shows how much attention even an 11 year old is paying to the society in which they live. On a separate blog, other questions were asked including: What do you like least about being eleven? What do you worry about? and Would you rather be clever or good looking? These youth gave some amazing answers which really let me know that I may have been one of the people they referred to when a lot of them say that they are underestimated as an 11 year old.
I commented:My name is Angyl White and I am a student at the University of South Alabama. Being an elementary education major I was truly inspired by your blog post. That video was a wonderful look into the views of not just 11 year olds in America, but everywhere. It really shows how different, but alike a lot of 11 year olds are. I visited the blog of the other students with the other questions that were asked. When I read these responses I was immediately convicted because I realized that I may be one of the adults that several of them referred to saying that they were underestimated.
This was a great post for me! Thanks
Comment #2:
What Ed Said Again!!!
On July 11, 2012, Ed blogged, "Do you waste learning time?" Ed shares his thoughts of the classroom that does things the same way all of the time just because it is the way that things have always been done. In the beginning he starts off with the phrase, "I used to think...now I think". I especially like this because he goes on to explain that this phrase is a part of an important thinking tool. He says, "It allows you to grow, without having to have been wrong. It allows me to develop my ideas, change my practice, increase my understanding, deepen my thinking… and change my mind." I thought this was a great way to view this phrase because many people often believe that if you make up your mind about something at one moment, then your mind cannot change. For an educator who is continuously learning like they should be, this would be a ridiculous thought because if you were actually a "life long learner", you would continue to explore and THINK and of course come up with new thoughts, ideas, and reasons.
Mr. Ed gave 2 scenarios, one where the students sat in a circle and the teacher asked questions and the students had to raise their hands to answer. He pointed out that in this traditional way of a group discussion, the teacher spent most of the time encouraging the class to listen to others, wait to be called on, sit down or even to be quiet. He also pointed out that some of the student may not even be paying attention. The THINKER can change this situation and like in Ed's second scenario, he/she can split the children into groups. In scenario 2, the students are having a regular conversation with a smaller group and the teacher walks around and listens in and raises key questions. Ed points out that in this way, the students practice effective communication by listening and speaking one at a time. They don't have to raise their hands and all students can be more active in the conversation. These scenarios prove the importance of being a thinker. For example, I used to think that the best way to understand whether your class really understands a certain topic is to bring them all together and have a class discussion, now I think that splitting students into groups is a better way.
I commented:Wow! Another inspiring post. I am going to be sure to make sure I “think” back and remember the importance of this blog when I get into my own classroom. It is wonderful that you have pointed out the importance of student interaction for effective teaching and learning. I especially like the way you summed up the thought behind, “I used to think…now I think”. I have always wondered the best way to present this as an argument when I change my mind about something. Most people think that once you make up your mind about something, you can’t change it. Ridiculous! If you are experiencing, learning, and most of all THINKING, you will MOST DEFINITELY change your mind about some things. Please visit My Blog. Again, thanks for sharing another great post!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Progress Report on Final Project #16
Sooo here is the update on project #16
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When I first heard about project 16 with 2 weeks left in the semester and all the work it included, I almost stopped breathing. Stopped breathing, that is, until I found out it was a group project! Then, I was excited because I just love working with "My Girls"! We have been communicating mainly through our g-mail accounts and text messages. Right now, every one is working on our individual parts and we are going to come together next week to bring everything together. I have both my book trailer and my sentence video complete. I have chosen blog post #9 to add to our iBook. I have chosen "the story of my life" as a theme for my 10 pictures and I am going to take pictures of me and the things that consume my life the most (my car, my job, my church, my family, Military etc...) I am still thinking about my answer to the most important technology tools to be used in my grade level, but I think I know what I am going to say already. I can not wait for our final product!
iBook Author
When I first heard about project 16 with 2 weeks left in the semester and all the work it included, I almost stopped breathing. Stopped breathing, that is, until I found out it was a group project! Then, I was excited because I just love working with "My Girls"! We have been communicating mainly through our g-mail accounts and text messages. Right now, every one is working on our individual parts and we are going to come together next week to bring everything together. I have both my book trailer and my sentence video complete. I have chosen blog post #9 to add to our iBook. I have chosen "the story of my life" as a theme for my 10 pictures and I am going to take pictures of me and the things that consume my life the most (my car, my job, my church, my family, Military etc...) I am still thinking about my answer to the most important technology tools to be used in my grade level, but I think I know what I am going to say already. I can not wait for our final product!
Blog Post #12
I am an Elementary Education major!
This assignment is to show the benefits of bringing technology into the classroom to teach rather than only lecturing!
A teacher uses the YouTube videos below to teach her lesson on the Four Seasons. This video is used when she talks about the Winter season and its holidays.
Watch the Proud Family Kwanzaa part1 and the Proud Family Kwanzaa part2
First, Write a Quality Blog Post summarizing the lessons taught in these videos. Explain whether you thought this was an effective tool to use during teaching.
Then research YouTube to find another video that can be used as a teaching tool in your classroom. Tell what the video teaches and make a clickable link for the video.
In the Proud Family episode above, we are taught about the Kwanzaa holiday. It is celebrated during what most people would consider to be Christmas time. It lasts for 7 days. The video taught that this time of year is not about receiving presents but more about the gifts that you can give to those in need. A lot of people seem to take the gifts that are given around this time for granted. This episode teaches to be thankful for what you have and to bless others when you can.
This is a very effective tool to use during teaching. When discussing seasons, it will be good to discuss holidays that are celebrated in those seasons as well. Bringing this form of technology into the classroom changes the atmosphere a bit. It allows for the students to get a little relaxed while at the same time they are still learning. Children often remember what they see, especially if it is in "cartoon form". This is a great asset to an elementary lesson plan.
Synonyms can also be taught using YouTube videos! Check out this video from a Sesame Street episode teaching synonyms. This catchy tune is sure to have your students understanding synonyms in no time! I love the thought of bringing YouTube videos into my classroom. They just seem to make the lesson come alive!
