Sunday, November 30, 2008
My EDM 310 blogg Assignments are Now Complete
It has been a fun class. I enjoyed all of your presentations, and sitting next to some of you. Thanks
What I learned and what I would Have liked to learn
This class has been an interesting one. I learn a lot about google and use it in all my classes. I is also a good way to save old work. I don't think I'll ever delete anything off my profile. I learned a lot about using programs to their full potential and how to integrate technology into life. I used to really wonder about people who put their life on a palm polite, but now I understand. I was also given insight on the online educational community, and how technology is given a more and more prominent place in schools. I learned attitude and insight more than any thing else in this course.
I would have liked to have been introduced to programs that would impact the teacher office work I would be doing. Like a down loadable grade book with progress report applications. It would have been nice maybe even to learn how to use excel applications to create a grade book.
I would have liked to have been introduced to programs that would impact the teacher office work I would be doing. Like a down loadable grade book with progress report applications. It would have been nice maybe even to learn how to use excel applications to create a grade book.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Blogging in the Classroom
Blogging as a class assignment has been a new experience for me. I notice that some of my fellow class mates started the blog in full force then fell out of it. Many of them in fact.
I find then same thing happens to other class blogs. Most notable English classes will start a blog, then by October posts stop uploading.
I can understand the theory behind it though. It is a medium in which students can communicate. It can also force student who would ordinarily not speak up in class discussions to give an opinion and participate.
How ever having a year long ongoing blog may not be very conducive to the class room. I feel it would be better as a special assignment for a specific topic. For example in an English class have the student write a short essay on their blog for each book read in class or ethical question or theme presented by the book. Allow them also to down load relevant youtube videos, links or picture.
It would also be nice for the teacher to do the assignment and post it as well. And to leave comments on the students blogs, maybe send them an e-mail or encourage of correct.
For the student however having a similar assignment every week discourages motivation.
I find then same thing happens to other class blogs. Most notable English classes will start a blog, then by October posts stop uploading.
I can understand the theory behind it though. It is a medium in which students can communicate. It can also force student who would ordinarily not speak up in class discussions to give an opinion and participate.
How ever having a year long ongoing blog may not be very conducive to the class room. I feel it would be better as a special assignment for a specific topic. For example in an English class have the student write a short essay on their blog for each book read in class or ethical question or theme presented by the book. Allow them also to down load relevant youtube videos, links or picture.
It would also be nice for the teacher to do the assignment and post it as well. And to leave comments on the students blogs, maybe send them an e-mail or encourage of correct.
For the student however having a similar assignment every week discourages motivation.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Wii as an educational tool-Project 7
I was looking online and I found a blog on using the Wii music to learn. I was so excited.The blogger was Mrs Kimberly McCollum, who is a PhD student of Psychology and Technology at Brigham University. I carried on a conversation about video games as an education tool.
We have agreed on the fact that one of the most important element is presentation. If that goes wrong then the students will not make the connection between the game and class content.
Mrs. McCollum also brought up the fact that if a poor connection in made between the game and class the teachers authority suffers. You become the "nice" teacher who won't make us do work.
She also mentioned that many constructivist theories of education have a smiler problem.
Constructivism basically stats that knowledge is not just waiting out there in space for us to acquire, but the only knowledge we have is that which we construct ourselves. (Mainly through exposure and experience)
So as a teacher if I introduce video games I would have to do so in a way my students can construct for themselves and outcome. In order to do that my students have to see the connection between the video game and the skills in the lesson.
For example if I wanted to use the Legend of Zelda to encourage problem solving skills. I would talk to the class about problem solving and go over different strategies. I may give a practice assignment at this point. I would only at this point allow my students to play a specific portion of the Legend of Zelda game to illustrate the lesson. As a class we would discuss the different strategies used. It would be prudent at this point to have each student write a reflection on there problem solving technique and those of others and what they could have done differently.
She also mentioned that many constructivist theories of education have a smiler problem.
Constructivism basically stats that knowledge is not just waiting out there in space for us to acquire, but the only knowledge we have is that which we construct ourselves. (Mainly through exposure and experience)
So as a teacher if I introduce video games I would have to do so in a way my students can construct for themselves and outcome. In order to do that my students have to see the connection between the video game and the skills in the lesson.
For example if I wanted to use the Legend of Zelda to encourage problem solving skills. I would talk to the class about problem solving and go over different strategies. I may give a practice assignment at this point. I would only at this point allow my students to play a specific portion of the Legend of Zelda game to illustrate the lesson. As a class we would discuss the different strategies used. It would be prudent at this point to have each student write a reflection on there problem solving technique and those of others and what they could have done differently.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
HIV education in South Africa
This film showcased by Duke University was created by students in South Africa. It can be found on itunes university underDuke's center for documentation studies.
South Africa is a country in turmoil. One of the major issues is HIV and AIDS. More and more grandparents become the sole providers of the house hold due to the next generation dying of AIDS. The break up of families due to illness and was compounds the situation and leaves children and young people vulnerable to violence, assault and rape.
