Thursday, December 6, 2012
Final Reflection
I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. EDM 310 has been a wonderful experience and I plan to include everything I learned in my own classroom.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Project 13
For our group presentation, the ABC group used Google docs and Skype. I never used Google docs until I starting taking EDM 310. Google docs is a great tool that allows me to compose a document and then share with others in the group. I thought it was great not having to email a document every time we made a change, but with Google docs we were able to add information while seeing what others were doing. We used Skype to discuss things that were too long to text if we were working on the project at the same time. Skype is a great tool as well that allows us to communicate, and we could even share the screen with one another while we were working. Since using Google Docs, I hardly ever use Microsoft word, because I do not have to worry with the hassle of keeping up with a flash drive. With Google Doc, I can access the document at work, and it will automatically save everything I type without me having to click save after everything I write. We also use text and Gmail to communicate back and forth to clarify any misunderstandings or schedule dates to meet. I am eager to play with and learn other programs Google has to offer.
Project 15
The ABC group composed a Smartboard presentation for 3rd graders on multiplication and division.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
C4T #4
The Missing Link
Doug Patterson is an instructor at the University of Windsor who teaches Computer Studies. Patterson has taught data processing, accountant, and mathematics at the secondary level. Patterson wrote an article about why tablets are so significant and what is the big deal of tablets if you cannot do everything on a tablet. Patterson mentions when he was in high school how typing was considered computer class and beneficial, but now children have auto-text and typing is insignificant. Patterson does not dismiss the fact that tablets do come in handy and can be used for small task, but still question if tablets are considered a tool for larger task because most tablets does not have a type of word document.
After reading the post, some of Patterson's ideas were similar to my own concerns. I love tablets and find them very useful when wanting to surf the web, read a book or listen to music. However, as Patterson mentions tablets are not great devices for typing papers or blogging, so what is the big deal. If someone purchase a tablet, which I am guility of, then why not just purchase a mini laptop or netbook, that has documents for composing writing assignments or composing a lengthy blog. Tablets and iPads are great tools to use in the classroom to assist learning in the classroom, but I believe if they are going to cost as much as a laptop, then tablets should allow a person to compose documents and blog easily.
Got 20 Minutes
Three of the Most Important 21st Century Skills
Patterson shares a video by Ken Kay on how children should be critical thinkers, problem solvers, creative, and innovative. Kay explains how children in the 21st century should be able to think outside the box and given the chance to show their creativity. Kay starts his presentation by introducing each of his three children and telling a story about how his children were allowed to think outside the box. Kay believes that in the near future students will be required to think critically and apply critical thinking skills and problem solving instead of mote memorization. Kay also shares a picture of a butterfly drawn by a first grader that a teacher does not give the child any directions, but seven other students to guide the child to drawing the perfect picture of an artist. The child collaborated with the other members in his group to finish the assignment, just as students in the 21st century do with blogging and Wikis. Kay suggest that teachers, administrators, parents and the community should create a school environment that allows students to think critically, become self-directed, creative and innovative students that can communicate and collaborate with others. If children are skilled in each attribute, then they will be ready for the 21st century.
I enjoyed Kay's video and agreed with every attribute he suggest children should have to be successful in the 21st century. Most students memorize information in order to pass a test; however, memorizing information in the 21st century will not get students anywhere. In order for students to be successful in the 21st century, students must be able to think critically and solve problems instead of memorizing information. The 21st century is a world of technology where students will have to be self-directed because no one is going supervise a child all day to make sure they are doing what they are suppose to be doing. If a person cannot be self-directed or collaborate with others on a job, that person will not be employed long. Parents, administrators, teachers, and the community should work together to make sure we are preparing children to be successful in this challenging world.
Doug Patterson is an instructor at the University of Windsor who teaches Computer Studies. Patterson has taught data processing, accountant, and mathematics at the secondary level. Patterson wrote an article about why tablets are so significant and what is the big deal of tablets if you cannot do everything on a tablet. Patterson mentions when he was in high school how typing was considered computer class and beneficial, but now children have auto-text and typing is insignificant. Patterson does not dismiss the fact that tablets do come in handy and can be used for small task, but still question if tablets are considered a tool for larger task because most tablets does not have a type of word document.
After reading the post, some of Patterson's ideas were similar to my own concerns. I love tablets and find them very useful when wanting to surf the web, read a book or listen to music. However, as Patterson mentions tablets are not great devices for typing papers or blogging, so what is the big deal. If someone purchase a tablet, which I am guility of, then why not just purchase a mini laptop or netbook, that has documents for composing writing assignments or composing a lengthy blog. Tablets and iPads are great tools to use in the classroom to assist learning in the classroom, but I believe if they are going to cost as much as a laptop, then tablets should allow a person to compose documents and blog easily.
Got 20 Minutes
Three of the Most Important 21st Century Skills
Patterson shares a video by Ken Kay on how children should be critical thinkers, problem solvers, creative, and innovative. Kay explains how children in the 21st century should be able to think outside the box and given the chance to show their creativity. Kay starts his presentation by introducing each of his three children and telling a story about how his children were allowed to think outside the box. Kay believes that in the near future students will be required to think critically and apply critical thinking skills and problem solving instead of mote memorization. Kay also shares a picture of a butterfly drawn by a first grader that a teacher does not give the child any directions, but seven other students to guide the child to drawing the perfect picture of an artist. The child collaborated with the other members in his group to finish the assignment, just as students in the 21st century do with blogging and Wikis. Kay suggest that teachers, administrators, parents and the community should create a school environment that allows students to think critically, become self-directed, creative and innovative students that can communicate and collaborate with others. If children are skilled in each attribute, then they will be ready for the 21st century.
I enjoyed Kay's video and agreed with every attribute he suggest children should have to be successful in the 21st century. Most students memorize information in order to pass a test; however, memorizing information in the 21st century will not get students anywhere. In order for students to be successful in the 21st century, students must be able to think critically and solve problems instead of memorizing information. The 21st century is a world of technology where students will have to be self-directed because no one is going supervise a child all day to make sure they are doing what they are suppose to be doing. If a person cannot be self-directed or collaborate with others on a job, that person will not be employed long. Parents, administrators, teachers, and the community should work together to make sure we are preparing children to be successful in this challenging world.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Final PLN
PLN are great and is something I plan using in my own classroom. I found PLNs very helpful for school and personal uses as well.
Blog Assignment 13
A Vision of Students Today
A Vision of Students Today tells the story of a typical college student. When you walk into a university classroom, what do you see? Yes, you will see graffiti on the walls and chairs from previous students who sat there and were bored. After the first couple of meetings, you will also see empty seats from students who came the first three or four meetings to get a feel of what to expect from the teacher. Then, if you actually stay to hear the lecture what do you see with the students that actually stay in class? If the teacher were to walk around, they would see students on Facebook, twitter, texting, doodling, or even sleeping. Why is it that college students pay their money to come to class to be on social media sites, text or even sleep in class?
We live in a technology world and the mere thought of coming to class and listening to a professor lecture exactly what is a textbook, is absurd. What is the purpose of even coming to class when I can read on my own with the $200 textbook that I can download online 75% cheaper? Not only do the professors require these expensive textbooks, but also half of the professors never use them. The professor comes in and may say, "Wow, half the class decided to take a short vacation," but I wonder why. Why should I come to your class when you do not even know my name after seven meetings, but you still want me to come to your class and let you tell me what I have already read the night before? Instead of lecturing to me let me be engaged in my own education, I have been lectured to for thirteen years. However, I do not need to come to a university to pay over $5,000 per year to hear you tell me what I can read on my own or to tell me things that will be outdated by the time I graduate. Please allow me the chance to make a difference through blogging and collaborating. If I am given the chance, the product of my blogs and collaboration will speak for itself. However, as a professor, you should serve as my coach if I need help along the way.
A Vision of Students Today is a video created by Kansas State University that tells a story from the student’s point of view. This video could be a tool to inform professors and the university president, that it is time for a change. For a four-year degree, students pay at least $20,000 and more than half of the students are in debt by the end of graduation. The students are expressing how they feel about buying expensive textbooks that are only used once or twice, however, some are not used at all, but they have to be purchased in order to receive a passing grade. The video could also be an outcry for teachers, professors, or presidents of universities to realize college students need as much as interaction as other students in class. College students have sat in their seats long enough, listening to lectures, but they come to college for some hands on experience in their field of study. College is a place to get students prepared for the job sector, but how are they preparing students for the job sector without the interaction; therefore, this video is a campaign for a better education and learning environment for students.
