EDM 310 with Dr. John Strange has been the most enlightening, frustrating, fantastic, time consuming class I have participated in my educational career. One thing I can say for sure is that no matter how much time it took, how frustrated I got, this class was worth it! I learned how important technology is. Blogging can actually be educational, youtube holds more than entertainment, that things do not have to cost an arm and a leg to use (there is almost always a free version somewhere), and Google is more than a search engine. Technology is so important in our society today, and as a future educator I realize the importance to use technology in my classroom. The children of tomorrow deserve to learn anything they can about the world around them, and what better way to connect them to it than other blogs around the world.
Thank you Dr. Strange for instilling technological literacy, for continuing to change the schools one future educator at a time. I have learned so much from your class, without the endless notes, quizzes, multiple choice test, i.e. burp back education.
To my fellow classmates, I hope to visit your future classrooms one day through the use of a screen and Skype. :)
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Honest Reflection
This semester has been full of its ups and downs. I would like to concentrate on the ups in this post. I have learned about so many fantastic tools that I can use everyday in and out of my classroom that are free! One of my favorite things that I have learned about this semester is Aviary. It is an image editing program that does everything from screen capturing to adding really cool details to photos. I love it! You can check it out by clicking here. Another great tool that has been implemented in this course is blogging! We used blogger to set up personal blogs to keep track of our assignments. i can definitely see me using a blog in my classroom, to publish my students work and help keep the parents informed about what is going on in the classroom. My favorite assignment for this class was comments4kids. We commented on students blogs from around the world. I had so much fun with this! There are so many resources we learned about that will continue to help me, such as ALEX and ACCESS, Google Documents, Skype, Delicious, and iTunes. I will continue to further my literacy in technology because that is the future.
My Sentence
So, I have been thinking about what my sentence is for a while, and it is not an easy thing to come up with. It is also something that is a work in progress, and could change at any moment. However, right now, I think the words that sum up my life as of right now is...
My name is Chelsie Marie Funderburg, and I am a future educator that will embrace technology in and out of the classroom.
My name is Chelsie Marie Funderburg, and I am a future educator that will embrace technology in and out of the classroom.
Interview
I will post the link to my interview as soon as Dr. Strange can get it to me!
Thanks Dr. Strange for your help!
Thanks Dr. Strange for your help!
Friday, April 30, 2010
PLN Part 2
This semester I have been constantly meeting new people, visiting websites, and learning about technology that can be useful for me when I have my own classroom. At the beginning of the semester we began establishing our PLN, personal learning network. So far, I have used Skype, Facebook, and Twitter to keep and establish relationships between future teachers like me. Some more things I have added to my PLN is ACCESS and ALEX, which are websites dedicated to help further education on all kinds of topics. The Khan Academy is a website with tons of instructional videos that can be used as supplemental activities to any lesson. There also tons of educational blogs that I will continue to visit to see how present teachers are handling technology is their classes. I have been using Delicious to help keep track of all of the resources I find that will be useful to me in the future. A PLN is a great resource, and mine will continue to grow!
Comments4teachers Week 10 and 12
I commented on Beth Still's blog for weeks 10 and 12. She seems to be doing a lot for her community! Holding workshops for teachers helping them learn to connect with each other. I wish her the best of luck! Click here to visit her blog!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
April 24, 2010
PLE/PLN
The video I watched on the 7th grade students PLE, personal learning environment, was astounding! The video was made and posted on Youtube. I wish I would have known about creating a PLE/PLN when I was in middle school. It would have made keeping up with research so much easier! Her PLE seem sto be very organized, and that is very important when creating your own PLE, I have come to find out...
Sentences
Daniel Pink's video was really interesting! It's hard to believe that only two questions can change your life, but these questions can. "What's your sentence, and was I better today than yesterday" are the life changing questions. It's hard to think about motivation, everything you want to accomplish, everything you have already accomplished and sum it up in one sentence. And, being motivated to be better today than you were yesterday is something to strive for in and of itself. That's an ongoing goal I think everyone should have! This short video has given me a lot to think about, and it is definitely worth the 2 minutes it took to watch. It is harder than it sounds to figure out the answers.
The video I watched on the 7th grade students PLE, personal learning environment, was astounding! The video was made and posted on Youtube. I wish I would have known about creating a PLE/PLN when I was in middle school. It would have made keeping up with research so much easier! Her PLE seem sto be very organized, and that is very important when creating your own PLE, I have come to find out...
Sentences
Daniel Pink's video was really interesting! It's hard to believe that only two questions can change your life, but these questions can. "What's your sentence, and was I better today than yesterday" are the life changing questions. It's hard to think about motivation, everything you want to accomplish, everything you have already accomplished and sum it up in one sentence. And, being motivated to be better today than you were yesterday is something to strive for in and of itself. That's an ongoing goal I think everyone should have! This short video has given me a lot to think about, and it is definitely worth the 2 minutes it took to watch. It is harder than it sounds to figure out the answers.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
April 18, 2010
This semester in EDM 310 has been nothing like I thought it was going to be. Many of the things we have done I have played around with before, but a few things I have become really fond of. One of those things is comments4kids. That is definitely my favorite part of this whole class. I looked forward to opening my Google Docs to see what child I would get to learn about this week. I hope to continue exploring class blogs and blogs in general to offer my comments because having an audience is so important, especially to children.
Comments4Teachers Week 13 and 14
For weeks 13 and 14 I commented on Jen Deyenberg's blog Trails Optional. Week 13's comment was on her post Teaching in the Caribbean 3.0. She is getting ready to travel back to Dominica this summer to help integrate the use of technology in to the classrooms. She will be there two weeks and everyday has a packed schedule. It was very interesting to see and I'm glad she shared this experience with the world! The next post I commented on was on geocaching. I have heard of this before, but I didn't think people actually did it. To see actual pictures and the enthusiasm she seems to have about this hobby was pretty spectacular. Maybe one day, I could find time to try it out for myself.
March 7, 2010
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture hit home. I have been going through a lot of medical issues right now, so it has taken me a while just to get through the fist 5 minutes without walking away from the computer. We teach our children through activities. An example Mr. Pausch gave was a "head-fake," we send our children out to play football, but what we really want them to learn is bigger than just the game. Another thing I really liked about his video was the reference to a brick wall, it isn't meant to keep you out, it is meant to keep out those who don't want it badly enough. He also worked on Aladdin which I find very exciting because I am a Disney fanatic! The end made me cry, I knew it was impossible to get through without crying, but the birthday dedication to his wife did it! What a great way to show how to take the focus off of you and pout it on to others. He gave great pointers on how to be a better person. It was definitely a great video!
Comments4kids Week 12
This week I listened to Kane's Mihi in Maori. This was also Kane's very first post for the year! He did a great job creating his Mihi, and I wish him the best of luck for the rest of the year.