Fortunately their are programs for South Africa's youth. One of the exercises used at these programs and institutions is role playing, as it allows the individual to express what has happened under the context of a skit and have the aid and support of other students. It also sends a message to the audience: you are not the only one.
The main message the students in this video wanted to express is that they are the future regardless of what happens, what they may go thorugh, or what may be done to them.
South Africa is a country in turmoil. One of the major issues is HIV and AIDS. More and more grandparents become the sole providers of the house hold due to the next generation dying of AIDS. The break up of families due to illness and was compounds the situation and leaves children and young people vulnerable to violence, assault and rape.
Fortunately their are programs for South Africa's youth. One of the exercises used at these programs and institutions is role playing, as it allows the individual to express what has happened under the context of a skit and have the aid and support of other students. It also sends a message to the audience: you are not the only one.
The main message the students in this video wanted to express is that they are the future regardless of what happens, what they may go thorugh, or what may be done to them.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
edm310 podcasts
Web Sites For Elementary Teachers
I liked that we sounded so authentic, clearly nothing was scripted or fake. That being said I know I for one said the dreaded syllable "Um", and we needed a little more flow. I would suspect that comes with practice. The introduction to each web site could have been more compact and neat. It would have been better if there was a longer question time to extract information. During the question and answer period a conversation took place and it sounded more natural then trying to dispense information as in the introductions.
I think if we could do this twice; once for practice, and once for pod casting it would have helped.
Issues I heard in other pod cast was that the voices sounded distance. It would have been helped if we could all speak up just a little bit. I was great how we could relate person experiences and it was nice to hear different voices. It was not a lecture.
I liked that we sounded so authentic, clearly nothing was scripted or fake. That being said I know I for one said the dreaded syllable "Um", and we needed a little more flow. I would suspect that comes with practice. The introduction to each web site could have been more compact and neat. It would have been better if there was a longer question time to extract information. During the question and answer period a conversation took place and it sounded more natural then trying to dispense information as in the introductions.
I think if we could do this twice; once for practice, and once for pod casting it would have helped.
Issues I heard in other pod cast was that the voices sounded distance. It would have been helped if we could all speak up just a little bit. I was great how we could relate person experiences and it was nice to hear different voices. It was not a lecture.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Mathematics and technology
Judy chandler , technology integration specialist, and math teacher, that technology is essential for teaching mathematics. That by using technology math can more student centered. The National Council for teaching math, states that technology is essential for teaching math ,and have included it as one of the six principles for teaching math.
Students already know how to use technology well. By using technology we are giving them tools they have knowledge for, to see examples, think critically , have visual representations , analyze data, communicate mathematically,and see alternative demonstrations.
She also goes on to say that math is best taught as concepts not lessons, patterns not chunks. Technology provides student with connections, real world applications, a multi-sensery math learning environment that promotes reflection.
She also addresses the fears or qualms non-tech teachers may have. A technology enhanced math session can actually cover concepts from four or more chapters, and does not take away from content and keeps the class on schedule. If teachers would see technology as a tool instead of an add on then technology becomes affective.
Her next podcast is on thinking mathmatilly. Normally math is repetitive and based on memeorization. We need to tech math as we tach math. Let the students eplore and disover once the know the mthode. Let students take part in inquery based learning. Ask a question and let them answer it.
They learn not only subject matter but how to think mathmatically. One way we can do this is by asking questions to guide and to encourage learning.
Students already know how to use technology well. By using technology we are giving them tools they have knowledge for, to see examples, think critically , have visual representations , analyze data, communicate mathematically,and see alternative demonstrations.
She also goes on to say that math is best taught as concepts not lessons, patterns not chunks. Technology provides student with connections, real world applications, a multi-sensery math learning environment that promotes reflection.
She also addresses the fears or qualms non-tech teachers may have. A technology enhanced math session can actually cover concepts from four or more chapters, and does not take away from content and keeps the class on schedule. If teachers would see technology as a tool instead of an add on then technology becomes affective.
Her next podcast is on thinking mathmatilly. Normally math is repetitive and based on memeorization. We need to tech math as we tach math. Let the students eplore and disover once the know the mthode. Let students take part in inquery based learning. Ask a question and let them answer it.
They learn not only subject matter but how to think mathmatically. One way we can do this is by asking questions to guide and to encourage learning.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Growing Brains!!!!
Studies have shown that growing brains are smarter than fixed brains. The very impressive Dr. Carol Dweck carried out a study in which two sets of student were given a study work shop. One set were taught that their mind was like a muscle and would get stronger if they use it. The other wasn't.
The group that was taught the brain growth approach actually did better at the end of the year then the group that didn't. And even though their teachers were not told of the experiment they could pick out the brain growth students in class. What's more the growth approach is now being used by race car drivers. It allows them to better learn from their mistakes and to do better on the track once a mistake is made.
This could be a great classroom technique. Motivation and attitude is every thing in the elementary classroom. Especially in a world stuffed to the hilt with standardized testing. If my students are "growing their brains" instead of "taking their test" then it changes the tone of the class. It also helps to make the classroom a more creative environment. It allows the student to take charge of their own learning. I am no longer giving out work sheets and assigning home work, I'm now giving them a chance to grow their brains.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Teachers' Domain
The videos I found were by a series called teachers' Domain. I saw two videos explaining how a lunar eclipse worked.