Upon graduating high school, I thought I was finish sitting in a desk five days a week listening to a teacher talk about the chapter of the week, but I was wrong. When I walked in my first college classroom, I was shocked. The classroom had desks, and the teacher stood in front of the class and lectured just like in high school. Students should not have to take out loans to pay for an education to listen to teachers read items directly from a power point, but instead pay to get hands own experiences. Colleges and universities should integrate an environment where students are learning new things through experiences and being actively involved in the learning process.
A Vision of Students Today tells the story of a typical college student. When you walk into a university classroom, what do you see? Yes, you will see graffiti on the walls and chairs from previous students who sat there and were bored. After the first couple of meetings, you will also see empty seats from students who came the first three or four meetings to get a feel of what to expect from the teacher. Then, if you actually stay to hear the lecture what do you see with the students that actually stay in class? If the teacher were to walk around, they would see students on Facebook, twitter, texting, doodling, or even sleeping. Why is it that college students pay their money to come to class to be on social media sites, text or even sleep in class?
We live in a technology world and the mere thought of coming to class and listening to a professor lecture exactly what is a textbook, is absurd. What is the purpose of even coming to class when I can read on my own with the $200 textbook that I can download online 75% cheaper? Not only do the professors require these expensive textbooks, but also half of the professors never use them. The professor comes in and may say, "Wow, half the class decided to take a short vacation," but I wonder why. Why should I come to your class when you do not even know my name after seven meetings, but you still want me to come to your class and let you tell me what I have already read the night before? Instead of lecturing to me let me be engaged in my own education, I have been lectured to for thirteen years. However, I do not need to come to a university to pay over $5,000 per year to hear you tell me what I can read on my own or to tell me things that will be outdated by the time I graduate. Please allow me the chance to make a difference through blogging and collaborating. If I am given the chance, the product of my blogs and collaboration will speak for itself. However, as a professor, you should serve as my coach if I need help along the way.
A Vision of Students Today is a video created by Kansas State University that tells a story from the student’s point of view. This video could be a tool to inform professors and the university president, that it is time for a change. For a four-year degree, students pay at least $20,000 and more than half of the students are in debt by the end of graduation. The students are expressing how they feel about buying expensive textbooks that are only used once or twice, however, some are not used at all, but they have to be purchased in order to receive a passing grade. The video could also be an outcry for teachers, professors, or presidents of universities to realize college students need as much as interaction as other students in class. College students have sat in their seats long enough, listening to lectures, but they come to college for some hands on experience in their field of study. College is a place to get students prepared for the job sector, but how are they preparing students for the job sector without the interaction; therefore, this video is a campaign for a better education and learning environment for students.
Upon graduating high school, I thought I was finish sitting in a desk five days a week listening to a teacher talk about the chapter of the week, but I was wrong. When I walked in my first college classroom, I was shocked. The classroom had desks, and the teacher stood in front of the class and lectured just like in high school. Students should not have to take out loans to pay for an education to listen to teachers read items directly from a power point, but instead pay to get hands own experiences. Colleges and universities should integrate an environment where students are learning new things through experiences and being actively involved in the learning process.
C4K for the month of November
Schylar's Post C4K #8
Schylar is an eighth grader in Mr. Boylen's class in Iowa. Schylar read The Boy Who Owned the School, which is about a boy who was left out in school, and parents shows favoritism toward his sister. The boy was considered a geek and was failing a class, so his teacher allowed him to create a play. The student creates a play of what he would do if he owned the school. From reading Schylar post, he did not enjoy the book as much as he thought he would, but he said the book was okay.
C4K #9 Ibjoseph
Joseph is a ninth grader at Robertsdale High School in Mr. Cometti world history class. Joseph wrote a post on what Veteran’s Day mean to him and who he considers his hero and why. Joseph explains that we celebrate Veteran's Day because of the past and present military men and women that risk their lives so that we can be free. Unlike most children that have cartoon figures as their hero, Joseph's heroes are veterans because they defend our country. I loved Joseph's post because it was well written and the topic is something that I hold dear to my heart.
C4K #10, Daphane Student's trip to Montgomery
Students from Daphne East Elementary in Ms. Nelson and Ms. Yim class took a trip to Montgomery to visit the Old Alabama Town, which was a reenactment of things in Alabama in early years. The students also got a chance to tour the State Capital and the State house. The students created a short movie of the things they saw. I was assigned to watch the video the students created at the Old Alabama Town. The students shared pictures of the old cotton gin, the print shop, and an old slave home. The students also shared information they learned about each place they saw. Several students were given a chance to say something and they did a great job of creating the video. The students no doubt created the video in iMovie, but showed exceptional skills by adding the music in the background and giving the video an old time feeling by using the chalkboard. I was extremely impressed with the video and pictures the students shared.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Final Project Progress
The final project is to decide from three options, 1. Gather old assignments and edit them, 2. Create a video that will help students in EDM 310, and 3. Create a video as a fundraiser for USA 50th anniversary. My group and I have decided to create option 2, where we will create a video to help students in the future in EDM 310. My group has finish writing the script and has made the props that will be used when we record. We have decided to do option B, where we inform students of EDM 310. We plan to record our video the week of November 26.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Blog Assignment 12
How will you teach me in the 21st Century?
Watch the video by Melinda Kraft a student obtaining her Master degree in Education Media and Design Technology.
Watch Engage Me. The video was made by students at Robin Hood Primary School in Birmingham. Then in a blog post answer the question from How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and explain why 21st century children should be taught differently. Keep in mind what you saw in Engage Me. Follow the requirements in Writing a Quality Blog Post
As an elementary school teacher you never know what subject you are teaching. Watch How to Use iPad in the classroom and explain how using iPad in your classroom will be beneficial as a teacher and student. You should also include at least two apps you can use in an inclusion classroom.
After commenting on the C4C that was assigned, I know understand that I was to not only construct an assignment, but I had to do the assignment. I guess I overlooked that part in the instructions, but the assignment is below. As teachers we always emphasis how important it is to read the directions fully and clearly, however, I am guilty of not reading the entire directions.
How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and Engage Me
As a teacher in the 21st century, I plan to integrate technology in the classroom because a child in 21st century world revolves around technology. I will start by teaching children the appropriate uses of technology in the classroom and teach students how important technology is in the classroom. Children need to understand that social media are not meant to degrade one another, but could be used to help them communicate effectively and become a scholar in writing. When students understand blogging, Wikis and PLN, then they will understand how important it is to collaborate and share information with others. Children will enjoy communicating globally through the tools that technology allows and collaborate with others around the world. Children see how most of the older generation welcome technology with open arms, but when the children enter the classroom they are bombarded with paper and pencil work and is not able to see how technology can be used in the class. How do we explain the elderly using technology at home, but the place where children are sent to learn cannot integrate technology in the classroom? Teachers use technology every day whether it is for emailing, looking up assignments or sending the attendance, but they refuse or never give the students the opportunity to enhance through technology. We as teachers must do better and allow student to use technology.
Teaching in the 21st century is definitely different from what teachers is use to in early years. If someone wants to become a teacher in the 21st century, they must ask themselves if they are ready to arise to the challenge of being technology literate. Inspiring teaching has to be technology literate, but they also have to be willing to allow students to express their creativity and enhance their learning through technology. Today children live in a world that revolves around technology and in order to reach the 21st century learner, we as educators, have to integrate technology in the classroom. Teachers should not be afraid to try new things because the 21st century learner needs teachers that are willing to stand behind them and coach them when in need. Children use technology every day, and if we teach them the correct way to use the technology in the classroom, then we would be effectively educating them to express themselves through technology. Many teachers are so caught up in only using technology as a fun project, but if technology is integrated in every assignment, it is still considered learning. Learning does not have to be boring, but that is what many teachers and administrators think. Teachers and administrators think if students are using technology the entire class then they are not learning, but they are DEAD WRONG, they are learning.
How to Use iPad in the classroom
Using technology in my classroom would be beneficial as a teacher because it allows me to see how the students are thinking and if the child is learning. If I am able to monitor the students through technology, I can see where they made a mistake, and they will be able to ask a question. If a student has a question instead of having to raise their hand, the student can message me secretly and ask the question, also allowing me to see where they need to be remediated. As the videos How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and Engage Me shows, students are around technology every day, therefore, using technology in the classroom allows them to use what they know best and learn the proper way to use it in the classroom. Technology can serve as an electronic portfolio for the child, teacher, and parent to see the progress of the child’s work. However, if I was to teach an inclusion class, I would first see which subjects the child needs remediation and then I would find apps for the iPad to fit their remediation. Two apps I could use for math and language arts are Motion Math: Hungry Fish, which is an interactive math game and Word Wizard is an app that helps students with spelling.
Watch the video by Melinda Kraft a student obtaining her Master degree in Education Media and Design Technology.