Comments4kids Week 10
This week I commented on Bianca's reaction to the gift they sent to an American classroom that they have become friends with. They sent over a letter, a book, a Weet-bix box, and Australian flag for everyone in the class, and Vegemite. Mrs. Yollis' class created a video and sent it to 2KM to show their appreciation of the gift. It is so cool to see interaction between classroom across the world!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
April 11, 2010
Dr. Seuss-The Zax
This movie on Youtube is so true even though it is a cartoon! The South and the North going Zax are too stubborn to change and that is so true in so many people. The world will not stand still for you. You either accept the change and move side to side, or we will build an overpass to go around you.
The next video I watched made me cry. These children are so talented, and there is a reason their work is shared with the world! Students should share their work. It is so important to have an audience, in comments4kids assignments we have commented on children's blogs from around the world. Not only have I learned from them, but I have let them know that they are being heard. Kaia's blog is another success in which a three year old has shared what she has learned with the world. Outside of this class, I manage the bulletin board at my job, and we post progress reports, assignments, newspaper write ups and so much more of the students that are in our program. To have that boost of confidence from seeing their hard work recognized helps keep them motivated in school, at home, and in the community. It is very important to share a students hard work because they are worth it. They deserve the worlds attention for what they have accomplished in or out of school.
This movie on Youtube is so true even though it is a cartoon! The South and the North going Zax are too stubborn to change and that is so true in so many people. The world will not stand still for you. You either accept the change and move side to side, or we will build an overpass to go around you.
The next video I watched made me cry. These children are so talented, and there is a reason their work is shared with the world! Students should share their work. It is so important to have an audience, in comments4kids assignments we have commented on children's blogs from around the world. Not only have I learned from them, but I have let them know that they are being heard. Kaia's blog is another success in which a three year old has shared what she has learned with the world. Outside of this class, I manage the bulletin board at my job, and we post progress reports, assignments, newspaper write ups and so much more of the students that are in our program. To have that boost of confidence from seeing their hard work recognized helps keep them motivated in school, at home, and in the community. It is very important to share a students hard work because they are worth it. They deserve the worlds attention for what they have accomplished in or out of school.
April 4, 2010
Dear Kaia: Mr. Chamberlain
This blog post is amazing! Mr. Chamberlain's class commented on Kaia's pictures. Kaia's father noticed them and decided to ask them to make a video instead. Kaia cannot yet read, and a video would be perfect for her to enjoy others excitement of viewing her pictures. If you would like to see Mr. Chamberlain's post on how he made the video to send to Kaia click HERE
Dear Kaia
After reading Mr. Chamberlain's blog, I went to Kaia's blog post to see why his class made the video. Kaia's father decided to use their surroundings as an educational opportunity to teach Kaia about the world around her. They grabbed their cameras and went outside to take pictures of what they saw. Kaia then created her very first photo essay, which is very exciting! I really enjoyed seeing her pictures since we don't have that kind of environment here in Alabama. I love seeing new things and thanks to Kaia and her dad for taking the opportunity to share it with the world!
Intrepid Teacher: Singing Hearts
The next blog that is part of this assignment is Kaia's fathers blog. He writes about the experience of taking Kaia on her photography journey. It is exciting to see the connection made across the world through a blog post!
Parents do have to be careful about exposing their children on the internet, but it can be done. I believe Kaia's father took up the opportunity to have an educational experience and it has paid off. Not only will Kaia learn from taking part in this first hand, but the children in Mr. Chamberlain's class. I too have benefited from Kaia's experience. It helps to see success in blogging, and this will help when I introduce blogs to my future classroom.
This blog post is amazing! Mr. Chamberlain's class commented on Kaia's pictures. Kaia's father noticed them and decided to ask them to make a video instead. Kaia cannot yet read, and a video would be perfect for her to enjoy others excitement of viewing her pictures. If you would like to see Mr. Chamberlain's post on how he made the video to send to Kaia click HERE
Dear Kaia
After reading Mr. Chamberlain's blog, I went to Kaia's blog post to see why his class made the video. Kaia's father decided to use their surroundings as an educational opportunity to teach Kaia about the world around her. They grabbed their cameras and went outside to take pictures of what they saw. Kaia then created her very first photo essay, which is very exciting! I really enjoyed seeing her pictures since we don't have that kind of environment here in Alabama. I love seeing new things and thanks to Kaia and her dad for taking the opportunity to share it with the world!
Intrepid Teacher: Singing Hearts
The next blog that is part of this assignment is Kaia's fathers blog. He writes about the experience of taking Kaia on her photography journey. It is exciting to see the connection made across the world through a blog post!
Parents do have to be careful about exposing their children on the internet, but it can be done. I believe Kaia's father took up the opportunity to have an educational experience and it has paid off. Not only will Kaia learn from taking part in this first hand, but the children in Mr. Chamberlain's class. I too have benefited from Kaia's experience. It helps to see success in blogging, and this will help when I introduce blogs to my future classroom.
The Curriculum Catalyst Update
Monday, April 12, 2010
Timetoast Timeline
I used Timetoast to create this timeline on Toyota Celicas, which is my dream car!
Survey: Are you musically inclined?
I created a survey using Google forms to ask my fellow classmates questions involving music. Take a look at the results!
Can you read music? | |||||||||
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Can you play a musical instrument? | |||||||||
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If so, how many? | |||||||||||||
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What type of instrument do you like to play or listen to? | |||||||||||||||||||||
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If you play an instrument, how often do you play? | |||||||||||||||||
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What do you like or not like about instrumental music
I like the results after practicingThe beauty.I cant understand the reading.It's soothing.i love word paintingit is kinda boringCALMINGI'm indifferent.nothingI love how instrumental music can expres...
Do you think music could be used as an educational tool? Why/not?
Yes, music is a powerful tool. It can connect people.Of course, music is universal. Everyone likes music, it's an easy way to get people interested. Yes.We can learn from everything.Teaching children how to play music builds other important virtues: perseverance, practice, etc.yes. .Pattern detection and creation for prereading skills and math skills could yes. sometimes I memorize things by using some kind of tuneYESMaybe. I mean classical is good to listen to while studying...Im some waysSure! Music expands the mind. Some studies show that listening to music increases intelligent. Whether ...
Number of daily responses | |
SKYPE
I have used Skype for almost a year now! I first learned how to use it by asking my friends on Facebook what it was, it came installed on my new laptop. I use it to talk to my dad across the country, family in Japan, my friends in the county over, and to discuss class assignments. I love Skype, of course it has its glitches, but it is a great resource in and out of the classroom.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
March 12, 2010
ALEX 
The Alabama Learning Exchange more commonly known as ALEX is a great resource to use for teachers, students, and parents. You can search the podcasts to find something relevant to your search, or find lesson plans on the subject which is great for teachers. There is also a link for Professional Learning. The Professional Learning site gives outside links to resources and tools for "teaching and learning tools."
I have personally used ALEX before this assignment to help me get ideas and tools together to teach a writing course to home schooled students. I have also used this to help me catch up on geometry, so I could tutor one of my students effectively. I have found it very useful for many different situations when just needing something extra to study.