The first video was "why doesn't the moon fall". This video explains the gravitational pull of the earth on the moon. This one will be better if shown before the eclipse lesson to give an introductory explanation about how the moon moves in space. I would use this as an attention getter.
The second video "total solar eclipse animation" I would show as an attention getter at the beginning of the lesson. The video explains how an eclipse is the shadow of the moon on the earth, it also explains the corona and how every body can't witness the same eclipse.
I as the teacher would elaborate on whats happening, but the video helps as it shows the angle of the shadows and depicts the earth, moon and sun in space.
Although these videos do a good job explaining the mechanics I would still show the students a real eclipse like this one.
This way it becomes more real to them. The other videos presented sterile environments, as appose to real life environments.
The first video was "why doesn't the moon fall". This video explains the gravitational pull of the earth on the moon. This one will be better if shown before the eclipse lesson to give an introductory explanation about how the moon moves in space. I would use this as an attention getter.
The second video "total solar eclipse animation" I would show as an attention getter at the beginning of the lesson. The video explains how an eclipse is the shadow of the moon on the earth, it also explains the corona and how every body can't witness the same eclipse.
I as the teacher would elaborate on whats happening, but the video helps as it shows the angle of the shadows and depicts the earth, moon and sun in space.
Although these videos do a good job explaining the mechanics I would still show the students a real eclipse like this one.
This way it becomes more real to them. The other videos presented sterile environments, as appose to real life environments.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
ACCESS lab Pictures
Here are two lovely pictures of the ACCESS lab experiance.
This one is of an oh so thrilled student in the lab
This one is of me in the lab next to the desk that controls all the gagets in the room.
ACCESS Lab Project
The school lab I visited was in Mary G. Montgomery High school. When I walked into the class I saw maybe 9 students with laptops out. Mr. Rose (our guide) showed us (Pat and myself) the ins and outs of the lab room set up. He explained that their are two types of courses; web and IVC.
The web courses are not unlike the ones here at south. The IVC includes video casting of a lesson, which Mr. Rose does himself. The screens are set so the teacher can see the class ( or multiple classes) and they can see him. They can raise their hands to ask questions, and receive an answer through the video feed. Each class has a monitor.
The downside to all of this is that student interaction is lost, and communication is hindered. Any sort of tone or body language is lost by these courses. A teacher also losses the ability to reuse a test, as they have to fax or e-mail them to another school. Or the test can be online, but there is no way to prevent cheating. The teacher also has little control in what goes on in the class and has to rely on the monitor, who may be great, but might not be. Its not like the regular class room , but its the "next best thing".
Next Mr. Rose escorted us down the hall and got Ms. Stroud and Ms. LeGrone to give us their opinions and thoughts on ACCESS, has they also teach online.
The general consensus was that the program administrators were not organized and that communication among every one was poor. First a teacher would go to training in ACCESS, which I'm lead to believe isn't very educational. Then the administration picks out the teachers they need in a specific course. Some times the administration ( who are based in troy university) would tell teachers the day of that they are meant to teach a class, or add students to their class two weeks into the course.
Another issue is that this sort of internet interaction is new and communication needs practice. If a teacher sends a frustrated e-mail to ask the organizers at Troy a question,then the message can be interpreted as aggressive, instead of merely frustrated.
Another issue is teacher web sites. If a teacher goes through the ACCESS program to start a web site them they lose all control of it. It's actually to the benefit of the teacher and students to go around ACCESS to create a web site.
With all that said, ACCESS is a program in its infancy. It is a good program with a lot of bugs to be worked out. Hopefully, in a few semesters, the program will live up to its full potential.
The web courses are not unlike the ones here at south. The IVC includes video casting of a lesson, which Mr. Rose does himself. The screens are set so the teacher can see the class ( or multiple classes) and they can see him. They can raise their hands to ask questions, and receive an answer through the video feed. Each class has a monitor.
The downside to all of this is that student interaction is lost, and communication is hindered. Any sort of tone or body language is lost by these courses. A teacher also losses the ability to reuse a test, as they have to fax or e-mail them to another school. Or the test can be online, but there is no way to prevent cheating. The teacher also has little control in what goes on in the class and has to rely on the monitor, who may be great, but might not be. Its not like the regular class room , but its the "next best thing".
Next Mr. Rose escorted us down the hall and got Ms. Stroud and Ms. LeGrone to give us their opinions and thoughts on ACCESS, has they also teach online.
The general consensus was that the program administrators were not organized and that communication among every one was poor. First a teacher would go to training in ACCESS, which I'm lead to believe isn't very educational. Then the administration picks out the teachers they need in a specific course. Some times the administration ( who are based in troy university) would tell teachers the day of that they are meant to teach a class, or add students to their class two weeks into the course.
Another issue is that this sort of internet interaction is new and communication needs practice. If a teacher sends a frustrated e-mail to ask the organizers at Troy a question,then the message can be interpreted as aggressive, instead of merely frustrated.
