Hooray! Another semester is coming to a close, which means we're one step closer to the end!
Best of luck to everyone in class! I'm sure I'll see many of you around.
Dr. Strange, thanks for everything!
Enjoy the summer!
Helen :)
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
My EDM310 Experience
I have learned so much more from this class than I ever expected to!
Google Documents (docs, spreadsheets, forms, database) - I had no idea that these applications existed. Beside the fact that they're FREE, I love the accessibility. The ability to access them from any computer with an internet connection is awesome. Since learning about these programs at the beginning of the semester, I have taken advantage of them many, many times! I plan to spread the word about these programs... more people need to know about them.
Picassa - I had never heard of this program, but find it easy to use and really good! It's another program I plan to keep using.
Delicious - I didn't even know there were programs like this out there! It's one of the things we touched on that I still need to become more familiar with, but I do plan to take advantage of it.
Blogging - I had some experience with blogs, but after this semester, I know so much more, (especially about formatting them). I plan to use blogs in my classroom, I now see them as almost a necessity.
iTunes / Podcasts - I was pretty familiar with iTunes and had listened to a few podcasts before, but I didn't realize how many educational materials were available through iTunes (such as iTunesU). There's a lot of information available, certainly something to keep in mind for use in the classroom.
RSS Feeds - I always wondered how these worked, it's good to know how to take advantage of them now!
The only topic I wish we would have covered was creating websites, but in some ways, that's exactly what a blog is.
There's really nothing I wish we hadn't learned, I may not continue to use everything, but I'm glad I know about it.
Overall, my view of technology in the classroom has greatly changed. It's not that I felt it was completely unimportant, I just didn't realize how important it was! For that, I am grateful. I've seen how much is available on the internet (resources, information, ideas, etc.) and now know it may take a little time and patience to find what you're looking for, but it's there somewhere! I also see where networking can be very valuable. Being able to share ideas and stories helps keep us from constantly having to reinvent the wheel, we can become better teachers through each other.
I loved this class! :)
Google Documents (docs, spreadsheets, forms, database) - I had no idea that these applications existed. Beside the fact that they're FREE, I love the accessibility. The ability to access them from any computer with an internet connection is awesome. Since learning about these programs at the beginning of the semester, I have taken advantage of them many, many times! I plan to spread the word about these programs... more people need to know about them.
Picassa - I had never heard of this program, but find it easy to use and really good! It's another program I plan to keep using.
Delicious - I didn't even know there were programs like this out there! It's one of the things we touched on that I still need to become more familiar with, but I do plan to take advantage of it.
Blogging - I had some experience with blogs, but after this semester, I know so much more, (especially about formatting them). I plan to use blogs in my classroom, I now see them as almost a necessity.
iTunes / Podcasts - I was pretty familiar with iTunes and had listened to a few podcasts before, but I didn't realize how many educational materials were available through iTunes (such as iTunesU). There's a lot of information available, certainly something to keep in mind for use in the classroom.
RSS Feeds - I always wondered how these worked, it's good to know how to take advantage of them now!
The only topic I wish we would have covered was creating websites, but in some ways, that's exactly what a blog is.
There's really nothing I wish we hadn't learned, I may not continue to use everything, but I'm glad I know about it.
Overall, my view of technology in the classroom has greatly changed. It's not that I felt it was completely unimportant, I just didn't realize how important it was! For that, I am grateful. I've seen how much is available on the internet (resources, information, ideas, etc.) and now know it may take a little time and patience to find what you're looking for, but it's there somewhere! I also see where networking can be very valuable. Being able to share ideas and stories helps keep us from constantly having to reinvent the wheel, we can become better teachers through each other.
I loved this class! :)
I've tried to use Twitter; I wanted to like it, wanted to feel the same way about it as I do facebook, but so far... well, I see it's potential but I haven't been bitten by the Twitter bug.
I logged into my Twitter account just about daily, read updates, casually looked at the some of the links being sent out and then logged back off. I sent a few messages including a few direct messages and replies, but I just couldn't seem to get 'connected'. I'm not saying this isn't my own fault, I could have sent more messages out there to solicit responses, and often I had that intention, but I found myself more often than not starring at the update screen wondering "what do I say"? I felt a bit overwhelmed with Twitter, I just never found a way to get clicked in.
BUT... I still see how Twitter could be very beneficial, especially as a networking tool. Most of those I follow are centered in the education community. Being a 'future' teacher, I don't have the same thoughts going through my head as many of them, for instance, I'm not looking for classroom tips and lesson plans, I'm trying to figure out how to finish my homework and study for an upcoming exam, all while cooking dinner, chauffeuring kids and trying to maintain some order in my house. I thought there were many good ideas thrown back and forth, they just weren't relative to me at this point. Once I am teaching in the classroom, I think Twitter could be a huge asset to search for information and learn new ideas.
I am interested in is sites like GroupTweet (www.grouptweet.com) that allow you to form groups of twitter users and then read posts from members only within that group. I like this idea. For instance, setting up a group of teachers at your school, or a group that teaches the same the grade level would allow you to isolate your comments and form a group discussion relevant to that group. Then you wouldn't need to filter through the dozens of comments that may or may not interest you, but concentrate on a smaller group. Using this feature, students could be setup into groups for class discussions. There are many possibilities, you just have to find them!
I logged into my Twitter account just about daily, read updates, casually looked at the some of the links being sent out and then logged back off. I sent a few messages including a few direct messages and replies, but I just couldn't seem to get 'connected'. I'm not saying this isn't my own fault, I could have sent more messages out there to solicit responses, and often I had that intention, but I found myself more often than not starring at the update screen wondering "what do I say"? I felt a bit overwhelmed with Twitter, I just never found a way to get clicked in.