Watch Engage Me. The video was made by students at Robin Hood Primary School in Birmingham. Then in a blog post answer the question from How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and explain why 21st century children should be taught differently. Keep in mind what you saw in Engage Me. Follow the requirements in Writing a Quality Blog Post
As an elementary school teacher you never know what subject you are teaching. Watch How to Use iPad in the classroom and explain how using iPad in your classroom will be beneficial as a teacher and student. You should also include at least two apps you can use in an inclusion classroom.
After commenting on the C4C that was assigned, I know understand that I was to not only construct an assignment, but I had to do the assignment. I guess I overlooked that part in the instructions, but the assignment is below. As teachers we always emphasis how important it is to read the directions fully and clearly, however, I am guilty of not reading the entire directions.
How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and Engage Me
As a teacher in the 21st century, I plan to integrate technology in the classroom because a child in 21st century world revolves around technology. I will start by teaching children the appropriate uses of technology in the classroom and teach students how important technology is in the classroom. Children need to understand that social media are not meant to degrade one another, but could be used to help them communicate effectively and become a scholar in writing. When students understand blogging, Wikis and PLN, then they will understand how important it is to collaborate and share information with others. Children will enjoy communicating globally through the tools that technology allows and collaborate with others around the world. Children see how most of the older generation welcome technology with open arms, but when the children enter the classroom they are bombarded with paper and pencil work and is not able to see how technology can be used in the class. How do we explain the elderly using technology at home, but the place where children are sent to learn cannot integrate technology in the classroom? Teachers use technology every day whether it is for emailing, looking up assignments or sending the attendance, but they refuse or never give the students the opportunity to enhance through technology. We as teachers must do better and allow student to use technology.
Teaching in the 21st century is definitely different from what teachers is use to in early years. If someone wants to become a teacher in the 21st century, they must ask themselves if they are ready to arise to the challenge of being technology literate. Inspiring teaching has to be technology literate, but they also have to be willing to allow students to express their creativity and enhance their learning through technology. Today children live in a world that revolves around technology and in order to reach the 21st century learner, we as educators, have to integrate technology in the classroom. Teachers should not be afraid to try new things because the 21st century learner needs teachers that are willing to stand behind them and coach them when in need. Children use technology every day, and if we teach them the correct way to use the technology in the classroom, then we would be effectively educating them to express themselves through technology. Many teachers are so caught up in only using technology as a fun project, but if technology is integrated in every assignment, it is still considered learning. Learning does not have to be boring, but that is what many teachers and administrators think. Teachers and administrators think if students are using technology the entire class then they are not learning, but they are DEAD WRONG, they are learning.
How to Use iPad in the classroom
Using technology in my classroom would be beneficial as a teacher because it allows me to see how the students are thinking and if the child is learning. If I am able to monitor the students through technology, I can see where they made a mistake, and they will be able to ask a question. If a student has a question instead of having to raise their hand, the student can message me secretly and ask the question, also allowing me to see where they need to be remediated. As the videos How will you teach me in the 21st Century? and Engage Me shows, students are around technology every day, therefore, using technology in the classroom allows them to use what they know best and learn the proper way to use it in the classroom. Technology can serve as an electronic portfolio for the child, teacher, and parent to see the progress of the child’s work. However, if I was to teach an inclusion class, I would first see which subjects the child needs remediation and then I would find apps for the iPad to fit their remediation. Two apps I could use for math and language arts are Motion Math: Hungry Fish, which is an interactive math game and Word Wizard is an app that helps students with spelling.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Blog Assignment 11
Little Kids....Big Potential
Ms. Kathy Cassidy is a first grade teacher in Canada that has introduced a new way of teaching. Ms. Cassidy's first graders are using smart boards, blogging, composing wikis and communicating with children all over the world by using technology. Blogs are used to help students with reading and writing, and they are able to get feedback from others on the blogs the students post. Ms. Cassidy uses blogs as an electronic portfolio as documentation of the students progress throughout the year. The students are taught internet etiquette in which they should never say anything mean or degrading. The students are also taught how to protect themselves online by only using their first name and not posting pictures with their name. The students are also introduced to Skype as a mode of communication with others. Ms. Cassidy even allows students to use Nintendo DS in the classroom that help students with reading; however, the DS allowed first graders to use problem solving and learn how to work together.
Dr. Strange's Spring 2011 class interviewed Ms. Cassidy on Skype. Ms. Cassidy informed the class that she started using technology about ten years ago because she was given five computers. After Ms. Cassidy was given computers, she wanted to make use of the computers; therefore, she researched ways to integrate technology in her classroom. Ms. Cassidy also wrote a grant to buy other software to assist her with changing the way she taught. Technology has allowed first graders to use blogging and networking through the internet. The EDM 310 students were informed from Ms. Cassidy point of view of why teachers should be computer literate. Ms. Cassidy believes every teacher should be computer literate because technology is not going anywhere. She also suggests that teachers should develop their own network and learn different ways to integrate technology in the classroom. Ms. Cassidy also believes that educators should embrace technology and not use the same teaching methods that have worked in previous years. Teachers should use technology today because children lives revolve around technology and is an alternative to lecturing all day. According to Ms. Cassidy, teachers are handicapping students by not incorporating technology in the classroom.
Ms. Cassidy shared some valuable information in both her article and the Skype interview with Dr. Strange's class. I was impressed how children were blogging at first grade and already knew how to create web pages. I wish every teacher would recognize the potential children could have if technology were a part of the classroom. If students blog, then teachers would not have to worry about sending graded papers home every week, instead parents could go to their child's blog to see their progress. Blogs also allow students to reflect on how well their writing has improved throughout the school year without having to keep up with all the paper assignments. At first I could not even think of children as young as first grade being able to blog until reading Ms. Cassidy's blog, watching the Skype interview, and being in EDM 310. Today's society revolves around technology so why not allow children to learn how valuable technology could be in the classroom. However, with everything that I have learned about integrating technology in the classroom, I would have never thought Nintendo DS could be used in the classroom. I had no idea some of the simplest game devices could be used in the classroom. Therefore, there should be no excuse of why teachers cannot incorporate technology in the classroom because almost every child has a kind of hand-held game device. For the children that do not have a Nintendo DS, PSP or other game, school should purchase a set instead of wasting money on textbooks that are hardly ever used in the classroom. Until schools realize the way children were taught in past is not successful for the children today, then nothing will ever change, but it is up to the educators to inform those who do not understand how powerful technology is in the class. Let's not handicap our students, but equip our students for tomorrow.
Ms. Kathy Cassidy is a first grade teacher in Canada that has introduced a new way of teaching. Ms. Cassidy's first graders are using smart boards, blogging, composing wikis and communicating with children all over the world by using technology. Blogs are used to help students with reading and writing, and they are able to get feedback from others on the blogs the students post. Ms. Cassidy uses blogs as an electronic portfolio as documentation of the students progress throughout the year. The students are taught internet etiquette in which they should never say anything mean or degrading. The students are also taught how to protect themselves online by only using their first name and not posting pictures with their name. The students are also introduced to Skype as a mode of communication with others. Ms. Cassidy even allows students to use Nintendo DS in the classroom that help students with reading; however, the DS allowed first graders to use problem solving and learn how to work together.
Dr. Strange's Spring 2011 class interviewed Ms. Cassidy on Skype. Ms. Cassidy informed the class that she started using technology about ten years ago because she was given five computers. After Ms. Cassidy was given computers, she wanted to make use of the computers; therefore, she researched ways to integrate technology in her classroom. Ms. Cassidy also wrote a grant to buy other software to assist her with changing the way she taught. Technology has allowed first graders to use blogging and networking through the internet. The EDM 310 students were informed from Ms. Cassidy point of view of why teachers should be computer literate. Ms. Cassidy believes every teacher should be computer literate because technology is not going anywhere. She also suggests that teachers should develop their own network and learn different ways to integrate technology in the classroom. Ms. Cassidy also believes that educators should embrace technology and not use the same teaching methods that have worked in previous years. Teachers should use technology today because children lives revolve around technology and is an alternative to lecturing all day. According to Ms. Cassidy, teachers are handicapping students by not incorporating technology in the classroom.
