Sunday, May 6, 2012
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Report on Collaboration
The main way the Green Girls communicated was through e-mail and SMS messages. We did schedule Google+ one time but it was not a pretty sight. It was very confusing and the quality in picture was terrible. I think that if we were to do it over again, we would use Skype. Working with Miranda Bounds, Joy Eady, and Brandy Douglas was an absolute pleasure. Everyone was very nice and enjoyable to work with.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Blog Post #13
Summer camp all over again! In this assignment, students were not allowed to use their cellphones, watch television, use the computer (or similar devices), radios, and ect. The watching television part was not too difficult for me because I don't watch that much television anyway. Most of the time I read, worked, and went to school. I have a pretty busy schedule as it is which made things easier. The most difficult part of this project was not being able to use my cell phone. Luckily, I still remembered important phone numbers. I've been using a cell phone since I was about in 6th grade. It was very annoying not being able to send text messages. I definitely picked up my cellphone once the 24 hours was up. I hate that I've become so technology needy but it's nice to know that I can go 24 hours without it. I would have to be in a pretty desperate situation to not be able to use my cellphone and iPod Touch.
Final Report on PLN
PLN's are so handy! I loved being able to access my favorite places on the internet to easily. http://www.symbaloo.com/# was very easy to use. I could open my browser and find everything I needed.
C4T #4
Teachernz
GMail iOS 5
Teachernz gave a brief description of the new tool on the Google app. This app is called Scribbles and you can do pretty much what it says. You can share drawings and hand drawn maps.
In my comment I said that I would love to try this out and told him "thanks" for sharing.
My scribble
Web 3.0
Since Teachernz didn't have a new blog post, I commented on one of his posts from the past. His post was of a video about the next iteration of the internet. This post of his was actually posted two years ago. It was pretty accurate in describing what the internet is like now. I did learn that even some washing machines use the internet! In my post I said that I was looking forward to new advances in technology. I also said that if I was in a coma for a long time, things would be much different than they are now because technology keeps changing.
GMail iOS 5
Teachernz gave a brief description of the new tool on the Google app. This app is called Scribbles and you can do pretty much what it says. You can share drawings and hand drawn maps.
In my comment I said that I would love to try this out and told him "thanks" for sharing.
My scribble
Monday, April 23, 2012
Final Project Progress Report
For our project, Joy Eady, Miranda Bounds, Brandy Douglas, and I will make a presentation on the parts of the body. Out presentation will be geared for younger children in 1st grade and Kindergarten.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Blog Post #11
Little Kids...Big Potential
This video is a guided tour of a 1st grade class in Canada. At first, they start the video by talking about their blogs. A student said that his writing gets better each time he writes a blog. Next, they talk about using the class web page in order to find class activities on the internet. Wikis are the next topic. The students learned about traditions and rituals by asking people to contribute information on the students wikis. Next topic was about making videos. The students make videos that show what they learned. For example, naming the alphabet and counting numbers. Skype was the next discussed learning tool. Most of the time the students spoke with other classes and experts. Last but not least, Nintendo! The students learned by playing educational games on the Nintedo DS.
That's amazing that those 1st graders were able use all those technological tools. At such a young age, they are doing so much! With the right tools, much learning can be achieved. I don't know about letting children so young making blog posts; maybe when they practice grammar and spelling more. I loved the Skype idea! Nintendo DS's could be handy,especially, with all the educational games that they have these days.
Lap top
Interview With Ms. Cassidy
I'm glad that Dr. Strange put this video showing the interview with Ms. Cassidy because she brought up some good points about the use of technology in the classroom. First point, technology is not going to leave. I knew this before ,but the way she said it made me realize that the children I teach will grow up in a different world than I live in now. I must prepare them for their world and not mine. I also like her idea about getting started with technology use by one's own interests. Even though I don't want to focus all the class time with technology, I do wish to incorporate it into a major portion of lessons. Children seem to really be interested in using technology. I'll try to teach in a way that helps them succeed in life.
This video is a guided tour of a 1st grade class in Canada. At first, they start the video by talking about their blogs. A student said that his writing gets better each time he writes a blog. Next, they talk about using the class web page in order to find class activities on the internet. Wikis are the next topic. The students learned about traditions and rituals by asking people to contribute information on the students wikis. Next topic was about making videos. The students make videos that show what they learned. For example, naming the alphabet and counting numbers. Skype was the next discussed learning tool. Most of the time the students spoke with other classes and experts. Last but not least, Nintendo! The students learned by playing educational games on the Nintedo DS.
That's amazing that those 1st graders were able use all those technological tools. At such a young age, they are doing so much! With the right tools, much learning can be achieved. I don't know about letting children so young making blog posts; maybe when they practice grammar and spelling more. I loved the Skype idea! Nintendo DS's could be handy,especially, with all the educational games that they have these days.
Lap top
Interview With Ms. Cassidy
I'm glad that Dr. Strange put this video showing the interview with Ms. Cassidy because she brought up some good points about the use of technology in the classroom. First point, technology is not going to leave. I knew this before ,but the way she said it made me realize that the children I teach will grow up in a different world than I live in now. I must prepare them for their world and not mine. I also like her idea about getting started with technology use by one's own interests. Even though I don't want to focus all the class time with technology, I do wish to incorporate it into a major portion of lessons. Children seem to really be interested in using technology. I'll try to teach in a way that helps them succeed in life.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Blog Post #10
Teaching versus Educating
These are the first definitions to the terms "teach" and "educate" from dictionary.reference.com
Teach: to impart knowledge of or skill in; give instruction in: She teaches mathematics.
Educate: to develop the faculties and powers of (a person) by teaching, instruction, or schooling.
I thought teaching and educating were supposed to be the same thing. Apparently, these things have changed. However, if I did not receive worthy education, how am I writing this blog post? I've come along this far because of my teachers and self will. I truly believe that my teachers have educated me, therefore, they are educators as well. The only subject that I took that was centered around facts was history. Now, there are better ways to teaching history through technology. I definitely plan to educate my students, but I will still be an educating teacher.
I truly hope that the children I teach will leave my class with the skills, reasoning, and knowledge they need to succeed and overachieve in life. If one method fails, then I will try one that works. I do not want to "burb back" my students, however, I don't want to leave them teaching themselves. I also want to help them reason opinions of others. We can't have our children being too gullible. Encouragement, love, and guidance are three things that I plan to teach by. God has placed in me the passion to teach. I will not let a "brick wall" keep me a way from something I was born for.
Don't Let Them Take Pencils Home
I was very confused at first when I started reading Mr. Johnson's blog post because I was anticipating the blog post to have a theme of anti-pencils. However, after reading a few of the comments, I realized what it was all about...
Mr. Johnson starts off the piece with a teacher getting a visit from the School Curriculum Instructional Interventionist Academic Specialist. She comes to complain that students test scores are too low. In order to solve the problem, the SCIIAS tells the teacher that the students are not allowed to take home their pencils and papers. The reason for this command was because she read an article that said that students that take home his or her pencil and paper score lower on tests. The teacher does not agree and suggests having a parent pencil program where the parents, for whom are not familiar with pencils, may learn the same pencil skills that their children are learning. The SCIIAS is not thrilled with this idea, but allows the teacher to carry through.
During the piece, the over all concern is over the children's test scores. The "solution" for the low scores is not letting a student take home his or her pencil, however, this is no solution at all. The focus should be on why the students performed badly on their tests instead of assuming it's the lack of knowledge about how to use a pencil correctly. There is too much assuming and not enough researching when it comes to what children need in the classroom.