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This assignment is to show the benefits of bringing technology into the classroom to teach rather than only lecturing!
A teacher uses the YouTube videos below to teach her lesson on the Four Seasons. This video is used when she talks about the Winter season and its holidays.
Watch the Proud Family Kwanzaa part1 and the Proud Family Kwanzaa part2
First, Write a Quality Blog Post summarizing the lessons taught in these videos. Explain whether you thought this was an effective tool to use during teaching.
Then research YouTube to find another video that can be used as a teaching tool in your classroom. Tell what the video teaches and make a clickable link for the video.
In the Proud Family episode above, we are taught about the Kwanzaa holiday. It is celebrated during what most people would consider to be Christmas time. It lasts for 7 days. The video taught that this time of year is not about receiving presents but more about the gifts that you can give to those in need. A lot of people seem to take the gifts that are given around this time for granted. This episode teaches to be thankful for what you have and to bless others when you can.
This is a very effective tool to use during teaching. When discussing seasons, it will be good to discuss holidays that are celebrated in those seasons as well. Bringing this form of technology into the classroom changes the atmosphere a bit. It allows for the students to get a little relaxed while at the same time they are still learning. Children often remember what they see, especially if it is in "cartoon form". This is a great asset to an elementary lesson plan.
Synonyms can also be taught using YouTube videos! Check out this video from a Sesame Street episode teaching synonyms. This catchy tune is sure to have your students understanding synonyms in no time! I love the thought of bringing YouTube videos into my classroom. They just seem to make the lesson come alive!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Blog Post #11
First gradegraders in Ms. Cassidy's class
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WOW! Ms. Cassidy takes a first grade classroom and shows them most of the things that we are finally learning as college students! These first graders used blogging, wiki's, skype and even nintendo DS. Ms. Cassidy proved that technology is a must, especially for the students of today! The world is much different than it was 20 years ago. Her approach is that it is very important for teachers to be technologically literate because technology is here to stay. She believes that it is as important in the elementary level as any other level especially since technology is not new to them. She states how it is not weird for students to be on computer and skyping and playing the DS. She says that it is just great that they don't have to power down when they enter into their learning environment. Ms. Cassidy seems very passionate about her decision to include technology in the classroom.
My favorite technique in which she uses is blogging. I have learned so much through reading other teacher's blogs as well as creating my own. To me, it is a benefit because I never realized that it actually is a portfolio. I love the idea of being able to monitor progress in this non formal way. I have stated before how much I show off my blog so I can only imagine how an elementary student would feel. I think even parents would be excited about the blogs. Blogging would also be a great way to show what my classroom is doing compared to other classrooms. The impediments to blogging may be having to take that extra step like Ms. Cassidy does to educate your students on what to say and what not to say. This is not a hard task though. Other problems a person may run into with blogging is the network on which they blog. What if the network that the school allows your class to blog on is down? What do you do now? We learned in several other blogs to be flexible and this would be a great time to be. I also liked the idea of using Skype. Just like in the Skype Interview with Ms. Cassidy, the benefit of this is the obvious; you are able to see and speak with others and not just reading about it. It becomes more personal and students are able to relate better. I loved how the students in her class were able to skype with another classroom and see what they were doing. An impediment with skype may be your connectivity. Problems with connectivity with the internet are not unusual!
WOW! Ms. Cassidy takes a first grade classroom and shows them most of the things that we are finally learning as college students! These first graders used blogging, wiki's, skype and even nintendo DS. Ms. Cassidy proved that technology is a must, especially for the students of today! The world is much different than it was 20 years ago. Her approach is that it is very important for teachers to be technologically literate because technology is here to stay. She believes that it is as important in the elementary level as any other level especially since technology is not new to them. She states how it is not weird for students to be on computer and skyping and playing the DS. She says that it is just great that they don't have to power down when they enter into their learning environment. Ms. Cassidy seems very passionate about her decision to include technology in the classroom.
My favorite technique in which she uses is blogging. I have learned so much through reading other teacher's blogs as well as creating my own. To me, it is a benefit because I never realized that it actually is a portfolio. I love the idea of being able to monitor progress in this non formal way. I have stated before how much I show off my blog so I can only imagine how an elementary student would feel. I think even parents would be excited about the blogs. Blogging would also be a great way to show what my classroom is doing compared to other classrooms. The impediments to blogging may be having to take that extra step like Ms. Cassidy does to educate your students on what to say and what not to say. This is not a hard task though. Other problems a person may run into with blogging is the network on which they blog. What if the network that the school allows your class to blog on is down? What do you do now? We learned in several other blogs to be flexible and this would be a great time to be. I also liked the idea of using Skype. Just like in the Skype Interview with Ms. Cassidy, the benefit of this is the obvious; you are able to see and speak with others and not just reading about it. It becomes more personal and students are able to relate better. I loved how the students in her class were able to skype with another classroom and see what they were doing. An impediment with skype may be your connectivity. Problems with connectivity with the internet are not unusual!
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Blog Post #10
Adventures in Pencil Integration
![]( "pencilintegration.blogspot.com")
Don't teach your kids this stuff. Please?
By Dr. Scott McLeod
I explored Google and learned that Dr. McLeod evidently understands the importance of being able to effectively communicate using the tools of today. This guy is on twitter, delicious, FaceBook, YouTube and more. He is blogging! Almost everything that I saw that he is affiliated with, we have been encouraged to join as well.
In this post he has a funny way of informing the reader of the importance of having your kids step outside of the box. He encourages the use of outside learning such as blogging and creating PLN's to foster a better learning environment. He explains that there are in fact some negative things that the internet can be used for but the success of a technological literate student far outweighs the negativeness. I did not know that there were so many things to be done in the classroom using technology. Before this class, a lot of what he said may have been foreign but not now! Through out this course I have learned that there are those people who really understand the major affects that the use of technology will have on students' success and those who are ignorant to it. This was a nice, sarcastic way of getting the point across. The truth of the matter is, that we simply cannot keep our students sheltered and expect them to be successful in such a technological diverse world!