Another issue is teacher web sites. If a teacher goes through the ACCESS program to start a web site them they lose all control of it. It's actually to the benefit of the teacher and students to go around ACCESS to create a web site.
With all that said, ACCESS is a program in its infancy. It is a good program with a lot of bugs to be worked out. Hopefully, in a few semesters, the program will live up to its full potential.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Edutopia
The Edible School yard
The Edible School Yard is an outdoor classroom that takes the form of a garden. The middle school students under the guidance of their instructors plant, grow, harvest, cook and eat.
The theory behind this is that students can learn by doing. And they can. When they collaborate in their garden they can bring in subject matter from almost all other classes and solidifies what they have learned by making it meaningful. They learn skills that used to be taught in the home such as cooking, team work, communicating, how to build a community and to rely on on another.
Part of me was sad to see this clip as it is such a wonderful idea, but there is little chance I can be apart of it. As an elementary education major I realize standardize testing on basic subject matter takes more focus in schools, than problem solving or learning. If I do inconsiderate a garden in the class room it will most likely be on a small scale in flowerpots indoors. I may be able to do beans, and have the children take them home to cook with their parents. It's important that students know were their food came from. Their world should not end at the store. They need to know that there is more out there, beyond what they see, and that it affects us. It would also be a way to get parents involved.
A Night in the Global Village
This program seeks to give students a more real understanding of poverty. The program separates students into teams and has them stay over night in "third world" conditions. Each team lives like a different country and no team is given every thing they need for the night. In each team one person was "pregnant" and was given an empathy belly and one person was "missing" a hand and hand that hand bandaged to function like a stump. There is also one member that is two years old and one that is an elder.
This set up forced the student to barter, collaborate, and support their fellow team members. It was amazing to see these middle school students reflect on their experience in such an adult way. The whole experience really let them see beyond themselves.
Again I am a little dismayed to see a wonderful program I have little likelihood of being apart of. I can teach about poverty and hunger and implement reading programs on the topic, but nothing will come close to the sort of experience that the Global Village provides.
To promote the same values (team work, communication, empathy) I could set them into classroom teams each with a task that no one has all the tools for. One task could be to build a bridge between two desks, another could be to collect and scavenge certain items, and so on. I would have to set aside a large amount of time for it though.
The Edible School Yard is an outdoor classroom that takes the form of a garden. The middle school students under the guidance of their instructors plant, grow, harvest, cook and eat.
The theory behind this is that students can learn by doing. And they can. When they collaborate in their garden they can bring in subject matter from almost all other classes and solidifies what they have learned by making it meaningful. They learn skills that used to be taught in the home such as cooking, team work, communicating, how to build a community and to rely on on another.
Part of me was sad to see this clip as it is such a wonderful idea, but there is little chance I can be apart of it. As an elementary education major I realize standardize testing on basic subject matter takes more focus in schools, than problem solving or learning. If I do inconsiderate a garden in the class room it will most likely be on a small scale in flowerpots indoors. I may be able to do beans, and have the children take them home to cook with their parents. It's important that students know were their food came from. Their world should not end at the store. They need to know that there is more out there, beyond what they see, and that it affects us. It would also be a way to get parents involved.
A Night in the Global Village
This program seeks to give students a more real understanding of poverty. The program separates students into teams and has them stay over night in "third world" conditions. Each team lives like a different country and no team is given every thing they need for the night. In each team one person was "pregnant" and was given an empathy belly and one person was "missing" a hand and hand that hand bandaged to function like a stump. There is also one member that is two years old and one that is an elder.
This set up forced the student to barter, collaborate, and support their fellow team members. It was amazing to see these middle school students reflect on their experience in such an adult way. The whole experience really let them see beyond themselves.
Again I am a little dismayed to see a wonderful program I have little likelihood of being apart of. I can teach about poverty and hunger and implement reading programs on the topic, but nothing will come close to the sort of experience that the Global Village provides.
To promote the same values (team work, communication, empathy) I could set them into classroom teams each with a task that no one has all the tools for. One task could be to build a bridge between two desks, another could be to collect and scavenge certain items, and so on. I would have to set aside a large amount of time for it though.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Picasa!
For this photo I darkened then sharpened. This looks like the door knocker on Belle's castle from beauty and the beast.More Picasa
I like this photo becuase I was able to brighten it up. Just use the saturation feature to bring the color out!! This photo looks a bit trippy huh?Picasa
This is a photo taken straight from Picasa, another program from google. Once you load your photos you can click on the blog this button, and voila!! Instant blog photo!!Sunday, October 5, 2008
More Amazing Podcasting
SmartBourd Challenge
This podcast is for educators on how to use their smart boards to their fullest potential. Ben and Joan (your hosts) talk about, explain, explore, and judge the pros and cons of links they've found. They even discuss lesson ideas to use their links. They even respond to e-mails educators have sent in and share links from other teachers. They also warn teachers about inappropriate links for students. These are two links they mentioned in episode 146.
whitebordchallange
wordle.com (to create word clouds)
They go through a lesson slide by slide and how to create the lesson. They incorporate charts, flash video, websites and how to use these to reach all different learning styles, and to make the lesson interactive by letting them place information on slides.