BUT... I still see how Twitter could be very beneficial, especially as a networking tool. Most of those I follow are centered in the education community. Being a 'future' teacher, I don't have the same thoughts going through my head as many of them, for instance, I'm not looking for classroom tips and lesson plans, I'm trying to figure out how to finish my homework and study for an upcoming exam, all while cooking dinner, chauffeuring kids and trying to maintain some order in my house. I thought there were many good ideas thrown back and forth, they just weren't relative to me at this point. Once I am teaching in the classroom, I think Twitter could be a huge asset to search for information and learn new ideas.
I am interested in is sites like GroupTweet (www.grouptweet.com) that allow you to form groups of twitter users and then read posts from members only within that group. I like this idea. For instance, setting up a group of teachers at your school, or a group that teaches the same the grade level would allow you to isolate your comments and form a group discussion relevant to that group. Then you wouldn't need to filter through the dozens of comments that may or may not interest you, but concentrate on a smaller group. Using this feature, students could be setup into groups for class discussions. There are many possibilities, you just have to find them!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
EDM Podcasts
Listening to the two podcasts I participated in, I thought they went well. In our interview of Dean Hayes, there were a few spots where we lagged a little and the silence appeared to go a little too long (while we were gathering our thoughts) but overall, I hope it was informative. Dr. Hayes brought some interesting topics to light, but it probably would have been helpful to discuss his topic in more detail prior to our recording, so that we had more time to prepare for better, more direct questions.
The second podcast I participated in, discussed blogging in the classroom. We seemed more prepared for this discussion and I believe it helped deliver the point we wanted to make. It's easy to critique yourself, and I found several places where I wished I would have said something a little differently, but I believe improved fluency probably comes along with experience. Overall, I was happy with our performances.
I also listened to a discussion with Dr. Harold Dodge, former Superintendent of the Mobile County Public Schools. I found this podcast very informative. They were well prepared and asked good questions, many focused on our current tough economy. There was one participant who must have been further from the microphone, because she was a little hard to hear, but everyone else was clear and easy to understand.
The fourth podcast I listened to was about the last lecture of Randy Pausch, a professor who delivered an incredibly moving speech after having been diagnosed with a terminal cancer. This group seemed very comfortable with each other, their conversation flowed as it should and they even seemed to joke with one another throughout. The highlighted some of their thoughts on the lecture and how they felt about it. At times they seemed to get off the subject of the actual lecture and could have focused a bit more on it's content. Overall, they still performed a good job.
The second podcast I participated in, discussed blogging in the classroom. We seemed more prepared for this discussion and I believe it helped deliver the point we wanted to make. It's easy to critique yourself, and I found several places where I wished I would have said something a little differently, but I believe improved fluency probably comes along with experience. Overall, I was happy with our performances.
I also listened to a discussion with Dr. Harold Dodge, former Superintendent of the Mobile County Public Schools. I found this podcast very informative. They were well prepared and asked good questions, many focused on our current tough economy. There was one participant who must have been further from the microphone, because she was a little hard to hear, but everyone else was clear and easy to understand.
The fourth podcast I listened to was about the last lecture of Randy Pausch, a professor who delivered an incredibly moving speech after having been diagnosed with a terminal cancer. This group seemed very comfortable with each other, their conversation flowed as it should and they even seemed to joke with one another throughout. The highlighted some of their thoughts on the lecture and how they felt about it. At times they seemed to get off the subject of the actual lecture and could have focused a bit more on it's content. Overall, they still performed a good job.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Blogging in the Classroom
I selected and read the blog of a student from another class and found it interesting how, although the subjects were the same and many comments were similar, there was still another perspective to be seen. Things that captured her attention, were not necessarily the same things I had written about, even though we watched the same material. Blogs can be a source of expression, whether it's our random thoughts or information on a particular subject, they allow us to glimpse inside someone's thoughts, experiences, or ideas and learn something.
I was familiar with blogs before this class, but had very limited experience. Once I began to see how they are being incorporated into today's classrooms, I was fascinated by all their uses. I believe it is a very useful learning and informational tool, one I fully plan on taking advantage of in my 'future classroom'. I see two major functions for the use of blogs in the classroom, as a source of collected information for parents and students to view and as a way to incorporate technology into the classroom by student involvement to create the blog information.
As an informational tool, blogs can contain homework assignment information, class calendar, school announcements, upcoming project dates, etc. Parents who want to stay up to date with classroom affairs have a place to learn what's going on and feel apart of their child's learning. There could be links in place for additional learning sites, places for further information on subjects currently being studied.
As a technology learning tool, students can have the chance to learn about computers by blogging and having fun at the same time. There are endless possibilities to how they can be used, for all age groups. They can help to establish a sense of community in the classroom, a group project that everyone is proud of.
Today's classroom needs to be exciting and adapt to teach kids in a changing world. Blogging helps to bring technology into their academic realm and teaches them to embrace the opportunities available. I really cannot see any negatives to their use, I plan to not only use them in the future, but continue to find new and improved ways to learn from them.
I was familiar with blogs before this class, but had very limited experience. Once I began to see how they are being incorporated into today's classrooms, I was fascinated by all their uses. I believe it is a very useful learning and informational tool, one I fully plan on taking advantage of in my 'future classroom'. I see two major functions for the use of blogs in the classroom, as a source of collected information for parents and students to view and as a way to incorporate technology into the classroom by student involvement to create the blog information.
As an informational tool, blogs can contain homework assignment information, class calendar, school announcements, upcoming project dates, etc. Parents who want to stay up to date with classroom affairs have a place to learn what's going on and feel apart of their child's learning. There could be links in place for additional learning sites, places for further information on subjects currently being studied.
As a technology learning tool, students can have the chance to learn about computers by blogging and having fun at the same time. There are endless possibilities to how they can be used, for all age groups. They can help to establish a sense of community in the classroom, a group project that everyone is proud of.