ACCESS
ACCESS is another interesting tool for high school students in the public school setting. ACCESS stands for Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide. This program allows for students to take online classes not provided in a regular classroom at their school. It is a distance learning tool, which I think is very exciting! Some of the courses offered is Test Prep, Alabama Graduation Exam help, AP Exam reviews, any kind of math, science, English, foreign language, and health offered in a high school.
The Alabama Learning Exchange more commonly known as ALEX is a great resource to use for teachers, students, and parents. You can search the podcasts to find something relevant to your search, or find lesson plans on the subject which is great for teachers. There is also a link for Professional Learning. The Professional Learning site gives outside links to resources and tools for "teaching and learning tools."
I have personally used ALEX before this assignment to help me get ideas and tools together to teach a writing course to home schooled students. I have also used this to help me catch up on geometry, so I could tutor one of my students effectively. I have found it very useful for many different situations when just needing something extra to study.
ACCESS
ACCESS is another interesting tool for high school students in the public school setting. ACCESS stands for Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide. This program allows for students to take online classes not provided in a regular classroom at their school. It is a distance learning tool, which I think is very exciting! Some of the courses offered is Test Prep, Alabama Graduation Exam help, AP Exam reviews, any kind of math, science, English, foreign language, and health offered in a high school.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Comments4Teachers Week 7, 8, 9
My teacher for weeks 7, 8, and, 9 was Ted Barrett. The first two weeks I participated in The Curriculum Catalyst. Mr. Barrett explained The Curriculum Catalyst as being a resource of which you can "crowd-surf topics." In order to make this collaborative Google Moderator was used. Stage 1 was used to gather topic ideas. I followed the link given to the The Curriculum Catalyst series and posted ideas and voted on other peoples ideas, it was a pretty interesting process to see people I don't even know contribute to this one source. Stage 1.5 was next. This was used to help Mr. Barrett decide on which "crowd-sourcing tool" to actually use for the rest of the project. "At the end of last weekend the Catalyst had over 280 topic ideas for the curriculum and over 70 people had voted more that 3000 times for a top topic." That is pretty spectacular to see, and just think that I am part of that number is pretty cool in it self. From my understanding this will be an ongoing process so maybe you should check it out!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
March 28, 2010
This weeks assignment was to watch Dan Brown's video An Open Letter To Education and read Morgan Bayda's blog post on the video. So, now let's break it down. I see that the world is changing and is dragging education along. It truly is sad to see people within the institution of education change their lives on the outside of the classroom but not inside the classroom. Personally, I enjoy listening to lectures, but I also like to participate in discussions but the way I like to learn is not the way others like to learn. I would never push what I like on others because my opinion is my opinion. As a future educator, I plan to use technology to its fullest in the classroom, promote creativity, and allow my students to think outside of the books.
My college education has consisted of different types of classroom settings. Lecture classes that I have taken much from and incorporated the information into my present career as a tutor and my future career as an educator. I have also taken an open discussion course where the floor was open to everyone's opinion and it brought new aspects to the atmosphere. I have been in a do it yourself classes, where it is left completely up to the student to either figure it out or don't and when questions were asked rarely were they answered. Then there is the hybrid courses where the information is given, but how to you use the information is left up to the student, however, any questions, concerns, or confusions have been cleared as immediate as possible. So, what have I learned from all of these courses; a) the assigned textbook really is not necessary to "get the grade," and b) there are professors that care about learning, and those that just want the paycheck.
Learning is the most important thing in my life. If I couldn't learn from what I experience what's the use of having a brain. I want to incorporate anything and everything that can ensure the best for my future students. If that means having books, labs, technology, power points, podcasts, videos, or whatever I will try to my full extent to make sure our future has what they need to be the best they can be, to do the best they can do, dream of change, and become the change. Since the internet has made most everything we need to learn "free" it will just take the time to find the best approach and use it.
My college education has consisted of different types of classroom settings. Lecture classes that I have taken much from and incorporated the information into my present career as a tutor and my future career as an educator. I have also taken an open discussion course where the floor was open to everyone's opinion and it brought new aspects to the atmosphere. I have been in a do it yourself classes, where it is left completely up to the student to either figure it out or don't and when questions were asked rarely were they answered. Then there is the hybrid courses where the information is given, but how to you use the information is left up to the student, however, any questions, concerns, or confusions have been cleared as immediate as possible. So, what have I learned from all of these courses; a) the assigned textbook really is not necessary to "get the grade," and b) there are professors that care about learning, and those that just want the paycheck.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Comments4Kids Week 9
This week I commented on Roberts blog. Robert goes to St. Pius C School, and he has been working with his teacher on creating videos. The video I watched is fabulous! He created a great video using moviemaker. I enjoyed watching his video, and visiting a new place on the web! Thanks Robert, keep up the great work!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Comments4kids Week 8
This week I commented on Hailey's blog. She is in Ms. Shetler's 7th grade class in Arizona. I hope she does very well in her writing, especially short stories and poetry which seems to be a topic that her class working on! Best of luck to Hailey and the rest of Ms. Shetler's class!
February 28, 2010
Richard Miller: This Is How We Dream Parts 1 and 2
After watching these videos, I'm stuck in awe. Like wow, everything I know will only be a memory if things keep changing as quickly as they are. Dreams are beginning to be blueprints of the future instead of aspirations that we might achieve. It's kind of scary but at the same time exciting and inspiring. I will be teaching the future and as of right now I have no idea what I can even expect to teach.
Almost everything is at our fingertips thanks to the internet. Books, lectures, movies, music, research, and the list goes on an on. I love to read and I've had my share in writing, but I'm not sure how I feel about making everything available to the public by a few clicks. I like paper. It's much easier on my eyes, but the keyboard is nicer on my hands. I'm on the fence I guess, but I will definitely give my students the opportunity to make their own decisions on the subject.
The Networked Student by Wendy Drexler
Connectivism makes sense in theory but in practice, personally, I don't get much out of it. I'm taking an online class on USA Online right now that is using this approach to learning, and I can't tell you one thing I have learned this semester from doing my own research on the subject. I just do what I have to do to get the work done. Which I guess is partly my fault for taking an online class. I like to sit in on lectures, I seem to retian more information that way. I guess that's where iTunes U comes in handy.
Yes, through iTunes U many credible lectures are available through this tool, but I'm still stuck on the classroom setting. I'm in the zone when I'm in the classroom, rather than lounging around at home where I have a billion other things to do rather than my school work, but again that's my fault.
I understand the thought behind a connectivist approach to learning, and it can ork for many people. I also se that this is where the classrooms are going, and I will be prepared to teach with this method. However personally I would like to sit behind a desk, listen to a teacher, and take notes on the subject.
Michael Wesch
He says, that today's classroom is disengaged. I totally agree! I also loved the pictures he showed of a classroom and then American Idol Auditions. Today's generation you do see the "meh" mentality in so many people.