This podcast is designed to encourage educators to be creative with the tools available to them.
Geek!ed!
This podcast can be found on itunes under education, more education K-12,or at their web site. This podcast is some times student inclusive , even to the point of having students on the show (one cast included high school students talking to congressmen about a program to connect students in Africa and the US using technology) But mostly its for educators who are interested in technology.
There are four hosts ( they keep mentioning the table they're around) who are clearly computer nerds. They are based in Michigan. Mostly they discuss ways to incorporate technology in schools, both in the classroom and administration.
Some times they have guest geeks on such as in episode 101, were they were talking about school/SISCO collaboration.
Some times the jargon can be quite technical. Although any one can listen and keep up, it helps to be technology literate. Discuss lab tops, smart boards, and all manner of classroom technology. As well as funding issues, reliability of technology, effectiveness of collaboration and administrative issues.
Kidcast
Dan Shmit is our host. His cast is concerned solely with the classroom, teachers, and pod casting. Unlike the other casts his is extremely focused. He still however incorporates alot. He goes to a teacher technology retreat, he has guests to talk about interactive teacher communication podcast forums, mac-world conferences....every week he's doing some thing new exclusively with pod casting.
He discuses everything podcast ( getting started, using within the class, lessons) He has a fastening podcast about educating about citizenship, especially given issues such as politics, news, political ethics, voting. (episode 47) He wants students to gather information about an ethical/political question from 3,4, or 5 sources and respond in podcast about their findings to teach that their are not just two opinions (liberal vs. conservative) He also warns of the dangers of this project. ( name calling, preaching, teachers leading student toward an opinion...)
EdTechTalk
This cast is based in Main, but has guest over the phone from all over the world. (Australia) The guests share what they're doing and topics on incorporating technology in the schools. This cast is very teacher interactive. The cast is recorded during a live web cast .Educators can get on skype or the chat room to further discuss the show.
This is a great idea, as it connects teachers all over the world, but some times there are long periods of time were they cast the computer issues they're having with the show, such as loosing a connection with a guest.
MacBreak Weekly
The first thing that struck me about this cast is the advertisements in the beginning. This cast is alot more cooperate, and regulated.( Obviously ran by the Mac Company) This cast is focused not on education, but on Apple technology, even to the point of discussing the stocks of apple technology. They also include guests, talking about other tech podcasts. They are alot more tech literate than EdTechTalk, there is an audio and video portion to the show, however the information is not as pertinent to educational issues. But again they are a podcast produced by a company to update the listeners on their products, they are amusing though.
TWiP
This week in Photography has sponsors they advertise for in the beginning. They also mention competitions and workshops. Their cast (like the MacBreak) is designed to keep listeners updated. Which given how fast paced technology is, can be considered a necessity. They also offer the opportunity for fans to communicate and post they're photos through flickr.
This podcast is for educators on how to use their smart boards to their fullest potential. Ben and Joan (your hosts) talk about, explain, explore, and judge the pros and cons of links they've found. They even discuss lesson ideas to use their links. They even respond to e-mails educators have sent in and share links from other teachers. They also warn teachers about inappropriate links for students. These are two links they mentioned in episode 146.
whitebordchallange
wordle.com (to create word clouds)
They go through a lesson slide by slide and how to create the lesson. They incorporate charts, flash video, websites and how to use these to reach all different learning styles, and to make the lesson interactive by letting them place information on slides.
This podcast is designed to encourage educators to be creative with the tools available to them.
Geek!ed!
This podcast can be found on itunes under education, more education K-12,or at their web site. This podcast is some times student inclusive , even to the point of having students on the show (one cast included high school students talking to congressmen about a program to connect students in Africa and the US using technology) But mostly its for educators who are interested in technology.
There are four hosts ( they keep mentioning the table they're around) who are clearly computer nerds. They are based in Michigan. Mostly they discuss ways to incorporate technology in schools, both in the classroom and administration.
Some times they have guest geeks on such as in episode 101, were they were talking about school/SISCO collaboration.
Some times the jargon can be quite technical. Although any one can listen and keep up, it helps to be technology literate. Discuss lab tops, smart boards, and all manner of classroom technology. As well as funding issues, reliability of technology, effectiveness of collaboration and administrative issues.
Kidcast
Dan Shmit is our host. His cast is concerned solely with the classroom, teachers, and pod casting. Unlike the other casts his is extremely focused. He still however incorporates alot. He goes to a teacher technology retreat, he has guests to talk about interactive teacher communication podcast forums, mac-world conferences....every week he's doing some thing new exclusively with pod casting.
He discuses everything podcast ( getting started, using within the class, lessons) He has a fastening podcast about educating about citizenship, especially given issues such as politics, news, political ethics, voting. (episode 47) He wants students to gather information about an ethical/political question from 3,4, or 5 sources and respond in podcast about their findings to teach that their are not just two opinions (liberal vs. conservative) He also warns of the dangers of this project. ( name calling, preaching, teachers leading student toward an opinion...)