These are the first definitions to the terms "teach" and "educate" from dictionary.reference.com
Teach: to impart knowledge of or skill in; give instruction in: She teaches mathematics.
Educate: to develop the faculties and powers of (a person) by teaching, instruction, or schooling.
I thought teaching and educating were supposed to be the same thing. Apparently, these things have changed. However, if I did not receive worthy education, how am I writing this blog post? I've come along this far because of my teachers and self will. I truly believe that my teachers have educated me, therefore, they are educators as well. The only subject that I took that was centered around facts was history. Now, there are better ways to teaching history through technology. I definitely plan to educate my students, but I will still be an educating teacher.
I truly hope that the children I teach will leave my class with the skills, reasoning, and knowledge they need to succeed and overachieve in life. If one method fails, then I will try one that works. I do not want to "burb back" my students, however, I don't want to leave them teaching themselves. I also want to help them reason opinions of others. We can't have our children being too gullible. Encouragement, love, and guidance are three things that I plan to teach by. God has placed in me the passion to teach. I will not let a "brick wall" keep me a way from something I was born for.
Don't Let Them Take Pencils Home
I was very confused at first when I started reading Mr. Johnson's blog post because I was anticipating the blog post to have a theme of anti-pencils. However, after reading a few of the comments, I realized what it was all about...
Mr. Johnson starts off the piece with a teacher getting a visit from the School Curriculum Instructional Interventionist Academic Specialist. She comes to complain that students test scores are too low. In order to solve the problem, the SCIIAS tells the teacher that the students are not allowed to take home their pencils and papers. The reason for this command was because she read an article that said that students that take home his or her pencil and paper score lower on tests. The teacher does not agree and suggests having a parent pencil program where the parents, for whom are not familiar with pencils, may learn the same pencil skills that their children are learning. The SCIIAS is not thrilled with this idea, but allows the teacher to carry through.
During the piece, the over all concern is over the children's test scores. The "solution" for the low scores is not letting a student take home his or her pencil, however, this is no solution at all. The focus should be on why the students performed badly on their tests instead of assuming it's the lack of knowledge about how to use a pencil correctly. There is too much assuming and not enough researching when it comes to what children need in the classroom.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
C4K Summary for March
Ansa
While reading Ansa's post, I noticed that the words- white, spider, carefully, pushed, fifty- in her post were bold. In her post, Ansa tells a scary story of a witch, a cage, and an invisible man with fifty fingers. I guessing that the assignment was to write a scary story and the student must include the words mentioned before.
I told her that her story was scary and the I liked the way she used the "key" words.
White Spider like in her story
Nathan
Nathan, a twelve year old student, decided to write a blog post containing a conversation between himself and Percy from the book Percy Jackson and the Olympians. His conversation was short and light. He mentioned a couple characters from the book like Zeus and Poseidon. At the end he finishes it with a "thank you".
I told him that I watched the movie and that I liked the Medusa character. Since he lives in Vermont, I told him the temperature of Mobile that day and asked if there are any interesting activities in Fairfax, Vermont (the city in which he lives).
Ana
In Ms. She's class, the students were studying butterflies. The students went on a field trip to Butterfly Creek where Ana saw a white goat. There is a short clip of Ana saying that she pet the white goat and that Butterfly Creek was cool. I said that it sounded like they were having a wonderful time studying butterflies and I also said that I hoped that the goat was nice to Ana.
While reading Ansa's post, I noticed that the words- white, spider, carefully, pushed, fifty- in her post were bold. In her post, Ansa tells a scary story of a witch, a cage, and an invisible man with fifty fingers. I guessing that the assignment was to write a scary story and the student must include the words mentioned before.
I told her that her story was scary and the I liked the way she used the "key" words.
Nathan
Nathan, a twelve year old student, decided to write a blog post containing a conversation between himself and Percy from the book Percy Jackson and the Olympians. His conversation was short and light. He mentioned a couple characters from the book like Zeus and Poseidon. At the end he finishes it with a "thank you".
I told him that I watched the movie and that I liked the Medusa character. Since he lives in Vermont, I told him the temperature of Mobile that day and asked if there are any interesting activities in Fairfax, Vermont (the city in which he lives).
Ana
In Ms. She's class, the students were studying butterflies. The students went on a field trip to Butterfly Creek where Ana saw a white goat. There is a short clip of Ana saying that she pet the white goat and that Butterfly Creek was cool. I said that it sounded like they were having a wonderful time studying butterflies and I also said that I hoped that the goat was nice to Ana.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Blog Post #9
Don't Lose Touch
The blog post "Don't Lose Touch" was posted in January 2010
In this blog post, Mr. McClung speaks about communication between teachers. There are teachers that observe their co-workers and discuss different techniques and tools that each teacher uses so that new and useful ideas are spreading for the benefit of others. Other teachers, however, stick to their routine and do not wish to be bothered with how they teach their children. Mr. McClung discusses the benefits of teacher-to-teacher communication. These benefits include staying passionate about teaching by encouraging and "pumping up" other teachers, excelling as a new teacher because of advice from more experienced teachers, and finally, practicing what we preach-why should students work together if the teachers can't even accomplish this?
I'm glad I read this blog post of Mr. McClung. I am the type of person that would easily find a routine and stay tuned with how I teach. This idea of branching out and seeking advice from other teachers seems to be a smart way to go about things.
What I Learned This year
The first thing Mr. McClung discusses in his 2011 reflection blog post is to not be concerned with what people think of you. Teachers' focus should be on the students instead of trying to please others. Next, he discusses how not everyone is as excited about change as he is. He encourages others to be optimistic instead of saying, "This will never work." Mr. McClung has also learned that it's okay to be an outsider-don't worry, he's an outsider in a good way. Lesson #3: Don't do all the work for the student, let them do some of the work. Finally, don't get comfortable. It's easy to get into a routine, however, teachers must stay passionate about what they do, not get lazy.
Everything that Mr. McClung had to say in this blog post was what I needed to hear and be reminded of. I think that I would have the problem of doing all the work for the student. This is a great reminder that even though the teacher can do it better, the student still has to learn.
The blog post "Don't Lose Touch" was posted in January 2010
In this blog post, Mr. McClung speaks about communication between teachers. There are teachers that observe their co-workers and discuss different techniques and tools that each teacher uses so that new and useful ideas are spreading for the benefit of others. Other teachers, however, stick to their routine and do not wish to be bothered with how they teach their children. Mr. McClung discusses the benefits of teacher-to-teacher communication. These benefits include staying passionate about teaching by encouraging and "pumping up" other teachers, excelling as a new teacher because of advice from more experienced teachers, and finally, practicing what we preach-why should students work together if the teachers can't even accomplish this?
I'm glad I read this blog post of Mr. McClung. I am the type of person that would easily find a routine and stay tuned with how I teach. This idea of branching out and seeking advice from other teachers seems to be a smart way to go about things.
What I Learned This year
The first thing Mr. McClung discusses in his 2011 reflection blog post is to not be concerned with what people think of you. Teachers' focus should be on the students instead of trying to please others. Next, he discusses how not everyone is as excited about change as he is. He encourages others to be optimistic instead of saying, "This will never work." Mr. McClung has also learned that it's okay to be an outsider-don't worry, he's an outsider in a good way. Lesson #3: Don't do all the work for the student, let them do some of the work. Finally, don't get comfortable. It's easy to get into a routine, however, teachers must stay passionate about what they do, not get lazy.