One thing Wesch said that I was like wow, that sums it up is, " the reason why they're (today's young people) are so miserable is because they think that theyre the next American Idol and then when they're not, they're shocked."
Another interesting thing Wesch and his undergraduates researched is "I'm not talking to you ( a person); I'm talking to this ( a camera)." With a camera you can try over and over again to get the version of you that you want to present instead of an actual person to person conversation. Talking to a computer, recording myself is still very new, different, and just awkward to me. Hopefully, I can get used to talking to "myself," eventually...
After watching these videos, I'm stuck in awe. Like wow, everything I know will only be a memory if things keep changing as quickly as they are. Dreams are beginning to be blueprints of the future instead of aspirations that we might achieve. It's kind of scary but at the same time exciting and inspiring. I will be teaching the future and as of right now I have no idea what I can even expect to teach.
Almost everything is at our fingertips thanks to the internet. Books, lectures, movies, music, research, and the list goes on an on. I love to read and I've had my share in writing, but I'm not sure how I feel about making everything available to the public by a few clicks. I like paper. It's much easier on my eyes, but the keyboard is nicer on my hands. I'm on the fence I guess, but I will definitely give my students the opportunity to make their own decisions on the subject.
The Networked Student by Wendy Drexler
Connectivism makes sense in theory but in practice, personally, I don't get much out of it. I'm taking an online class on USA Online right now that is using this approach to learning, and I can't tell you one thing I have learned this semester from doing my own research on the subject. I just do what I have to do to get the work done. Which I guess is partly my fault for taking an online class. I like to sit in on lectures, I seem to retian more information that way. I guess that's where iTunes U comes in handy.
Yes, through iTunes U many credible lectures are available through this tool, but I'm still stuck on the classroom setting. I'm in the zone when I'm in the classroom, rather than lounging around at home where I have a billion other things to do rather than my school work, but again that's my fault.
I understand the thought behind a connectivist approach to learning, and it can ork for many people. I also se that this is where the classrooms are going, and I will be prepared to teach with this method. However personally I would like to sit behind a desk, listen to a teacher, and take notes on the subject.
Michael Wesch
One thing Wesch said that I was like wow, that sums it up is, " the reason why they're (today's young people) are so miserable is because they think that theyre the next American Idol and then when they're not, they're shocked."
Another interesting thing Wesch and his undergraduates researched is "I'm not talking to you ( a person); I'm talking to this ( a camera)." With a camera you can try over and over again to get the version of you that you want to present instead of an actual person to person conversation. Talking to a computer, recording myself is still very new, different, and just awkward to me. Hopefully, I can get used to talking to "myself," eventually...
Sunday, February 28, 2010
February 21, 2010
Dr. Alice Christie's Site on Google Earth
Dr. Christie's site includes a detailed section on Google Earth! She explains how to use Google Earth, how much it cost, how it can be used in a classroom, and much more. I focused on how I can use Google Earth in my future classroom.
I love to use Google Earth! My boyfriend uses it at his job at a utility company, and he introduced it to me! I love to travel, but I never have the money to go see the places I want to see, so I use Google Earth for virtual traveling! Dr. Christie's information helped me figure out how I can take my students around the world in the classroom for free! Not only can it let people see what the world around them looks like, but it also "enhances map reading and navigational skills." I believe that Google Earth does "engage and excite learner," and I cannot wait to have a classroom where we can travel the world using the fabulous technology Google Earth!
iTunes University
iTunes U can be both useful for me now as a student and later when I am a teacher. If my professors choose to use this device to our benefit then we will be able to listen to different podcasts on topics for our classes. According to CNN.com, "hundreds of universities, and a growing number of business schools, are making recordings of lectures, seminars and conferences available to the general public via Web sites such as iTunes." So, if students have questions, missed class, or just need to review something before a test iTunes U is a fabulous resource! Apple says that there are over 600 universities that have implemented iTunes U as a resource for their school.
For teachers, it gives an easy way to upload lectures, videos, and class material that is accessible to their students. Since, iTunes is free download this makes it easy for students to get to. If a professor has to teach the same class year after year, instead of answering thousands of the same questions every year they can create something that incorporates the FAQs.
iPods in Instruction
I remember in school the only thing I used my iPod for was an ability to drown out my teachers lecture, not to listen to my teachers lectures! Today, that is exactly what is going on! You can download podcasts through iTunes and put them directly onto your iPod. By doing some research, I found that students can study using their iPods, such as flash cards, according to Robert Craven. He also said in his interview, that "students, who use iPods to count calories, to record themselves reading, to make podcasts—even to get to the moon."
Duke University gave "each of its 1,650 incoming freshmen a free iPod this fall as part of an initiative to foster innovative uses of technology in the classroom" in 2004. The iPods were given to the students with orientation information on them, the academic calendar, and the school fight song! This is an exciting move toward the acceptance of technology. So yay for Duke, but let's see if we can get other universities to jump on board!
Wiki hosted by Dr. John Starnge: Who is a techonolgically literate teacher?
This wiki confirmed what I have felt all along. To be technologically literate means to embrace change! Hug it, hold it, and call it family. To feel comfortable outside of your comfort zone is also important. Dare yourself to not "break it," or make you feel inadequate. Being technologically literate means you should know what a blog is and if not write on one of your own visit several each week. This wiki by Dr. Strange is very interesting, and should be viewed by every future educator, present educator, and those who want to learn how to become technologically litereate! Thanks Dr. Strange for starting and maintaining this wiki!
Dr. Christie's site includes a detailed section on Google Earth! She explains how to use Google Earth, how much it cost, how it can be used in a classroom, and much more. I focused on how I can use Google Earth in my future classroom.I love to use Google Earth! My boyfriend uses it at his job at a utility company, and he introduced it to me! I love to travel, but I never have the money to go see the places I want to see, so I use Google Earth for virtual traveling! Dr. Christie's information helped me figure out how I can take my students around the world in the classroom for free! Not only can it let people see what the world around them looks like, but it also "enhances map reading and navigational skills." I believe that Google Earth does "engage and excite learner," and I cannot wait to have a classroom where we can travel the world using the fabulous technology Google Earth!
iTunes University
iTunes U can be both useful for me now as a student and later when I am a teacher. If my professors choose to use this device to our benefit then we will be able to listen to different podcasts on topics for our classes. According to CNN.com, "hundreds of universities, and a growing number of business schools, are making recordings of lectures, seminars and conferences available to the general public via Web sites such as iTunes." So, if students have questions, missed class, or just need to review something before a test iTunes U is a fabulous resource! Apple says that there are over 600 universities that have implemented iTunes U as a resource for their school.