EdTechTalk
This cast is based in Main, but has guest over the phone from all over the world. (Australia) The guests share what they're doing and topics on incorporating technology in the schools. This cast is very teacher interactive. The cast is recorded during a live web cast .Educators can get on skype or the chat room to further discuss the show.
This is a great idea, as it connects teachers all over the world, but some times there are long periods of time were they cast the computer issues they're having with the show, such as loosing a connection with a guest.
MacBreak Weekly
The first thing that struck me about this cast is the advertisements in the beginning. This cast is alot more cooperate, and regulated.( Obviously ran by the Mac Company) This cast is focused not on education, but on Apple technology, even to the point of discussing the stocks of apple technology. They also include guests, talking about other tech podcasts. They are alot more tech literate than EdTechTalk, there is an audio and video portion to the show, however the information is not as pertinent to educational issues. But again they are a podcast produced by a company to update the listeners on their products, they are amusing though.
TWiP
This week in Photography has sponsors they advertise for in the beginning. They also mention competitions and workshops. Their cast (like the MacBreak) is designed to keep listeners updated. Which given how fast paced technology is, can be considered a necessity. They also offer the opportunity for fans to communicate and post they're photos through flickr.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Randy Pausch
What an amazing attitude. He is dying and still he takes pleasure in everything.
One of the most amazing things I found about his teaching methods is that he gave his students little to no direction and they still delivered excellence. In order to hand over all creative license you have to teach the basics until it goes beyond understanding.
He also allowed for creativity, he didn't say no or give a rubric. He also didn't set a time limit; in a year they had five projects.
He also did everything in small groups. In my experience small groups usually meant I am doing the work of four. That being said, he seemed to be able to bring the best in what a small group can produce. ( brain storming, collaboration, joint resources, balancing of virtues, taking shifts/sharing work, allocating tasks, acceptance of new/changing information, culture/new idea exposure, encouraging creativity.... the list goes on!)
Another thing he did was he didn't hide criticism. He viewed it as positive and it is, even if the student your criticizing are not receptive. He is also very right when he says when the criticism stops then the caring and teaching stops.
Lastly he wants learning to be fun. We shouldn't just test, we as teachers need to be creative. To learn verbs let them write a story about any thing they choose. Make it a "head fake"!!!
Podcasts in teaching
Pod casts are convenient class room tools for lecturing as its easy to download presentations. For example a teacher can download a podcast of blood flowing through a human heart to help explain the circulatory system. Or a long division problem done one step at a time.
A teacher can also give a list of "helpful Pods" for each lesson, project or assignment. The "helpful Pods" can give extra help or go more in depth than class time allows.
Podcasts are good for upper level and lower level student. The teacher must however pay attention to age appropriateness, and student involvement. Having a class of five and six year olds searching for a podcast on the human body all at once is not advisable.
One site with lots of ideas comes from an online school library journal. They also have useful links to other "pod-teaching" sites.
The itunesUniversity also has lots of classroom down loads many of which are FREE! Which always helps given the cut backs in educational funding.
A teacher can also give a list of "helpful Pods" for each lesson, project or assignment. The "helpful Pods" can give extra help or go more in depth than class time allows.
Podcasts are good for upper level and lower level student. The teacher must however pay attention to age appropriateness, and student involvement. Having a class of five and six year olds searching for a podcast on the human body all at once is not advisable.
One site with lots of ideas comes from an online school library journal. They also have useful links to other "pod-teaching" sites.
The itunesUniversity also has lots of classroom down loads many of which are FREE! Which always helps given the cut backs in educational funding.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Duke University and Free iPods
I agree with Duke University that podcasting can be very useful in education, however giving students free iPods is a bit much. How do they know that the students don't already have one and post the university iPod on eBey. This issue is not covered in Duke's evaluation report, however they do cover the what and why in the report.
One thing I defiantly see for iPods in downloadable textbooks. I student goes to the bookstore and pays $150 for a book they can't resale, but as an ebook it might only cost $20.
The downloadable resources are incredible, you can even get sparknotes, vangonotes and SAT vocab builder!
One thing I defiantly see for iPods in downloadable textbooks. I student goes to the bookstore and pays $150 for a book they can't resale, but as an ebook it might only cost $20.
The downloadable resources are incredible, you can even get sparknotes, vangonotes and SAT vocab builder!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Email to diffuse gender stereotypes in the classroom
On Dr.Christi's web page there was a study on gender stereotyping and email which I found fascinating. Unlike may predisposed notions both genders described technology as frustrating, fun and as a way to connect with others. And in fact boys used it as a medium to discuss romantic relationships. Girls more often used technological terms than boys.Some traditional gender thinking was upheld by the study. Even though both described the computer for connecting with others, girls did it more often than boys. Were boys more often described it as an information gathering tool more than girls.
I can incorporate a email/ technology enrichment assignments in class. This will hopefully incorporate a more collaborative instead of competitive environment in the classroom. This isn't a ploy for female dominance ether, most of the boys reported that they enjoyed a more collaborative environment than a competitive one. It is better to encourage collaboration ( although traditionally a feminine trait) as this is the more useful skill in real life. For example a student might do better on a test if studying with a group than by themselves. Two education majors might split the cost of an e-book required for class, and make copies.