Above is a picture where John Spencer compares a Papermate pencil to a Ticonderoga. The Ticonderoga pencil is a more expensive pencil. It is considered top of the line and has better quality when compared to a Papermate. The picture argues that the Papermate costs less, but will break all of the time. Considering that I am reading this blog as an assignment, I assume that it can also be comparing technology like the Mac and the PC. Dr. Strange loves to tell us how much better a Mac is! Macs are becoming very popular today and although they are more expensive they seem to be of better quality (features,ways to explore,the different software that it automatically comes with etc..). Some may say that it goes right along with the famous saying, "you get what you pay for". So, Mac or PC? What do you think?
I read "Why Were Your Kids Playing Games" after putting my thoughts together about the picture above. This post is a scenario between Mr. Spencer and his principal who evidently is not concerned about having lesson plans that are student centered. Even though what Mr. Spencer was doing clearly related to teaching his students, it was frowned upon by his principal.
I also took a look at his blog post "Remember Pencil Quests".
I definitely DO NOT! My answer is the reason behind the whole idea of the post though. Mr. Spencer thinks back on how excited he and his classmates were when he was in high school to be doing a pencil quest. I on the other hand, have no idea what that is. He states that today, his students are excited about blogging and networking with pen pals. With the rapid increase of new technologies, Mr. Spencer can only imagine how his students will look back and wonder how they ever thought these things were exciting. Think about it. Who knows what we will be using in our classrooms to engage students and these "exciting, new" ways of today will be extinct!
By Dr. Scott McLeod
I explored Google and learned that Dr. McLeod evidently understands the importance of being able to effectively communicate using the tools of today. This guy is on twitter, delicious, FaceBook, YouTube and more. He is blogging! Almost everything that I saw that he is affiliated with, we have been encouraged to join as well.
In this post he has a funny way of informing the reader of the importance of having your kids step outside of the box. He encourages the use of outside learning such as blogging and creating PLN's to foster a better learning environment. He explains that there are in fact some negative things that the internet can be used for but the success of a technological literate student far outweighs the negativeness. I did not know that there were so many things to be done in the classroom using technology. Before this class, a lot of what he said may have been foreign but not now! Through out this course I have learned that there are those people who really understand the major affects that the use of technology will have on students' success and those who are ignorant to it. This was a nice, sarcastic way of getting the point across. The truth of the matter is, that we simply cannot keep our students sheltered and expect them to be successful in such a technological diverse world!
Monday, July 2, 2012
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Blog Post #9
What I've Learned This Year (2008-09)
Mr. Joe McClung
The link above takes you to the website where Mr. McClung tells what his first year of teaching was like. Here, he explains what his first year of teaching has taught him. At the very top of the blog was Mr. McClung's decision to stay positive. I believe that this is a must for teachers, especially if you know that teaching is what you want to do. This is important because you cannot let things that go wrong steer you away from what you really want to do.
Mr. McClung states that he learned "how to read the crowd" in his first year as a teacher. He explains how lesson plans must be student centered and teachers need to check for student comprehension. He feels that in order to be effective, you have to let your audience drive the instruction. I agree. He also stated that he learned to be flexible. I know that this is important for teaching because there are so many things that can happen that you simply did NOT plan for. My favorite part was when he said in BIG, HUGE text, " NO LESSON IS PERFECT.THE LESSON YOU TEACH AND THE ONE YOU PLAN ARE ALWAYS DIFFERENT". I have heard this before and it is a very good line for new teachers to always remember. This is not to say that you shouldn't plan your lessons, but you should not beat yourself up over mistakes made. Mr. McClung also wrote about how he learned to be reasonable, to not be afraid of technology, to listen to his students, and to never stop learning; these are all very good things to remember.
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What I've Learned This Year (2009-10)
Mr. Joe McClung
This was Mr. McClung's second year teaching and again he inspires us with more knowledge on what he has learned in the 2009-2010 school year. These posts are an excellent source for new teachers. Not only do they give an overview of what we can expect, but gives us what has been experienced so that we may be able to adapt and may not have to experience these lessons for ourselves. Like the first year, Mr. McClung learned several things his second year teaching. My favorite lessons that he learned are below.
The second year, Mr. McClung learned to adapt and to travel the path least traveled. This is not depending solely on "planned" lesson plans and this also goes hand in had with being flexible. So, I believe this is one of the most important lessons learned. He learned to find his school mom. Your school mom is that mother figure that you can depend on for help because they know the ins and outs of how the school operates. He mentions that if you handle yourself right and gain the respect of your school mom, she will do anything for you! Great! (note to self)
Mr. Joe McClung
The link above takes you to the website where Mr. McClung tells what his first year of teaching was like. Here, he explains what his first year of teaching has taught him. At the very top of the blog was Mr. McClung's decision to stay positive. I believe that this is a must for teachers, especially if you know that teaching is what you want to do. This is important because you cannot let things that go wrong steer you away from what you really want to do.
Mr. McClung states that he learned "how to read the crowd" in his first year as a teacher. He explains how lesson plans must be student centered and teachers need to check for student comprehension. He feels that in order to be effective, you have to let your audience drive the instruction. I agree. He also stated that he learned to be flexible. I know that this is important for teaching because there are so many things that can happen that you simply did NOT plan for. My favorite part was when he said in BIG, HUGE text, " NO LESSON IS PERFECT.THE LESSON YOU TEACH AND THE ONE YOU PLAN ARE ALWAYS DIFFERENT". I have heard this before and it is a very good line for new teachers to always remember. This is not to say that you shouldn't plan your lessons, but you should not beat yourself up over mistakes made. Mr. McClung also wrote about how he learned to be reasonable, to not be afraid of technology, to listen to his students, and to never stop learning; these are all very good things to remember.
What I've Learned This Year (2009-10)
Mr. Joe McClung
This was Mr. McClung's second year teaching and again he inspires us with more knowledge on what he has learned in the 2009-2010 school year. These posts are an excellent source for new teachers. Not only do they give an overview of what we can expect, but gives us what has been experienced so that we may be able to adapt and may not have to experience these lessons for ourselves. Like the first year, Mr. McClung learned several things his second year teaching. My favorite lessons that he learned are below.