For teachers, it gives an easy way to upload lectures, videos, and class material that is accessible to their students. Since, iTunes is free download this makes it easy for students to get to. If a professor has to teach the same class year after year, instead of answering thousands of the same questions every year they can create something that incorporates the FAQs.
iPods in Instruction
I remember in school the only thing I used my iPod for was an ability to drown out my teachers lecture, not to listen to my teachers lectures! Today, that is exactly what is going on! You can download podcasts through iTunes and put them directly onto your iPod. By doing some research, I found that students can study using their iPods, such as flash cards, according to Robert Craven. He also said in his interview, that "students, who use iPods to count calories, to record themselves reading, to make podcasts—even to get to the moon."Duke University gave "each of its 1,650 incoming freshmen a free iPod this fall as part of an initiative to foster innovative uses of technology in the classroom" in 2004. The iPods were given to the students with orientation information on them, the academic calendar, and the school fight song! This is an exciting move toward the acceptance of technology. So yay for Duke, but let's see if we can get other universities to jump on board!
Wiki hosted by Dr. John Starnge: Who is a techonolgically literate teacher?
This wiki confirmed what I have felt all along. To be technologically literate means to embrace change! Hug it, hold it, and call it family. To feel comfortable outside of your comfort zone is also important. Dare yourself to not "break it," or make you feel inadequate. Being technologically literate means you should know what a blog is and if not write on one of your own visit several each week. This wiki by Dr. Strange is very interesting, and should be viewed by every future educator, present educator, and those who want to learn how to become technologically litereate! Thanks Dr. Strange for starting and maintaining this wiki!
Comments4kids Week 6
Mr. McCafferty's class made different kinds of salad dips. Three classes participated in the dip making and then the students got to taste each one to find the best! The dips included a variety of raw vegetables and other ingredients to make it a dip, like Philadelphia cheese. The classes looked like they had a great time, and what a way to implement healthy eating in your classroom!! Way to go kids!
My Personal Learning Network (PLN)
The network I am working to create is harder than I expected. I mean I have a network of friends that I go to help with discussions, to edit my papers, and even help me understand assignments in my classes. So far in my academic career, I have created a network of "go to friends" on Facebook that help me when I need to create a poll or just find out other perspectives and opinions. Dr. Strange has also been a huge help! Especially since he has granted his students access to his PLN on Delicious. At the University of South Alabama, I am working to create a network of professors that I can call on if and when I need help. Dr.Peggy Delmas, Dr. John Strange, Mr. Robby Byrd, and Ms. Karen Peterson have been a tremendous help to me in my short time here. I use Skype but haven't created an extensive network of people besides my friends. So, I guess this is an okay start to what I hope to become a PLN that grants me access to people world-wide!
Comments4kids Week 7
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Comments4kids Week 5
Sunday, February 14, 2010
February 14, 2010
Wickipedia
I refuse to use Wikipedia as a source in anything I write. I do use it to find a starting place for my research. I know people who change things on wiki just for fun. Personally, I think that is ridiculous. I believe that the initial intention of the site was to be educational, but it has turned into something that cannot be trusted. The fact that "anyone" can edit it should be the first red flag!
I found it interesting that you can't really hide anything on the internet because almost everything can be traced by IP addresses. I know people get frustrated when some "wise guy" comes along and either deletes the true facts or adds in pointless knowledge, but they need to realize that it comes with an open access site. If anyone can change it, than almost anyone will. So, wither lock it so it cannot be changed or be prepared to change it back multiple times.
"What I've Learned This Year" By Mr. McClung
Mr. McClung wrote a wonderful post about what teachers often forget in a classroom. He gives great pointers including my favorite "NO LESSON IS EVER PERFECT. THE LESSON YOU TEACH AND THE ONE YOU PLAN ARE ALWAYS DIFFERENT." Everything happens for a reason, and what cannot be covered one day can always be covered the next. What's important is a students understanding of the material that is gone over. If a child cannot comprehend what you are saying then you need to fix it, another point made by Mr. McClung. He did a great job just reminding educators to listen to their students and be willing to learn something new everyday. I'm so glad I was assigned this post to read, and I will definitely be sharing it with teachers and tutors that I know.
I refuse to use Wikipedia as a source in anything I write. I do use it to find a starting place for my research. I know people who change things on wiki just for fun. Personally, I think that is ridiculous. I believe that the initial intention of the site was to be educational, but it has turned into something that cannot be trusted. The fact that "anyone" can edit it should be the first red flag!
I found it interesting that you can't really hide anything on the internet because almost everything can be traced by IP addresses. I know people get frustrated when some "wise guy" comes along and either deletes the true facts or adds in pointless knowledge, but they need to realize that it comes with an open access site. If anyone can change it, than almost anyone will. So, wither lock it so it cannot be changed or be prepared to change it back multiple times.
"What I've Learned This Year" By Mr. McClung
Mr. McClung wrote a wonderful post about what teachers often forget in a classroom. He gives great pointers including my favorite "NO LESSON IS EVER PERFECT. THE LESSON YOU TEACH AND THE ONE YOU PLAN ARE ALWAYS DIFFERENT." Everything happens for a reason, and what cannot be covered one day can always be covered the next. What's important is a students understanding of the material that is gone over. If a child cannot comprehend what you are saying then you need to fix it, another point made by Mr. McClung. He did a great job just reminding educators to listen to their students and be willing to learn something new everyday. I'm so glad I was assigned this post to read, and I will definitely be sharing it with teachers and tutors that I know.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
February 7, 2010
CommentsforKids
This week I commented on Britni's blog. She is in Ms. Deyenberg's class. In her blog she wrote about her science project, which was really awesome! She made a gumball machine! She did a really great job! She also learned last week how to do a layup in basketball. Even though she hurt her thumb, she said she had fun! Here is a link to her blog..check it out! http://2dds.edublogs.org/
How to Create a Podcast
For this assignment I used Judy Scharf's Podcast Collection. She first explains what a podcast is. "A podcast is a “radio-style” talk show." "Podcasts can convey information about any subject." Then the very next thing was a link on how to use Audacity to create my own podcast, which I found very useful since this is the program I will be using for EDm 310! Here is the link for anyone who needs it, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hrBbczS9I0.
This is a great site for teachers who want to implement podcasts in their classroom as projects because it gives links to how podcast are beneficial in a classroom, and even gives project options. She includes a schedule if you want to make it an in class project, grading rubrics, research worksheets, and so much more. This site is definitely bookmarked for future use! Maybe you can use it too! Here is the link to Ms. Scharf's page where you can find this information http://www.curriki.org/xwiki/bin/view/Coll_jpsrolls/PodcastCollection?bc=.
I just saw that I had not posted this on Friday...oops! :) Guess I need to always double check!!!
How to Create a Podcast
For this assignment I used Judy Scharf's Podcast Collection. She first explains what a podcast is. "A podcast is a “radio-style” talk show." "Podcasts can convey information about any subject." Then the very next thing was a link on how to use Audacity to create my own podcast, which I found very useful since this is the program I will be using for EDm 310! Here is the link for anyone who needs it, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hrBbczS9I0.
This is a great site for teachers who want to implement podcasts in their classroom as projects because it gives links to how podcast are beneficial in a classroom, and even gives project options. She includes a schedule if you want to make it an in class project, grading rubrics, research worksheets, and so much more. This site is definitely bookmarked for future use! Maybe you can use it too! Here is the link to Ms. Scharf's page where you can find this information http://www.curriki.org/xwiki/bin/view/Coll_jpsrolls/PodcastCollection?bc=.
