3 THINGS I LEARNED ABOUT (OR HAD AN "AH-HA" MOMENT WITH)
I never knew that a student could create his/her own website, I always assumed that it was a huge, drawn-out process that took months and months which only "Computer Tech Savy People" knew how to do. When I heard that we were going to be creating our very own websites I was to say the least scared. I was astounded how easy the program eZedia actually was to use. I was also surprised to find out that to buy eZedia and put it on my own personal computer was only 25 bucks or so. I had heard that the program Dream Weaver was very expensive and automatically assumed that eZedia would be too, but its not! I'm going to buy it! I was also very surprised that my instructor had her very own published book, I think that's incredible! WOW!
I have never seen Portaportal or Del.ic.ious before and thought that these programs were really useful. I thought that you could only bookmark by using the bookmark tool on the tool bar.
Also, I have never podcasted before, and to tell you the truth have never even used a MacIntosh computer before this class ~ and look at me now! I didn't know that MacIntosh's had voice recorders built into them. I learned how to create a podcast! I also learned how to upload a movie and edit it in iMovie! I know that is way more than 3 things that I learned, but I REALLY benefitted from this class!
Reflecting over 6 Student Websites in Tecs 390
By looking over some of my fellow student's websites, I noticed that I forgot to include an All About Me Page. Many people wrote a brief description about them selves on the first page and I only had two pictures. I think this summer, once I get my apple pc, I will write a brief description about myself and put it on the first page. I think that would make my website more personal and not just a face. I generally am happy with my website though, I think that I included a lot of things that will help people gain an understanding of who I am.
Jolene Hubin's Website
- I liked the bright backgrounds, they really stood out!
- The buttons were very fun, different, and cute
-The ABC book didn't work, but mine didn't either completely on my PC at home
- Everything was very organized
Chelsea Hulett's Website
- Cute, fun backgrounds
- Lesson Plans page is blank!
- Assignments page is blank!
- Class Projects button links over to the blank assignments page!
Sheila Harvey's Website
-I was very impressed!!!!
-Everything was so neat and organized!
-Lots of pictures that helped me glimpse into her life
- Very personal
- Cute backgrounds, they all matched the same theme
Chris Schmidtberger's Website
-The home page is blank and is just a blue screen
- The buttons only take you back to the home page and do not link to what they say they should link to
- Very short and sweet, not much in it
Nicky Moody's Website
- Liked the All About Me Page, it gave good information about her (I should have done that!)
- Maybe have all of the buttons on the homepage so that if someone is looking for something in particular, they wouldn't have to navigate far
-Enjoyed the pictures
Kiley Old's Website
- Home page words are a little blurred by the background because the colors are similar
- VERY COLORFUL AND FUN!
-Loved the backgrounds
-Short and sweet, didn't have just a ton of stuff
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Friday, May 4, 2007
Week 17 Article Reflections
Article Title: Blogs Are Not the Enemy
Article Source: Tech Learning
Weblink: http://www.techlearning.com/showArticle.php?articleID=196604374
Reflection:
Many teachers oppose using blogging in the classroom. They do not understand why an educator would want to use blogging, how it benefits the students, or how it engages students in the learning process. However, there are many useful methods of incorporating blogging into the curriculum. Blogging can be very time consuming for the students and for teachers to grade, but the power of blogging comes through the conversation threads that it creates. Teachers can present a topic, a student writes to the topic, another student reads that comment and reflects on the topic and what the first student said about it, and so on. Many ideas can be generated by viewing what other people think about concepts. To ensure that students are using blogging in a useful manner the teacher should encourage the students to write meaningful comments that generate other ideas, include a hyperlink within the post, share information about yourself, to criticize kindly, and to remember the power of words. Teachers may also want to use a tracking service to keep the blogging clean and also to track the usage of the blogging site.
Article Title: The One-to-One Tsunami
Article Source: Tech Learning
Weblink: http://www.techlearning.com/showArticle.php?articleID=196604373
Reflection:
The education world as we know it is changing right before our eyes. Pioneers in the technology , Australia's Methodist Ladies' College in Melbourne, rolled out the first One-to-One program back in 1990. The world viewed this as a luxy for only the elite, but today, if educators are not moving to work towards this, than they will find themselves on the wrong side of the technology divide in the world. For educators to be successful with a One-to-One program, they must have a well-managed and thoughtfully approached classroom program in which each student has a "digital assistant". This One-to-One process helps students to acquire and manipulate more information quicker and more efficiently. This helps to stimulate higher-order thinking and creativity. Also, when each student has their own personal computer, the students have more time on task with research, writing, and presentating because they can take the computer to school, home, and where ever else they need to take it. Although many schools would love to adopt a program such as this, funding is not always available. Schools should explore funding options within their district as soon as possible because students and teachers will definitely benefit from a program such as One-to-One.
Article Source: Tech Learning
Weblink: http://www.techlearning.com/showArticle.php?articleID=196604374
Reflection:
Many teachers oppose using blogging in the classroom. They do not understand why an educator would want to use blogging, how it benefits the students, or how it engages students in the learning process. However, there are many useful methods of incorporating blogging into the curriculum. Blogging can be very time consuming for the students and for teachers to grade, but the power of blogging comes through the conversation threads that it creates. Teachers can present a topic, a student writes to the topic, another student reads that comment and reflects on the topic and what the first student said about it, and so on. Many ideas can be generated by viewing what other people think about concepts. To ensure that students are using blogging in a useful manner the teacher should encourage the students to write meaningful comments that generate other ideas, include a hyperlink within the post, share information about yourself, to criticize kindly, and to remember the power of words. Teachers may also want to use a tracking service to keep the blogging clean and also to track the usage of the blogging site.
Article Title: The One-to-One Tsunami
Article Source: Tech Learning
Weblink: http://www.techlearning.com/showArticle.php?articleID=196604373
Reflection:
The education world as we know it is changing right before our eyes. Pioneers in the technology , Australia's Methodist Ladies' College in Melbourne, rolled out the first One-to-One program back in 1990. The world viewed this as a luxy for only the elite, but today, if educators are not moving to work towards this, than they will find themselves on the wrong side of the technology divide in the world. For educators to be successful with a One-to-One program, they must have a well-managed and thoughtfully approached classroom program in which each student has a "digital assistant". This One-to-One process helps students to acquire and manipulate more information quicker and more efficiently. This helps to stimulate higher-order thinking and creativity. Also, when each student has their own personal computer, the students have more time on task with research, writing, and presentating because they can take the computer to school, home, and where ever else they need to take it. Although many schools would love to adopt a program such as this, funding is not always available. Schools should explore funding options within their district as soon as possible because students and teachers will definitely benefit from a program such as One-to-One.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Week 16 Article Reflection
Article Title: When digital kids rule the classroom
Article Source: By Stefanie OlsenStaff Writer, CNET News.comPublished: April 26, 2006 4:00 AM PST
Weblink: http://news.com.com/2009-1041-6065108.html?tag=tb
Reflection:
GenYes, which stands for Generation of Youth and Educators Succeeding, is a program in which students educate adult teachers about technology and how it can be used. I think that this program is extremely interesting. You don't find many workshops with young adults turning the tables and instructing teachers! I think that it is great though, kids now-a-days are great with computers, software, and many other different types of technology because they were exposed to it at a young age. This sort of workshop could be extremely beneficial to educators, especially older educators who have not been exposed to many of the technological advances or have not been instructed how to use them. I think that students would really get a kick out of teaching the adults, and it would be beneficial for the adults in many ways as well.