Today's classroom needs to be exciting and adapt to teach kids in a changing world. Blogging helps to bring technology into their academic realm and teaches them to embrace the opportunities available. I really cannot see any negatives to their use, I plan to not only use them in the future, but continue to find new and improved ways to learn from them.
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Growth vs. Fixed Mindset in Learning
Standford University has published a podcast titled 'Growth vs. Fixed Mindsets in Learning. This short five minute video briefly discusses a program created to teach students to develop a growth mindset, an understanding that learning is a process that is constant and forever; it's a part of life. They setup a workshop of eight sessions, where half of the students received information on study skills and a growth mindset, the other half only received the study skills. The group only receiving the study skills, continued to decline in school, there was no benefit seen through these sessions. The other group, receiving both, performed much better and at the end, there was an obvious difference between the behavior of the two groups. There was a direct correlation to the growth mindset instruction and the top performers.
One statement from the video that really impressed upon me, was that we cannot be expected to keep up with a changing world if we cannot grow and learn. This is certainly true, stagnant behavior cannot be expected to yield greatness. We will always have the need to learn and understand more. We NEED to have this desire to pursue our full potential, without it, we're just treading water.
As a teacher, this is a powerful idea to try and teach to our students. We should help them want to learn for the sake and enjoyment of learning, not solely for a passing grade (even though we want that too!). We need to teach them to be inquisitive, to question things, to pursue understanding not just information. We want to help set up our students for a lifestyle of learning.
One statement from the video that really impressed upon me, was that we cannot be expected to keep up with a changing world if we cannot grow and learn. This is certainly true, stagnant behavior cannot be expected to yield greatness. We will always have the need to learn and understand more. We NEED to have this desire to pursue our full potential, without it, we're just treading water.
As a teacher, this is a powerful idea to try and teach to our students. We should help them want to learn for the sake and enjoyment of learning, not solely for a passing grade (even though we want that too!). We need to teach them to be inquisitive, to question things, to pursue understanding not just information. We want to help set up our students for a lifestyle of learning.
Monday, March 30, 2009
WGBH Videos / iTunes U
In the iTunes U section of iTunes, there is featured provider, WGBH, who provides some excellent videos than could be used for many classroom purposes. These videos are relatively short (around 2 to 3 minutes) and they are broken into age appropriate categories (K-5, 6-8, 9-12). Some of the videos I checked out, included 'A Night in the Coral Reef' that presented great visuals of the night life in these fascinating ocean areas, 'Precipitation' was a quick piece that gave visuals of rain, hail and snow, and the 'Solar Eclipse' video provides a demonstration of that event and explains how and why it happens. All three of these were in the K-5 group and all were simple in form and certainly geared to a younger audience. In the 9-12 section, I watched a video on the 'Charateristics of the Sun'. This video was more detailed and touched on it's subject in more depth, as it's purpose is for an older student.
As a teacher, access to these free videos can provide a great resource to help reinforce points, introduce new concepts, or to give the students a break from the usual bookwork! There are many videos available all clearly titled with subject information to make it easy to search for applicable material. As one of my professor's likes to say, there's no use reinventing the wheel. If there are free videos available, why not take advantage of them? Make learning more fun for our students AND in the process help better explain a concept with images.
As a teacher, access to these free videos can provide a great resource to help reinforce points, introduce new concepts, or to give the students a break from the usual bookwork! There are many videos available all clearly titled with subject information to make it easy to search for applicable material. As one of my professor's likes to say, there's no use reinventing the wheel. If there are free videos available, why not take advantage of them? Make learning more fun for our students AND in the process help better explain a concept with images.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Edutopia: The George Lucas Educational Foundation
Edutopia is a member driven organization that discusses what works in Public Education. One of their videos, talk about a program hosted by Heifer International, a non profit organization that helps supply livestock to poverty stricken parts of the world and helps teach them to better sustain themselves. They also have a five acre ranch in Arkansas, where students can visit and spend a night in their 'global village', created as a educational tool to teach about poverty and rustic living conditions. There's even a refuge group, where those assigned are not allowed to speak English and must find alternate ways to communicate with the others.
This program takes students out of their comfort zone and teaches them about hunger and poverty in a tangible way they get to actually experience. It may be temporary circumstances, but the lessons leave lasting impressions on the students who attend. Hands-on teaching is far more beneficial than lesson plans in a classroom. Here the students must work together to accomplish their goals, they understand frustrations associated with bartering and not having everything you need or want at your fingertips.
Another hands-on educational program is at Martin Luther King Junior Middle School in California. Here students start each day off in their outdoor classroom where they learn about gardening and spend time cultivating and growing their own food and plants. They learn to cook what they grow and these lessons are used as a way to incorporate academic lessons with real hands-on experiences. They tie in social studies, match and science skills to help teach students, often times without them realizing they're actually learning. It's fun and the kids seem to thrive in the program. Teaching them in fun, interesting ways, helps them to retain what they're learning and better understand when they have practical applications for the skills they're learning.
This program takes students out of their comfort zone and teaches them about hunger and poverty in a tangible way they get to actually experience. It may be temporary circumstances, but the lessons leave lasting impressions on the students who attend. Hands-on teaching is far more beneficial than lesson plans in a classroom. Here the students must work together to accomplish their goals, they understand frustrations associated with bartering and not having everything you need or want at your fingertips.