I just saw that I had not posted this on Friday...oops! :) Guess I need to always double check!!!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Sunday, January 31, 2010
January 31, 2010
Podcasts
I listened to 6 different podcast found on iTunes. I chose MacBreak Weekly, EdTechTalk, KidCast, SMARTBoard Lessons, This Week in Photography, and Connect Learning by David Warkick. For this class, EDM 310, I will have to create my own podcast, and the goal of this assignment is to try to find tips to make my podcast better. So, let's see what I found out from listening to a few minutes of each of the podcast I listed.
The Connect Learning Podcast and the SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast had a lot going on in the background that made listening to the podcast distracting. Having to concentrate on the conversation is already difficult for me because I am very visual, I like videos and visual aids, and when extra noise is thrown into the mix I want to concentrate on what's going on in the background. In the Connect learning Podcast it sounds like the interview is taking place in a restaurant which doesn't seem to be the most ideal place for a voice recording, and in the SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast, he stops to order a coffee, which makes me automatically forget what he is talking about and I started thinking of coffee.
The EdTechTalk Podcast that I listened to was an interview with three individuals. The two women I could hear fine; they spoke loud enough and articulated in a way that could be understood. The man was difficult to hear, I could understand what he was saying it just sounded like he was too far away from the microphone.
I did have a chance to listen to MacBreak Weekly, KidsCast, and This Week in Photography. I really liked the way they sounded, and they had an attention getter at the beginning. MacBreak Weekly and KidsCast started with music, and This Week in Photography had a couple of ads and noted their provider which is interesting to me. Also, it sounded as if they were carrying on an actual conversation during the podcast and not something that was rehearsed. So, when I do my podcast I will try to make sure everyone is heard, maybe by doing a test run first. Definitely will rehearse my questions and thoughts enough so that I'm comfortable with what I want to say, but not enough to where they are memorized. And, make it appealing to others by adding music or something of that sort.
Media Literacy in the First Grade!and Little Kids...Big Potential
I would have loved to be in Ms. Cassidy's classroom when I was a first grader! What she has made available to her students is amazing! I mean this is where classrooms should be. All of them! It's fantastic, they have supervision, creativity, intelligence, and technology. She is using the tools available to help make her students technology literate.
The way she involved her students in her video was really impressive. I wonder how much she had to go through to be able to post her students on the web. It's worth it, but it could also cause a lot of problems if you aren't careful and follow the guidelines. I would love to have a classroom like this! Kudos to Ms. Cassidy and her students!
iPhone used by a 1 year old baby Part 2
It's an awesome video! Kids love playing with mommy's and daddy's toys. Especially the toys that are used all the time, like a cell phone. Children are smart too! If they want to learn something or if you can hold their attention long enough to teach them then it doesn't take long for them to get it. I showed my 3 year old nephew how to turn on my camera, and he figured the rest out. I mean if a can use an iPhone, what's stopping everyone from embracing technology. It is built for accessibility not to confuse you, and i think that is where many are mistaken.
I listened to 6 different podcast found on iTunes. I chose MacBreak Weekly, EdTechTalk, KidCast, SMARTBoard Lessons, This Week in Photography, and Connect Learning by David Warkick. For this class, EDM 310, I will have to create my own podcast, and the goal of this assignment is to try to find tips to make my podcast better. So, let's see what I found out from listening to a few minutes of each of the podcast I listed.
The Connect Learning Podcast and the SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast had a lot going on in the background that made listening to the podcast distracting. Having to concentrate on the conversation is already difficult for me because I am very visual, I like videos and visual aids, and when extra noise is thrown into the mix I want to concentrate on what's going on in the background. In the Connect learning Podcast it sounds like the interview is taking place in a restaurant which doesn't seem to be the most ideal place for a voice recording, and in the SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast, he stops to order a coffee, which makes me automatically forget what he is talking about and I started thinking of coffee.
The EdTechTalk Podcast that I listened to was an interview with three individuals. The two women I could hear fine; they spoke loud enough and articulated in a way that could be understood. The man was difficult to hear, I could understand what he was saying it just sounded like he was too far away from the microphone.
I did have a chance to listen to MacBreak Weekly, KidsCast, and This Week in Photography. I really liked the way they sounded, and they had an attention getter at the beginning. MacBreak Weekly and KidsCast started with music, and This Week in Photography had a couple of ads and noted their provider which is interesting to me. Also, it sounded as if they were carrying on an actual conversation during the podcast and not something that was rehearsed. So, when I do my podcast I will try to make sure everyone is heard, maybe by doing a test run first. Definitely will rehearse my questions and thoughts enough so that I'm comfortable with what I want to say, but not enough to where they are memorized. And, make it appealing to others by adding music or something of that sort.
Media Literacy in the First Grade!and Little Kids...Big Potential
I would have loved to be in Ms. Cassidy's classroom when I was a first grader! What she has made available to her students is amazing! I mean this is where classrooms should be. All of them! It's fantastic, they have supervision, creativity, intelligence, and technology. She is using the tools available to help make her students technology literate.
The way she involved her students in her video was really impressive. I wonder how much she had to go through to be able to post her students on the web. It's worth it, but it could also cause a lot of problems if you aren't careful and follow the guidelines. I would love to have a classroom like this! Kudos to Ms. Cassidy and her students!
iPhone used by a 1 year old baby Part 2
It's an awesome video! Kids love playing with mommy's and daddy's toys. Especially the toys that are used all the time, like a cell phone. Children are smart too! If they want to learn something or if you can hold their attention long enough to teach them then it doesn't take long for them to get it. I showed my 3 year old nephew how to turn on my camera, and he figured the rest out. I mean if a can use an iPhone, what's stopping everyone from embracing technology. It is built for accessibility not to confuse you, and i think that is where many are mistaken.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
January 24. 2010
A Vision of Students Today by Michael Wesch
In the movie A Vision of Students Today by Michael Wesch, I can see that I am not the only student in the U.S. that feels the way I do about my education. I am supposed to work, go to school full time, complete hundreds of pages of reading for each class, have a social life, and prepare for the tomorrow when today has not unfolded. How is this possible? I ask myself that question every day. Somehow i make it all happen.
“I am a multi-tasker (I have to be)”. I also “buy hundred dollar textbooks that I never open.” I might complete “49% of reading assignments” but most likely I do not have to. These are signs that were held up in the movie that apply to me although there are many more. The only part of the video I do not agree with is when the scantron is held up with “this won’t help me get there” written on it. It might not help right this minute, but in order to get there that is one thing we as students have to do. Complete tests that we most likely remember just to get the grade, so we can receive a piece of paper in the end. If the walls could talk, I am sure they would be screaming for a CHANGE!