Article Source: By Stefanie OlsenStaff Writer, CNET News.comPublished: April 26, 2006 4:00 AM PST
Weblink: http://news.com.com/2009-1041-6065108.html?tag=tb
Reflection:
GenYes, which stands for Generation of Youth and Educators Succeeding, is a program in which students educate adult teachers about technology and how it can be used. I think that this program is extremely interesting. You don't find many workshops with young adults turning the tables and instructing teachers! I think that it is great though, kids now-a-days are great with computers, software, and many other different types of technology because they were exposed to it at a young age. This sort of workshop could be extremely beneficial to educators, especially older educators who have not been exposed to many of the technological advances or have not been instructed how to use them. I think that students would really get a kick out of teaching the adults, and it would be beneficial for the adults in many ways as well.
Article Reflections Continued from Week 15
Article Title: If wired right, computers do belong in classrooms
Article Source: latimes.com by Bob Sipchen
Weblink:http://www.latimes.com/news/education/la-me-schoolme16apr16,1,5262663.column?coll=la-news-learning&ctrack=1&cset=true
Reflection:
I haven't read many articles that have shown the perspective of technology NOT being effective in the classroom. I think that this article did a great job of showing both sides of the story. Just like every other product out there known to man, there are good ones and bad ones. Just because a software program claims to be educational, does not necessarily mean that the studetns will learn much from it or even use it to its fullest potential. Although there are many popular software programs out there that are not showing much educational value for students, there are also very beneficial ones if implimented into the classroom correctly. A good teacher and good technology usage can do wonders in a classroom.
Article Source: latimes.com by Bob Sipchen
Weblink:http://www.latimes.com/news/education/la-me-schoolme16apr16,1,5262663.column?coll=la-news-learning&ctrack=1&cset=true
Reflection:
I haven't read many articles that have shown the perspective of technology NOT being effective in the classroom. I think that this article did a great job of showing both sides of the story. Just like every other product out there known to man, there are good ones and bad ones. Just because a software program claims to be educational, does not necessarily mean that the studetns will learn much from it or even use it to its fullest potential. Although there are many popular software programs out there that are not showing much educational value for students, there are also very beneficial ones if implimented into the classroom correctly. A good teacher and good technology usage can do wonders in a classroom.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Article Reflections Continued From Week 15
Article Title:Video helps overhaul district's curriculum Baltimore County uses video streaming to enhance lessons and engage students
Article Source:By Laura Devaney, Associate Editor, eSchool News
Weblink:http://www.eschoolnews.org/news/showStoryts.cfm?ArticleID=7015
Reflection:
In an effort to revamp its curriculum, Baltimore County Public Schools,the nation's 25th largest school system, has installed video servers and a video-on-demand system in all of its 169 schools. Although the use of video on demand is nothing new for schools, what distinguishes Baltimore County's effort is that the district has formed teams of teachers in each school to brainstorm ways of using the videos to their fullest potential across each subject area. Video servers are nothing entirely new, but for such a large school district to adopt a brand new system, it is a huge leap for technology integration in schools. I especially like that Balitmore School System has formed teams of teachers to discuss the new technology and how it can be integrated into each subject area and the uses for it. I think that by holding meetings and discussing, teachers can not only learn more about the system in itself but how they might use it in other areas. I think that this is a huge step for converting schools into the 21st century.
Article Title:The Marshal Of MySpace How Hemanshu Nigam is trying to keep the site's 'friends' safe from predators and bullies
Article Source: Business Week Online
Weblink:http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_17/b4031092.htm
Reflection:
Hemanshu Nigam was a federal prosecuter who has been hired by MySpace to keep children safe from online pedophiles and reduce bullying. This is very important to MySpace not only to protect its users, but to boost profits by attracting advertising. When MySpace first began, predatory adults used it to lure young children for offline meetings. Now, there have been privacy policies put into motion and other protective measures have been taken to ensure adults are unable to talk to minors unless they have the full email address and name of the child. I think that this is a huge job for Hemanshu Nigam!!! Internet hackers are continually finding ways to disrupt programs, teenagers will always bully and be rude to people online, and there is no 100% fail proof way of blocking adult predators. I think that MySpace has done a great job so far to protect young children from predators by implementing restrictions that were not previously there. Hemanshu Nigam is also trying to educate users about online bullying. He says, "If you wouldn't say it in person, why say it online?" He also deletes profiles of known or reported bullies and even refers some to the police. I think that overall, MySpace is doing the best that they can do and will continue improving as needed.
Article Source:By Laura Devaney, Associate Editor, eSchool News
Weblink:http://www.eschoolnews.org/news/showStoryts.cfm?ArticleID=7015
Reflection:
In an effort to revamp its curriculum, Baltimore County Public Schools,the nation's 25th largest school system, has installed video servers and a video-on-demand system in all of its 169 schools. Although the use of video on demand is nothing new for schools, what distinguishes Baltimore County's effort is that the district has formed teams of teachers in each school to brainstorm ways of using the videos to their fullest potential across each subject area. Video servers are nothing entirely new, but for such a large school district to adopt a brand new system, it is a huge leap for technology integration in schools. I especially like that Balitmore School System has formed teams of teachers to discuss the new technology and how it can be integrated into each subject area and the uses for it. I think that by holding meetings and discussing, teachers can not only learn more about the system in itself but how they might use it in other areas. I think that this is a huge step for converting schools into the 21st century.
Article Title:The Marshal Of MySpace How Hemanshu Nigam is trying to keep the site's 'friends' safe from predators and bullies
Article Source: Business Week Online
Weblink:http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_17/b4031092.htm
Reflection:
Hemanshu Nigam was a federal prosecuter who has been hired by MySpace to keep children safe from online pedophiles and reduce bullying. This is very important to MySpace not only to protect its users, but to boost profits by attracting advertising. When MySpace first began, predatory adults used it to lure young children for offline meetings. Now, there have been privacy policies put into motion and other protective measures have been taken to ensure adults are unable to talk to minors unless they have the full email address and name of the child. I think that this is a huge job for Hemanshu Nigam!!! Internet hackers are continually finding ways to disrupt programs, teenagers will always bully and be rude to people online, and there is no 100% fail proof way of blocking adult predators. I think that MySpace has done a great job so far to protect young children from predators by implementing restrictions that were not previously there. Hemanshu Nigam is also trying to educate users about online bullying. He says, "If you wouldn't say it in person, why say it online?" He also deletes profiles of known or reported bullies and even refers some to the police. I think that overall, MySpace is doing the best that they can do and will continue improving as needed.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Week 17 Podcast Reflections
1.) Kidcast
Episode Title: Episode 1
Episode Number: 1
Date: 9/28/2005
Reflection:
This podcast was Dan Schmidt's very first broadcasting back in September of 2005. I wanted to listen to this particular podcast because I have found that you learn a little more about the person who creates all of the podcasts that you listen to. He comes from intelligenic.com and has a podcasting book that people can access. This book talks about how to podcast, how to connect podcasting to the curriculum, how podcasting can be used as a tool to reach out to parents and people in the education field, and how podcasting can help to meet curriculum goals. Podcasting is not only a great way to get students to tap into resources out there, but to get them to become a part of their project. As teachers, we should be looking for ways, such as podcasting, to make our classrooms into 21st Century Information Age Learning environments.