Everything that Mr. McClung had to say in this blog post was what I needed to hear and be reminded of. I think that I would have the problem of doing all the work for the student. This is a great reminder that even though the teacher can do it better, the student still has to learn.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Blog Post #8
This Is How We Dream
It is amazing how the times have changed as far as writing goes. One of the first things I thought while watching this movie is that we really are going green. There will hardly be a use of paper anymore. In the video, Miller starts describing the incremental changes that are occurring with technology. He gives the example of when he wrote an article for the AAUP just by using the internet instead of the library. He also says that since he published his article online, it now lives forever. The second incremental change he talks about is the benefits of networking. It's much easier to collaborate with people no matter where they may be.
In the second part of the movie, Miller starts by saying that this new technological material is continually changing and updating before our eyes. The material also allows a person to compose what they will. He says that the limitations and restrictions are ones that we put on ourselves. As for as fundamental changes, Miller says that publication falls in this category. A way that people are composing is with the web itself. Miller talks about a man named Jonathan Harris who uses the web as a source of art and education. Harris had an idea of creating an education building with Humanities and the Sciences together. He introduces the thought of a new Humanities In the end, he says that we should share these ideas, that belong to no one, with the world.
I enjoyed his ideas about this way of education. Of course, we have already heard of some of these ideas earlier on in EDM310, but this video adds on a little more. I'm sure college students would appreciate online textbooks because it's less weight and cheaper. It's also better getting a project done by using online resources because it's more time efficient and costs less money most of the time. I visited Jonathan Harris's website and it truly is remarkable. We need more unique things in this world. It's to see someone that doesn't necessarily copy ideas. I still don't understand his building project idea completely, but I'm sure it would be great anyhow.
Carly Pugh's Blog Post #12
What a writer!! Carly definitely shows her passion for writing and teaching through her blog post. I noticed some similarities between her blog and Dr. Miller's video on multimedia. For starters, both are advocating the use of technology. Carly suggested that a Youtube playlist about teaching should be made while Dr. Miller explained the development of technology as the sole material for students. Dr. Miller somewhat describes the multimedia that Carly is "assigning". Her assignment is quite extensive, however, it seems productive and useful.
Jamie's Videos
Both of the videos that Jamie Lynn was featured in were just what I needed to see. Procrastination is my middle name pretty much. I will definitely work on my time management. I thought that Jamie's excuses were pretty comical when she was talking to Dr. Strange. It's difficult for me to do well in this class because I've been given things too easily in my lifetime. I think I will take what I've learned from these two videos and teach it to my students.
Scavenger Hunt 2.0
1) Social network- Ning.com
Ning.com is a fun social network that can connect the students, teachers, and parents. It looks fun a creative, unfortunately, it's not free
2)http://www.makebeliefscomix.com/Comix/?comix_id=199186425C678018
3)http://www.glogster.com/evitas/album-glog-by-evitas/g-6ll8ctpta4qeaf0mdms9ba0
It is amazing how the times have changed as far as writing goes. One of the first things I thought while watching this movie is that we really are going green. There will hardly be a use of paper anymore. In the video, Miller starts describing the incremental changes that are occurring with technology. He gives the example of when he wrote an article for the AAUP just by using the internet instead of the library. He also says that since he published his article online, it now lives forever. The second incremental change he talks about is the benefits of networking. It's much easier to collaborate with people no matter where they may be.
In the second part of the movie, Miller starts by saying that this new technological material is continually changing and updating before our eyes. The material also allows a person to compose what they will. He says that the limitations and restrictions are ones that we put on ourselves. As for as fundamental changes, Miller says that publication falls in this category. A way that people are composing is with the web itself. Miller talks about a man named Jonathan Harris who uses the web as a source of art and education. Harris had an idea of creating an education building with Humanities and the Sciences together. He introduces the thought of a new Humanities In the end, he says that we should share these ideas, that belong to no one, with the world.
I enjoyed his ideas about this way of education. Of course, we have already heard of some of these ideas earlier on in EDM310, but this video adds on a little more. I'm sure college students would appreciate online textbooks because it's less weight and cheaper. It's also better getting a project done by using online resources because it's more time efficient and costs less money most of the time. I visited Jonathan Harris's website and it truly is remarkable. We need more unique things in this world. It's to see someone that doesn't necessarily copy ideas. I still don't understand his building project idea completely, but I'm sure it would be great anyhow.
Carly Pugh's Blog Post #12
What a writer!! Carly definitely shows her passion for writing and teaching through her blog post. I noticed some similarities between her blog and Dr. Miller's video on multimedia. For starters, both are advocating the use of technology. Carly suggested that a Youtube playlist about teaching should be made while Dr. Miller explained the development of technology as the sole material for students. Dr. Miller somewhat describes the multimedia that Carly is "assigning". Her assignment is quite extensive, however, it seems productive and useful.
Jamie's Videos
Both of the videos that Jamie Lynn was featured in were just what I needed to see. Procrastination is my middle name pretty much. I will definitely work on my time management. I thought that Jamie's excuses were pretty comical when she was talking to Dr. Strange. It's difficult for me to do well in this class because I've been given things too easily in my lifetime. I think I will take what I've learned from these two videos and teach it to my students.
Scavenger Hunt 2.0
1) Social network- Ning.com
Ning.com is a fun social network that can connect the students, teachers, and parents. It looks fun a creative, unfortunately, it's not free
2)http://www.makebeliefscomix.com/Comix/?comix_id=199186425C678018
3)http://www.glogster.com/evitas/album-glog-by-evitas/g-6ll8ctpta4qeaf0mdms9ba0
C4T#3 Hadley J
Maps and Games
In the beginning of Hadley's blog post, she explains that her class is learning about the Mongol Empire. Her main focus was learning about where the Mongolians lived. First, she started off with Map Maker Kits. Next, the students worked on Jigsaw Puzzles. The students enjoyed putting the puzzles together with the timer because it was like a game. In the end of the class, the students felt like Hadley was just "filling" time because it was the day before Spring Break. However, they gained some important skills like becoming familiar with Geography, determination, finding connections, and resiliency.
In my comment I explained that I was a student in training to become a teacher. I also said that I enjoyed her ideas about learning Geography.
It's Always In the Eyes!
In this blog post, Ms. Hadley expresses her joy of being acquainted with passionate teachers. There is a certain light in his or her eyes when describing what he or she is doing in the classroom. She goes on describing a teacher named Liliana that she met at a conference. Liliana teaches second grade at a bilingual school. Liliana started with a love of science. While attending college, she took an education course. This education course drove her to a teaching career where she still remains committed.
In my comment I expressed my enjoyment of her blog post and my wishes that I too hope to be a passionate teacher as long as I am able.
In the beginning of Hadley's blog post, she explains that her class is learning about the Mongol Empire. Her main focus was learning about where the Mongolians lived. First, she started off with Map Maker Kits. Next, the students worked on Jigsaw Puzzles. The students enjoyed putting the puzzles together with the timer because it was like a game. In the end of the class, the students felt like Hadley was just "filling" time because it was the day before Spring Break. However, they gained some important skills like becoming familiar with Geography, determination, finding connections, and resiliency.
In my comment I explained that I was a student in training to become a teacher. I also said that I enjoyed her ideas about learning Geography.
It's Always In the Eyes!