Ms. Cassidy shared some valuable information in both her article and the Skype interview with Dr. Strange's class. I was impressed how children were blogging at first grade and already knew how to create web pages. I wish every teacher would recognize the potential children could have if technology were a part of the classroom. If students blog, then teachers would not have to worry about sending graded papers home every week, instead parents could go to their child's blog to see their progress. Blogs also allow students to reflect on how well their writing has improved throughout the school year without having to keep up with all the paper assignments. At first I could not even think of children as young as first grade being able to blog until reading Ms. Cassidy's blog, watching the Skype interview, and being in EDM 310. Today's society revolves around technology so why not allow children to learn how valuable technology could be in the classroom. However, with everything that I have learned about integrating technology in the classroom, I would have never thought Nintendo DS could be used in the classroom. I had no idea some of the simplest game devices could be used in the classroom. Therefore, there should be no excuse of why teachers cannot incorporate technology in the classroom because almost every child has a kind of hand-held game device. For the children that do not have a Nintendo DS, PSP or other game, school should purchase a set instead of wasting money on textbooks that are hardly ever used in the classroom. Until schools realize the way children were taught in past is not successful for the children today, then nothing will ever change, but it is up to the educators to inform those who do not understand how powerful technology is in the class. Let's not handicap our students, but equip our students for tomorrow.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Special Blog Assignment
A world where grades will be left behind
Mary Beth Marklin, journalist from USA Today, interviewed several people to get their input of how they envision the world 30 years from today. Sebastian Thurn is forty-five year old vice president of Google, creator of Google’s ‘driverless car’, and professor at the Stanford University in California. Thurn wants to 'revolutionize education' with technology by making learning as fun as playing a video game. Thurn got the idea to change education how we know it today because of the success of his free online course on artificial intelligence, enrolling as many as 160,000 students. When asked how does he see education in 30 years, Thurn replies that he sees education involved in a more intense challenge of exercises and quizzes that will test the students on how well they understand the concepts. Thurn wants to make online classes just as affordable as a cellphone bill. Thurn also believes grades are one reason the education system is failing. However, with Thurn's plan, students will be allowed to take as much time as possible to complete and master assignments with free instructions, but a small fee may apply for certifications and exams. Thurn's vision is to reach every student not just the students that want to learn.
Listening to the next 30 years, I am amazed at how far technology has come, but am even more amazed of how others envision technology in the near future. Thurn's initiative to 'revolutionize education' is also impressive, and some of his reform on education reminds me of Randy Paucsh's ideas in the Last Lecture. Thurn’s plan is to provide a free education, but what puzzles my mind is who will pick up the expense for the free education because nothing is free. Thurn's ideas sound great because the education system is a wreck and needs to be fixed; also, the education system needs to integrate technology in the classroom. I also agree that education should be fun because most children are so bored in the classroom to the point where they begin to act out; therefore, teachers should engage the students. If the students are engaged, then they will understand the concepts and will be able to apply what they have learned. Flipping the classroom will also be a great start because it allows students to preview the lesson before class and allows the teacher to assist the lower learners while the advance learners can work on challenging lessons. The subject on grades was also unique because students would not be issued grades; therefore, allowing students all the time they need to master an assignment. However, I would like to know what approach a teacher will take if the student prolongs the assignment. Overall, I believe the next 30 years will be mind boggling, especially for the people today that still do not believe technology should be in the classroom. However, in the next 30 years, I hope everyone has jumped on the technology bandwagon and find using beneficial for our students to be successful in this competitive world.
Mary Beth Marklin, journalist from USA Today, interviewed several people to get their input of how they envision the world 30 years from today. Sebastian Thurn is forty-five year old vice president of Google, creator of Google’s ‘driverless car’, and professor at the Stanford University in California. Thurn wants to 'revolutionize education' with technology by making learning as fun as playing a video game. Thurn got the idea to change education how we know it today because of the success of his free online course on artificial intelligence, enrolling as many as 160,000 students. When asked how does he see education in 30 years, Thurn replies that he sees education involved in a more intense challenge of exercises and quizzes that will test the students on how well they understand the concepts. Thurn wants to make online classes just as affordable as a cellphone bill. Thurn also believes grades are one reason the education system is failing. However, with Thurn's plan, students will be allowed to take as much time as possible to complete and master assignments with free instructions, but a small fee may apply for certifications and exams. Thurn's vision is to reach every student not just the students that want to learn.
Listening to the next 30 years, I am amazed at how far technology has come, but am even more amazed of how others envision technology in the near future. Thurn's initiative to 'revolutionize education' is also impressive, and some of his reform on education reminds me of Randy Paucsh's ideas in the Last Lecture. Thurn’s plan is to provide a free education, but what puzzles my mind is who will pick up the expense for the free education because nothing is free. Thurn's ideas sound great because the education system is a wreck and needs to be fixed; also, the education system needs to integrate technology in the classroom. I also agree that education should be fun because most children are so bored in the classroom to the point where they begin to act out; therefore, teachers should engage the students. If the students are engaged, then they will understand the concepts and will be able to apply what they have learned. Flipping the classroom will also be a great start because it allows students to preview the lesson before class and allows the teacher to assist the lower learners while the advance learners can work on challenging lessons. The subject on grades was also unique because students would not be issued grades; therefore, allowing students all the time they need to master an assignment. However, I would like to know what approach a teacher will take if the student prolongs the assignment. Overall, I believe the next 30 years will be mind boggling, especially for the people today that still do not believe technology should be in the classroom. However, in the next 30 years, I hope everyone has jumped on the technology bandwagon and find using beneficial for our students to be successful in this competitive world.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
C4K for the month of October
Airborne954 C4K #3
Airborne 954 is a fourth grader at Union Pleasant Elementary in Hamburg, New York. Airborne 954 wrote an essay comparing and contrasting cats and dogs. The student told the how cats are related or evolved from the saber tooth tiger and dogs are related to the wolf. The student goes on to tell how the cat and dog became domesticated animals. Airborne essay was very well written, and he stated that his favorite animal was a dog.
The Age of Exploration Blog, Group Work
The post on group work was written by a 10th grade student in Modern World History. Themcpatrick outlines how to have a better attitude when working in groups with others. When working with others you either get good or bad group members. Often, you spend most of you time wondering what each person should do and how you should tell other group members you do not like their ideas. Themcpatrick suggest 7 things that could help group projects flow smoothly.
1. Make a plan, so that you know what you are doing.
2. Don't spend a lot of time researching in beginning, find general topics.
3. Break longer assignments into smaller assignments.
4. Don't try and change personalities, check yourself for attitudes or problems, and include everyone that wants to be involved in the assignment.
5. Don't wait until someone make a decision. Waiting wastes times, you should make a decision and explain it.
6. Don't let artistic abilities be the main focus of the project.
7. Communication, communication, communication.
The most important rule wh en working together is "COMMUNICATION", because with communication the entire assignment would be a total failure.
C4K on Kyah
Kyah is a fifth grader in Mrs. Goerends's class. Kyah is a new soccer player at Vision Soccer Academy. Kyah is on the select soccer team and her soccer coaches are Victor and Ashley. Soccer is a favorite sport of Kyah's and she likes to be competitive with Zea.
C4K on Kara
Kara is a fourth grader in Danielle Spencer's class in Canada. Kara shares an animoto she has created of pictures in Canada. Kara shares some beautiful pictures of the animals and landforms of Canada. Below is the animoto that Kara made. Canadian Shield
Special Edition C4k Trinity College and Book of Kells
The Trinity College and Book of Kells blog are from two professors Dr.Vitulli and Dr. Santolli from the University of Alabama in Ireland on an international conference in education. Dr. Vitulli added pictures of Trinity College, which was founded by Queen Elizabeth because she wanted the Protestant men to have a better education. Dr. Vitulli also added a picture of Ireland's library where they have the Book of Kells manuscripts and one of the manuscripts was written in calfskin, which is known as vellum. From answering the questions in Dr. Vitulli’s post, I learned that author Jonathon Swift and journalist Robert Fisch attended Trinity College. I enjoyed the pictures and educational facts Dr. Vitulli shared and I am looking forward to looking at the other post by Dr. Vitulli and Dr. Santolli.
Airborne 954 is a fourth grader at Union Pleasant Elementary in Hamburg, New York. Airborne 954 wrote an essay comparing and contrasting cats and dogs. The student told the how cats are related or evolved from the saber tooth tiger and dogs are related to the wolf. The student goes on to tell how the cat and dog became domesticated animals. Airborne essay was very well written, and he stated that his favorite animal was a dog.
The Age of Exploration Blog, Group Work
The post on group work was written by a 10th grade student in Modern World History. Themcpatrick outlines how to have a better attitude when working in groups with others. When working with others you either get good or bad group members. Often, you spend most of you time wondering what each person should do and how you should tell other group members you do not like their ideas. Themcpatrick suggest 7 things that could help group projects flow smoothly.
1. Make a plan, so that you know what you are doing.
2. Don't spend a lot of time researching in beginning, find general topics.
3. Break longer assignments into smaller assignments.
4. Don't try and change personalities, check yourself for attitudes or problems, and include everyone that wants to be involved in the assignment.
5. Don't wait until someone make a decision. Waiting wastes times, you should make a decision and explain it.
6. Don't let artistic abilities be the main focus of the project.
7. Communication, communication, communication.
The most important rule wh en working together is "COMMUNICATION", because with communication the entire assignment would be a total failure.