The second year, Mr. McClung learned to adapt and to travel the path least traveled. This is not depending solely on "planned" lesson plans and this also goes hand in had with being flexible. So, I believe this is one of the most important lessons learned. He learned to find his school mom. Your school mom is that mother figure that you can depend on for help because they know the ins and outs of how the school operates. He mentions that if you handle yourself right and gain the respect of your school mom, she will do anything for you! Great! (note to self)
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
C4T #3
Cool Cat Teacher Blog
By Vicki Davis
Comment #1
When I saw that I was given Vicki Davis as my teacher for C4T, I was excited! She was assigned to the class in an earlier blog post. Ms. Davis posted on Monday, June 25, 2012. The title was "We Need and Education Victory Garden". I was interested from the title alone. Her first lines read, "I'm convinced that politicians, actors, and businesses are in the business of education because education hasn't taken care of its business." Very interesting...
Ms. Davis expressed her concerns about how education just sits back and watches itself go down the drain. She is upset and says, that the reason education is not doing as well as it should be is because of our own state of mind. She believes that we should work together and together bring hope and change. Towards the end, she also emphasizes how much of a greater advantage the "plugged teacher" is compared to the "unplugged". By now, I am sure you understand that the "plugged" teacher is the one who uses PLN's and are networking online. She believes they are educated enough to make the difference.
I commented:Ms. Davis, I am a student at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Al. I am following your blog as an assignment for my education class; EDM310. I have watched other videos of you as well. I love how you express your concerns for education. Not only do you express your concern, but you also present a solution. I love how you refer to those teachers as "plugged and unplugged". I am so glad that I will be apart of the plugged!
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By Vicki Davis
Comment #1
When I saw that I was given Vicki Davis as my teacher for C4T, I was excited! She was assigned to the class in an earlier blog post. Ms. Davis posted on Monday, June 25, 2012. The title was "We Need and Education Victory Garden". I was interested from the title alone. Her first lines read, "I'm convinced that politicians, actors, and businesses are in the business of education because education hasn't taken care of its business." Very interesting...
Ms. Davis expressed her concerns about how education just sits back and watches itself go down the drain. She is upset and says, that the reason education is not doing as well as it should be is because of our own state of mind. She believes that we should work together and together bring hope and change. Towards the end, she also emphasizes how much of a greater advantage the "plugged teacher" is compared to the "unplugged". By now, I am sure you understand that the "plugged" teacher is the one who uses PLN's and are networking online. She believes they are educated enough to make the difference.
I commented:Ms. Davis, I am a student at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Al. I am following your blog as an assignment for my education class; EDM310. I have watched other videos of you as well. I love how you express your concerns for education. Not only do you express your concern, but you also present a solution. I love how you refer to those teachers as "plugged and unplugged". I am so glad that I will be apart of the plugged!
BY VICKI DAVIS
Comment#2
This blog was very inspiring. It told of the story of a teacher's garden. Of course, this was not a literal garden, but all of the rules still apply. There are always three rules to a garden. Rule number one, you harvest what you plant. Rule number two, your habits in the garden determine the quantity and quality of the harvest, better put, "Do you hoe or weed your garden daily?" The final rule is whatever you water, grows. Just like this garden, the same is true in a teacher's garden. For teachers, these rules must be remembered during summer vacations. The first two rules go along with you harvest what you plant. Rule number one, what you learn this summer, will come out in your teaching in the fall. Rule number two, what you plan and do now will determine how well you start.
Finally, take the time to unwind so that you are ready for the fall. This is like whatever you water grows because getting plenty of rest is like watering yourself so that you can flourish!!
I commented:
Ms. Davis, I love the idea of the teacher's garden. I am an elementary education major at the University of South Alabama. This will be very helpful for me when I begin to teach. I loved how the rules worked for a natural garden and the teacher's garden. I am going to share this with others. I would love for you to visit "My Blog".
Blog Post #8
This is How We Dream
By Richard E. Miller
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Let me begin by saying Mr. Miller is no Dr. Pausch. This presentation was made up of two videos; part one and part two. If you have been keeping up, then you know exactly what I mean by this. If you don't, let's just say he is not as interesting. In part one, Mr. Miller stresses the fact that technology is rapidly taking over literacy. I think that he wants present and future educators to grasp hold of these technologies and take the many advantages that technology is offering.
He made a point about how most of our hard copy books are now ebooks. Mr. Miller is absolutely right though. Do you know how many people have ipods, iphones, laptops, and cellphones. It is almost always easier to pick up your phone and read something really quick. People always have their phone. Since I have had my iphone, I find myself constantly googling things that I do not understand or just want to know more about.
In part two, he is focused on using the new and advancing technologies to live your dreams! He believes that we need inspiring teachers and spaces that foster collaborative learning. He discusses how we are free to dream and should be sharing our thoughts through the internet with videos and images. He says, "There are people out there that believe that our ideas don not belong to us individually but as a culture." All of the videos now available can help teachers with lectures and students also. He is fascinated in the upcoming technological world that we are living in and believes that "this is our dream".
Carly Pugh's Blog Post #12
Carly is both amazing and inspiring! Oh what wonderful word choice she has! So how does she relate to Mr. Miller and his hopes for writing with multi-media? It is clear that Carly understands his hopes and it is obvious that she will definitely be exercising these tools as well. Carly's post actually made his lecture more understandable. After that, I think I actually get it now. Good job Carly!
The Chipper Series
EDM310 for Dummies
These videos were hilarious, but I wish that book "Edm310 for Dummies" was for real! I must admit, like the ladies in the YouTube video, I too have felt like this at one point or another. I have felt like I was going crazy especially in the beginning. As time has gone on, I have become less crazy because I know it is something that must be done. Now I just breathe in and out and tackle these assignments one at a time and mark them off my checklist. This may sound crazy, but for some reason the checklists takes away stress as well. When I see things turn green, it's like a little weight has lifted off of my shoulder.