Another hands-on educational program is at Martin Luther King Junior Middle School in California. Here students start each day off in their outdoor classroom where they learn about gardening and spend time cultivating and growing their own food and plants. They learn to cook what they grow and these lessons are used as a way to incorporate academic lessons with real hands-on experiences. They tie in social studies, match and science skills to help teach students, often times without them realizing they're actually learning. It's fun and the kids seem to thrive in the program. Teaching them in fun, interesting ways, helps them to retain what they're learning and better understand when they have practical applications for the skills they're learning.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
iTunes University
iTunes University is Apple's answer to mobile learning. Through their iTunes software, they have a compiled a very expanse collection of online learning tools that are completely free for anyone to take advantage of. There are lectures on a variety of of subjects, from basic academics (math, science, language, literature, etc.) to educational resources (curriculum and teaching, educational leadership and learning resources) and many subjects in between. There are over 100,000 educational video and audio files, which can be accessed through the iTunes software on your computer, iPod or iPhone.
Most of the information is publicly accessed, but schools do have the option to create their own private areas where students can access information via a user id and password. With iTunes U, instruction can be accessed through virtually any sight, the learning comes to you. Students can watch or listen to educational lessons at their convenience and with the benefit of rewinding to ensure comprehension. As a student, this could be very beneficial. Imagine if lectures were available for download, where you can replay them at any time and catch missed information, or research an area you just don't get.
Teachers can search for resources to reinforce their classroom lectures by accessing videos that further discuss the concept or introduce a new one. There are many possibilities to how this great application can be used. In the digital world, we should take advantage of the technological aids out there and use them to our benefit.
Most of the information is publicly accessed, but schools do have the option to create their own private areas where students can access information via a user id and password. With iTunes U, instruction can be accessed through virtually any sight, the learning comes to you. Students can watch or listen to educational lessons at their convenience and with the benefit of rewinding to ensure comprehension. As a student, this could be very beneficial. Imagine if lectures were available for download, where you can replay them at any time and catch missed information, or research an area you just don't get.
Teachers can search for resources to reinforce their classroom lectures by accessing videos that further discuss the concept or introduce a new one. There are many possibilities to how this great application can be used. In the digital world, we should take advantage of the technological aids out there and use them to our benefit.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
iPods in Education
iPods are everywhere, so it seems obvious that they could be a great resource to help students in their learning. One article I found, explained how Louisa-Muscatine Elementary School began using iPods as a way to help special education students in the regular classroom with standardized testing. Test questions are recorded and students are then able to simultaneously read and listen as a way to help them better understand. They started the program in 2005 and continue to grow and expand it. It helps those special education students who are submersed in full inclusion settings and often need that little extra help.
In 2004, Duke University gave each incoming Freshman a free 20GB iPod to help foster technology in the classroom. Many of their lectures are available for download or are available to be recorded. What a great idea. Obviously, there is a great deal of costs associated with a give-a-way of this magnitude, and benefit only comes if there are practival educational resources easily available, but what a step into the technical world.
If technical inventions such as iPods, iPhones, or pre-recorded MP3 players can help better educate students, why not take advantage of the priviledges the 21st century has to offer? For students with special needs, they can play back test questions that may help to improve their test scores or allow lectures to be downloaded to reiterate a concept. The possibilities are endless, it's up to us how far we can imagine going.
In 2004, Duke University gave each incoming Freshman a free 20GB iPod to help foster technology in the classroom. Many of their lectures are available for download or are available to be recorded. What a great idea. Obviously, there is a great deal of costs associated with a give-a-way of this magnitude, and benefit only comes if there are practival educational resources easily available, but what a step into the technical world.
If technical inventions such as iPods, iPhones, or pre-recorded MP3 players can help better educate students, why not take advantage of the priviledges the 21st century has to offer? For students with special needs, they can play back test questions that may help to improve their test scores or allow lectures to be downloaded to reiterate a concept. The possibilities are endless, it's up to us how far we can imagine going.
Dr. Alice Christie's Website
Dr. Alice Christie is a lifelong educator, as declared on her website: alicechristie.org, and brings much of that experience to her website which is a wonderful resource for educational technology. The site is very informational for all levels of computer users, those less experience as well as those who are more experienced. For a beginner, she explains Instant Messaging and provides a list of the 'lingo' associated, she explains general internet functions and discusses internet safety.
There are many helpful resources available for anyone to take advantage of. She has rubrics available for download that coincide with teaching about Powerpoint, iMovie, Adobe Acrobat and many others. There is a also a section on Podcasting, where she gives ways to incorportate this technology into your K-12 classroom. There are links to many informative podcasts supplied, that could be very helpful to a teacher wanting to learn more.
It is obvious through her website, that Dr. Christie loves to educate others as well a vested interest in technology and the idea of constant learning. She has provided many examples, links, and information to help provide outlets for other educators to learn and grow.
There are many helpful resources available for anyone to take advantage of. She has rubrics available for download that coincide with teaching about Powerpoint, iMovie, Adobe Acrobat and many others. There is a also a section on Podcasting, where she gives ways to incorportate this technology into your K-12 classroom. There are links to many informative podcasts supplied, that could be very helpful to a teacher wanting to learn more.
It is obvious through her website, that Dr. Christie loves to educate others as well a vested interest in technology and the idea of constant learning. She has provided many examples, links, and information to help provide outlets for other educators to learn and grow.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Using Wikipedia as a Source
Wikipedia is available for all the world to see, more importantly, it is available for all the world to change. Wiki's are setup as informational web pages that allows anyone who can access them the power to modify or change their content. Sometimes this is helpful but often it can create misleading information.
The theory is that people can publish information on subjects from first hand knowledge, a collective database of sorts. Someone who has researched a particular idea can share or add what they know to an existing subject on Wikipedia and therefore build on the information. This creates a handy source to gather material on a wide variety of subjects, all in one area. The problem, is that everyone can edit the information and you must trust (sometimes mistakenly) that the information is valid.
Articles such as on the NPR website (Scanner Tracks Who's Changing What on Wikipedia) explain how this can create false statements, or 'bend the truth' to represent what an individual (or organization) wants the public to see. Examples given include large corporations such as Wal-Mart editing content about their stores to look more favorable. Edits to these wiki's leave identifying information that has been gathered together to show proof of these changes.