In this blog post, Ms. Hadley expresses her joy of being acquainted with passionate teachers. There is a certain light in his or her eyes when describing what he or she is doing in the classroom. She goes on describing a teacher named Liliana that she met at a conference. Liliana teaches second grade at a bilingual school. Liliana started with a love of science. While attending college, she took an education course. This education course drove her to a teaching career where she still remains committed.
In my comment I expressed my enjoyment of her blog post and my wishes that I too hope to be a passionate teacher as long as I am able.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Progress Report 1 PLN
Just started with Symbaloo. Everything I use regularly is already on the PLN. I like the simplicity of the tile format. The News updates are great!. I'll continue to personalize!
Blog Post #7
Wendy Drexler: The Networked Student
In this video, the idea of connectivism is presented. What is connectivism? It is a theory that presumes that learning occurs as part of a social network of many diverse connections and ties. The student in the works on a project based on connectivism. First, he makes a personal learning network. Next, he finds valid websites on his topic. After he finds a useful website, he puts it onto his social bookmarking sight. Next, the student looks at other people's blog on the subject. If he sees that he is more informed, then he will write on the person's blog the information he has found. Also, the student blogs on his own website what he has learned. Next, the student dowloads podcast from worthy professors onto his ipod for listening. Later, he comes across a documentary relating to his project topic. He then calls the filmmaker and arranges a Skype interview between the class and the filmmaker. Sounds like a great project!
At the end of the video, it mentions what the teaching does in this situation. The teacher is more of a mentor. She helps the student establish learning network, pick the right from wrong, helps him filter information, communicate properly, and also helps organize the information. It doesn't even sound like a teacher anymore. In this situation, the student is still the learner but the internet is the teacher.
There are some things I like and dislike about this situation. If the teacher only has the irresponsibility of doing the duties that were stated above, then there would be hardly any point for them to go to college. All they would have to do is take a class on how to be a good mentor. Eventually, the only people who would contain and teach information would be professionals of that particular study. If all schools used this method, would it put too much work on the student? What would the curriculum look like? What it be a success?
In this video, the idea of connectivism is presented. What is connectivism? It is a theory that presumes that learning occurs as part of a social network of many diverse connections and ties. The student in the works on a project based on connectivism. First, he makes a personal learning network. Next, he finds valid websites on his topic. After he finds a useful website, he puts it onto his social bookmarking sight. Next, the student looks at other people's blog on the subject. If he sees that he is more informed, then he will write on the person's blog the information he has found. Also, the student blogs on his own website what he has learned. Next, the student dowloads podcast from worthy professors onto his ipod for listening. Later, he comes across a documentary relating to his project topic. He then calls the filmmaker and arranges a Skype interview between the class and the filmmaker. Sounds like a great project!
At the end of the video, it mentions what the teaching does in this situation. The teacher is more of a mentor. She helps the student establish learning network, pick the right from wrong, helps him filter information, communicate properly, and also helps organize the information. It doesn't even sound like a teacher anymore. In this situation, the student is still the learner but the internet is the teacher.
There are some things I like and dislike about this situation. If the teacher only has the irresponsibility of doing the duties that were stated above, then there would be hardly any point for them to go to college. All they would have to do is take a class on how to be a good mentor. Eventually, the only people who would contain and teach information would be professionals of that particular study. If all schools used this method, would it put too much work on the student? What would the curriculum look like? What it be a success?
Thursday, March 8, 2012
C4T#2 Kim Cofino
Are You a Tech Pilot?
In this blog post, Kim talks about different strategies to help teachers with technology. The first section ,"YIS Tech Pilots", is Kim's first strategy. Kim wants to get some technology learned teachers in the school together for meetings during school time. The sessions are designed for teachers to interact and come up with ideas that use the school's resources, develop globally collaborative projects with other schools, and create a blended learning environment through their blogging portal. The second section, "Wired Work Day", is about Kim's way to answer teachers' questions about technology when they're really limited for time. Since the walk is a little far for hurried teachers, Kim has set up a central classroom for three periods a week where teachers can come to learn. The third section, "Faculty Meeting Tech Tips", talks about meetings that teachers must attend that thoroughly teach basic technological skills that are required. The fourth section, "Final Thoughts", summarizes Kim's hopes for her plans for teachers.
In my comment I commented on her obvious passion for technology and that I thought she had great ideas for helping teachers.
On My Way to Work
In this blog post of Kim's is a collection of pictures of her commute to work in Japan. She included descriptions to tell the audience know what's going on. The commute she had was very beautiful. There were a lot of trees and great scenery. I love the idea of telling a story with pictures. I'm glad she posted this on her blog.
In my comment, I said that her commute was very beautiful and that I loved her ideas and hope to incorporate some of them in the classroom when I'm a teacher.
A Picture in Kim's Commute
In this blog post, Kim talks about different strategies to help teachers with technology. The first section ,"YIS Tech Pilots", is Kim's first strategy. Kim wants to get some technology learned teachers in the school together for meetings during school time. The sessions are designed for teachers to interact and come up with ideas that use the school's resources, develop globally collaborative projects with other schools, and create a blended learning environment through their blogging portal. The second section, "Wired Work Day", is about Kim's way to answer teachers' questions about technology when they're really limited for time. Since the walk is a little far for hurried teachers, Kim has set up a central classroom for three periods a week where teachers can come to learn. The third section, "Faculty Meeting Tech Tips", talks about meetings that teachers must attend that thoroughly teach basic technological skills that are required. The fourth section, "Final Thoughts", summarizes Kim's hopes for her plans for teachers.
In my comment I commented on her obvious passion for technology and that I thought she had great ideas for helping teachers.
On My Way to Work
In this blog post of Kim's is a collection of pictures of her commute to work in Japan. She included descriptions to tell the audience know what's going on. The commute she had was very beautiful. There were a lot of trees and great scenery. I love the idea of telling a story with pictures. I'm glad she posted this on her blog.
In my comment, I said that her commute was very beautiful and that I loved her ideas and hope to incorporate some of them in the classroom when I'm a teacher.
A Picture in Kim's Commute
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Blog Post #6
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture
The name is what it is. This video is the lecture of Randy Pausch's last lecture before he dies. First, he talks about his childhood dreams which include being in zero gravity, playing in the NFL, Authoring an article in the World Book encyclopedia, being Captain Kirk, winning stuffed animals, and being a Disney Imagineer. Most were achieved except the playing in the NFL and being Captain Kirk. However, he did play football and he met the actor who played Captain Kirk. In this video he speaks about how he achieved his dreams and the fun details about how he got there.
When talking about his time playing football, Randy says that he coach was tough on him. Randy said, "When you see yourself doing something badly and no one's bothering to tell you anymore, that's a very bad place to be." It was a good thing that his coach was tough on him because that meant he cared. I've actually experienced this before in my life. I would go home and ask my parents why my voice teacher was harder on me than the other students. They told me that it was a good thing that my teacher was hard on me. I ended up getting more solos in the end.
Randy spoke about his challenge of becoming a Disney Imagineer. When faced obstacles he says, "Brick walls are there for a reason: they let us prove how badly we want things." I never thought about a rejection in life the way he did. He found the positive in what most what only see the negative. Randy also says that how you say things is very important. There's a big difference between saying something with an opened mind and a closed mind.
Some other words of advice he proclaims is to never end the child like wonder, help others, and of course, have fun! He also didn't set a bar for his students. By doing that they were able to achieve much more than if he put a limit to their learning. During the video, Randy stay so positive! He did express good life lessons but I hope he learned the best one.