"It's Not About the Technology" by Kelly Hines
Ms. Hines wrote in “It’s Not About the Technology” four main points that should be considered for all teachers and future educators. I think that changes need to be made in the classroom that involves engaging the students to be creative and innovative. Teachers should also be continuously learning new skills and new tools to better our teaching. “Teachers should be learners.” Educators must also incorporate the different styles of learning in their teaching because “teaching and learning are different.” What may work for three or four students may not work for the others.
Her main point says “technology is useless without good teaching,” in a classroom setting I agree to an extent. If the teacher has the technology available and does not use it to its full extent then the technology is not useless because it can still be used. But, the teacher is not upholding his or her duty to be a learner, and the students will not receive the benefits technology holds from that teacher. The fourth point, “be a 21st century teacher without the technology” is where I get kind of confused. If I am going to be a 21st century educator and not use technology, why be a teacher… I agree that core principles can be taught without the use of technology, but they shouldn’t have to be. That’s what needs to change in classrooms. We have been teaching life and career skills without the use of technology, but now it's not really an option to be technology illiterate. Be innovative, be creative, and use technology. Be a learner and a teacher, and embrace the technology. It is all about the technology. Today is and tomorrow will be about technology.
"Is It Okay To Be A Technology Illiterate Teacher?" by Karl Fisch
When I read Fisch’s statement, “if a teacher today is not technologically literate - and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more - it's equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write,” I laughed. I did not laugh because it was funny or a joke but because it is blatantly true. Most of our society today knows how to read and write, and many are learning to use technology, but many make up excuses. Five years ago you could drop out of high school not knowing how to use a computer and find a good job,” but today it is a slim chance.
I cannot count the teachers I have had that have had the technology available in their classrooms but say, “I can’t use that thing,” “I don’t want to break it,” “it doesn’t like me and I don’t like it,” and countless other excuses. In order to prepare for the future it is imperative for you to use the most updated technology available in order to even have a glimpse at what the actual future has in store. We as educators have to do it in order to learn it and apply what we learn in order to teach it (it referring to technology). It is the best tool to incorporate different styles of learning from auditory, to visually, to hands on. It should not be acceptable to be proud of illiteracy of any fashion, especially when we have the tools to learn.
Gary Hayes Social Media Count
Watching the counter for a few minutes still has me in awe. I mean everything changes multiple times a second. There are even resources that he got the statistics from, which I have yet to completely believe but will go and check out as soon as I am finished posting this blog. It really strikes home when I see things like this especially for my future career.
I will be a teacher soon, and I want to be a technology literate teacher. This counter shows how fast technology is taking over, and soon it will not be an option. You as a person will either advance with the world or stay behind. Anything you want to know about almost anything in the world will be at your fingertips, and in many cases already is. I do not want to be left behind, but I will have to stay really busy learning new things to keep up.
In the movie A Vision of Students Today by Michael Wesch, I can see that I am not the only student in the U.S. that feels the way I do about my education. I am supposed to work, go to school full time, complete hundreds of pages of reading for each class, have a social life, and prepare for the tomorrow when today has not unfolded. How is this possible? I ask myself that question every day. Somehow i make it all happen.
“I am a multi-tasker (I have to be)”. I also “buy hundred dollar textbooks that I never open.” I might complete “49% of reading assignments” but most likely I do not have to. These are signs that were held up in the movie that apply to me although there are many more. The only part of the video I do not agree with is when the scantron is held up with “this won’t help me get there” written on it. It might not help right this minute, but in order to get there that is one thing we as students have to do. Complete tests that we most likely remember just to get the grade, so we can receive a piece of paper in the end. If the walls could talk, I am sure they would be screaming for a CHANGE!
"It's Not About the Technology" by Kelly Hines
Ms. Hines wrote in “It’s Not About the Technology” four main points that should be considered for all teachers and future educators. I think that changes need to be made in the classroom that involves engaging the students to be creative and innovative. Teachers should also be continuously learning new skills and new tools to better our teaching. “Teachers should be learners.” Educators must also incorporate the different styles of learning in their teaching because “teaching and learning are different.” What may work for three or four students may not work for the others.
Her main point says “technology is useless without good teaching,” in a classroom setting I agree to an extent. If the teacher has the technology available and does not use it to its full extent then the technology is not useless because it can still be used. But, the teacher is not upholding his or her duty to be a learner, and the students will not receive the benefits technology holds from that teacher. The fourth point, “be a 21st century teacher without the technology” is where I get kind of confused. If I am going to be a 21st century educator and not use technology, why be a teacher… I agree that core principles can be taught without the use of technology, but they shouldn’t have to be. That’s what needs to change in classrooms. We have been teaching life and career skills without the use of technology, but now it's not really an option to be technology illiterate. Be innovative, be creative, and use technology. Be a learner and a teacher, and embrace the technology. It is all about the technology. Today is and tomorrow will be about technology.
"Is It Okay To Be A Technology Illiterate Teacher?" by Karl Fisch
When I read Fisch’s statement, “if a teacher today is not technologically literate - and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more - it's equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write,” I laughed. I did not laugh because it was funny or a joke but because it is blatantly true. Most of our society today knows how to read and write, and many are learning to use technology, but many make up excuses. Five years ago you could drop out of high school not knowing how to use a computer and find a good job,” but today it is a slim chance.
I cannot count the teachers I have had that have had the technology available in their classrooms but say, “I can’t use that thing,” “I don’t want to break it,” “it doesn’t like me and I don’t like it,” and countless other excuses. In order to prepare for the future it is imperative for you to use the most updated technology available in order to even have a glimpse at what the actual future has in store. We as educators have to do it in order to learn it and apply what we learn in order to teach it (it referring to technology). It is the best tool to incorporate different styles of learning from auditory, to visually, to hands on. It should not be acceptable to be proud of illiteracy of any fashion, especially when we have the tools to learn.
Gary Hayes Social Media Count
Watching the counter for a few minutes still has me in awe. I mean everything changes multiple times a second. There are even resources that he got the statistics from, which I have yet to completely believe but will go and check out as soon as I am finished posting this blog. It really strikes home when I see things like this especially for my future career.
I will be a teacher soon, and I want to be a technology literate teacher. This counter shows how fast technology is taking over, and soon it will not be an option. You as a person will either advance with the world or stay behind. Anything you want to know about almost anything in the world will be at your fingertips, and in many cases already is. I do not want to be left behind, but I will have to stay really busy learning new things to keep up.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
January 17, 2010
Did You Know 3.0and Mr. Winkle Wakes by Matthew Needleman
The speed of technological advances is astounding. I knew we had come a tremendous way from “Shakespeare’s time,” but it never occurred to me how quickly it has begun to change. "What does it all mean" is the questioned asked at the end of the video. Fisch says that "China will soon become the number one speaking country in world, India has more honors kids than America has kids," and other intriguing facts. But what does that mean?