Because of these problems, wiki sites such as Wikipedia should never be used as a trusted source for citing information on reports or articles, or any item that is written as fact. For the most part, the details are probably fairly accurate but may contain a 'spin' put on them by an interested party. They certainly should not be considered non-biased. They are helpful when used as a starting point - a way to gather information that can be checked out through other respectable means, or as a quick source for a broad understanding. Wikipedia information is not the same as using verified factual encyclopedias, it just sounds similar.
The theory is that people can publish information on subjects from first hand knowledge, a collective database of sorts. Someone who has researched a particular idea can share or add what they know to an existing subject on Wikipedia and therefore build on the information. This creates a handy source to gather material on a wide variety of subjects, all in one area. The problem, is that everyone can edit the information and you must trust (sometimes mistakenly) that the information is valid.
Articles such as on the NPR website (Scanner Tracks Who's Changing What on Wikipedia) explain how this can create false statements, or 'bend the truth' to represent what an individual (or organization) wants the public to see. Examples given include large corporations such as Wal-Mart editing content about their stores to look more favorable. Edits to these wiki's leave identifying information that has been gathered together to show proof of these changes.
Because of these problems, wiki sites such as Wikipedia should never be used as a trusted source for citing information on reports or articles, or any item that is written as fact. For the most part, the details are probably fairly accurate but may contain a 'spin' put on them by an interested party. They certainly should not be considered non-biased. They are helpful when used as a starting point - a way to gather information that can be checked out through other respectable means, or as a quick source for a broad understanding. Wikipedia information is not the same as using verified factual encyclopedias, it just sounds similar.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture
Randy Pausch delivers an wonderfully inspirational lecture on achieving your childhood dreams. What makes this lecture so powerful, is that the speak is terminally ill. He is not only an entertaining speaker, but has a powerful message on not just achieving your own childhood dreams, but also helping to enable the dreams of others.
He tells his own list of childhood dreams and goes through them discussing how we accomplished them or in some cases, found more valuable learning from his experience trying. One of the points he makes that stand out, is that he says brick walls are there to remind us of how bad we want something. That's such a great statement. Our willingness to find a way, is often directly tied to how bad we want the accomplishment.
After he talks about his own dreams, he talks about the importance of enabling the dreams of others and how powerful that can be. He was a professor, instructing students in the technical field of virtual reality. He gives a great example, when his students immediately reach his expectation of them, yet he still says to press on. We all need to feel that there is more to obtain, to see how much we can or will push ourselves.
He says you can't always get their alone, sometimes you need help. His advice is to always tell the truth, be earnest, apologize when you screw up and focus on others not yourself - this is words we can all live by. Even in the middle of his speech, he takes a poignant moment to recognize his wife and have the audience sing Happy Birthday to her. What a wonderful speak and a man who may not have it all figured out, but certainly leaves a legacy with what he did discover.
He tells his own list of childhood dreams and goes through them discussing how we accomplished them or in some cases, found more valuable learning from his experience trying. One of the points he makes that stand out, is that he says brick walls are there to remind us of how bad we want something. That's such a great statement. Our willingness to find a way, is often directly tied to how bad we want the accomplishment.
After he talks about his own dreams, he talks about the importance of enabling the dreams of others and how powerful that can be. He was a professor, instructing students in the technical field of virtual reality. He gives a great example, when his students immediately reach his expectation of them, yet he still says to press on. We all need to feel that there is more to obtain, to see how much we can or will push ourselves.
He says you can't always get their alone, sometimes you need help. His advice is to always tell the truth, be earnest, apologize when you screw up and focus on others not yourself - this is words we can all live by. Even in the middle of his speech, he takes a poignant moment to recognize his wife and have the audience sing Happy Birthday to her. What a wonderful speak and a man who may not have it all figured out, but certainly leaves a legacy with what he did discover.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
The Fischbowl - Best of 2007, "A Formula For Success?"
I reviewed an article from February 2007 called "A Formula For Success?" from The Fischbowl blog. This article was a great piece written on how we need to rethink the way we teach mathematics to students. He brings up many interesting points, all of which I agree with. He talks about the idea of "one right answer" in math and how that is not always what the concept should be. He believes we need to teach our students practical applications for math and ensure they actually understand the concepts rather than be able to calculate a memorized formula. He gives a great example where he asks his readers to take a simple quiz. The first question asks the reader to explain the quadratic equation and then subsequent questions regarding the equation. His point is that how many of us possibly remember this, regardless of whether we learned it or not in school.
Why do we think it's important to teach students mathematical problems and test them until they can spit back answers, but never delve into whether they actually understand what they are calculating or teach them what they can do with it? If we taught students practical applications, ones that can be applied to what they really need to know, wouldn't they be better off? Maybe they would then be better able to retain what they learn, which would help them more in the long run.
Why do we think it's important to teach students mathematical problems and test them until they can spit back answers, but never delve into whether they actually understand what they are calculating or teach them what they can do with it? If we taught students practical applications, ones that can be applied to what they really need to know, wouldn't they be better off? Maybe they would then be better able to retain what they learn, which would help them more in the long run.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
EDM Fall '08 Podcasts
I listened to a discussion by Sara Large and Tina Dillen about the use of technology in USA's College of Education. They covered several topics, including the use of Foliotek and the USA Online eCompanion site. I thought they put together a very informative segment and did a great job.
The second podcast I listened to was Adrienne Lynch, Joylyn Reese and Brian Stevens' discussion of the use of You Tube for Educational purposes. They also seemed to have researched their topic well and brought up many good points regarding pros and cons.