2.) Kidcast
Episode Title: Kidcast:Episode 4
Episode Number: 4
Date: 11/2/2005
Reflection:
In this podcasting episode, Dan Schmidt goes over a new report that has some really interesting information. According to the report in the podcast, 57 % percent of teenagers create content for the internet, 33% of teenagers share art work, photos, videos, and stories, 32% of teenagers have created websites or blogs in classrooms, and 19% have taken content from the internet and remixed it in their own creative way. I think that these numbers are pretty astounding. If we think about how often adults create content and publish it to the internet. Generally most adults use the internet to pay the bills, research topics, look things up, but they do not often create things and download them to share with other people on the internet. Adults tend to be internet consumers and teenagers are becoming more and more participants in the internet. I think that we should encourage teenagers to continue being active participants within the internet. Teenagers and young people alike are learning that the internet is an interactive place, not just a place to observe.
3.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: What We Love about Teaching
Episode Number: 121
Date: 1/29/07
Reflection:
In this podcasting episode, teachers and administrators talked about the things that they love about teaching. Some of the responses were, " I love the reward of helping a student and the appreciation they have when they finally (get it)", " I love watching students develop and grow and know that I am apart of that process", and "Kids can make you laugh at any given time, they can truly make your day memorable." As I was listening to this podcast, I had to ask my self what I love about teaching. My response is: I love being a positive role model in students' lives and knowing that what I do within my job impacts these students' entire lives and futures. I enjoy helping students become productive young adults, and the laughter and joy that they bring each day.
Episode Title: Episode 1
Episode Number: 1
Date: 9/28/2005
Reflection:
This podcast was Dan Schmidt's very first broadcasting back in September of 2005. I wanted to listen to this particular podcast because I have found that you learn a little more about the person who creates all of the podcasts that you listen to. He comes from intelligenic.com and has a podcasting book that people can access. This book talks about how to podcast, how to connect podcasting to the curriculum, how podcasting can be used as a tool to reach out to parents and people in the education field, and how podcasting can help to meet curriculum goals. Podcasting is not only a great way to get students to tap into resources out there, but to get them to become a part of their project. As teachers, we should be looking for ways, such as podcasting, to make our classrooms into 21st Century Information Age Learning environments.
2.) Kidcast
Episode Title: Kidcast:Episode 4
Episode Number: 4
Date: 11/2/2005
Reflection:
In this podcasting episode, Dan Schmidt goes over a new report that has some really interesting information. According to the report in the podcast, 57 % percent of teenagers create content for the internet, 33% of teenagers share art work, photos, videos, and stories, 32% of teenagers have created websites or blogs in classrooms, and 19% have taken content from the internet and remixed it in their own creative way. I think that these numbers are pretty astounding. If we think about how often adults create content and publish it to the internet. Generally most adults use the internet to pay the bills, research topics, look things up, but they do not often create things and download them to share with other people on the internet. Adults tend to be internet consumers and teenagers are becoming more and more participants in the internet. I think that we should encourage teenagers to continue being active participants within the internet. Teenagers and young people alike are learning that the internet is an interactive place, not just a place to observe.
3.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: What We Love about Teaching
Episode Number: 121
Date: 1/29/07
Reflection:
In this podcasting episode, teachers and administrators talked about the things that they love about teaching. Some of the responses were, " I love the reward of helping a student and the appreciation they have when they finally (get it)", " I love watching students develop and grow and know that I am apart of that process", and "Kids can make you laugh at any given time, they can truly make your day memorable." As I was listening to this podcast, I had to ask my self what I love about teaching. My response is: I love being a positive role model in students' lives and knowing that what I do within my job impacts these students' entire lives and futures. I enjoy helping students become productive young adults, and the laughter and joy that they bring each day.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Week 15 Podcast Reflections
1.) Kidcast
Episode Title: 2007 Kidcast Podcasting Awards
Episode Number: #40
Date: 3/29/07
Reflection:
In this podcast, Dan Schmidt went over the 2007 Podcasting Awards categories, rules, where the audience can go to submit a registration form, and encouraged listeners to submit podcasts. There are two main categories for the submitted podcasts: The Teachers and the Students. The teachers can enter podcasts under two sub-categories. Teachers can either create a Professional Development podcast (Ex: Tips and strategies for other teachers, or anything that would benefit other teachers) or Instructional Material podcasts (Ex: study or processing guides for their students, or anything that helps students to learn a particular concept). Students can create a podcast under any of the 5 categories for them. Students can either create a documentary, a talk show, drama, sound scene, or a Where in the World podcast. The restrictions for enteries are: all contestants must be within a K-12 school (either private, public, or home school), also classrooms can only submit one podcast for each category. The podcasts may be either video, audio, or enhance. I think that competing in a contest such as this could really engage students to work hard and get involved in their podcasting assignment. Students always love competion, and what better way to showcase the students' hard work?
2.) Tech Chick Tips
Episode Title: Tech Chick Tips
Episode Number: # 22.5
Date: 3/30/07
Reflection:
Within this podcast, the two broadcasters wanted to update their last broadcast and get people up to date regarding the 2007 Podcasting Awards that they discussed in the last episode. They believe that participating in this contest is a great opportunity for both teachers and students to get engage in a technology project. They outlined that the prizes had not yet been selected for the contest, but the project itself should be enough prize in itself. To see an example that Dan Schmidt, from Kidcast, had posted to help listeners, people should go to their website: techchicktips.net. Their suggestion is to create a "Where in the World" podcast becuase the project would be short and sweet and it would be easy to integrate many other subjects into the project. The deadline for submissions is April 30th and judging results will not come out until May. I found it ironic that I happend to listen to Dan Schidt's podcast regarding the 2007 Podcasting Rewards and then chose this podcast which also talked about the contest. This shows me how connected podcasting people must be. I bet that the Tech Chicks and Dan Schmidt probably work together on a few projects, or at least keep in touch and collaborate ideas.
3.) Tech Chick Tips
Episode Title: Tech Chick Tips
Episode Number: # 1
Date: 7/8/06
Reflection:
This podcast was the tech chick's very first premier episode. I learned that the two tech chick's names are Helen and Anna. Helen is a Professional Developmetn Consultant for a large school district, she began her career in education as a high school science teacher, and her passion is helping teachers use technology in a brand new way. Ana is a Instructional Technology teacher in an elementary school within the same district as Helen's, she is a wife and a mother of three, and her passion is teaching content to students while also showing them how to use technology. These two tech chicks are extreme advocates of MacIntosh computers. They believe that MacIntosh computers are highly superior to Windows in music, photos, and video software. They think that using MacIntoshs is much easier and better in using these programs. They are hoping to use their podcasts to teach teachers and students real world skills to help them think in deeper levels. I enjoyed putting a name to a voice from listening to one of their later episodes when I didn't know anything about them. I think that they are very involved educators who are pursuing a noble cause.