The name is what it is. This video is the lecture of Randy Pausch's last lecture before he dies. First, he talks about his childhood dreams which include being in zero gravity, playing in the NFL, Authoring an article in the World Book encyclopedia, being Captain Kirk, winning stuffed animals, and being a Disney Imagineer. Most were achieved except the playing in the NFL and being Captain Kirk. However, he did play football and he met the actor who played Captain Kirk. In this video he speaks about how he achieved his dreams and the fun details about how he got there.
When talking about his time playing football, Randy says that he coach was tough on him. Randy said, "When you see yourself doing something badly and no one's bothering to tell you anymore, that's a very bad place to be." It was a good thing that his coach was tough on him because that meant he cared. I've actually experienced this before in my life. I would go home and ask my parents why my voice teacher was harder on me than the other students. They told me that it was a good thing that my teacher was hard on me. I ended up getting more solos in the end.
Randy spoke about his challenge of becoming a Disney Imagineer. When faced obstacles he says, "Brick walls are there for a reason: they let us prove how badly we want things." I never thought about a rejection in life the way he did. He found the positive in what most what only see the negative. Randy also says that how you say things is very important. There's a big difference between saying something with an opened mind and a closed mind.
Some other words of advice he proclaims is to never end the child like wonder, help others, and of course, have fun! He also didn't set a bar for his students. By doing that they were able to achieve much more than if he put a limit to their learning. During the video, Randy stay so positive! He did express good life lessons but I hope he learned the best one.
Randy Pausch
Saturday, March 3, 2012
C4K Summary for February
Sela in New Zealand
Sela's blog post was about her trip to the beach with her family. I mentioned that I thought her name was pretty and that someday I would like to visit New Zealand. I shared a link to a picture of Gulf Shores and remarked on the importance of family time. In closing, I left a link to my blog and told her to share any cool pictures of New Zealand.
Keenan in Spirit Lake Iowa
In his blog post, Keenan said that he was reading the first Harry Potter book. I said that I have family in Iowa. I also said that the 7th book is my favorite and that I'm planning on visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, FL.
Sean in British Columbia, Canada
Sean told an exciting tale in his blog about a mysterious book that a woman read that eventually lead to her death. It was pretty exciting. He should have expanded the story and given more detail. I said that I enjoyed reading it. I also said that I haven't written any stories lately, but I love to read them.
Sarah 10th Grade History
It was a shock to me to get a high schooler. Sarah wrote a beautiful article about Napoleon. At the end of her post she asked her audience's opinion of whether Napoleon was a noble leader or a jerk. I told her that I was not a history wiz, but to my understanding, Napoleon was a jerk. I also said that great leaders are not always good ones. In fact, out of all the leaders in history, there was only one that was good.
Sela's blog post was about her trip to the beach with her family. I mentioned that I thought her name was pretty and that someday I would like to visit New Zealand. I shared a link to a picture of Gulf Shores and remarked on the importance of family time. In closing, I left a link to my blog and told her to share any cool pictures of New Zealand.
Keenan in Spirit Lake Iowa
In his blog post, Keenan said that he was reading the first Harry Potter book. I said that I have family in Iowa. I also said that the 7th book is my favorite and that I'm planning on visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, FL.
Sean in British Columbia, Canada
Sean told an exciting tale in his blog about a mysterious book that a woman read that eventually lead to her death. It was pretty exciting. He should have expanded the story and given more detail. I said that I enjoyed reading it. I also said that I haven't written any stories lately, but I love to read them.
Sarah 10th Grade History
It was a shock to me to get a high schooler. Sarah wrote a beautiful article about Napoleon. At the end of her post she asked her audience's opinion of whether Napoleon was a noble leader or a jerk. I told her that I was not a history wiz, but to my understanding, Napoleon was a jerk. I also said that great leaders are not always good ones. In fact, out of all the leaders in history, there was only one that was good.
Blog Post #5
Scott McLeod
In Mr. McLeod's blog post, he is telling people to keep children away from the computer and cellphones. He does mention sexting, cyber bullies, and porn. However, at the end he says that his kids that use technology will be ahead of everyone else's. About midways through Mr. McLeod's blog post, I wasn't sure if he was being sarcastic or not. However, it is very clear at the end where he stands on the issue. In my comment that I left for him I said that there's no way that parents, teachers, and etcetera can keep children away from the evil in this world. Even without technology there are bad things occurred. Children are having kids, there are still bullies in school, and creepy members in the family are still molesting. The best thing to do in this situation is to encourage technology use but with caution. I believe if we educate them on the cause and effects of the choices they make on the web, they will make decisions that they won't regret later.
Travis Allen
In the first video, Travis Allen speaks about his idea about using the itouch in school. The itouch replaces textbooks, maps, paper, writing utensils, and much more! In the second video, It shows Travis three years later and what all was accomplished with his ischool idea so far. While watching Travis's first video, I was thinking that instead of the itouch, the school should have a class set of the ipad because the ipad has a bigger screen. I was glad to see that in the second video, children were doing math on a tablet.
I thought that Travis's idea was really bold and smart. I thoroughly enjoyed his presentation and agree with what he said. Hopefully, text book companies won't try to make schools buy new editions every two years like they make college students. It's wonderful that the school would save a lot because of the savings from not using ink, paper, crayons, and ectetera. Maybe some of that money can go towards the underpaid teachers ; )
There are so many different ways the classroom could be improved just by this idea of Travis's. Like the idea about using podcasts so that students can see what happened in class if they missed. If a teacher had to miss a day, who needs a sub? She can just skype with her students in the classroom. I'm sure there are several more creative ideas out there for the ischool. It would be fun to teach with the limitless ideas!
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'Lux Aurumque'
What a wonderful experience! In this video, there were almost 200 choir participants singing from their personal computers! Even the conductor was there virtually. They sang a beautiful Latin song without flaw. Better yet, they never even met or practiced in person! I actually sang that song in my choir at Faulkner State Community College. Singing virtually makes rehearsing a lot easier in some ways because of travel and time issues. Technology is pretty cool : )
Teaching 21st Century Students
First, I must say that this video was a little too long and busy to me, but it was still beneficial. I agree with the idea that teachers can help the students skills when it comes to accessing the internet. However, I think some subjects like math should still be taught personally. Some of these ideas might be a little too advanced for the grade levels that I plan to teach. Also, some things like Twitter seem irrelevant or not as important to a lot of careers.
Different materials for education were compared-paper vs. technology. Also the concept of engagement vs. entertainment. This video seems to go well with the technology theme for this class. I think this new concept will be ingrained in my brain.
Reading Rockets
This educational website seems to be very useful for teachers, students, and principals, and librarians. However, it's main audience appears to be teachers. The website is easy to use and has many teaching/learning strategies and tools for reading. I will definitely take this website into consideration for my teaching career!
The ABC's of Teaching Reading will be great to starters. If there are still students struggling then the Helping Struggling Readers tab should be beneficial. If I needed any ideas for reading materials then I could click of the Children's Books and Authors tab. This website is great for all stages of reading!
In Mr. McLeod's blog post, he is telling people to keep children away from the computer and cellphones. He does mention sexting, cyber bullies, and porn. However, at the end he says that his kids that use technology will be ahead of everyone else's. About midways through Mr. McLeod's blog post, I wasn't sure if he was being sarcastic or not. However, it is very clear at the end where he stands on the issue. In my comment that I left for him I said that there's no way that parents, teachers, and etcetera can keep children away from the evil in this world. Even without technology there are bad things occurred. Children are having kids, there are still bullies in school, and creepy members in the family are still molesting. The best thing to do in this situation is to encourage technology use but with caution. I believe if we educate them on the cause and effects of the choices they make on the web, they will make decisions that they won't regret later.