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For my own video, I would create an introduction video for this class. Introducing all of the different tools that will be used and explaining what each will be used for. I probably would also add a part 2; which would be a tutorial for some of the assignments that were a little more challenging than others. This will give them an over all idea of just how technologically literate or illiterate (haha) they are. I would also tell them how long these assignments may take and I could never forget to mention the fact that it is paperless. I think a video like this will help to mentally prepare you for this type of class.
Mental Preparation is not enough though! Procrastination is ones biggest enemy in this class. You definitely can not be a Chipper! Chipper was too much. Like most people, she wants the results of great work handed to her. This class is a fine example that once you put your mind to it, you can do great things. I am so proud of my blog, I show it off to all of my friends and family. The best part about sharing is that I can say, "I did this myself". That's the point of the class though because when you do it yourself, you know how to do it for real!
Learn to Change, Change to Learn
This video is about opening doors for students that will better prepare them for college and life. The world around us has been taken over by technology and education needs to jump on the band wagon. There is so much more that can be done in the classroom when you add the technologies of today. I liked this video and agree with its message for education to embrace technology. Personally, I have learned so much from technology in this class. These tools are going to enhance my classroom by 100 percent. My journey in this class has taught me to "change to learn and learn to change."
By Richard E. Miller
Let me begin by saying Mr. Miller is no Dr. Pausch. This presentation was made up of two videos; part one and part two. If you have been keeping up, then you know exactly what I mean by this. If you don't, let's just say he is not as interesting. In part one, Mr. Miller stresses the fact that technology is rapidly taking over literacy. I think that he wants present and future educators to grasp hold of these technologies and take the many advantages that technology is offering.
He made a point about how most of our hard copy books are now ebooks. Mr. Miller is absolutely right though. Do you know how many people have ipods, iphones, laptops, and cellphones. It is almost always easier to pick up your phone and read something really quick. People always have their phone. Since I have had my iphone, I find myself constantly googling things that I do not understand or just want to know more about.
In part two, he is focused on using the new and advancing technologies to live your dreams! He believes that we need inspiring teachers and spaces that foster collaborative learning. He discusses how we are free to dream and should be sharing our thoughts through the internet with videos and images. He says, "There are people out there that believe that our ideas don not belong to us individually but as a culture." All of the videos now available can help teachers with lectures and students also. He is fascinated in the upcoming technological world that we are living in and believes that "this is our dream".
Carly Pugh's Blog Post #12
Carly is both amazing and inspiring! Oh what wonderful word choice she has! So how does she relate to Mr. Miller and his hopes for writing with multi-media? It is clear that Carly understands his hopes and it is obvious that she will definitely be exercising these tools as well. Carly's post actually made his lecture more understandable. After that, I think I actually get it now. Good job Carly!
The Chipper Series
EDM310 for Dummies
These videos were hilarious, but I wish that book "Edm310 for Dummies" was for real! I must admit, like the ladies in the YouTube video, I too have felt like this at one point or another. I have felt like I was going crazy especially in the beginning. As time has gone on, I have become less crazy because I know it is something that must be done. Now I just breathe in and out and tackle these assignments one at a time and mark them off my checklist. This may sound crazy, but for some reason the checklists takes away stress as well. When I see things turn green, it's like a little weight has lifted off of my shoulder.
For my own video, I would create an introduction video for this class. Introducing all of the different tools that will be used and explaining what each will be used for. I probably would also add a part 2; which would be a tutorial for some of the assignments that were a little more challenging than others. This will give them an over all idea of just how technologically literate or illiterate (haha) they are. I would also tell them how long these assignments may take and I could never forget to mention the fact that it is paperless. I think a video like this will help to mentally prepare you for this type of class.
Mental Preparation is not enough though! Procrastination is ones biggest enemy in this class. You definitely can not be a Chipper! Chipper was too much. Like most people, she wants the results of great work handed to her. This class is a fine example that once you put your mind to it, you can do great things. I am so proud of my blog, I show it off to all of my friends and family. The best part about sharing is that I can say, "I did this myself". That's the point of the class though because when you do it yourself, you know how to do it for real!
Learn to Change, Change to Learn
This video is about opening doors for students that will better prepare them for college and life. The world around us has been taken over by technology and education needs to jump on the band wagon. There is so much more that can be done in the classroom when you add the technologies of today. I liked this video and agree with its message for education to embrace technology. Personally, I have learned so much from technology in this class. These tools are going to enhance my classroom by 100 percent. My journey in this class has taught me to "change to learn and learn to change."
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Project #9b: Prezi
I enjoyed creating this Prezi. I will definitely use this in my classroom.
Pictures were taken from google.com and videos were taken from You Tube!
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Project #10: PLN Post #1
C4T #2
Comment#1 Dean Shareski posted a blog on June 12th about what he calls the "lurkers". He explained how he has a course much like EDM310 and that lurkers will not be successful. He describes the lurker as the quiet students who usually do well on exams and papers. These students sit back and can not offer much to their other classmates. Dean wants his students to be able to show what they have learned. Like in edm310, it is simply not enough to just spill out information. Can you show others what you have learned?
I commented:
Hi! I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. I have been given the link to your blog as an assignment. This class is much like yours. Lurkers will definitely not get very far in this classroom. We have created blogs and are not given exams either. You can visit mine at here Angyl White's Blog . Since this class, I have come to realize that more and more teachers are leaning towards this form of classroom. As a future educator, I don't really know where I stand. I agree with the idea of technology in the classrooms, I just don't know if I want it to take the place of the "traditional" classroom.In relation to your post, I agree with William Chamberlain in saying that if you make it clear that lurking students will not be successful, then it is completely up to them to be successful in your class. In our case, this class is mandatory so lurkers must put aside these ways to complete the course. Courses like ours teach students to have a voice, prove what you have learned and demonstrate it through writing. This is a great way to open the eyes of lurkers to a new way of learning.