Episode Title: 2007 Kidcast Podcasting Awards
Episode Number: #40
Date: 3/29/07
Reflection:
In this podcast, Dan Schmidt went over the 2007 Podcasting Awards categories, rules, where the audience can go to submit a registration form, and encouraged listeners to submit podcasts. There are two main categories for the submitted podcasts: The Teachers and the Students. The teachers can enter podcasts under two sub-categories. Teachers can either create a Professional Development podcast (Ex: Tips and strategies for other teachers, or anything that would benefit other teachers) or Instructional Material podcasts (Ex: study or processing guides for their students, or anything that helps students to learn a particular concept). Students can create a podcast under any of the 5 categories for them. Students can either create a documentary, a talk show, drama, sound scene, or a Where in the World podcast. The restrictions for enteries are: all contestants must be within a K-12 school (either private, public, or home school), also classrooms can only submit one podcast for each category. The podcasts may be either video, audio, or enhance. I think that competing in a contest such as this could really engage students to work hard and get involved in their podcasting assignment. Students always love competion, and what better way to showcase the students' hard work?
2.) Tech Chick Tips
Episode Title: Tech Chick Tips
Episode Number: # 22.5
Date: 3/30/07
Reflection:
Within this podcast, the two broadcasters wanted to update their last broadcast and get people up to date regarding the 2007 Podcasting Awards that they discussed in the last episode. They believe that participating in this contest is a great opportunity for both teachers and students to get engage in a technology project. They outlined that the prizes had not yet been selected for the contest, but the project itself should be enough prize in itself. To see an example that Dan Schmidt, from Kidcast, had posted to help listeners, people should go to their website: techchicktips.net. Their suggestion is to create a "Where in the World" podcast becuase the project would be short and sweet and it would be easy to integrate many other subjects into the project. The deadline for submissions is April 30th and judging results will not come out until May. I found it ironic that I happend to listen to Dan Schidt's podcast regarding the 2007 Podcasting Rewards and then chose this podcast which also talked about the contest. This shows me how connected podcasting people must be. I bet that the Tech Chicks and Dan Schmidt probably work together on a few projects, or at least keep in touch and collaborate ideas.
3.) Tech Chick Tips
Episode Title: Tech Chick Tips
Episode Number: # 1
Date: 7/8/06
Reflection:
This podcast was the tech chick's very first premier episode. I learned that the two tech chick's names are Helen and Anna. Helen is a Professional Developmetn Consultant for a large school district, she began her career in education as a high school science teacher, and her passion is helping teachers use technology in a brand new way. Ana is a Instructional Technology teacher in an elementary school within the same district as Helen's, she is a wife and a mother of three, and her passion is teaching content to students while also showing them how to use technology. These two tech chicks are extreme advocates of MacIntosh computers. They believe that MacIntosh computers are highly superior to Windows in music, photos, and video software. They think that using MacIntoshs is much easier and better in using these programs. They are hoping to use their podcasts to teach teachers and students real world skills to help them think in deeper levels. I enjoyed putting a name to a voice from listening to one of their later episodes when I didn't know anything about them. I think that they are very involved educators who are pursuing a noble cause.
Week 15 Article Reflections
Article Title: Court MySpace Postings Are Free Speech
Source: Associated Press, by Charles Wilson
Web Link: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2007-04-10-myspace-speech_N.htm
Reflection:
Although I do not agree with the girl in this articles actions, I do believe in freedom of speech. The principal is a public figure and will always receive praise and criticism about his actions, beliefs, and policies. I most definitely believe that the girl deserved punishment, but perhaps not to the digree of charges that she was facing. I think that the principal should have kept the punishments within the school: having the student first delete the web page, a in school suspension, community service, etc. Although, unless this student created the web page during school time, it is hard to punish a student in school for things that they did out of school. I do not feel sorry for the girl, what she did was childish and damaging. Perhaps if this happened to me, I would also feel the need to charge someone with slander and identy theft. Overall, I guess I am not quite sure how I feel this girl deserves to be punished. MySpace needs to have a tool to block people from creating fake profiles. How this is done, I'm not sure, but it is definitely something the people at MySpace need to look into to prevent future occurances such as this
Article Title: Study Eyes of Tech on Classroom
Source: AP Education Writer, by Nancy Zuckerbrod
Web Link: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070405/ap_on_hi_te/education_technology
Reflection:
There is a study suggesting that technology usage in the classroom is not benefiting math and reading scores. This study has shown that classrooms rich in technology are not doing any better in these areas than classrooms not using very much technology. I believe that good technology integration can help to enrich a classroom's learning experience through vicarious experiences, educational games, and many other means, but most of the basics in instruction usually need to be done one on one with a student. I think that technology can help a student to use that knowledge more creatively and expand that student's horizons, but much of what that student needs to even begin using technology is direct instruction, inquiry, problem-based learning, or any other instructional strategies to convey learning. Also, I think that teachers impact their students' learning more than any other element in the classroom. A good teacher usually impacts their students' scores more than any thing else.
Source: Associated Press, by Charles Wilson
Web Link: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2007-04-10-myspace-speech_N.htm
Reflection:
Although I do not agree with the girl in this articles actions, I do believe in freedom of speech. The principal is a public figure and will always receive praise and criticism about his actions, beliefs, and policies. I most definitely believe that the girl deserved punishment, but perhaps not to the digree of charges that she was facing. I think that the principal should have kept the punishments within the school: having the student first delete the web page, a in school suspension, community service, etc. Although, unless this student created the web page during school time, it is hard to punish a student in school for things that they did out of school. I do not feel sorry for the girl, what she did was childish and damaging. Perhaps if this happened to me, I would also feel the need to charge someone with slander and identy theft. Overall, I guess I am not quite sure how I feel this girl deserves to be punished. MySpace needs to have a tool to block people from creating fake profiles. How this is done, I'm not sure, but it is definitely something the people at MySpace need to look into to prevent future occurances such as this
Article Title: Study Eyes of Tech on Classroom
Source: AP Education Writer, by Nancy Zuckerbrod
Web Link: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070405/ap_on_hi_te/education_technology
Reflection:
There is a study suggesting that technology usage in the classroom is not benefiting math and reading scores. This study has shown that classrooms rich in technology are not doing any better in these areas than classrooms not using very much technology. I believe that good technology integration can help to enrich a classroom's learning experience through vicarious experiences, educational games, and many other means, but most of the basics in instruction usually need to be done one on one with a student. I think that technology can help a student to use that knowledge more creatively and expand that student's horizons, but much of what that student needs to even begin using technology is direct instruction, inquiry, problem-based learning, or any other instructional strategies to convey learning. Also, I think that teachers impact their students' learning more than any other element in the classroom. A good teacher usually impacts their students' scores more than any thing else.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Week 13 Podcast Reflections
1.) Kidcast
Episode Title: Tips for Controlling Noise
Episode Number: 21
Date: 4/1/06
Reflection:
It is often hard to escape the clatter and noise in active, learning classrooms because students and learning tend to be messy and load. There are measures that teachers can take to help eliminate some of the excess noises that are recorded in the background of their podcasts. First, teachers can express to their students their concern about their noise level and how it is affecting the podcast being generated. Teachers can do a test by having a student record a podcast while two other students are talking in the background to help show and illustrate the idea that it is important to be quiet while others are recording. A signal is often a good approach to quietting students down. For instance, shouting out "Voice Over!" could be the universal signal for students to be quiet because podcasting is being done. Also, trying separating podcasting recording students into different rooms is a good idea. The further you can separate recording students the better, but often teachers only have one lab to do the podcasting in. Teachers could also designate time slots for their students to take turns recording. Also, the microphones that are built into the macintosh computers pick up sound from all directions, so an external microphone could be a good investment.