Travis Allen
In the first video, Travis Allen speaks about his idea about using the itouch in school. The itouch replaces textbooks, maps, paper, writing utensils, and much more! In the second video, It shows Travis three years later and what all was accomplished with his ischool idea so far. While watching Travis's first video, I was thinking that instead of the itouch, the school should have a class set of the ipad because the ipad has a bigger screen. I was glad to see that in the second video, children were doing math on a tablet.
I thought that Travis's idea was really bold and smart. I thoroughly enjoyed his presentation and agree with what he said. Hopefully, text book companies won't try to make schools buy new editions every two years like they make college students. It's wonderful that the school would save a lot because of the savings from not using ink, paper, crayons, and ectetera. Maybe some of that money can go towards the underpaid teachers ; )
There are so many different ways the classroom could be improved just by this idea of Travis's. Like the idea about using podcasts so that students can see what happened in class if they missed. If a teacher had to miss a day, who needs a sub? She can just skype with her students in the classroom. I'm sure there are several more creative ideas out there for the ischool. It would be fun to teach with the limitless ideas!
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'Lux Aurumque'
What a wonderful experience! In this video, there were almost 200 choir participants singing from their personal computers! Even the conductor was there virtually. They sang a beautiful Latin song without flaw. Better yet, they never even met or practiced in person! I actually sang that song in my choir at Faulkner State Community College. Singing virtually makes rehearsing a lot easier in some ways because of travel and time issues. Technology is pretty cool : )
Teaching 21st Century Students
First, I must say that this video was a little too long and busy to me, but it was still beneficial. I agree with the idea that teachers can help the students skills when it comes to accessing the internet. However, I think some subjects like math should still be taught personally. Some of these ideas might be a little too advanced for the grade levels that I plan to teach. Also, some things like Twitter seem irrelevant or not as important to a lot of careers.
Different materials for education were compared-paper vs. technology. Also the concept of engagement vs. entertainment. This video seems to go well with the technology theme for this class. I think this new concept will be ingrained in my brain.
Reading Rockets
This educational website seems to be very useful for teachers, students, and principals, and librarians. However, it's main audience appears to be teachers. The website is easy to use and has many teaching/learning strategies and tools for reading. I will definitely take this website into consideration for my teaching career!
The ABC's of Teaching Reading will be great to starters. If there are still students struggling then the Helping Struggling Readers tab should be beneficial. If I needed any ideas for reading materials then I could click of the Children's Books and Authors tab. This website is great for all stages of reading!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Blog Post #4
First Graders Create Own Read Along Book
In the blog post, it describes what a Read Along Book is. Basically, the children record a script from a book and the students can read along with the recording. What a wonderful idea to encourage children to read! This seems like a great motivational tool for children to read aloud and to themselves. The children that read Dinosaurs Before Dark did a great job! What's more great is that they're only 6/7 years old! The teacher said, "Students started to experiment with their voices: inflection, fluency, pitches, emotions, volume, speed." I didn't start practicing those elements of speech in a formal manner until I was in the 4th grade. The sound effects make it even more interesting for the students. Sounds like a fun and productive way to learn!
Podcasting With First Grade
In this blog post, the teacher writes about her success with 1st graders making a podcast. She says that they were thrilled to record and later hear their piece of work. For this particular podcast the children wrote a pretend interview with characters in a book that they liked. The students came up with the questions and the characters' answers as well. The children were able to take turns being the interviewer, the boy character, and the girl character. However, it got a little confusing because there were multiple voices for a single character. The list of skill addressed:
listening
speaking
presenting
comprehension
storytelling
performance
voice acting
oral fluency
media
technology
The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom by Joe Dale
In this video, Joe Dale says that you can use podcasts for students to listen and review the day's lesson at home or make fun and creative projects in the classroom. I learned that the difference between a podcast and a vodcast is that a vodcast uses video. Podcasts can also be very useful if a student is absent from school or if a parent is concerned about what's going on in the classroom.
I wasn't that concerned with podcasts until the suggestion was made about students being absent from school. Students will no longer have the excuse of being behind in school due to sickness, injury, ect. With technology, teachers will not have to worry about make-up assignments or trying to reteach a lesson.
In the blog post, it describes what a Read Along Book is. Basically, the children record a script from a book and the students can read along with the recording. What a wonderful idea to encourage children to read! This seems like a great motivational tool for children to read aloud and to themselves. The children that read Dinosaurs Before Dark did a great job! What's more great is that they're only 6/7 years old! The teacher said, "Students started to experiment with their voices: inflection, fluency, pitches, emotions, volume, speed." I didn't start practicing those elements of speech in a formal manner until I was in the 4th grade. The sound effects make it even more interesting for the students. Sounds like a fun and productive way to learn!
Podcasting With First Grade
In this blog post, the teacher writes about her success with 1st graders making a podcast. She says that they were thrilled to record and later hear their piece of work. For this particular podcast the children wrote a pretend interview with characters in a book that they liked. The students came up with the questions and the characters' answers as well. The children were able to take turns being the interviewer, the boy character, and the girl character. However, it got a little confusing because there were multiple voices for a single character. The list of skill addressed:
listening
speaking
presenting
comprehension
storytelling
performance
voice acting
oral fluency
media
technology
The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom by Joe Dale
In this video, Joe Dale says that you can use podcasts for students to listen and review the day's lesson at home or make fun and creative projects in the classroom. I learned that the difference between a podcast and a vodcast is that a vodcast uses video. Podcasts can also be very useful if a student is absent from school or if a parent is concerned about what's going on in the classroom.
I wasn't that concerned with podcasts until the suggestion was made about students being absent from school. Students will no longer have the excuse of being behind in school due to sickness, injury, ect. With technology, teachers will not have to worry about make-up assignments or trying to reteach a lesson.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Blog Post #3
Technology in Special Education
In this video, Lacey demonstrates how technology benefits students in special education by asking them questions about their experience with computers. The students appear to be high school age. Many of the students are in wheel chairs. Her class has a mixture of students with learning and/or physical disabilities.
I never really thought too much about children with special needs. I went into this program strictly thinking about teaching students with average or above average learning capabilities. However, I had a change of heart just by watching this video! At first, when Lacey spoke with Chris, he didn't show any signs of communication except through his eyes. Later, when Lacey showed what Chris wrote on the computer, I was shocked! He typed a whole sentence using correct grammar! With technology, students can reach their learning potential because they are able to communicate and pay attention more effectively.
Education Application
The education app I chose is called Fotopedia. In this application, students can see up close up pictures of animals in the wild. Animals in the application include sea turtles, foxes, sea horses, and much more! Children of all ages should enjoy looking at the great quality animal pictures. There are even descriptions about the animals. The application includes interactive maps to show where the animals live. Overall, the application looks fun and educational. The coolest part is that it's free!
Gary Hayes Social Media Count
When arriving at this <a href="http://www.personalizemedia.com/garys-social-media-count/">website</a> I was instantly amazed! Gary Hayes set up a counter of how many things have occurred within the last second, minute, day, and so on. These things include items shared on facebook, emails sent globally, sms's sent worldwide, and ect. I'm stunned that there are more emails being sent than sms messages. I found the Social Media Count most interesting. What's more shocking is that about every second there's an hour worth of videos uploaded on to Youtube.