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I commented:
Hi! I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. I have been given the link to your blog as an assignment. This class is much like yours. Lurkers will definitely not get very far in this classroom. We have created blogs and are not given exams either. You can visit mine at here Angyl White's Blog . Since this class, I have come to realize that more and more teachers are leaning towards this form of classroom. As a future educator, I don't really know where I stand. I agree with the idea of technology in the classrooms, I just don't know if I want it to take the place of the "traditional" classroom.In relation to your post, I agree with William Chamberlain in saying that if you make it clear that lurking students will not be successful, then it is completely up to them to be successful in your class. In our case, this class is mandatory so lurkers must put aside these ways to complete the course. Courses like ours teach students to have a voice, prove what you have learned and demonstrate it through writing. This is a great way to open the eyes of lurkers to a new way of learning.
Comment#2 I chose to read Shareski 's post from June 11th. This blog was entitled, "Keeping the "Professionalism" in the Profession". The post argued the importance of not using the word accountability and instead using responsibility. This post also argued the importance of keeping professionalism in the education field. A video was posted on the blog that told of an experiment that was done with 4th grade students. The teachers were given the same curriculum but different directions. One group were given directions that stated, "You are going to be held accountable for raising standards in your classroom." "Your success will be judged on the basis of how well your students do on a test given at the end." The other group of teachers were given these instructions; See if you can facilitate your students' understanding of this material." Needless to say, the first group's students did worse on the test.
I commented:This was a great post that showed how important it is that we keep professionalism in the education field. Teachers are by nature professional and should be treated as such. When teachers feel micromanaged and are given instruction using words such as "accountability" they cannot perform effectively! They begin to be too concerned with data and cannot focus on the student.
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Blog Post #7
The Networked Student
By Wendy Drexler:
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This video is very important for the 21st century educator. It shows exactly what the classroom is turning into. The future classroom is full of blogs, online teachers and networking! It was interesting to see all of the wonderful things that a student can learn to do alone. The networked student is aloud to take control of their education.
With all of the many ways that technology can be used, the networked student is able to experiment and for opinions of his/her own. The networked student creates his/her own PLN with all of the things he/she has learned in class. The best part is, the teacher has not lectured this student. Instead, this student has spent his school days blogging and searching the internet much like we do in EDM310. This kind of learning empowers students to take control of their education.
At the end of the video, the question was asked, "Why does the networked student even need a teacher?" So many great reasons were given. The networked student needs a teacher because she is the one who teaches how to build the network and take advantage of new opportunities. She offers guidance when the student gets stuck. She shows him how to communicate properly and ask respectfully for help from experts. The teacher teaches the student to be organized. There were many other things mentioned about the teacher of a networked student and I agree with them all. It is important that if a classroom is networked the teacher understand all of these responsibilities.
I believe that this idea may work with students over 5th grade, but my elementary students will definitely need a teacher to help them learn the basics!
A 7th Grader's Personal Learning Environment
(PLE)
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A 7th grade student gives a YouTube tour of her Personal Learning Environment. She made organization look very easy. In the beginning of the year she took time out to learn how to navigate and research topics. She used a program called symbaloo and she had so many personal networks all organized. This student used the PLE for her Science class, but I understand that this will be good for any classroom or even office. It is a great way to stay organized! This video had me interested in creating my own PLN! I understand that this project is on the checklist of things to do. I have not yet started, but I can only hope mine will be as good as hers.
Special Assignment
Thomas Suarez: a 12 yr old app developer
This 12 yr old boy created an app! He walked the audience through his steps as if it was nothing. This proves that technology is not as hard as most people try to make it. We just need to dig into it and discover all of the possibilities for creations that it has for us. This video teaches that technology is all around us. It is very similar to the "networked student" and supports the idea that the 21st century is going to need to really be up to date in order to effectively teach his/her students.
By Wendy Drexler:
With all of the many ways that technology can be used, the networked student is able to experiment and for opinions of his/her own. The networked student creates his/her own PLN with all of the things he/she has learned in class. The best part is, the teacher has not lectured this student. Instead, this student has spent his school days blogging and searching the internet much like we do in EDM310. This kind of learning empowers students to take control of their education.
At the end of the video, the question was asked, "Why does the networked student even need a teacher?" So many great reasons were given. The networked student needs a teacher because she is the one who teaches how to build the network and take advantage of new opportunities. She offers guidance when the student gets stuck. She shows him how to communicate properly and ask respectfully for help from experts. The teacher teaches the student to be organized. There were many other things mentioned about the teacher of a networked student and I agree with them all. It is important that if a classroom is networked the teacher understand all of these responsibilities.
I believe that this idea may work with students over 5th grade, but my elementary students will definitely need a teacher to help them learn the basics!
A 7th Grader's Personal Learning Environment
(PLE)
Special Assignment
Thomas Suarez: a 12 yr old app developer
This 12 yr old boy created an app! He walked the audience through his steps as if it was nothing. This proves that technology is not as hard as most people try to make it. We just need to dig into it and discover all of the possibilities for creations that it has for us. This video teaches that technology is all around us. It is very similar to the "networked student" and supports the idea that the 21st century is going to need to really be up to date in order to effectively teach his/her students.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Blog Post #6
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture
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Raundy Pausch was a very inspiring lecturer. During his last lecture he was close to dying and still was able to have a positive attitude about life. This proved so much about his character. He began by saying, "We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." This is so true! Immediately, I learned a lesson for the classroom; it is important to approach life with positive implications.
Randy gave so much information that could be used in the classroom. His ideas and perception about life is amazing! A great teacher would model his ideas. The lecture taught to lead by example in the classroom. If you want a certain behavior to be shown in your classroom, you must example that behavior. Randy spoke on how it was important to be enthusiastic in the class. He stated, "It is better to be a Tigger, then an Eyore!" This idea was supported in the beginning when he was telling about his childhood dreams. Everyone has childhood dreams and he showed how somehow he met all of his childhood dreams in some way or another. This is important because it is imperative that a teacher enables child hood dreams. That will be our job as educators! By critiquing our students we will be enabling their dreams. Randy learned that when you screw up and no one tells you that you have, you are in a bad place because your loving critics have given up on you! We cannot give up on students.