2.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: The Changing Landscape of the Global Digital Divide: Opportunities and Challenges for Teacher Education
Episode Number: 143
Date: 4/2/07
Reflection:
The Digital Divide occurs between developed countries and developing countries, or the haves and have nots in regard to access to hardware and the internet. This digital divide is only a small part in a much broader social and economic divide. There is also a Knowledge Divide occuring between developed and developing countries. This is important to understand because access to computer hardware and the internet will not guarantee that people will be able to opporate it. Worldwide, 25 % of women are not literate, and males have a slightly lower percentage. The literacy gap is huge between women and men especially within Arab states and desert countries. People must first be literate to opportate a computer and this is a huge part of the digital divide.
Our known landscape is changing rapidly and it is important for teachers to understand where technology is now and where it will be going in the future. Teacher Education could be a huge leadership role in the tech inclusion movement. We need to ask ourselves, "What is our responsibility?" By the year 2015, 15-35 million teachers will be needed, and 2/3 of that number will be in developing countries. Teacher shortages are occuring everywhere. This is not so much of a recruitment problem, but a retention problem.
3.) Infinite Thinking Machine
Episode Title: And the Walls Come Tumbling Down
Episode Number: ITM 6
Date:3/29/07
Reflection:
Their is much talk about sites such as myspace and facebook that adults use as social networking tools, but there are many other (safe and kid friendly) sites such as Club Penguin that children can enjoy using as well. Myspace is the biggest social networking site out there, within myspace, members can enjoy music, videos, articles, and many other aspects within the site. A website called "Taking IT Global" is also a good tool for teachers to use where they can join in projects digitally. In recent years, teachers have shifted to using programs such as Moodle and Blackboard with their students. These programs can be an exchange between teacher and student with podcasts, blogs, and other digital projects. Teachers also have the opportunity to join an online community to collaborate with other teachers in their profession. It is said that 1% of an online community design and opporate the system, 10% participate within the system, and the remaining percent observe and use the information from the system. These online communities are a great opportunity for professional development and are easily accessible.
Episode Title: Tips for Controlling Noise
Episode Number: 21
Date: 4/1/06
Reflection:
It is often hard to escape the clatter and noise in active, learning classrooms because students and learning tend to be messy and load. There are measures that teachers can take to help eliminate some of the excess noises that are recorded in the background of their podcasts. First, teachers can express to their students their concern about their noise level and how it is affecting the podcast being generated. Teachers can do a test by having a student record a podcast while two other students are talking in the background to help show and illustrate the idea that it is important to be quiet while others are recording. A signal is often a good approach to quietting students down. For instance, shouting out "Voice Over!" could be the universal signal for students to be quiet because podcasting is being done. Also, trying separating podcasting recording students into different rooms is a good idea. The further you can separate recording students the better, but often teachers only have one lab to do the podcasting in. Teachers could also designate time slots for their students to take turns recording. Also, the microphones that are built into the macintosh computers pick up sound from all directions, so an external microphone could be a good investment.
2.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: The Changing Landscape of the Global Digital Divide: Opportunities and Challenges for Teacher Education
Episode Number: 143
Date: 4/2/07
Reflection:
The Digital Divide occurs between developed countries and developing countries, or the haves and have nots in regard to access to hardware and the internet. This digital divide is only a small part in a much broader social and economic divide. There is also a Knowledge Divide occuring between developed and developing countries. This is important to understand because access to computer hardware and the internet will not guarantee that people will be able to opporate it. Worldwide, 25 % of women are not literate, and males have a slightly lower percentage. The literacy gap is huge between women and men especially within Arab states and desert countries. People must first be literate to opportate a computer and this is a huge part of the digital divide.
Our known landscape is changing rapidly and it is important for teachers to understand where technology is now and where it will be going in the future. Teacher Education could be a huge leadership role in the tech inclusion movement. We need to ask ourselves, "What is our responsibility?" By the year 2015, 15-35 million teachers will be needed, and 2/3 of that number will be in developing countries. Teacher shortages are occuring everywhere. This is not so much of a recruitment problem, but a retention problem.
3.) Infinite Thinking Machine
Episode Title: And the Walls Come Tumbling Down
Episode Number: ITM 6
Date:3/29/07
Reflection:
Their is much talk about sites such as myspace and facebook that adults use as social networking tools, but there are many other (safe and kid friendly) sites such as Club Penguin that children can enjoy using as well. Myspace is the biggest social networking site out there, within myspace, members can enjoy music, videos, articles, and many other aspects within the site. A website called "Taking IT Global" is also a good tool for teachers to use where they can join in projects digitally. In recent years, teachers have shifted to using programs such as Moodle and Blackboard with their students. These programs can be an exchange between teacher and student with podcasts, blogs, and other digital projects. Teachers also have the opportunity to join an online community to collaborate with other teachers in their profession. It is said that 1% of an online community design and opporate the system, 10% participate within the system, and the remaining percent observe and use the information from the system. These online communities are a great opportunity for professional development and are easily accessible.
Week 13 Article Reviews
Article Title: A Digital Decade
Source: Technology Counts '07
Web Link: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2007/03/29/30intro.h26.html
Reflection:
Technology is becoming such an intricle part of society as well as in our schools. This last decade has especially focused in on technology and its various uses and opportunities. Billions of dollars are being spent each year to prepare schools for tomorrow's technological demands and challenges. Much of the focus of this money is geared towards equipping schools for the internet and technology. I think that billions of dollars should be spent on technology in school systems. Our industies and economics are now driven and carried out through the use of technology and we as teachers not only need to be teaching our students about history and the arts, etc, but also equipping them to be entering into the work force as productive members of society. Disadvantaged schools (schools with very few resources and money) have been left behind in this technology shift, but the federal government has created an "education rate" or "E-rate" program that provides discounts on technology for disadvantaged schools. This has been wonderful for these school districts, and the gap between high-income and low-income schools in perspective to technology access and knowledge has been narrowing.
Article Title: More Students Getting Laptops Instead of Textbooks. "Louisiana High School Becomes Latest to Switch to an All-Digital Curriculum"
Source: eSchool News staff and wire service reports
Web Link: http://www.eschoolnews.org/news/showStoryts.cfm?ArticleID=6998
Reflection:
I personally find this push towards an all-digital curriculum kind of scary. Perhaps, that is because I grew up in a technology emersing society and not a technology driven society that we are approaching. I fully support the use of technology in classrooms, but I also think that there is a point at which school systems should not cross. For example, I believe that students should learn how to multiply and divide as well as learn the functions of a calculator. I also believe that students should learn to write in print and in cursive as well as learn how to type. I do see the advantages of replacing text books with laptops though. Schools would not have to buy books every year and the information would always be up to date. Students would also have a wide variety and sources of information. Overall, I believe that this shift from texts books to laptops is beneficial, but I just hope that some of the basic curriculum in the classroom is enforced.
Article: Beginning Teachers' Technology Use: First-Year Teacher Development and the Institutional Context's Affect on New Teachers' Instructional Technology Use with Students
Source: Journal of Research on Technology in Education, Jon M. Clausen
Web Link: NONE... paper copy
Reflection:
There is an on-going student regarding teacher development and technology usage with students. The two questions that drive this study are: How did the first year development of two beginning teachers affect their technology use with students? and How did the existing institutional context affect technology use with students?