After listening to these examples and comparing them to the more experienced podcasters, while both were informative, the experienced discussion flowed more smoothly and resembled an actual conversation. I think the participants need to talk to each other, as they would in a normal conversation, rather than a rehearsed speech.
Preparation seems to be the key, but in a sense that you are familiar with your subject so you freely contribute to the conversation. I also noticed that we need to watch the filler words such as 'um' and 'uh'.
Overall, I think they did a good job.
The second podcast I listened to was Adrienne Lynch, Joylyn Reese and Brian Stevens' discussion of the use of You Tube for Educational purposes. They also seemed to have researched their topic well and brought up many good points regarding pros and cons.
After listening to these examples and comparing them to the more experienced podcasters, while both were informative, the experienced discussion flowed more smoothly and resembled an actual conversation. I think the participants need to talk to each other, as they would in a normal conversation, rather than a rehearsed speech.
Preparation seems to be the key, but in a sense that you are familiar with your subject so you freely contribute to the conversation. I also noticed that we need to watch the filler words such as 'um' and 'uh'.
Overall, I think they did a good job.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Teachers and Technological Literacy
"If a teacher today is not technologically literate - and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more - it's equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write."
This is a statement written on Karl Fisch's blog in an archived article from September 2007. I completely agree with it. Not that I believe every educator must be able to program computers and be able to spit out whatever information they want in a 20 second speed drill, but I do believe they should be familiar with technology and be willing to learn more. He raises an interesting point though, teachers who cannot read or write would not make an effective teacher today or 30 years ago. We know that technology is growing each day and the future of our students, if it is not already, will be centered around it. How can we adequately prepare our students, in areas in which we are illiterate?
Not understanding technology cannot be an accepted excuse these days. We force our students everyday to pursue in areas they may not be comfortable in and then we measure their intelligence by grading them on these areas. Who forces teachers to be better? Such excuses are weak and unacceptable when so much instruction and help is available to us. We need to push ourselves to be better equipped to push our students. When we step out of our comfort area and remember what it is like to be immersed into an environment where we know nothing, we can better relate to the needs of our students.
Technology can help us gain their attention, reinforce information and drive home concepts in a way that can relate to practical purposes. Above all, it makes learning more interesting and fun! Shouldn't we use every possible tool available for our students advancement? Sometimes it is hard to step outside the box and most of us dislike the feeling of ignorance in an area, but we must force ourselves to become better educators.
This is a statement written on Karl Fisch's blog in an archived article from September 2007. I completely agree with it. Not that I believe every educator must be able to program computers and be able to spit out whatever information they want in a 20 second speed drill, but I do believe they should be familiar with technology and be willing to learn more. He raises an interesting point though, teachers who cannot read or write would not make an effective teacher today or 30 years ago. We know that technology is growing each day and the future of our students, if it is not already, will be centered around it. How can we adequately prepare our students, in areas in which we are illiterate?
Not understanding technology cannot be an accepted excuse these days. We force our students everyday to pursue in areas they may not be comfortable in and then we measure their intelligence by grading them on these areas. Who forces teachers to be better? Such excuses are weak and unacceptable when so much instruction and help is available to us. We need to push ourselves to be better equipped to push our students. When we step out of our comfort area and remember what it is like to be immersed into an environment where we know nothing, we can better relate to the needs of our students.
Technology can help us gain their attention, reinforce information and drive home concepts in a way that can relate to practical purposes. Above all, it makes learning more interesting and fun! Shouldn't we use every possible tool available for our students advancement? Sometimes it is hard to step outside the box and most of us dislike the feeling of ignorance in an area, but we must force ourselves to become better educators.
Podcasting
This is my first experience with listening to Podcasts, which I would equate to listening to talk radio, but you get to pick the subject. After listening to a few, there are various styles, but most just flow like conversations. The array of subjects seems almost infinite, the listener can select any topic they want to learn more about.
SMARTboard Lessons is a weekly show that talks about SMARTboards as the title suggests. There are two hosts, who basically converse with each other about new information they have discovered and outline various links that can be helpful to the listener. One aspect I liked, was that they would give you the web address of the link they discuss, and then almost walk you through the features while you can follow along. It is almost a tutorial like display while you listen through iTunes and follow in your interest browser.
The KidCast series is hosted by one person who talks directly to the listener. These are informative, but if you're not interested in the subject, you can be easily distracted. Some Podcasts are a group effort, such as MacBreak Weekly, where a few individuals bring their thoughts to the table and then discuss. I probably prefer this type of Podcast the best, because it seems fast paced but also informative. You have several people bringing thoughts together while the others agree or disagree, but you get several points of view.
Some Podcasts such as EdTechTalk are conducted like interviews, where there are weekly guests that talk about various subjects. Tuning in each week, the listener has the advantage of hearing from people located anywhere in the world, who can contribute to an interested topic.
Podcasts are a great way to keep up with moving technology or for learning new ideas from a central location. They allow the listener to follow along with their computers or listen to subscriptions when they have time. Considering possible benefits for use in the classroom, what a great way to post notes for students to pick up, or information for parents that can be downloaded. There are endless possibilities to what you can do, or information that you can provide or take advantage of.
SMARTboard Lessons is a weekly show that talks about SMARTboards as the title suggests. There are two hosts, who basically converse with each other about new information they have discovered and outline various links that can be helpful to the listener. One aspect I liked, was that they would give you the web address of the link they discuss, and then almost walk you through the features while you can follow along. It is almost a tutorial like display while you listen through iTunes and follow in your interest browser.
The KidCast series is hosted by one person who talks directly to the listener. These are informative, but if you're not interested in the subject, you can be easily distracted. Some Podcasts are a group effort, such as MacBreak Weekly, where a few individuals bring their thoughts to the table and then discuss. I probably prefer this type of Podcast the best, because it seems fast paced but also informative. You have several people bringing thoughts together while the others agree or disagree, but you get several points of view.