C4K on Kyah
Kyah is a fifth grader in Mrs. Goerends's class. Kyah is a new soccer player at Vision Soccer Academy. Kyah is on the select soccer team and her soccer coaches are Victor and Ashley. Soccer is a favorite sport of Kyah's and she likes to be competitive with Zea.
C4K on Kara
Kara is a fourth grader in Danielle Spencer's class in Canada. Kara shares an animoto she has created of pictures in Canada. Kara shares some beautiful pictures of the animals and landforms of Canada. Below is the animoto that Kara made. Canadian Shield
Special Edition C4k Trinity College and Book of Kells
The Trinity College and Book of Kells blog are from two professors Dr.Vitulli and Dr. Santolli from the University of Alabama in Ireland on an international conference in education. Dr. Vitulli added pictures of Trinity College, which was founded by Queen Elizabeth because she wanted the Protestant men to have a better education. Dr. Vitulli also added a picture of Ireland's library where they have the Book of Kells manuscripts and one of the manuscripts was written in calfskin, which is known as vellum. From answering the questions in Dr. Vitulli’s post, I learned that author Jonathon Swift and journalist Robert Fisch attended Trinity College. I enjoyed the pictures and educational facts Dr. Vitulli shared and I am looking forward to looking at the other post by Dr. Vitulli and Dr. Santolli.
Blog Assignment 10
I'm a Papermate. I'm a Ticonderoga
The cartoon by John T. Spencer is imitating a PC and Mac commercial. The papermate, which represents a PC, is stating, even though a PC is always breaking it is still cheaper. The Mac slogan is saying it is expensive, but is the best purchase a person can make and is represented by the Ticonderoga. After using a Mac in the lab, I see the benefits of the Mac and shortcomings of a PC, but overall I like PC. However, the Mac does have some advantages, for example, does not require virus software and other wonderful programs such as iMovie; therefore that goes to show that something with a better quality will cost the most.
Why were your kids playing games?
John Spencer's post "Why were your kids playing games" is about a principal bringing a teacher in because he observed her students playing games. The principal brought in professional developers the beginning of the year to inform teachers of techniques to help students with rote memorization skills. However, the teacher has been using advance simulators that required students to read, draw conclusions, but the principal does not consider the simulators as learning. The principal goes on to compare technology in the classroom to "Hang Man Fiasco of 1895" which he calls, a 'stretch' because anything fun and involves technology is not learning. The principal suggest the teacher uses 'intervention worksheets' or 'fill out algorithms' as another alternative to engage students.
The principal in Spencer’s post does not want the teacher to use any type of technology because he assumes if paper and pencils are not being used, then the students are not learning. Boy is he wrong, if paper and pencils are not being used then the children are using their critical thinking skills and are actually applying themselves to the lesson that has been taught. Many principals are willing to embrace the era of technology; however many old school principals are not willing to learn how beneficial technology can be or allow teachers to use it in the classroom. For the principal to think simulators where students have to use critical thinking, reading, and is engaged in the learning process not learning, then he should consider retiring. Technology has introduced a new way of teaching that does not require students to use pencil and paper to learn; however, pencil and paper can still be used in the classroom. Today teachers are teaching children that main source of entertainment is computers and video games; therefore, if teachers want to reach the new millennium students that are dependent on technology, they must use technology in the classroom to educate students.
Don't teach your kids this stuff. Please?
Dr. Scott McLeod is the founding director of Center for Advance Study of Technology Leadership in Education (CASTLE), which is a program that shows schools how beneficial technology is in the classroom. McLeod is also one of the authors of the Did You Know video that Dr. Strange assigned the beginning of the semester. McLeod post is a warning to parents, teachers, administrators and school districts about allowing children to use technology. McLeod states there is no need to encourage students to blog or use social media to communicate because paper and pencil is not going anywhere. McLeod post states that anything that requires students to use technology or cell phones is evil. Children using technology cannot be trusted because they abuse technology for bullying and porn; however, he lets his children use it. Oh by they way, did I fail to mention McLeod's post was meant to be sarcastic.
However, I do agree that children use technology to bully, look up porn or other forbidden sites, but most children have not been taught to use it correctly. In today's society, children know how to work the latest technology, but they have not been trained on how to use it properly because some parents are not technology literate. If parents and teachers show children the importance and the proper use of technology, we would not have as many children abusing technology as we do today. Of course, I agree technology can be harmful, but everything has its pros and cons, but again students need to know the proper use from the beginning. Technology can be a powerful tool for all because it is always introducing something new. Technology is critical for the children of today's society because they are dependent on it from birth and we are preparing them for jobs that do not exist yet; therefore, we should allow children to learn all they can now.
The cartoon by John T. Spencer is imitating a PC and Mac commercial. The papermate, which represents a PC, is stating, even though a PC is always breaking it is still cheaper. The Mac slogan is saying it is expensive, but is the best purchase a person can make and is represented by the Ticonderoga. After using a Mac in the lab, I see the benefits of the Mac and shortcomings of a PC, but overall I like PC. However, the Mac does have some advantages, for example, does not require virus software and other wonderful programs such as iMovie; therefore that goes to show that something with a better quality will cost the most.
Why were your kids playing games?
John Spencer's post "Why were your kids playing games" is about a principal bringing a teacher in because he observed her students playing games. The principal brought in professional developers the beginning of the year to inform teachers of techniques to help students with rote memorization skills. However, the teacher has been using advance simulators that required students to read, draw conclusions, but the principal does not consider the simulators as learning. The principal goes on to compare technology in the classroom to "Hang Man Fiasco of 1895" which he calls, a 'stretch' because anything fun and involves technology is not learning. The principal suggest the teacher uses 'intervention worksheets' or 'fill out algorithms' as another alternative to engage students.
The principal in Spencer’s post does not want the teacher to use any type of technology because he assumes if paper and pencils are not being used, then the students are not learning. Boy is he wrong, if paper and pencils are not being used then the children are using their critical thinking skills and are actually applying themselves to the lesson that has been taught. Many principals are willing to embrace the era of technology; however many old school principals are not willing to learn how beneficial technology can be or allow teachers to use it in the classroom. For the principal to think simulators where students have to use critical thinking, reading, and is engaged in the learning process not learning, then he should consider retiring. Technology has introduced a new way of teaching that does not require students to use pencil and paper to learn; however, pencil and paper can still be used in the classroom. Today teachers are teaching children that main source of entertainment is computers and video games; therefore, if teachers want to reach the new millennium students that are dependent on technology, they must use technology in the classroom to educate students.
Don't teach your kids this stuff. Please?
Dr. Scott McLeod is the founding director of Center for Advance Study of Technology Leadership in Education (CASTLE), which is a program that shows schools how beneficial technology is in the classroom. McLeod is also one of the authors of the Did You Know video that Dr. Strange assigned the beginning of the semester. McLeod post is a warning to parents, teachers, administrators and school districts about allowing children to use technology. McLeod states there is no need to encourage students to blog or use social media to communicate because paper and pencil is not going anywhere. McLeod post states that anything that requires students to use technology or cell phones is evil. Children using technology cannot be trusted because they abuse technology for bullying and porn; however, he lets his children use it. Oh by they way, did I fail to mention McLeod's post was meant to be sarcastic.
However, I do agree that children use technology to bully, look up porn or other forbidden sites, but most children have not been taught to use it correctly. In today's society, children know how to work the latest technology, but they have not been trained on how to use it properly because some parents are not technology literate. If parents and teachers show children the importance and the proper use of technology, we would not have as many children abusing technology as we do today. Of course, I agree technology can be harmful, but everything has its pros and cons, but again students need to know the proper use from the beginning. Technology can be a powerful tool for all because it is always introducing something new. Technology is critical for the children of today's society because they are dependent on it from birth and we are preparing them for jobs that do not exist yet; therefore, we should allow children to learn all they can now.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sunday, October 28, 2012
C4T #3
Technology, How Did I Get Started? Paula White
Paula White is a teacher, and she wrote a blog that explains how she starts using technology. White was born in the 50s and attended the University of Virginia (UVA) in 1970. When White was growing up a computer was large enough fill up an entire room, but in 1980, White bought her first computer that she only used word processing on to send letters home with students. White was a part of the UVA pilot program where she was given a modem for her classroom, and she learned how to be able to receive calls and surf the web simultaneously. Then in the 90's, White introduced her kindergartners and first graders to Hyperstudios and Kid Pix, where they were able to do assignments using the internet. White and her students opened a global connection and White was recognized the Apple Distinguished Educator in 1992. White attribute her technology success to her childhood by being able to ask questions and take things apart to see how they work. As a child, White also played outside with others where she learned to use logic, become a thinker, and ask questions.