Mr. Pausch learned where to set the bar for students. He understood that no bar should be set but students should know that mediocrity is unacceptable. He came to this conclusion after his first assignment
given to his students. These students gave him work that was well beyond his expectations. This is still a way to enable your students' dreams! By not setting a bar you teach your students that the sky is the limit!
Mr. Pausch has taught so much, but it always goes back to enabling children's dreams. He has great teaching methods that would help any teacher be most effective in the classroom. His main point is to show how important it is to let students dream! You do not set a bar. You allow them to go as far as you know they can go! You do give extra credit and you show the students the benefits they will receive from the extra assignment! Teachers must be honest and trust worthy. Your student has to believe in you! You must critique students. Like Rafe, I beleive that Randy believed failure is good!
The teacher must keep the enthusiasm in the classroom. The teacher must allow the student to dream and the teacher must enable the dream!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Blog Post #5
iSchool Initiative By: Travis Allen
When Travis Allen was 17 he started his iSchool initiative. He had concerns about the public schools because he noticed all of the negative changes in his own high school. He argued that his high school was experiencing massive budget cuts, teachers were being let go,and the classes were getting larger. Travis believes that he has the solution for the education problem in America. He states that, "The public education system is broken and needs to be changed." His solution, the iSchool.
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Travis pointed out great benefits to having the iSchool implemented. The iPhone has email, scientific calculator and even a calendar that could be used for attendance or important due dates for assignments. There are other beneficial apps such as the Constitution, Presidents and WorldWiki applications. This all sounds good and undoubtedly has wonderful benefits but I don't know if I would like to see the entire school system turn into an iSchool. What happens to those students who can not afford the iPhone or who really need that one on one time in a classroom setting with a teacher. Yes, a lot of the students of today have iPhones and Macs but there are still some who do not. I like Travis's thinking but I don't know if it will be a good idea for all students.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir
This was absolutely amazing. It really proves to us the importance of technology. Look at all of the wonderful things that can be done with it. Mr. Whitacre led 185 singers as they song Lux Aurumque. The most unique thing about this choir is that these people were from all over the world and had never met. This video is a must see and takes technology to the next level.
Teaching in the 21st Century
Kevin Roberts poses the question, what does it mean to teach in the 21st century? New technologies are steadily taking over the classroom. What are the roles of the teacher and students? This video says that teachers are no longer the main source of knowledge anymore, we are the filter. As for students, they do not need to be entertained, but they need to be engaged. From this video, I learned that entertainment is passive, short-lived, and doesn't require relevance. Engagement is active and requires learning. Teaching in the 21st century means that we must teach our children to problem solve and think critically. We must teach our students skills and not only facts.
The Flipped Classroom
When Travis Allen was 17 he started his iSchool initiative. He had concerns about the public schools because he noticed all of the negative changes in his own high school. He argued that his high school was experiencing massive budget cuts, teachers were being let go,and the classes were getting larger. Travis believes that he has the solution for the education problem in America. He states that, "The public education system is broken and needs to be changed." His solution, the iSchool.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir
This was absolutely amazing. It really proves to us the importance of technology. Look at all of the wonderful things that can be done with it. Mr. Whitacre led 185 singers as they song Lux Aurumque. The most unique thing about this choir is that these people were from all over the world and had never met. This video is a must see and takes technology to the next level.
Teaching in the 21st Century
Kevin Roberts poses the question, what does it mean to teach in the 21st century? New technologies are steadily taking over the classroom. What are the roles of the teacher and students? This video says that teachers are no longer the main source of knowledge anymore, we are the filter. As for students, they do not need to be entertained, but they need to be engaged. From this video, I learned that entertainment is passive, short-lived, and doesn't require relevance. Engagement is active and requires learning. Teaching in the 21st century means that we must teach our children to problem solve and think critically. We must teach our students skills and not only facts.
The Flipped Classroom
Flipping the classroom is a different approach to teaching. It is a way to spend more time actually applying what has been taught and less time on the lecture. Katie Gimbar realized that after 5 years she had been spending 10% of her time doing the application and the rest of the time was lecture. Flipping the classroom allows the teacher to make instructional videos so that children who needed more lecture time can watch at their own pace. On the other hand, students who grasps concepts faster could be applying what had been learned at their own pace.
Dr. McCammon states that the flipped classroom is a way to combat inefficient, non-engaging lecturing classroom by allowing the students to watch a series of presentations at home that were created by their teachers. This allows for students to work at their own pace. Students can listen to the teacher at home and the teacher can spend more time with application in the classroom.
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Thursday, June 14, 2012
Blog Post #4
The Benefits of Podcasting
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I had never thought of podcasting in a classroom before, but this video has shown me so many benefits for the student and the teacher. Podcasting is a very effective way of interacting with students outside of the classroom. It is especially good for those modern day better known as "millenial" students. It is a form of learning that these students are familiar with therefore it makes the material relevant to them. Students can access the higher order thinking skills in Bloom's taxonomy and it promotes creativity and innovation. It is especially good for absent students like Emily from the video. Podcasting is a great tool! I will definitely try this in my classroom for absent students.
The Practical Principals
This podcast was in the form of a radio talk show. It was a great way for listeners to hear what principals were planning to do in their schools. This keeps the teachers and principals connected. It was also a great way to understand what is going on in schools as far as improvement plans go. This podcast was a way to get inside of the principal's head and understand why these improvement plans are implemented. The radio version of the Podcast further shows how great technology is and all of the wonderful uses it has in education.
Podcast Collection
Judy Scharf gave great insight on Podcasting. I learned that Podcast was really a mixture between ipod and broadcast. A podcast is a "radio-style" talk show. She explained how easy it was and gave the steps for a teacher to succeed. The main thing is to make sure you take the time to learn the equipment that you are using. Judy listed a rubric for grading, a schedule for podcasting and tips and a website to use.