Some Podcasts such as EdTechTalk are conducted like interviews, where there are weekly guests that talk about various subjects. Tuning in each week, the listener has the advantage of hearing from people located anywhere in the world, who can contribute to an interested topic.
Podcasts are a great way to keep up with moving technology or for learning new ideas from a central location. They allow the listener to follow along with their computers or listen to subscriptions when they have time. Considering possible benefits for use in the classroom, what a great way to post notes for students to pick up, or information for parents that can be downloaded. There are endless possibilities to what you can do, or information that you can provide or take advantage of.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
International Classroom Blogs
Mrs. Hossack's 1st grade class at Shanghai American School in Pudong uses a blog to discuss upcoming events, post information and keep everyone up to date on the activities of the classroom. She uses pictures and video clips to show their accomplishments and posts some of the children's creative writing samples along with their picture. There are also slide shows to display concepts that parents can work with their kids on and resource links for extra help. She appears to post weekly and the site seems to be a great centralized location for keeping up with this
first grade class!A Year 5 & 6 class from Ranzau school in Hope, Nelson, New Zealand also utilizes a blog system. These students add posts with their name as the keyword, writing mostly short paragraphs about things they are currently learning. They even have polls where the students can log onto and submit answers on various questions, such as "Where are you going for the holidays?" and students can choose one of four answers. Lots of photos are used to visually represents what they discuss and there is a great selection of class photos. Where this site delivers great information, it also appears to be a site where the students are involved in its creativity and therefore a great learning tool.
Classroom Blogs
One classroom blog example I found was for Mrs. Poulin's Kindergarten Class. She lists general classroom information such as school holidays and announcements, but she also uses the space for posting video and pictures of current projects and events. One feature is their 'Star of the Week', where one student is highlighted and video is posted of other students telling what they like about the chosen individual. I am sure those chosen LOVE to see themselves on the internet and what great incentive for good behavior! There is recess and playtime footage posted for parents to see, as well as video of the current projects taking place. Another feature I like, is she adds links to books that are currently being read in class. These links allow parents to see and read the books online, and gives them the option to purchase them from a third party website. What a great way to stay involved with what your kids are learning!
Another classroom blog I liked is Ms. Lussier's 3rd Grade Classroom Blog. In addition to classroom announcements and general information, students can find their weekly homework assignments
and upcoming test dates. She also selects students to write articles to be published on the blog about various subjects and events happening. I really like the concept of getting students involved in the content, and using the process as a teaching experience. The site includes a wish list of needed classroom items and really provides a great outlet to relay information to parents. With so many working parents and students going straight from school to daycare, class blogs such as this one help bridge the gap to parents and supply them with the information they need to stay involved.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
ACCESS Distance Learning
The ACCESS (Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide) Distance Learning program was created by the Alabama Department of Education as a way to bridge the gap of educational opportunity throughout the state. This system allows high school students access to a wide variety of classes that can be completed right over the internet. Classes are offered in core subject areas such as math, science and social studies, but elective courses such as foreign languages, creative writing, web design and computer programming are also available.
Although it has many features, one of the greatest assets is that is gives students in rural, low-income school districts the opportunity to take advantage of classes that may not be available at their school. Some of these school districts are not able to adequately offer the higher education class necessary to fulfill Advanced Diploma requirements, that many students qualify for. Students can also take advantage of AP (Advanced Placement) courses that prepare them for higher learning opportunities or remediation help is available.
Another feature of ACCESS is IVC (Interactive Video Conferencing). IVC labs provide site to site exchange with other high schools setup with the same equipment. This allows students to take advantage of the skills and knowledge of a teacher from hundreds of miles away. Classrooms can share information and teachers can work together collectively to teach students.
The State of Alabama Education system has certainly stepped up with this program. The cost, once computer labs are established, is minimal and provides excellent alternative learning methods to kids who otherwise would not have the opportunity. Now, regardless of where you live or what district you live in, students can be provided with the education they deserve.
Although it has many features, one of the greatest assets is that is gives students in rural, low-income school districts the opportunity to take advantage of classes that may not be available at their school. Some of these school districts are not able to adequately offer the higher education class necessary to fulfill Advanced Diploma requirements, that many students qualify for. Students can also take advantage of AP (Advanced Placement) courses that prepare them for higher learning opportunities or remediation help is available.
Another feature of ACCESS is IVC (Interactive Video Conferencing). IVC labs provide site to site exchange with other high schools setup with the same equipment. This allows students to take advantage of the skills and knowledge of a teacher from hundreds of miles away. Classrooms can share information and teachers can work together collectively to teach students.
The State of Alabama Education system has certainly stepped up with this program. The cost, once computer labs are established, is minimal and provides excellent alternative learning methods to kids who otherwise would not have the opportunity. Now, regardless of where you live or what district you live in, students can be provided with the education they deserve.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Video Review from The Fisch Bowl
Technology is all around us, it is inevitably the direction of our future. We see its presence everyday and each day it is incorporated even more into our day-to-day lives. For future generations, it will be even more relevant. Powerful statistics, as shown in the video at http://thefischbowl.blogspot.com/2007/06/did-you-know-20.html, give us proof of how much time is consumed on computers, video games and internet sites. Those of us who have kids, see first hand how the younger generations are using technology to communicate and how much time it absorbs of their lives. My 14 year old receives more text messages than I do, and when I need help with programming on my cell phone, he's the one who has all the answers. As the world becomes more reliant on technical advances, we should educate students and ensure that they are prepared for the changing world.