I can incorporate a email/ technology enrichment assignments in class. This will hopefully incorporate a more collaborative instead of competitive environment in the classroom. This isn't a ploy for female dominance ether, most of the boys reported that they enjoyed a more collaborative environment than a competitive one. It is better to encourage collaboration ( although traditionally a feminine trait) as this is the more useful skill in real life. For example a student might do better on a test if studying with a group than by themselves. Two education majors might split the cost of an e-book required for class, and make copies.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Wikipedia
I would like to say I'm surprised by wikipedia, but who couldn't see this coming. Wikipedia is a compilation of information edited and maintained by different sources who prefer to remain anonymous. Its not weather Wikipedia can be trusted, but weather the editors of the articles can be trusted. And now with the Wikiscanner we can see who we're dealing with.
Many of the editors seem to have ulterior motives though. Why would a Political Party alter the entry of a speech?; let me count the ways.
Many of the editors seem to have ulterior motives though. Why would a Political Party alter the entry of a speech?; let me count the ways.
Fisch blog- A Formula For Success?
My chosen blog was centered around math assessment. Are "right or wrong" questions a good way of testing and teaching math? Or is it better to ask open ended questions such as "if you were to build a jungle gym what would the dimensions be and why?".
Personally I think its much valuable to ask open-ended and opinionated math questions. It allows student to think critically and makes math more relevant.
If you would have asked me in high school why are hyperboles were important I would have said "because its on the test". Its better to ask student to solve a situational problem in which hyperboles are necessary that to ask "what does Y equal if X is 3?".
Once a student can use math in problem solving it makes it easier to apply to real life. If a student can just understand enough to pass the test then whats the point?
Personally I think its much valuable to ask open-ended and opinionated math questions. It allows student to think critically and makes math more relevant.
If you would have asked me in high school why are hyperboles were important I would have said "because its on the test". Its better to ask student to solve a situational problem in which hyperboles are necessary that to ask "what does Y equal if X is 3?".
Once a student can use math in problem solving it makes it easier to apply to real life. If a student can just understand enough to pass the test then whats the point?
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Computer Illiterate Teachers
The "best blog of September" composed by Karl Ficsh presented a fascinating argument. Should teachers be accountable for standards in technology? In response I ask the question aren't we already? We are all in a 300 level micro computing systems class as a requirement for teacher candidacy. How ever I do see his point, not all current teacher were raised or educated with technology.
However should a teacher be fired for being computer un-savvy ,so to speak? Are teachers fired for using ineffective teaching methods? Or using poor handouts? If teachers should be monitored for computer knowledge then they should also be monitored for other teaching standards as well.
It is easier to monitor computer knowledge by grouping it with existing standards. Computers should be encompassed in the "highly qualified" teaching standards.
However should a teacher be fired for being computer un-savvy ,so to speak? Are teachers fired for using ineffective teaching methods? Or using poor handouts? If teachers should be monitored for computer knowledge then they should also be monitored for other teaching standards as well.
It is easier to monitor computer knowledge by grouping it with existing standards. Computers should be encompassed in the "highly qualified" teaching standards.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
International Teacher Blogs
The first International school I found was the Shu Ren International School.
They are located in the US and teach both in English and Mandarin Chinese. They have used blogging to introduce faculty, such as Kai-Yao the new Kindergarten teacher to the right, keep every one up to date on after school activities, admissions and other school business.
On our left is a picture of Mr.Litman who teaches the 5th grade at Ambrit-Rome international school. They're blog is used so teachers can keep in contact with students about assignments and projects. Some of the teachers blog in Italian with the students.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
teacher blogs
The first site I visited was http://teacherlingo.com, were teachers from across the nation were using blogs. They used them for posting assignments, to contacting parents to share advice and even to vent. I like the site because it had a tab for lesson plans teachers had blogged. A negative however is there's no monitoring or formality. Some teachers use complete sentences and appropriate language for school, but others don't. However if you can sift threw the few ranters, its a good site to find a lot of experienced teacher talking about school issues.
http://mtnbrookseniors.blogspot.com/ is the next site I went to. Would you believe an English class has a blogspot account? Her instructions were "Every week you will be expected to post at least two comments to this blog. Feel free to post your own ideas or comment on mine. All posts must be relevant to class discussions and assignments. Please mind your manners and use this spot for interesting discourse. Have fun this last semester of your senior year!" Isn't that cool! She's using a blog to get her students to discuss home work and class assignment and to post questions to have other students answer! Every now and again she will post a discussion topic. She has chosen to post a butterfly instead of a picture of her.
Monday, September 1, 2008
world is moving to fast
My response to the fischbowl video was one of uncertainty and dismay. How can we possibly train students for jobs that don't exist? Do we train them in a generalized field and wish them luck? With the world moving so fast how do I know that the information I give my students won't be obsolete and useless by the time they get a job? What do I do with a computer that exceeds the power of my brain? Visions of the Matrix flashed in my head. But then again as long as we can unplug the computer it won't harvest us for energy. Right?