White's post shows how far technology has come. White's post also shows that children minds need to be stimulated instead of sitting in front of a TV all day. Even in the 80's children were able to use technology; therefore, they should understand the importance of expanding technology in the classrooms. I am impressed how far technology has come, but I will be even more impressed when every teacher sees the importance of technology in the classroom. If technology can be incorporated in classrooms as early as kindergarten then students will be able to think on their own and become logic thinkers, instead of thinking in the box all the time. It is time to understand the importance of technology and allow students to use technology in the classroom.
Getting Smart All Of Us
Ms. White works with other teachers in her school to make learning fun for the students. Ms. White has an after-school wiki club where students as young as first through fourth grade learn how to create wikis, embed videos, coding with html, and working with widgets. Ms. White had a student that like wikis so much that she worked at home and taught herself almost everything she needed know. If the student ran into a problem where she could not talk herself through or figure something out on her own, she would ask Ms. White. One day the girl asked a question, and as Ms. White was talking through the process and the student wanted to take over, but instead Ms. White told the student to let her figure the process on her own. Ms. White wanted the student to learn to respect the fact that she was learning and not to intervene. According to Ms. White students often, think they have to prove how smart they are because teachers do not allow them to give their input in the lesson. Ms. White's school wants to focus on teaching students to be thinkers and allow more hands on and experience lessons known as a "STEAM school". In order to start the "STEAM school" Ms. White thinks the following questions should be answered:
1.) What is it that we want all kids to know, understand and be able to do?
2.) What will we accept as evidence that learning has occurred?
3.) How do we respond when kids come to us already knowing how to do those things?
4.) How do we respond when we’ve done our teaching, but learning has not happened?
5.) What does our teaching look like to support important and effective teaching and learning? Ms. White also thinks we should look at what students can do instead of what they cannot do.
Ms. White's post could be better said, I agree that education as we know today needs to be changed. A typical classroom consist of the teacher standing in front of class teaching the same lesson the student learned last year. If teachers took the time to see what the student does know instead of what they do not know the learning process be easier. Teachers should break students in groups and teach those students that did not grasp the concept the first time; meanwhile, challenging those who grasp the concept the first time around. I feel more confident in working with blogs from reading this article because the students mentioned in the article are elementary students and they can successful create wikis and blogs. The article also shows me how beneficial technology is because it allow students to think for themselves or see how something works by figuring things out on their own. I also learned how important it is to have a great support system when bringing technology in the classroom.
Paula White is a teacher, and she wrote a blog that explains how she starts using technology. White was born in the 50s and attended the University of Virginia (UVA) in 1970. When White was growing up a computer was large enough fill up an entire room, but in 1980, White bought her first computer that she only used word processing on to send letters home with students. White was a part of the UVA pilot program where she was given a modem for her classroom, and she learned how to be able to receive calls and surf the web simultaneously. Then in the 90's, White introduced her kindergartners and first graders to Hyperstudios and Kid Pix, where they were able to do assignments using the internet. White and her students opened a global connection and White was recognized the Apple Distinguished Educator in 1992. White attribute her technology success to her childhood by being able to ask questions and take things apart to see how they work. As a child, White also played outside with others where she learned to use logic, become a thinker, and ask questions.
White's post shows how far technology has come. White's post also shows that children minds need to be stimulated instead of sitting in front of a TV all day. Even in the 80's children were able to use technology; therefore, they should understand the importance of expanding technology in the classrooms. I am impressed how far technology has come, but I will be even more impressed when every teacher sees the importance of technology in the classroom. If technology can be incorporated in classrooms as early as kindergarten then students will be able to think on their own and become logic thinkers, instead of thinking in the box all the time. It is time to understand the importance of technology and allow students to use technology in the classroom.
Getting Smart All Of Us
Ms. White works with other teachers in her school to make learning fun for the students. Ms. White has an after-school wiki club where students as young as first through fourth grade learn how to create wikis, embed videos, coding with html, and working with widgets. Ms. White had a student that like wikis so much that she worked at home and taught herself almost everything she needed know. If the student ran into a problem where she could not talk herself through or figure something out on her own, she would ask Ms. White. One day the girl asked a question, and as Ms. White was talking through the process and the student wanted to take over, but instead Ms. White told the student to let her figure the process on her own. Ms. White wanted the student to learn to respect the fact that she was learning and not to intervene. According to Ms. White students often, think they have to prove how smart they are because teachers do not allow them to give their input in the lesson. Ms. White's school wants to focus on teaching students to be thinkers and allow more hands on and experience lessons known as a "STEAM school". In order to start the "STEAM school" Ms. White thinks the following questions should be answered:
1.) What is it that we want all kids to know, understand and be able to do?
2.) What will we accept as evidence that learning has occurred?
3.) How do we respond when kids come to us already knowing how to do those things?
4.) How do we respond when we’ve done our teaching, but learning has not happened?
5.) What does our teaching look like to support important and effective teaching and learning? Ms. White also thinks we should look at what students can do instead of what they cannot do.
Ms. White's post could be better said, I agree that education as we know today needs to be changed. A typical classroom consist of the teacher standing in front of class teaching the same lesson the student learned last year. If teachers took the time to see what the student does know instead of what they do not know the learning process be easier. Teachers should break students in groups and teach those students that did not grasp the concept the first time; meanwhile, challenging those who grasp the concept the first time around. I feel more confident in working with blogs from reading this article because the students mentioned in the article are elementary students and they can successful create wikis and blogs. The article also shows me how beneficial technology is because it allow students to think for themselves or see how something works by figuring things out on their own. I also learned how important it is to have a great support system when bringing technology in the classroom.
Blog Assignment 9
Joe McClung, What I Learned, Volume 1
Joe McClung gives a reflection of what he has learned his first year teaching in Noel, Missouri. McClung reveals that he has matured a lot his first year, and McClung shares seven of the most beneficial things he learned. Teachers should read the crowd because as first year teachers we are used to receiving the information, but not delivering. Therefore, when teaching, students should dictate where the lesson should go. The second concept is to be flexible. When teaching every lesson will not be perfect, therefore, do not get upset with students if a lesson does not go as plan, just fix the problem. Third, we should be reasonable it is okay to have high expectations of our students, but if student do not live up to the high expectations teachers should not get upset. Fourth, we should listen to our student. The last concepts are teacher focused, McClung suggests as educators we should not be afraid of technology, never stop learning, and communicate. Teachers must understand that computers were not created to take over the world, but as a tool to use to help us along the way. However, teachers should be always open to learning, whether it is about technology or anything that will help us.
Joe McClung, What I Learned Volume 4
Joe McClung is now a fourth year teacher in Fayetteville that writes a blog post at the end of every year. Volume 4 is about McClung's struggle of how his peers rate him as a teacher. He is so caught up wondering how his peers see him, that he loses sight of his reason for teaching; the students. McClung finally realized the only thing that matters was the happiness and the learning of his students. The second thing McClung learned was he should always challenge himself. McClung taught social studies and history for 3 years and he started getting comfortable with following the same routine. McClung failed to update his lesson plans or add new, creative ideas when teaching. McClung learned that if teachers get comfortable teaching the same lesson year after year and not add anything new; their lesson will be boring and will not be effective.
I found McClung's reflection of each year teaching very helpful because the reflections equip me for my years of teaching. Like McClung, I may have been conscious of being accepted by the teachers, but when I think about the student's perspective of me and how I teach, I could easily get over what others think. McClung's reflection also helps me when knowing what to expect my first year teaching. The most influential concept was not being afraid of technology and never stop learning. If teachers never stop learning, then they will always be up-to-date on new concepts to teach the students, resulting in new information being taught to the students. Teachers must also understand how valuable technology is and not be afraid of change. Older teachers are afraid of technology because they have not had enough training on the benefits, but young educators should not have an excuse not to use technology.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
C4T #2
C4T on Michael Smith
Michael Smith has been in the education field for 17 years. He spent 4 years being a principal and the last 5 years Smith is serving as an assistant superintendent in Tuscola, Illinois. Smith mentions the scariest things in education are the government involvement, threatening weather, towards the end of summer, and website errors. Teachers are devastated when trying to show students things on the internet and inappropriate sites pop up. As soon the error appears, teachers are trying their best to correct mistakes by pressing 'ESC', 'DEL', or unplugging the computer. Teachers feel obligated to report such errors to the principals, but Smith does not understand why teachers are embarrassed when the error occurs. Teachers may be in a panic because they do not want parents calling about what their child has saw.
The Gangs Are Coming
Smith's post on The Gangs Are Coming is about how schools were when he was teaching. Smith states that when he was teaching gangs were very popular, and the teachers had to report any suspicious behavior or when students would wear certain colors that were gang related. The selling and using of drugs was also a big thing when Smith was teaching. As Smith states, every school have an issue they would like to resolve, anywhere from gangs to Y2K, swine Flu and cell phones. Students bringing cell phones was the latest issue almost every school tried to crack down on according to Smith. Administration and teachers thought bringing cell phones to school was just as corrupt as a gang being in the school was. I agree that today everyone has a cell phone addiction, young and old. Some teachers are so addicted to their cell phones, that they text or make phone calls in class when they are supposed to be teaching.