As I was reading this arcticle, I picked out the section that most related to my feelings: First-Year Teaching. I agree that a teacher's development process includes their own K-12 experience, their college experience, and student teaching experience. I thought that it was interesting to read that within the first years, teachers go through a period of survival, discovery, adaptation, and learning. I know that when I receive my first teaching job I will be struggling to keep up with the veteran teachers and to prove myself as an educator. I think that once I get the hang of things I will then discover things about myself as a teacher and about my students, then I will adapt and learn from my experiences.
My eyes were really opened while reading a response from Patricia, "I didn't realize that it never stops. You never get a break, even when you are eating lunch, even when you don't have recess duty, it's not like free time, there is always something to think about or something that you can do, and basically...your role as a teacher only stops when you want it to." WOW! I know that my role as a college student preparing to become a teacher never stops, there is always something to think about or do. I can't even imagine the stress that will come along with having my first professional role. I'm excited though, it's that drive and energy that will keep me going and within my profession.
The conclusion of this study resulted in discussing how teacher development is a process and just as teachers become more confident in their roles as educators, they will feel more confident while incorporating technology into their curriculum.
Source: Technology Counts '07
Web Link: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2007/03/29/30intro.h26.html
Reflection:
Technology is becoming such an intricle part of society as well as in our schools. This last decade has especially focused in on technology and its various uses and opportunities. Billions of dollars are being spent each year to prepare schools for tomorrow's technological demands and challenges. Much of the focus of this money is geared towards equipping schools for the internet and technology. I think that billions of dollars should be spent on technology in school systems. Our industies and economics are now driven and carried out through the use of technology and we as teachers not only need to be teaching our students about history and the arts, etc, but also equipping them to be entering into the work force as productive members of society. Disadvantaged schools (schools with very few resources and money) have been left behind in this technology shift, but the federal government has created an "education rate" or "E-rate" program that provides discounts on technology for disadvantaged schools. This has been wonderful for these school districts, and the gap between high-income and low-income schools in perspective to technology access and knowledge has been narrowing.
Article Title: More Students Getting Laptops Instead of Textbooks. "Louisiana High School Becomes Latest to Switch to an All-Digital Curriculum"
Source: eSchool News staff and wire service reports
Web Link: http://www.eschoolnews.org/news/showStoryts.cfm?ArticleID=6998
Reflection:
I personally find this push towards an all-digital curriculum kind of scary. Perhaps, that is because I grew up in a technology emersing society and not a technology driven society that we are approaching. I fully support the use of technology in classrooms, but I also think that there is a point at which school systems should not cross. For example, I believe that students should learn how to multiply and divide as well as learn the functions of a calculator. I also believe that students should learn to write in print and in cursive as well as learn how to type. I do see the advantages of replacing text books with laptops though. Schools would not have to buy books every year and the information would always be up to date. Students would also have a wide variety and sources of information. Overall, I believe that this shift from texts books to laptops is beneficial, but I just hope that some of the basic curriculum in the classroom is enforced.
Article: Beginning Teachers' Technology Use: First-Year Teacher Development and the Institutional Context's Affect on New Teachers' Instructional Technology Use with Students
Source: Journal of Research on Technology in Education, Jon M. Clausen
Web Link: NONE... paper copy
Reflection:
There is an on-going student regarding teacher development and technology usage with students. The two questions that drive this study are: How did the first year development of two beginning teachers affect their technology use with students? and How did the existing institutional context affect technology use with students?
As I was reading this arcticle, I picked out the section that most related to my feelings: First-Year Teaching. I agree that a teacher's development process includes their own K-12 experience, their college experience, and student teaching experience. I thought that it was interesting to read that within the first years, teachers go through a period of survival, discovery, adaptation, and learning. I know that when I receive my first teaching job I will be struggling to keep up with the veteran teachers and to prove myself as an educator. I think that once I get the hang of things I will then discover things about myself as a teacher and about my students, then I will adapt and learn from my experiences.
My eyes were really opened while reading a response from Patricia, "I didn't realize that it never stops. You never get a break, even when you are eating lunch, even when you don't have recess duty, it's not like free time, there is always something to think about or something that you can do, and basically...your role as a teacher only stops when you want it to." WOW! I know that my role as a college student preparing to become a teacher never stops, there is always something to think about or do. I can't even imagine the stress that will come along with having my first professional role. I'm excited though, it's that drive and energy that will keep me going and within my profession.
The conclusion of this study resulted in discussing how teacher development is a process and just as teachers become more confident in their roles as educators, they will feel more confident while incorporating technology into their curriculum.
Friday, March 30, 2007
3 Podcast Reflections for week of March 25-31
1.) Kidcast
Dan Schmidt
Episode Title: Photo Story and Jodix
Episode #: 39
Episode Date: 3/23/07
This podcast episode dealt with creating visual podcasts on Windows XP through the use of a free downloadable program called "Microsoft Photo Story". Podcasting tends to be Macintosh geared and this episode illustrated how avid Microsoft users could also join the podcasting trend. Within this program, users can download real photographs, order the slides, crop, make color corrections, and record audio just like with programs such as audacity and garage band. You would have to purchase or borrow a microphone though. The user of Microsoft Photo Story can also hit each photo, determine how long you want to speak, and this determines how long your photos will show. There are limitations with this program though, when exporting the files you have to save them as .wmv files and this restricts your formatting to microsoft land. Also, something to consider, is that .wmv files are not playable on itunes (where many people go to listen to podcasts). There is a program called "Jodix" that is also a free downloadable feature on Windows, that will convert these files into a .mp4 format, so that they can be put into itunes.
2.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Wesley Fryer
Episode Title: Science and Math Videos on a Purple COW (Curriculum on Wheels)
Episode #: 140
Episode Date: 3/17/07
This podcast episode dealt with a video transmitting stand alone device that is a big purple box that can be wheeled around the classroom. Teachers interested in the Purple COW can visit an Ignite Learning Site to learn more about it. This device is used to download video clip offline and show them to students without any interruption in the streaming. I have become very aware of streaming interruptions in united streaming because when I conducted my formal observation, I had a video clip picked out from united streaming that I wanted to show my students. My video clip worked at first, but it kept stopping and making weird sounds, and then all of the sudden it stopped. I had to delete that whole section out of my formal observation lesson plan because I did not want to waste anymore time messing with the video clip. I had a feeling that I would never get it to work properly at that time, so I just moved on to my next activity. If I had access to a device, such as the purple cow, than I could have downloaded that particular video offline in advance, and would not have had to worry about an interruption in the streaming process. Through listening to this podcast, I also learned that the reason why video clips interrupt, make weird sounds, or quit out completely is because that site or video clip was heavily trafficed at that time, and that makes the stream unreadable. These big purple COWs are very teacher friendly and cost around $1,800 dollars (with projector included). That sounds like a lot of money, but perhaps fundrives or other fund raising methods could make the purchase more accessible. The possibilities with these devices are boundless and they are especially useful in math and science classes.