Reading a literature selection may or may not be interesting to a student, but sitting in a classroom and hearing the after discussion can lead to many bored minds. If students were required to read and then communicate in forums, they become involved and get to use the instruments that come more natural to them - computers. Why not take advantage of the ever expanding possibilities that technology can offer and use it to teach and inspire? Learning should be fun. I would bet that one of the largest complaints of students, is the great question "why do we need to learn this?". If academic learning can be incorporated with expanding their technical skills, they ultimately are educated while they enjoy the process and perhaps can see the practical nature of learning. Learning on a computer is more fun than reading a textbook, and there are endless possibilities.
We NEED to teach them how to use the resources out there, to take advantage of all the world has to offer. Computers allow us to bring students together across the world, to collaborate and expand their knowledge beyond their physical classroom. With the aid of a computer and an internet connection, a student has the power to learn about any subject at the touch of their hands. School systems must see this as a priority. They need to fully equip classrooms with the ability to reach out and take advantage of learning in the 21st century. If we do not get on board as educators, we are only hindering their ability to grow in a field that is most certainly the dominant control of the future.
Reading a literature selection may or may not be interesting to a student, but sitting in a classroom and hearing the after discussion can lead to many bored minds. If students were required to read and then communicate in forums, they become involved and get to use the instruments that come more natural to them - computers. Why not take advantage of the ever expanding possibilities that technology can offer and use it to teach and inspire? Learning should be fun. I would bet that one of the largest complaints of students, is the great question "why do we need to learn this?". If academic learning can be incorporated with expanding their technical skills, they ultimately are educated while they enjoy the process and perhaps can see the practical nature of learning. Learning on a computer is more fun than reading a textbook, and there are endless possibilities.
We NEED to teach them how to use the resources out there, to take advantage of all the world has to offer. Computers allow us to bring students together across the world, to collaborate and expand their knowledge beyond their physical classroom. With the aid of a computer and an internet connection, a student has the power to learn about any subject at the touch of their hands. School systems must see this as a priority. They need to fully equip classrooms with the ability to reach out and take advantage of learning in the 21st century. If we do not get on board as educators, we are only hindering their ability to grow in a field that is most certainly the dominant control of the future.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX)
The Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX) website consists of interactive resources that supply teachers, students and administrators access to a collection of online educational information. Possibly one of the greatest features, allows teachers to connect and share ideas, lesson plans and resources with each other. Lesson plans are identified and paired with Alabama Course of Study standards, and can be searched or sorted by subject and grade level. Teachers have access to over 10,000 resources to help them better educate their students. Educators can even sign up for their own web site, or work space, that allows them to store lesson plans created or found through the ALEX website.
The website also supplies information on ACCESS Distance Learning, an initiative that supplies additional electronic learning opportunities to high school students across Alabama. Through ACCESS, students can take classes not offered by their local high school to develop higher skills or to provide remediation help. ALEX provides a collection of web links organized by topics, for students and teachers who are looking for additional information in a particular subject area. There are also numerous links to professional organizations for teachers and administrators looking for additional professional support.
Overall, ALEX is a wonderful source for educators and students. The site provides a central place where teachers can share education materials and resources, and a location where students can find supplemental information on a varied index of subjects and opportunities. As a future teacher, ALEX is a resource I expect to use and incorporate into my lesson plan development. With so many great ideas out there, many created from experienced teachers, there is no need to always start from scratch. Incorporating ides from others, helps to bring great ideas together, and ultimately can help lead to being a better teacher.
The website also supplies information on ACCESS Distance Learning, an initiative that supplies additional electronic learning opportunities to high school students across Alabama. Through ACCESS, students can take classes not offered by their local high school to develop higher skills or to provide remediation help. ALEX provides a collection of web links organized by topics, for students and teachers who are looking for additional information in a particular subject area. There are also numerous links to professional organizations for teachers and administrators looking for additional professional support.
Overall, ALEX is a wonderful source for educators and students. The site provides a central place where teachers can share education materials and resources, and a location where students can find supplemental information on a varied index of subjects and opportunities. As a future teacher, ALEX is a resource I expect to use and incorporate into my lesson plan development. With so many great ideas out there, many created from experienced teachers, there is no need to always start from scratch. Incorporating ides from others, helps to bring great ideas together, and ultimately can help lead to being a better teacher.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
About Me
My name is Helen Ramsay and I was born and raised in Mobile. I worked full time for ten years before deciding to go back to school for my Elementary Education degree and although sometimes I wish I gone back sooner, I feel that I more appreciate the education process than I did when I first attended college (a really long time ago!).
I'm married and have two children - my son is 14 and my daughter is 8. They are highly involved in sports, we maintain a year round schedule - basketball, flag football, soccer, baseball. I help coach soccer and basketball, which helps me to stay involved in their lives. I know soon enough, they'll have no part of me! Between sports, their school activities and my school work, I stay busier than I ever expected.
I like to read (but don't have much time these days), I'm trying to learn golf (but my kids seem to be picking it up quicker than I am) and I love to hang out with my family and play Rock Band.
I haven't wanted to be a teacher all my life like many of my fellow students, it's really been something I've been drawn to after having my own children and seeing the reward that comes from working with younger ages. Although, now that I have decided, I wish I could hurry up and get through school so I can just start teaching!
I'm married and have two children - my son is 14 and my daughter is 8. They are highly involved in sports, we maintain a year round schedule - basketball, flag football, soccer, baseball. I help coach soccer and basketball, which helps me to stay involved in their lives. I know soon enough, they'll have no part of me! Between sports, their school activities and my school work, I stay busier than I ever expected.
I like to read (but don't have much time these days), I'm trying to learn golf (but my kids seem to be picking it up quicker than I am) and I love to hang out with my family and play Rock Band.
I haven't wanted to be a teacher all my life like many of my fellow students, it's really been something I've been drawn to after having my own children and seeing the reward that comes from working with younger ages. Although, now that I have decided, I wish I could hurry up and get through school so I can just start teaching!
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