Michael Smith has been in the education field for 17 years. He spent 4 years being a principal and the last 5 years Smith is serving as an assistant superintendent in Tuscola, Illinois. Smith mentions the scariest things in education are the government involvement, threatening weather, towards the end of summer, and website errors. Teachers are devastated when trying to show students things on the internet and inappropriate sites pop up. As soon the error appears, teachers are trying their best to correct mistakes by pressing 'ESC', 'DEL', or unplugging the computer. Teachers feel obligated to report such errors to the principals, but Smith does not understand why teachers are embarrassed when the error occurs. Teachers may be in a panic because they do not want parents calling about what their child has saw.
The Gangs Are Coming
Smith's post on The Gangs Are Coming is about how schools were when he was teaching. Smith states that when he was teaching gangs were very popular, and the teachers had to report any suspicious behavior or when students would wear certain colors that were gang related. The selling and using of drugs was also a big thing when Smith was teaching. As Smith states, every school have an issue they would like to resolve, anywhere from gangs to Y2K, swine Flu and cell phones. Students bringing cell phones was the latest issue almost every school tried to crack down on according to Smith. Administration and teachers thought bringing cell phones to school was just as corrupt as a gang being in the school was. I agree that today everyone has a cell phone addiction, young and old. Some teachers are so addicted to their cell phones, that they text or make phone calls in class when they are supposed to be teaching.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Blog Assignment #7
Network Student, The 21st Student
The Network Student introduces connectivism, which is a theory that means learning should be a social network through the diversity of technology. Connectivisim has introduced a new level of teaching and EDM 310 is getting us ready for network students, by allowing us to use the diversity of technology, just as the network student is using. The student in the video goes to school three days a week and has online classes two days a week. The network student does not use paper and pencil because everything is done online through blogs and other sites. The student has a teacher, who serves as a coach, but the student is doing all the research by his self. The network student is also able to Skype anyone he needs to communicate with and has various apps where he can download podcast, his research, and a virtual textbook.
Upon watching the video, I was intrigued with how the Personal Learning Environment was used to bookmark all sites the student was using for class. The PLE allows the student to network and communicate with others when he or she needs help. The PLE was also beneficial for the network student by allowing him to share the sites with others. Technology has come so far, and I amazed how technology has allowed us to organize and share information with others. PLE would be a great tool to use in my classroom because the students and I will be able to share valuable information without being in the same class. The PLE was a great tool to use with the network student, especially the two days a week he was home, working on assignments without a teacher on site.
Why does the network student or any student that is given virtual assignments need a teacher? Well, this question will arise a million times, but I understand why a student still needs a teacher even if all assignments are done online. Primarily, the student is learning and even though there may not be a teacher on site, the teacher serves as a coach. The teacher purpose to serve as a guide, if the student gets lost and needs help, the teacher can guide the student in the right direction. The teacher is also there to allow students to work at his or her own pace and to give the student some responsibility, so they can learn a sense of time management. If for one-second educators think their job is made easy because students are doing everything online, they are mistaken, because their job has just been elevated. The teacher should strive to make sure that each child is learning how to use the technology and is not merely memorizing the steps, so that they can use what they have learned at a later time. So to all the 21st century educators we have a task ahead of us to become technology literate, so that we can prepare our students for this technology world.
The Network Student introduces connectivism, which is a theory that means learning should be a social network through the diversity of technology. Connectivisim has introduced a new level of teaching and EDM 310 is getting us ready for network students, by allowing us to use the diversity of technology, just as the network student is using. The student in the video goes to school three days a week and has online classes two days a week. The network student does not use paper and pencil because everything is done online through blogs and other sites. The student has a teacher, who serves as a coach, but the student is doing all the research by his self. The network student is also able to Skype anyone he needs to communicate with and has various apps where he can download podcast, his research, and a virtual textbook.
Upon watching the video, I was intrigued with how the Personal Learning Environment was used to bookmark all sites the student was using for class. The PLE allows the student to network and communicate with others when he or she needs help. The PLE was also beneficial for the network student by allowing him to share the sites with others. Technology has come so far, and I amazed how technology has allowed us to organize and share information with others. PLE would be a great tool to use in my classroom because the students and I will be able to share valuable information without being in the same class. The PLE was a great tool to use with the network student, especially the two days a week he was home, working on assignments without a teacher on site.
Why does the network student or any student that is given virtual assignments need a teacher? Well, this question will arise a million times, but I understand why a student still needs a teacher even if all assignments are done online. Primarily, the student is learning and even though there may not be a teacher on site, the teacher serves as a coach. The teacher purpose to serve as a guide, if the student gets lost and needs help, the teacher can guide the student in the right direction. The teacher is also there to allow students to work at his or her own pace and to give the student some responsibility, so they can learn a sense of time management. If for one-second educators think their job is made easy because students are doing everything online, they are mistaken, because their job has just been elevated. The teacher should strive to make sure that each child is learning how to use the technology and is not merely memorizing the steps, so that they can use what they have learned at a later time. So to all the 21st century educators we have a task ahead of us to become technology literate, so that we can prepare our students for this technology world.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
Blog Assignment 6
Randy Pausch Last Lecture: Acquiring Childhood Dreams
Randy Pausch, Last Lecture was an excellent video. From doing a previous blog assignment about Pausch, I know that Randy Pausch died of pancreatic cancer about 10 months after the Last Lecture. It amazes me how positive Pausch's energy is, even when he knows he does not have long to live and is leaving behind his wife and kids. Even though, Pausch knew he was dying, he was still willing to encourage others and share his life experiences to help others. Pausch's advice in his lecture is something that could help everyone live a better life. Pausch states, "you cannot change the cards we are dealt just how we play the hand," which I think is one of the most influential statements he said. People often complain about their life, instead Pausch suggest that we should live life to the fullest despite the obstacles that are in our way.
Pausch believes it is important to live out your childhood dreams, help other achieve their dreams, and know how to deal with the lessons learned. As an educator, we will have children with all types of dreams and we must remember not to discourage children from fulfilling their dream no matter how bizarre they may seem. As a mentor, parent, or educator, we must always let others know they will encounter "brick walls" but the walls are there to make us stronger and according to Pausch, they are there to let us know how bad we want something. We must be reminded that obstacles will arise, but we must learn to go around them. If a student comes to us because they believe they have failed, we should continue to encourage them. According to Pausch, we must "head fake" students and when we "head fake" students we are letting them know that it is not the actual task that is important but the experience the student get from doing the task. When students are introduced to new concepts, we should encourage them to have fun along the way, but also remember "brick walls" will arise to make us stronger.
Students must not be afraid to make mistakes when achieving their dreams. If a mistake is made and a student is criticized because of their mistake, we should encourage the student to go back to the drawing board and start again. As educators, we should let our students know that we correct their behavior because we care, but not correcting them means we have already given up on them. Student should understand the correction comes to make them stronger, not to punish them. We must teach our students the fundamentals of working together and achieving their goals, because, without the basics, they will not succeed. Once a child understands the basics, we should never underestimate what our students can achieve. Teachers should not be so caught up with teaching a lesson, however, through a teaching lesson, we should encourage students to have fun. Most classrooms have an agenda to follow and never let the students enjoy activities during the lesson.
The last thing that Pausch talks about during his speech is how to deal with lessons learned. As an educator, we must be able to sit back and learn lessons from our students; however, we should not be too educated to listen to others. Pausch stated that being arrogant limits what you will be able to accomplish; therefore, no one knows everything and should be open to listen to what others have to say. Just because, we are there to teach the class does not mean our students do not have something to say; however, we must let them know when to speak out. As Pausch stated, we must "head fake" students when think they cannot complete a task, by comparing it to something they are comfortable doing. Some of the things Pausch states will take a while to accomplish, but we must continue every day to be a better person. If we taught our students to find the good in a person, we would not have problems with bullying or low self-esteem. Most students look up to teachers and in some cases teachers are the only role model a child may have; therefore, we must be that person that treat others with respect and show gratitude when others do not.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Blog Post #5
The iSchool Initiative
The iSchool Initiative is a video from Travis Allen, a student from Fayetteville, Georgia. Allen is a 17-year-old student that takes the initiative to try to help the education system today because of tremendous budget cuts, class size, and teachers are laid off. Allen believes technology should be a useful source in the classroom and by having technology; in return schools will save money. According to Allen if an iPod Touch is used; textbooks, paper, writing utensils or copy machines would not be needed to educate students. iSchool involves purchasing various apps geared to the subjects that are taught and allows students interactive involvement while learning. Allen also points out that the iSchool will be helpful to parents so that they are involved with their child's progress in the classroom.