Taking this class and watching the counter on Hayes' website, makes me realize what kind of activities I'll have to plan for my students. Even then, I'll have to continuously update myself on new technology so that I can prepare my students for what they'll have to use in the future. I have a better idea of what the world is doing based on this web page.
Michael Wesch: A Vision of Students Today
This video is filmed in a classroom with college students holding up signs that contain the average facts about the life of college students. I found this video to be very informative. If I averaged my 7 day week out to a day it would be like about 2 hours of classes, 4 hours of homework, 4 hours of work, and the rest would be free time and sleeping.
Some of the things that were on the papers that the students held up were shocking but some were understandable. I've spent much money on text books that I hardly used and I've read many things for school that would not be relevant for my life. I agree that chalkboards need to be done a way with. Students need more visualization so that their comprehension of the subject being taught improves. We need a system that teaches students for life, not just a semester.
In this video, Lacey demonstrates how technology benefits students in special education by asking them questions about their experience with computers. The students appear to be high school age. Many of the students are in wheel chairs. Her class has a mixture of students with learning and/or physical disabilities.
I never really thought too much about children with special needs. I went into this program strictly thinking about teaching students with average or above average learning capabilities. However, I had a change of heart just by watching this video! At first, when Lacey spoke with Chris, he didn't show any signs of communication except through his eyes. Later, when Lacey showed what Chris wrote on the computer, I was shocked! He typed a whole sentence using correct grammar! With technology, students can reach their learning potential because they are able to communicate and pay attention more effectively.
Education Application
The education app I chose is called Fotopedia. In this application, students can see up close up pictures of animals in the wild. Animals in the application include sea turtles, foxes, sea horses, and much more! Children of all ages should enjoy looking at the great quality animal pictures. There are even descriptions about the animals. The application includes interactive maps to show where the animals live. Overall, the application looks fun and educational. The coolest part is that it's free!
Gary Hayes Social Media Count
When arriving at this <a href="http://www.personalizemedia.com/garys-social-media-count/">website</a> I was instantly amazed! Gary Hayes set up a counter of how many things have occurred within the last second, minute, day, and so on. These things include items shared on facebook, emails sent globally, sms's sent worldwide, and ect. I'm stunned that there are more emails being sent than sms messages. I found the Social Media Count most interesting. What's more shocking is that about every second there's an hour worth of videos uploaded on to Youtube.
Taking this class and watching the counter on Hayes' website, makes me realize what kind of activities I'll have to plan for my students. Even then, I'll have to continuously update myself on new technology so that I can prepare my students for what they'll have to use in the future. I have a better idea of what the world is doing based on this web page.
Michael Wesch: A Vision of Students Today
This video is filmed in a classroom with college students holding up signs that contain the average facts about the life of college students. I found this video to be very informative. If I averaged my 7 day week out to a day it would be like about 2 hours of classes, 4 hours of homework, 4 hours of work, and the rest would be free time and sleeping.
Some of the things that were on the papers that the students held up were shocking but some were understandable. I've spent much money on text books that I hardly used and I've read many things for school that would not be relevant for my life. I agree that chalkboards need to be done a way with. Students need more visualization so that their comprehension of the subject being taught improves. We need a system that teaches students for life, not just a semester.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
C4T#1 Kathy Cassidy
Kids Teaching Kids and Teaching in Flu Season
on the silent "e". A video of a student's Common Craft-style Video was shown in the post. Kathy said that the students really enjoyed making the videos and she hopes that their videos will help to teach the other students who missed school.
My Comment Summary
In my comment, I said that I was skeptical about children teaching their piers, but now I see it works. I also said that I was glad that the students can teach their piers in a fun way and that I'll use this technique when I'm a teacher.
Kathy gave a lesson to her 1st grade students on the differences between needs and wants. After the unit, she assigned the class to make a Common Craft-style Video. A few students were still not understanding the lesson. Kathy saw this need and showed those students the videos of the students who understood. She then reported that the students understood!
Unfortunately, there was a week of school that hardly any students came to school due to the cold temperatures. During the class time, the students who attended school made a Common Craft-style Videoon the silent "e". A video of a student's Common Craft-style Video was shown in the post. Kathy said that the students really enjoyed making the videos and she hopes that their videos will help to teach the other students who missed school.
My Comment Summary
In my comment, I said that I was skeptical about children teaching their piers, but now I see it works. I also said that I was glad that the students can teach their piers in a fun way and that I'll use this technique when I'm a teacher.
Nintendo DS: An Assessment Tool?
In Kathy's bog post, she talks about the class having a BYOD (bring your own device day). The students brought their Nintendo DS units to class. Kathy also had 6 units for those who didn't have a DS. The class logged into a chat room in Pictochat. The agenda was to work on spelling. With the devices, Kathy could quickly tell who needed help with what. The students commented on their classmates work as well. Students quickly corrected their mistakes. This activity helped when the class wrote number sentences to go with number stories. Kathy enjoyed the timely and efficient outcome and hope to get a class set.
Summary of Comment
In my comment I said that I was amazed at the activities she has for her students. I told her that I could never imagine working with game devices when I was in school. I finished off with a question asking her if the school provided the Nintendo DS units or if she got them from another source.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Blog #2
Did You Know?
It is always interesting to me to read and hear about interesting facts. Both videos were interesting to watch, however, they were not as enjoyable the second time through. It seems plausible that 25% of the population of India with the highest IQ's out number the entire population of the U.S. However, it seems that whoever wrote this fact wants you to believe that India's population is incredibly smart. But if you think about it, 25% of the population of India with the lowest IQ's also out number the entire population of the United States. The India and China facts got a little redundant because the population of each country is ridiculously high. I was interested to hear that 48 hours of videos are uploaded to Youtube every second. And lastly, it was interesting to hear that so many students have computers in their houses. But I wonder, how many of those students have high speed internet?
I'm curious to why Dr. Strange made a 'did you know' video because it seems that his video contained a lot of information from the original. I enjoyed the original video better because the facts were more interesting and it appears that a lot more time went into it. However, the background music was enjoyable from Dr. Strange's video. It seems like this would be a great assignment for students to work on researching and practice making enjoyable Youtube videos.
Mr. Winkle Wakes
My first question is, why is Mr.Winkle wearing that outfit?
Outfit worn around 100 years ago
Some of the main points in this video are that students are learning facts out of context, reading from text books, and that students are passive through out class. Their solution to these problems is video games! Go through a 3D game of a place, learn the language, and learn about the culture of the time.
First, I would like to say that my teachers did not just lecture in front of us all day as we sat passive the whole time. Also, why are they saying that text books are bad? Are they saying that reading is bad? Isn't it the quality of the text book that makes it constructive or destructive? I think that their idea could be a constructive way to learn, but it doesn't solve all of life's problems. Mentally, this could be a great idea ,but physically, this could be a disaster. Is it healthy to stare at a monitor hours at a time every single day? Will every job in the future require the employees to use the most advance technology? Plus, one has to consider the time children are spending watching T.V., playing video games, and surfing the web at home. No wonder children are becoming obese! I believe that there are other fun techniques to learning that don't require a child to sit in front of a computer all day in class.
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students Digital Smarts
Ms. Davis seems to have good ideas of teaching her students about new technology and software. It is interesting to see how a teacher in a rural town in Georgia can be so well connected with the world and new technology. The children in her class seemed to enjoy what she was teaching as well. I'm still not sure how she does all these new activities and still follows the curriculum.