3.) Tech Integration Podcast
John Lien
Episode Title: Nettrekker Timeline
Episode #: 013
Episode Date: 1/25/07
This podcast dealt with creating a Nettrekker Timeline. First you must log in to Nettrekker, click on Timeline underneath features. A whole list of categories will come up or you can choose to create your own timeline. If you do not wish to create your own, choose a topic. In the demonstration, John Lien choose U.S. History. The time line was from 1400's to 2008, that is a lot of time, and it needs to be narrowed down. To narrow it down, there will be different Topic Titles to click on. In the demonstration, John Lien choose to narrow it down to The American Revolution. Do not click on the link, but rather select the box next to the title of your choice. You can also layer the timelines, to do this click on layer, and a list of other subjects will appear. In the demonstration, John Lien selected Chemistry, and in the timeline now are all of the inovations, discoveries, and people dealing with Chemistry during the American Revolution. These timelines could be very beneficial if used in classrooms. I could foresee using them for many different subject areas and not just Social Studies. They can be used as a resource for integrating other subject areas very easily. You can also save the timelines that you create to access them at a later date by clicking save as.
Dan Schmidt
Episode Title: Photo Story and Jodix
Episode #: 39
Episode Date: 3/23/07
This podcast episode dealt with creating visual podcasts on Windows XP through the use of a free downloadable program called "Microsoft Photo Story". Podcasting tends to be Macintosh geared and this episode illustrated how avid Microsoft users could also join the podcasting trend. Within this program, users can download real photographs, order the slides, crop, make color corrections, and record audio just like with programs such as audacity and garage band. You would have to purchase or borrow a microphone though. The user of Microsoft Photo Story can also hit each photo, determine how long you want to speak, and this determines how long your photos will show. There are limitations with this program though, when exporting the files you have to save them as .wmv files and this restricts your formatting to microsoft land. Also, something to consider, is that .wmv files are not playable on itunes (where many people go to listen to podcasts). There is a program called "Jodix" that is also a free downloadable feature on Windows, that will convert these files into a .mp4 format, so that they can be put into itunes.
2.) Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Wesley Fryer
Episode Title: Science and Math Videos on a Purple COW (Curriculum on Wheels)
Episode #: 140
Episode Date: 3/17/07
This podcast episode dealt with a video transmitting stand alone device that is a big purple box that can be wheeled around the classroom. Teachers interested in the Purple COW can visit an Ignite Learning Site to learn more about it. This device is used to download video clip offline and show them to students without any interruption in the streaming. I have become very aware of streaming interruptions in united streaming because when I conducted my formal observation, I had a video clip picked out from united streaming that I wanted to show my students. My video clip worked at first, but it kept stopping and making weird sounds, and then all of the sudden it stopped. I had to delete that whole section out of my formal observation lesson plan because I did not want to waste anymore time messing with the video clip. I had a feeling that I would never get it to work properly at that time, so I just moved on to my next activity. If I had access to a device, such as the purple cow, than I could have downloaded that particular video offline in advance, and would not have had to worry about an interruption in the streaming process. Through listening to this podcast, I also learned that the reason why video clips interrupt, make weird sounds, or quit out completely is because that site or video clip was heavily trafficed at that time, and that makes the stream unreadable. These big purple COWs are very teacher friendly and cost around $1,800 dollars (with projector included). That sounds like a lot of money, but perhaps fundrives or other fund raising methods could make the purchase more accessible. The possibilities with these devices are boundless and they are especially useful in math and science classes.
3.) Tech Integration Podcast
John Lien
Episode Title: Nettrekker Timeline
Episode #: 013
Episode Date: 1/25/07
This podcast dealt with creating a Nettrekker Timeline. First you must log in to Nettrekker, click on Timeline underneath features. A whole list of categories will come up or you can choose to create your own timeline. If you do not wish to create your own, choose a topic. In the demonstration, John Lien choose U.S. History. The time line was from 1400's to 2008, that is a lot of time, and it needs to be narrowed down. To narrow it down, there will be different Topic Titles to click on. In the demonstration, John Lien choose to narrow it down to The American Revolution. Do not click on the link, but rather select the box next to the title of your choice. You can also layer the timelines, to do this click on layer, and a list of other subjects will appear. In the demonstration, John Lien selected Chemistry, and in the timeline now are all of the inovations, discoveries, and people dealing with Chemistry during the American Revolution. These timelines could be very beneficial if used in classrooms. I could foresee using them for many different subject areas and not just Social Studies. They can be used as a resource for integrating other subject areas very easily. You can also save the timelines that you create to access them at a later date by clicking save as.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Montreal Board Teaches Tech to Teachers (by Karen Seidman, The Gazette, March 22, 2007)
The Lester B, Pearson School Board has recently decided to switch gears and spend money on educating teachers on how to use technology rather than just buying hardware. I think that this is a great idea because how effective will new hardware be if teachers don't know how to use it? I think that as technology changes, teachers should be forced, or at least given the option to attend workshops to keep them up to date. I think that older teachers have a tendency to be scared of using technology. If schools put all teachers in workshops to help them, then these teachers would become more comfortable with using and implementing technology into their classrooms. Also, the new white boards that were mentioned in the article are really cool. I've only seen one used before, and that was briefly as I was passing down a school's hallway. I am very interested in what they can all do and how they can be used. Hopefully the school in which I am employed with will have a few to use so that I might hopefully use one in my classroom. I am curious about them because I have not been exposed to them in any of my internships or in any of my methods courses.
Parents, Teachers, Kids Speak Up On Ed Teach (Communication, access are important to students; most parents believe technology is underused in schools
by Justin Appel, Assistant Editor, eSchool News
This is the second year in a row in which results of a survey have suggested that students and teachers desire to have more technology usage in schools. Also, an overwhelming 97% of students, but only 50% of teachers think that cell phones should be allowed in schools for emergencies and for connecting with parents. I personally do not support the idea of using cell phones in schools because they are too much of a distraction and are too tempting to use for texting with friends. I also think that it is really interesting that students polled said that they used technology the most to communicate with friends and people from all over the world. This influx of communication has altered the meaning of "friend". Who knows what other terms will be altered or even new words coined as technology advances throughout the years. I think that it is sad that younger grades have reported that there is not enough access to computers and technology. I believe that computers and technology should be very much a part of lower level classrooms because at this age they soak up information like a sponge and at this stage of life they are laying the foundation of knowledge for upcoming years.
This is the second year in a row in which results of a survey have suggested that students and teachers desire to have more technology usage in schools. Also, an overwhelming 97% of students, but only 50% of teachers think that cell phones should be allowed in schools for emergencies and for connecting with parents. I personally do not support the idea of using cell phones in schools because they are too much of a distraction and are too tempting to use for texting with friends. I also think that it is really interesting that students polled said that they used technology the most to communicate with friends and people from all over the world. This influx of communication has altered the meaning of "friend". Who knows what other terms will be altered or even new words coined as technology advances throughout the years. I think that it is sad that younger grades have reported that there is not enough access to computers and technology. I believe that computers and technology should be very much a part of lower level classrooms because at this age they soak up information like a sponge and at this stage of life they are laying the foundation of knowledge for upcoming years.
White House 2008: Myspace sets itself up as a hub for young voters
WOW! This article was so interesting to me because i have a myspace account. After reading this article, I went to the Impact Button on the Myspace site and found that what the article said was true. I had no idea that myspace even had presidential candidates, that's so cool. This could potentially be a great way for young, (and even older) adults to become more familiar with presidental candidates and to learn more about who they are and what they stand for. This just goes to show how digital and technical our society is becoming when even political figures have myspace accounts. Because MySpace is the country's most trafficed website political figures can potentially reach millions of people and sway their opinion and even their vote one way or another.