I have been given so much insight on podcasting and will definitely add it among the other technologies that I have read about. This class has definitely shown me what an important role the new technologies are playing in education. I had never looked at technology and education in any of these ways before.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Monday, June 11, 2012
Blog Post #3
Part 1:PEER EDITING
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The videos I watched on Peer editing were all very helpful. They focused on the same ways to successfully edit your peers' comments. The main idea that was constantly pushed was to stay positive! I learned that their are 3 steps to peer editing. The first step is compliments. When peer editing you should make sure to compliment first. The comment should be positive. You should state what you like. The next step is making suggestions. Make suggestions about the peer's word choice, organization, topic and/or sentence structure. Thirdly, when peer editing, make corrections. Remember to be positive and specific when making corrections!
The video, "Writing Peer Review Top 10 Mistakes" was very entertaining. It was a funny way to show the mistakes that are made when peers edit other peer papers. Just like in the previous videos, the greatest thing to remember is to stay positive. Be sure not to be too loud when speaking with peers about their papers; this means whether it is giving a positive comment or making a suggestion. Don't be too picky or too general. Never be a Picky Patty or Mean Margaret!
I was assigned to Keilan Yancey for C4C assignment #2. Keilan's blog was very informative and clear. The reader can tell that he took time to think about what should be said before posting. He took the time to thoroughly watch and understand what was important in each video. He had a few grammatical errors and sentence structure. I had already posted my comment before we watched the "Peer Editing" videos. After these videos, I am comfortable with offering public suggestions. I have decided on public suggestions because I have learned to stay positive and state things that I like as well. By offering suggestions publicly, other readers may use these suggestions as well!
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The videos I watched on Peer editing were all very helpful. They focused on the same ways to successfully edit your peers' comments. The main idea that was constantly pushed was to stay positive! I learned that their are 3 steps to peer editing. The first step is compliments. When peer editing you should make sure to compliment first. The comment should be positive. You should state what you like. The next step is making suggestions. Make suggestions about the peer's word choice, organization, topic and/or sentence structure. Thirdly, when peer editing, make corrections. Remember to be positive and specific when making corrections!
The video, "Writing Peer Review Top 10 Mistakes" was very entertaining. It was a funny way to show the mistakes that are made when peers edit other peer papers. Just like in the previous videos, the greatest thing to remember is to stay positive. Be sure not to be too loud when speaking with peers about their papers; this means whether it is giving a positive comment or making a suggestion. Don't be too picky or too general. Never be a Picky Patty or Mean Margaret!
I was assigned to Keilan Yancey for C4C assignment #2. Keilan's blog was very informative and clear. The reader can tell that he took time to think about what should be said before posting. He took the time to thoroughly watch and understand what was important in each video. He had a few grammatical errors and sentence structure. I had already posted my comment before we watched the "Peer Editing" videos. After these videos, I am comfortable with offering public suggestions. I have decided on public suggestions because I have learned to stay positive and state things that I like as well. By offering suggestions publicly, other readers may use these suggestions as well!
This video shows that technology plays a huge role in the way that teachers interact with special education students. I was unaware that these technologies were being used in these classrooms. The technologies made the learning and teaching much easier on the student and the teacher. The technologies make the special needs student more dependent and allows them to work at their own pace. The st enjoy the students' seem to really enjoy these benefits. One of the students even typed how much much easier it was for him to complete assignments on his laptop.
These technologies allow the special education opportunities that they would not normally have. In my classroom, the ipod audio books would be a huge help. It would allow for the special education student to complete silent reading and still be among his/her classmates. I had never thought of using technology in a special education classroom. After this video, I think the use of the new technologies may be more important in the special education class.
APPLE.EDUCATIONAPPS.COM
In the app store, I found an app called "Intro to Letters". This app will be great with working with special needs students, especially those who have a hard time with reading. On this app, students learn to trace, read, write and record letter sounds, names based on the proven methodology of Montessori. The application will be helpful because it will turn learning into a game. To me, reading is the foundation for everything and I look forward to being able to use an application like this in my classroom.
It would improve learning. It can be used during the actual lesson or as an incentive. Students' love when they can finish their work early to use the technologies around the classroom. This application will keep the attention of the student and reinforce what has been learned. It will be a great asset to my classroom!
by Vicki Davis
Vicki Davis is a teacher in a rural city in Georgia. She believes in using all of today's latest technologies to interact with and teach her students. She has her students connected with other students from all around the world and has given them new perspectives. Vicki has the idea that every student can learn. By using technology it allows all of the students to be involved, learn and share and not only the ones who are good at test taking or writing well.
I liked how she almost forced students to learn by introducing them to google and advising that they use it. This shows how important google is in the classroom. Students almost always rely on the teacher to show them everything. Vicki wants her students to learn how to learn things for themselves. With the technology of today, students do not need to wait for the teacher to "teach" them everything!
C4T#1
Comment #1 I am following Ms. White's blog. She is a resource teacher and very interested in thinking outside of the box. She blogged about the importance of everyone (students and teachers) learning from each other. She does not settle for the traditional classroom but rather a more non traditional environment where the students have more control. I commented: It was very inspiring to see teachers like you who are actually interested in helping children develop to their full abilities. The little girl seems so delightful. I would love to teach and learn from her. She is an inspiration to me as well. After reading this, I now understand that we all (students and teachers) can learn from each other. It is important that we as teachers look at the big picture when approaching a learning environment. We need a plan and should understand that students’ prior knowledge is just as important as what we need for them to learn.
Comment#2 The title of this blog was "Listening is not Enough"! This blog was about how important it is to give your students a voice. Ms. White blogged about all of the students she has encountered who are concerned with problems all around the world. She gave 2 of her students notebooks in which they could discuss their concerns with her. The children were elated! I commented:The title of this blog was "Listening is not Enough"!
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Comment#2 The title of this blog was "Listening is not Enough"! This blog was about how important it is to give your students a voice. Ms. White blogged about all of the students she has encountered who are concerned with problems all around the world. She gave 2 of her students notebooks in which they could discuss their concerns with her. The children were elated! I commented:The title of this blog was "Listening is not Enough"!
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