I still don't understand why making avatars and learning all these new software programs is beneficial for all the students. It seems like it's teaching a certain way that will not be beneficial to all the students. For instance, Gillian Lynn (choreographer of Cats) couldn't sit still because she had to move in order to learn. What about those children? Are we expecting children with learning disorders to be able to sit down at a computer and be able to take it all in?
Ms. Davis' idea for children is good for part of the student body, but there needs to be more options for the other children.
It is always interesting to me to read and hear about interesting facts. Both videos were interesting to watch, however, they were not as enjoyable the second time through. It seems plausible that 25% of the population of India with the highest IQ's out number the entire population of the U.S. However, it seems that whoever wrote this fact wants you to believe that India's population is incredibly smart. But if you think about it, 25% of the population of India with the lowest IQ's also out number the entire population of the United States. The India and China facts got a little redundant because the population of each country is ridiculously high. I was interested to hear that 48 hours of videos are uploaded to Youtube every second. And lastly, it was interesting to hear that so many students have computers in their houses. But I wonder, how many of those students have high speed internet?
I'm curious to why Dr. Strange made a 'did you know' video because it seems that his video contained a lot of information from the original. I enjoyed the original video better because the facts were more interesting and it appears that a lot more time went into it. However, the background music was enjoyable from Dr. Strange's video. It seems like this would be a great assignment for students to work on researching and practice making enjoyable Youtube videos.
Mr. Winkle Wakes
My first question is, why is Mr.Winkle wearing that outfit?
Outfit worn around 100 years ago
Mr. Winkle
Well anyway, the video does make a good point of the school systems being behind in technology. However, Mr. Winkle must not have seen the overhead projector or heard the intercom system which are at least in the schools without smart boards and other high tech teaching tools. Teaching has come a long way since 1912. Yes, there may still be hard copy text books and students still going to class as opposed to a virtual class, but learning is still taking place. I think it is wise to use whatever material that is best for the class. If high technology tools are more useful and produce better results, then I say we use high tech things.
It is very beneficial to have as much technological utensils as we do, but what about the rest of the world? Don't those children in poverty stricken areas deserve computers? Shouldn't they have the opportunity to talk to children across the world through Skype? I think money should be given to other poor countries so that those students have a chance to catch up to where we are now. There's plenty of money that can be spent on better things. The only thing stopping the good is the greed. Don't feed the greed!
Ken Robinson Says Schools Kill Creativity
I absolutely loved this video! Ken Robinson brings so much interest by his knowledge and especially by his humor. In his talk, he says that there is a great deal of potential in children that school kills. I believe that this is very much true. I know a teacher that says that almost everything she teaches is controlled by district. She says that they have to teach subjects in a certain order and in a certain way. What's the point of having teachers? Aren't teachers supposed to be known for their creativity? Since the teachers can't be creative in their way of teaching, how will students ever grow to their potential?
Another good saying of Mr. Robinson is, "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original". I can't even remember the last time it was okay for me to do something wrong. I was taught to do things in a certain way and any other way of getting the desired result was wrong or unacceptable. I'm very sad to see the school system of the United States. The people who are never in the class rooms are making the objectives and telling teachers what to do and what not to do. When will we see the light at the end of the tunnel?
If children are going to school training to be professors and there's an academic inflation, where are the job opportunities? Luck and connections? What is there to do? We must take a stand and bring education to education.
A Vision for 21st Century Learning
Some of the main points in this video are that students are learning facts out of context, reading from text books, and that students are passive through out class. Their solution to these problems is video games! Go through a 3D game of a place, learn the language, and learn about the culture of the time.
First, I would like to say that my teachers did not just lecture in front of us all day as we sat passive the whole time. Also, why are they saying that text books are bad? Are they saying that reading is bad? Isn't it the quality of the text book that makes it constructive or destructive? I think that their idea could be a constructive way to learn, but it doesn't solve all of life's problems. Mentally, this could be a great idea ,but physically, this could be a disaster. Is it healthy to stare at a monitor hours at a time every single day? Will every job in the future require the employees to use the most advance technology? Plus, one has to consider the time children are spending watching T.V., playing video games, and surfing the web at home. No wonder children are becoming obese! I believe that there are other fun techniques to learning that don't require a child to sit in front of a computer all day in class.
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students Digital Smarts
Ms. Davis seems to have good ideas of teaching her students about new technology and software. It is interesting to see how a teacher in a rural town in Georgia can be so well connected with the world and new technology. The children in her class seemed to enjoy what she was teaching as well. I'm still not sure how she does all these new activities and still follows the curriculum.
I still don't understand why making avatars and learning all these new software programs is beneficial for all the students. It seems like it's teaching a certain way that will not be beneficial to all the students. For instance, Gillian Lynn (choreographer of Cats) couldn't sit still because she had to move in order to learn. What about those children? Are we expecting children with learning disorders to be able to sit down at a computer and be able to take it all in?
Ms. Davis' idea for children is good for part of the student body, but there needs to be more options for the other children.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Friday, January 27, 2012
Blog Post #1
About Me
Greetings! My name is Eva and I'm 20 years of age. For starters, I was born in Augusta, GA, but soon after I moved to Chunchula, AL. When I was about five, I moved to Chickasaw (north of Mobile) and have lived here ever since! God has blessed me with many things, people, and talents in my life. When I was younger I took gymnastics, dance, choir, voice lessons, piano lessons, and baton lessons. Unfortunately, I hardly do any of those things. My main hobbies I have now are reading and spending time with my wonderful boyfriend. I also do a bit of loom knitting and I'm experimenting with felting wool. My passions in life are traveling, working with children, teaching, and planning for the future.
As far as personality traits go, I tend to be silly and try to be loving (Oh! How I fail at this sometimes!). I try to be a nice person and I try to be the person God desires me to be. On the other hand, I'm very selfish, nosy and terribly messy but hope to change all of that !
What I Learned from Randy Pausch
Randy makes some excellent suggestions for successful time management. I liked his idea about asking one's self, "What happens if I choose not to do this?". When I get side tracked I also need to ask myself, "Why am I doing this?". I also enjoyed the statement "failing to plan is planning to fail". The reminder of a "to do" list was very beneficial. Over all, it was a very beneficial video.
Greetings! My name is Eva and I'm 20 years of age. For starters, I was born in Augusta, GA, but soon after I moved to Chunchula, AL. When I was about five, I moved to Chickasaw (north of Mobile) and have lived here ever since! God has blessed me with many things, people, and talents in my life. When I was younger I took gymnastics, dance, choir, voice lessons, piano lessons, and baton lessons. Unfortunately, I hardly do any of those things. My main hobbies I have now are reading and spending time with my wonderful boyfriend. I also do a bit of loom knitting and I'm experimenting with felting wool. My passions in life are traveling, working with children, teaching, and planning for the future.
As far as personality traits go, I tend to be silly and try to be loving (Oh! How I fail at this sometimes!). I try to be a nice person and I try to be the person God desires me to be. On the other hand, I'm very selfish, nosy and terribly messy but hope to change all of that !
What I Learned from Randy Pausch
Randy makes some excellent suggestions for successful time management. I liked his idea about asking one's self, "What happens if I choose not to do this?". When I get side tracked I also need to ask myself, "Why am I doing this?". I also enjoyed the statement "failing to plan is planning to fail". The reminder of a "to do" list was very beneficial. Over all, it was a very beneficial video.
Friday, January 20, 2012
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