More Video Games, Fewer Books at Schools? (Friday Mar. 16th,2007 by Debra Sherman)
There is an on-going proposal to help failing schools through the use of video games. These video games are not the gorey games such as Mortal Combat or Doom, but rather alternative educational video games. These video games propose real world questions or problems and students have to work through processes and form hypotheses to solve real world problems. I think that this is a wonderful idea because kids naturally love video games and television, and even still enjoy them when they are educational. I think that video games should have their place in schools, just as long as traditional classroom teaching is still held valuable and is still used. Just like I still believe that text books have a place in today's classrooms.
Comprehensive Strategies Kit Sample Offer
I'm not really sure how to blog on this website. All that it looks like to me is an offer to buy a reading stratigies kit. I guess it is important to have a lot of informative resources within your classroom, and this could potentially be a great kit to have. This kit helps you teach 6 critical comprehension strategies. This kit can help accelerate reading comprehension, boost standardized test scores, and help students become strategic, independent readers.
Class Project: Reading, Rapping, History (Teaching the Past with Modern Tool) by Angie Green, Los Angeles Times March 18th, 2007
I was delighted after reading this article because I think that unconventional methods of learning concepts and remembering concepts are often more effective than traditional methods, because the students become more engaged and this is more memorable for students. I know that while taking biology, the only reason why I got a B in that class was becuase I created rhymes or accronyms to remember information. Music and rhythm truly can help some students to soldify concepts into their memory banks. I also love that the teacher introduced a lot of recording technology to his students. He used his resources to contact a friend who owns a music company to compose the music and record the students. This could possibily be a very beneficial field trip or guest speaker for the class. I hope that in the future I will have a lot of resources so that my lessons can be enriched as this teacher's was.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Remaining 2 Podcast Reflections for Week 10 (Ted Talks reflection is under "Podcast"~Wed, Feb 28th.)
Kidcast
Episode 38
Episode Title ~ " Texas notes, Crowdabout"
2/26/2007
It can be a good idea to invite people from Public Radio Stations into your classroom. These people can give your students pointers and tips on how to create effective podcasts. People in the radio business as seasoned vets when it comes to voice overs, introduction songs, sound effects, and many other elements that are required in podcasting. The point of podcasting is to condition our students to become effective communicators and comfortable public speakers. Lots of practice and pointers from professionals will help to aid students in the betterment of their podcasts and communicating in general.
Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode 136
Episode Title ~ "Policy, Privacy, and Practical Legal Issues for Teachers, IT and others"
Schools need to be continuouly updating their acceptable uses in technology every single year because there are a lot of issues that can arrise when students have such frequent access to technology. This podcast highlighted appropriate policies, knowledge of the law and the situations that will arrise, and concurrent issues in technology. A good solid policy needs to be created for each school districts for issues that occur when students have such access to school computers, computer labs, and other technology in the school. Anyone who has permission to use computers should have to yearly sign policies to protect the school and the people working within it. This helps to monitor the use of equipment in schools when so many people use the same computers. If misconduct occurs, teachers and administers have the right to monitor all activity through that computer. Schools can even administer tests for students to pass to even gain the right to use the equipment.
Episode 38
Episode Title ~ " Texas notes, Crowdabout"
2/26/2007
It can be a good idea to invite people from Public Radio Stations into your classroom. These people can give your students pointers and tips on how to create effective podcasts. People in the radio business as seasoned vets when it comes to voice overs, introduction songs, sound effects, and many other elements that are required in podcasting. The point of podcasting is to condition our students to become effective communicators and comfortable public speakers. Lots of practice and pointers from professionals will help to aid students in the betterment of their podcasts and communicating in general.
Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode 136
Episode Title ~ "Policy, Privacy, and Practical Legal Issues for Teachers, IT and others"
Schools need to be continuouly updating their acceptable uses in technology every single year because there are a lot of issues that can arrise when students have such frequent access to technology. This podcast highlighted appropriate policies, knowledge of the law and the situations that will arrise, and concurrent issues in technology. A good solid policy needs to be created for each school districts for issues that occur when students have such access to school computers, computer labs, and other technology in the school. Anyone who has permission to use computers should have to yearly sign policies to protect the school and the people working within it. This helps to monitor the use of equipment in schools when so many people use the same computers. If misconduct occurs, teachers and administers have the right to monitor all activity through that computer. Schools can even administer tests for students to pass to even gain the right to use the equipment.
$250 million proposed to lure teachers to New Orleans schools
To lure teachers to New Orleans schools districts, the Democrats have planned to provide incentives to teachers and principals to stay in or move to New Orleans. Teachers could receive 500 dollars per month for housing, and universities flooded after Hurricane Katrina may have as much as 500 dollars for grants. The state of Louisiana has argued with the federal government, begging not to have to pay back the money given so that they can use that money for storm-decimated communities. The state's originally had to pay back 25% of the money, but now that has been negotiated to only 10%. My favorite part of this article says, " The biggest chunk of the Democrats' plan would pay $5000 to $10,000 in annual bonuses to teachers wo stay in New Orleans for three years." That's something to think about as a future teacher hitting the job market soon. Although, I do not know if I'd be comfortable living in New Orleans. I wouldn't feel very secure about the move at this time. Perhaps in a few years when things are looking up for New Orleans and most of the devastation has cleared away, than New Orleans might be a spot to think about!
U.S-born don't learn the language easily
Nearly 1/10 of American's student body speaks predominently Spanish, and English is their second language. The prediction that by the year 2025, 1 in 4 students is expected to be limited in English proficiency is mind boggling! Because of the No Child Left Behind legislature, we as future teachers are expected to cater to the needs of these students and help them to speak English proficiently to the best of our ability. I am personally frightened by this prediction. I have taken 2 Spanish courses, but do not feel nearly capable of instructing and English as a Second Language learner. I personally feel that ESL students need an instructor who can speak to them in their native language to begin with, before moving into learning about English, because how would the students follow directions? Eighty percent of ESL students are born in the United States. I think that perhaps an early intervention should be done for these students. Maybe the parents could bring their preschoolers into a English class once or twice a week so that in the future the students do not fall behind.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Podcast Reflection
I enjoyed watching and listening to Ken Robinson speak very much, he was humorous! He is a wonderful motivational speaker who really got his audience thinking about the topic of education and how we are stifling our students creativity.I think that the most profound statements of his were, "Students graduating this year will retire in year 2065, scientists have no idea what the world will look like in 5 years, and yet teachers must educate students for this." Also, "If you are not prepared to be wrong than you will never be creative". He believes that through formal education, kids do not grow into creativity, but they grow out of it. This is because or culture puts such a stigma to being wrong. Every educational system on earth has a hierarchy of subjects, beginning with math and science. The most useful subjects in our industries are at the top. He believes that the succeeding people in our educational system turn out to be college professor, who only live in their heads, (and to one side). He believes that our educational system is doing many individuals a disservice by restricting them from pursuing what they are good at and making them fit into the norm where only a few areas are enfasized. I think that every pre-service teacher should be exposed to this podcast, it is really profound, and quite entertaining.
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