Allen being a 17-year-old has impressive ideas on how to improve the budget crisis with education in America. I agree with Allen when he states that technology needs to be in every classroom, and the budget cut crisis in America needs to be fixed. However, I do not agree with making everything technology based, because technology has some downfalls and glitches. If everything is technology based students have a better chance of cheating on assignments and students do not have the classroom interaction, in which some students may need. I also will be cautious with allowing students to have such expensive and fragile equipment outside of the classroom, which may lead to the risk of damaged or stolen devices. I do not think schools should eliminate paper and pencil work; however, there should be some classroom assignments to ensure we are reaching each learning style. Overall, Allen's presentation was impressive, and I am sure in the near future, many schools will adopt the iSchool initiative or an initiative similar to Allen's initiative.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'Lux Aurumque'
When I first watched the video, I did not see the point of the video and thought it was extremely annoying. After watching the video again, I understood the purpose of the virtual choir. The video is an example of how technology will change a classroom and in this video, technology is changing a regular choir room. It will be weird and would take some time to get use to, but now, I cannot fathom having a virtual choir. Having a virtual choir takes the joy of seeing the students dressing in their choir clothing and watching them in a traditional setting. I do agree that technology should be included in classrooms, but I do not think changing to a virtual choir would be a good idea. I could understand practicing online with students, but with the actual performance, I think it should be in a traditional setting.
Teaching in the 21st Century
Teaching in the 21st Century is a powerful eye opener that allows teachers and future teachers to see how students should be educated. As educators, we must realize that time has changed and how children are growing has changed tremendously. Technology has changed so much in the last 20 years, or less and children are dependent on technology for just about everything, therefore, as educators, we have to use the resources that will reach students and engage them in learning. The video reveals that to be an effective teacher we must engage students in learning and get out the habit of teaching students information that they can learn on their own. Educators have to challenge today's youth by engaging them in the lesson and not just entertaining students. The video is also a great indicator that we must create lessons on higher level thinking, according to Bloom's Taxonomy, where students can analyze, evaluate and create.
Why I Flipped the Classroom by middle school teacher, Katie Gimbar and Flipping the Classroom-4th Stem by fourth grade teacher, Ms. Munafo are both great videos on how to change teaching. Katie Gimbar and Ms. Munafo discuss how flipping the classroom is helpful in math classes. Flipping the classroom, introduces a new way of teaching that capture every student in the classroom in learning and using applications. Flipping the classroom allow parents and students to preview the material that will be taught the following day through their computer; however, if a student does not have access to a computer then the student will be allowed to watch the video at school. These changes in teaching allow teachers to create activities for students that allow them to apply themselves and work at their own pace.
When watching the videos, I had a million question, but thanks to the Flipped Classroom FAQ most of my questions were put to rest. Flipping my classroom is an excellent way to engage every child in learning and the allowing students to work at their own pace. I like the idea, if students do not have access a computer at home, letting the student preview the video that morning or a designated time. I never imagine teaching this way, but with flipping the classroom, as the teachers have mentioned, lecturing in front of the class only meets 1/3 of the student’s needs and either leave the other 2/3 of students behind or have students wanting more. I would love using this technique in my class, because when teaching every teacher expects to meet each need of the students they are teaching. Integrating flipping the classroom means that I can interact with my students more, and students are applying what they have learned to various activities that are assigned.
The iSchool Initiative is a video from Travis Allen, a student from Fayetteville, Georgia. Allen is a 17-year-old student that takes the initiative to try to help the education system today because of tremendous budget cuts, class size, and teachers are laid off. Allen believes technology should be a useful source in the classroom and by having technology; in return schools will save money. According to Allen if an iPod Touch is used; textbooks, paper, writing utensils or copy machines would not be needed to educate students. iSchool involves purchasing various apps geared to the subjects that are taught and allows students interactive involvement while learning. Allen also points out that the iSchool will be helpful to parents so that they are involved with their child's progress in the classroom.
Allen being a 17-year-old has impressive ideas on how to improve the budget crisis with education in America. I agree with Allen when he states that technology needs to be in every classroom, and the budget cut crisis in America needs to be fixed. However, I do not agree with making everything technology based, because technology has some downfalls and glitches. If everything is technology based students have a better chance of cheating on assignments and students do not have the classroom interaction, in which some students may need. I also will be cautious with allowing students to have such expensive and fragile equipment outside of the classroom, which may lead to the risk of damaged or stolen devices. I do not think schools should eliminate paper and pencil work; however, there should be some classroom assignments to ensure we are reaching each learning style. Overall, Allen's presentation was impressive, and I am sure in the near future, many schools will adopt the iSchool initiative or an initiative similar to Allen's initiative.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'Lux Aurumque'
When I first watched the video, I did not see the point of the video and thought it was extremely annoying. After watching the video again, I understood the purpose of the virtual choir. The video is an example of how technology will change a classroom and in this video, technology is changing a regular choir room. It will be weird and would take some time to get use to, but now, I cannot fathom having a virtual choir. Having a virtual choir takes the joy of seeing the students dressing in their choir clothing and watching them in a traditional setting. I do agree that technology should be included in classrooms, but I do not think changing to a virtual choir would be a good idea. I could understand practicing online with students, but with the actual performance, I think it should be in a traditional setting.
Teaching in the 21st Century
Teaching in the 21st Century is a powerful eye opener that allows teachers and future teachers to see how students should be educated. As educators, we must realize that time has changed and how children are growing has changed tremendously. Technology has changed so much in the last 20 years, or less and children are dependent on technology for just about everything, therefore, as educators, we have to use the resources that will reach students and engage them in learning. The video reveals that to be an effective teacher we must engage students in learning and get out the habit of teaching students information that they can learn on their own. Educators have to challenge today's youth by engaging them in the lesson and not just entertaining students. The video is also a great indicator that we must create lessons on higher level thinking, according to Bloom's Taxonomy, where students can analyze, evaluate and create.
Why I Flipped the Classroom by middle school teacher, Katie Gimbar and Flipping the Classroom-4th Stem by fourth grade teacher, Ms. Munafo are both great videos on how to change teaching. Katie Gimbar and Ms. Munafo discuss how flipping the classroom is helpful in math classes. Flipping the classroom, introduces a new way of teaching that capture every student in the classroom in learning and using applications. Flipping the classroom allow parents and students to preview the material that will be taught the following day through their computer; however, if a student does not have access to a computer then the student will be allowed to watch the video at school. These changes in teaching allow teachers to create activities for students that allow them to apply themselves and work at their own pace.
When watching the videos, I had a million question, but thanks to the Flipped Classroom FAQ most of my questions were put to rest. Flipping my classroom is an excellent way to engage every child in learning and the allowing students to work at their own pace. I like the idea, if students do not have access a computer at home, letting the student preview the video that morning or a designated time. I never imagine teaching this way, but with flipping the classroom, as the teachers have mentioned, lecturing in front of the class only meets 1/3 of the student’s needs and either leave the other 2/3 of students behind or have students wanting more. I would love using this technique in my class, because when teaching every teacher expects to meet each need of the students they are teaching. Integrating flipping the classroom means that I can interact with my students more, and students are applying what they have learned to various activities that are assigned.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
C4K for the month of September
Juli C4K #1
Juli is a fifth grade student at Chestnut Tree in Buenos Aries, Argentina. Juli's class had Dot Day, where her teacher Greta, read a story about a girl who thinks she cannot draw. Every day the girl draws a dot and one day the teacher decides to encourage her to add other things to her picture of dots. After school, the little girl's teacher gets the picture from her and frames the picture after the students leave. The next day the student comes in the class and finds her picture in a frame. "The Dot" by Peter Reynolds is a great book for teachers to read to younger students because it let students know that it is okay to be different. The story also shows younger children that every drawing is unique in its own way.
Kaylee C4k #2
Kaylee is an eighth grader at a Catholic school in Northwest Iowa. Kaylee lives on a farm with her parents, siblings, and a dog name, Misty. Kaylee's recent blog was posted on September 27, and it was about her homecoming. Kaylee's posted pictures of each day, except for Monday because they had mass, of the different events. On Tuesday, Kaylee and her classmates wore gray for Monochromatic day; Wednesday was Nifty Fifty day, where the students attached fifty items to themselves; Thursday was Herd day, the students dressed up as different animals, and Friday was black and gold day, because of the school's color. I enjoyed viewing Kaylee's pictures because I got a chance to reminisce on my days in high school. I also enjoyed seeing the great ideas Kaylee's classmates used during homecoming week and how different their events are from the events the South.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
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