It means that teachers need to be technology literate. Teachers should want to better their knowledge in technology in order to help their students. In the video, Fisch states that "for students starting a 4-year technical degree half of what they learn in their first year of study will be outdated by their third year of study." That is reason enough for teachers to stay on top of new technology so they can introduce what they learn to their classes. The video points out that the gap between America and the rest of the world is closing. If we want to change anything we need to change our view on technology, and the video by Matthew Needleman, Mr. Winkle Wakes, shows that.
Mr. Winkle wakes up after a hundred year nap, and takes off to explore a city. He finds the hustle bustle of an office building and is faced with machines that he doesn't know how to use, and noises he can't explain. He can't stand it there, and leaves. Mr. Winkle comes upon a hospital and since he isn't feeling well decides to go in. Little did he know that it too is run by the same machines that the office was using. He decides to leave the hospital in search for peace and quiet. He soon sees a school and went inside. I was the same as what he remembered it being. "Students were taking notes and were undisturbed by the world around them."
After watching this video I am stuck wondering, why should students have to sit in their seats all day and listen to a lecture? They have so much to learn about the world around them, and what is better to teach them about the world than a computer with internet. Students can learn what classrooms are like across the world, the differences between cultures, and the opportunities are endless. A child should be able to use a computer, and should be allowed to use a computer in school.
Did You Know 3.0 by Karl Fisch and Mr. Winkle Wakes by Matthew Needleman really made me think about our school systems, and what I want to be able to accomplish when I begin to teach. I want to be a technology literate teacher. I want to be able to help my students be the best they can be. I do not want to hold them back by not allowing the use of a computer. Of course in elementary school paper and handwriting are important, but typing and being able to navigate a computer is important also.
Fisch, Karl. Did You Know 3.0. http://is.gd/5JQLF
Needleman, Matthew. Mr. Winkle Wakes. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lm1sCsl2MQY
Sir Ken Robinson:The Importance of Creativity
I was amazed at Sir Ken Robinson's video on the importance of creativity. His humorous way of delivering his speech on what we're doing in our schools makes it interesting. Robinson mentions the "unpredictability" of the world that we are supposed to educate our future about. How do we do this? We picture the future of our world through our imaginations, yet we "squander creativity" in schools. Why do we "educate children out of" their creativity?
Robinson makes an interesting point about making mistakes and being wrong, "if you're not prepared to be wrong you will never come up with anything original." I completely agree with this statement. Why is our society so afraid of being wrong? I know I am afraid of making a mistake, even though making it might help me figure out the problem in the long run it will still be stamped with that word WRONG. But why is that word bad? I think that point was the one that stuck out to me the most in Robinson's video. We will not always get everything right the first go around, but I guess it is just that word.
http://tinyurl.com/mluw5k
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts
We have all of this great technology at our fingertips, and I know the high school I went to did not even require that I take a basic computer class to graduate. Technology is changing everyday and like Vicki Davis said in her video, we need to “empower our students.” We need to let their imaginations run. Her class video was amazing! How she is so available to her students and open to their ideas is wonderful.
This video shows that being technology literate and open to student creativity opens many doors to classroom opportunities. You do not have to know everything, but be willing to find out; Davis points this out in the video. They were not restricted to only pen and paper or a lengthy lecture. It was pretty neat to hear that she was learning from her students just as they were learning from her. Her students took the skills they learned from her and expanded on that because they were given the opportunity.
Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts. http://bit.ly/151RkU
The speed of technological advances is astounding. I knew we had come a tremendous way from “Shakespeare’s time,” but it never occurred to me how quickly it has begun to change. "What does it all mean" is the questioned asked at the end of the video. Fisch says that "China will soon become the number one speaking country in world, India has more honors kids than America has kids," and other intriguing facts. But what does that mean?
It means that teachers need to be technology literate. Teachers should want to better their knowledge in technology in order to help their students. In the video, Fisch states that "for students starting a 4-year technical degree half of what they learn in their first year of study will be outdated by their third year of study." That is reason enough for teachers to stay on top of new technology so they can introduce what they learn to their classes. The video points out that the gap between America and the rest of the world is closing. If we want to change anything we need to change our view on technology, and the video by Matthew Needleman, Mr. Winkle Wakes, shows that.
Mr. Winkle wakes up after a hundred year nap, and takes off to explore a city. He finds the hustle bustle of an office building and is faced with machines that he doesn't know how to use, and noises he can't explain. He can't stand it there, and leaves. Mr. Winkle comes upon a hospital and since he isn't feeling well decides to go in. Little did he know that it too is run by the same machines that the office was using. He decides to leave the hospital in search for peace and quiet. He soon sees a school and went inside. I was the same as what he remembered it being. "Students were taking notes and were undisturbed by the world around them."
After watching this video I am stuck wondering, why should students have to sit in their seats all day and listen to a lecture? They have so much to learn about the world around them, and what is better to teach them about the world than a computer with internet. Students can learn what classrooms are like across the world, the differences between cultures, and the opportunities are endless. A child should be able to use a computer, and should be allowed to use a computer in school.
Did You Know 3.0 by Karl Fisch and Mr. Winkle Wakes by Matthew Needleman really made me think about our school systems, and what I want to be able to accomplish when I begin to teach. I want to be a technology literate teacher. I want to be able to help my students be the best they can be. I do not want to hold them back by not allowing the use of a computer. Of course in elementary school paper and handwriting are important, but typing and being able to navigate a computer is important also.
Fisch, Karl. Did You Know 3.0. http://is.gd/5JQLF
Needleman, Matthew. Mr. Winkle Wakes. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lm1sCsl2MQY
Sir Ken Robinson:The Importance of Creativity
I was amazed at Sir Ken Robinson's video on the importance of creativity. His humorous way of delivering his speech on what we're doing in our schools makes it interesting. Robinson mentions the "unpredictability" of the world that we are supposed to educate our future about. How do we do this? We picture the future of our world through our imaginations, yet we "squander creativity" in schools. Why do we "educate children out of" their creativity?
Robinson makes an interesting point about making mistakes and being wrong, "if you're not prepared to be wrong you will never come up with anything original." I completely agree with this statement. Why is our society so afraid of being wrong? I know I am afraid of making a mistake, even though making it might help me figure out the problem in the long run it will still be stamped with that word WRONG. But why is that word bad? I think that point was the one that stuck out to me the most in Robinson's video. We will not always get everything right the first go around, but I guess it is just that word.
http://tinyurl.com/mluw5k
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts
We have all of this great technology at our fingertips, and I know the high school I went to did not even require that I take a basic computer class to graduate. Technology is changing everyday and like Vicki Davis said in her video, we need to “empower our students.” We need to let their imaginations run. Her class video was amazing! How she is so available to her students and open to their ideas is wonderful.
This video shows that being technology literate and open to student creativity opens many doors to classroom opportunities. You do not have to know everything, but be willing to find out; Davis points this out in the video. They were not restricted to only pen and paper or a lengthy lecture. It was pretty neat to hear that she was learning from her students just as they were learning from her. Her students took the skills they learned from her and expanded on that because they were given the opportunity.
Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts. http://bit.ly/151RkU
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