There are some advantages to fast moving technology though; computers can be made cheaply. As the video clip suggests students in third world countries who have never even seen a text book could have Internet access. However look at were the buy a laptop/give a laptop programs are in place: US, India, China,and the most industrialized and wealthy among us. Due to the capitalist nature of these countries the more pessimistic and dominate side of me doubts the availability of computers in third world counties. It is said that our generation has the ability to end poverty in the world. And I believe them, but will we? Or will we use the available and fast moving technology to socialize with other industrial zed counties and leave the others behind and widen the gap between wealth distribution? I don't know.
There are some advantages to fast moving technology though; computers can be made cheaply. As the video clip suggests students in third world countries who have never even seen a text book could have Internet access. However look at were the buy a laptop/give a laptop programs are in place: US, India, China,and the most industrialized and wealthy among us. Due to the capitalist nature of these countries the more pessimistic and dominate side of me doubts the availability of computers in third world counties. It is said that our generation has the ability to end poverty in the world. And I believe them, but will we? Or will we use the available and fast moving technology to socialize with other industrial zed counties and leave the others behind and widen the gap between wealth distribution? I don't know.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
ACCESS-Alabama Connecting Classroom, Educators and Students Statewide
Out of all 16 southern states Alabama Used to rank 14 in AP course offerings. In 2006 ACCESS was started and is now in place in all high school in the state. What the program does is offer advanced course such as calculus, physics, trigonometry to schools that would other wise go without. The program utilizes web sites, video conferencing, e-mail and other online sources to help educate.
The program seems to work much like the online courses at a university, but would also offer teacher work shops. The state is even giving schools funding to implement the program.
The ACCESS program would be great as a new teacher as it would mean that advances students are not held back by the economic situation of the schools the attend. One problem that might arise is that I wouldn't be sure how to monitor progress, or how to make sure there on the ACCESS site and not google or youtube. But all in all a little screen watching is worth it.
The program seems to work much like the online courses at a university, but would also offer teacher work shops. The state is even giving schools funding to implement the program.
The ACCESS program would be great as a new teacher as it would mean that advances students are not held back by the economic situation of the schools the attend. One problem that might arise is that I wouldn't be sure how to monitor progress, or how to make sure there on the ACCESS site and not google or youtube. But all in all a little screen watching is worth it.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
ALEX-Alabama Learning Exchange
ALEX( Alabama Learning Exchange) is a website on which teachers form all over can post their lesson plans. Because the site is sponsored by the Alabama Department of Education each lesson plan is presented with the State of Alabama Quality Teaching Standards the lesson fullfils. The site is organized by subject then behavioral objectives. All Lesson plans include the time the lesson takes, the teacher's name and other useful information. As well as lesson plans the site also includes information about professional studies, web links, and a "Thinkfinity" search engine to help you explore the site.
As a new teacher the site would be a god sent. Even if the lesson plan does not suit your needs the lesson can aways be adjusted for time, group size, and difficulty level. It also shows how many state standards can be reached with just one lesson, and how other teachers have negotiated the standards using fun activities.
As a new teacher the site would be a god sent. Even if the lesson plan does not suit your needs the lesson can aways be adjusted for time, group size, and difficulty level. It also shows how many state standards can be reached with just one lesson, and how other teachers have negotiated the standards using fun activities.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
About Me
Hay All
My name is Hannah. I am an air force brat. For the past 16 years me and my family have been stationed in Europe. I have been to Germany(lived), England(lived), Scotland(visit), France(visit), and The Netherlands(visit). I came to Alabama in '06 to start College while my mom, dad, and little brother stayed in England.
What a culture Shock!!! Believe it or not when I came here I didn't know what love bugs are. They just don't live any were else. Despite the culture learning curve I was glad to live in the U.S. for the fist time since I was two years old.
I am an elementary education major as many of you probably are. I am just starting my education classes and am eager to get them under my belt. I also work part time at the Daily Grind. It's the coffee shop in the student center. Yes, there is a coffee shop in there. Come and get a mocha if you have time. My favorite is the the chi latte. Caramel macchiatos are good to. With a full class load and a job I'm afraid I've become a caffeine junkie. I am sure many of you can sympathize.
See you later!!
My name is Hannah. I am an air force brat. For the past 16 years me and my family have been stationed in Europe. I have been to Germany(lived), England(lived), Scotland(visit), France(visit), and The Netherlands(visit). I came to Alabama in '06 to start College while my mom, dad, and little brother stayed in England.
What a culture Shock!!! Believe it or not when I came here I didn't know what love bugs are. They just don't live any were else. Despite the culture learning curve I was glad to live in the U.S. for the fist time since I was two years old.
I am an elementary education major as many of you probably are. I am just starting my education classes and am eager to get them under my belt. I also work part time at the Daily Grind. It's the coffee shop in the student center. Yes, there is a coffee shop in there. Come and get a mocha if you have time. My favorite is the the chi latte. Caramel macchiatos are good to. With a full class load and a job I'm afraid I've become a caffeine junkie. I am sure many of you can sympathize.
See you later!!
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