Final Technology Flood AND
Reflection on Final Project
WOW!
I have blogged my heart out the last couple of days. The end is near and I can’t believe that I’m turning in my last assignment for this class. I have truly learned a great deal of information regarding technological tools by taking this class. I’ve really enjoyed exploring educational and informative sites for educators. I like researching articles at OLDaily and keeping up with what is current in education.
My project will hopefully benefit other primary teachers with their math instruction. I have accumulated many technology resources and want to share them with others in hopes to receive ideas that will benefit my students.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Week 17 article
OLDaily Stephen’s Web
E-Learning 2.0
By Stephen Downes
http://www.downes.ca/post/31741
I found an interesting article on eLearning. The new names for internet users now is “digital natives” meaning that they are a type of learner that absorbs information quickly. The traditional classroom is transforming into an online world of learning. “Student Centered” learning is taking on a different aspect of thinking, by putting the role of learning into the hands of students. For those that are intrinsically driven to perform well, this is great, it may not be so great for those that need that extra motivation. Many of my students in class, I would refer to as digital natives. For me, this is the trend in most areas of education. I use eLearning in several ways, the most prevalent type of eLearning I use are egames for reading and math. Many of the textbook companies have resources that offer specific software to use for gaming and online learning. Through eLearning we can have learning available no matter what you are doing. Having the availability to learn information for this class, via the internet has opened up a world of opportunities for me.
E-Learning 2.0
By Stephen Downes
http://www.downes.ca/post/31741
I found an interesting article on eLearning. The new names for internet users now is “digital natives” meaning that they are a type of learner that absorbs information quickly. The traditional classroom is transforming into an online world of learning. “Student Centered” learning is taking on a different aspect of thinking, by putting the role of learning into the hands of students. For those that are intrinsically driven to perform well, this is great, it may not be so great for those that need that extra motivation. Many of my students in class, I would refer to as digital natives. For me, this is the trend in most areas of education. I use eLearning in several ways, the most prevalent type of eLearning I use are egames for reading and math. Many of the textbook companies have resources that offer specific software to use for gaming and online learning. Through eLearning we can have learning available no matter what you are doing. Having the availability to learn information for this class, via the internet has opened up a world of opportunities for me.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Week 15 and 16
The final project is coming along nicely. I am glad that I have changed my project idea. I am very happy that the end is near and this project is the final straw. This class has really taught me so much about technology sites that I never used before like wiki spaces, blogs, Tappedin, and so many others. I am really excited about having a break from school and work for a few weeks to refresh.
To have a change from going full force, to having some down time will be nice. I am sure that all involved in this class and other classes at this time are looking forward to Christmas break as well. I will be finishing up my project in the next day or so. I am finalizing and reviewing ideas to make sure that it is ready to go.
To have a change from going full force, to having some down time will be nice. I am sure that all involved in this class and other classes at this time are looking forward to Christmas break as well. I will be finishing up my project in the next day or so. I am finalizing and reviewing ideas to make sure that it is ready to go.
Week 13 and 14 Update
I have changed my project from an educational toolbox to help others taking this class to, a blog about helpful technology sites to enhance math instruction.
I really feel like during the last 3 years that I have been teaching, I’ve accumulated many technology tools and sites that help me teach math. These sites are interesting for students and also provide hands-on instruction to reinforce concepts being taught. Some of the different points that I am to blogging about include, math games, math resources, and calendar math sites. I really want to share these ideas with other educators across the country in hopes that it will enhance math instruction for other classrooms. This site will also be helpful for me, I can link to all of these accumulated resources and use during math class. I think that students need differentiation of instruction, or they become disengaged during lessons. It is my daily goal, to keep learning fun and interesting for students so that every student masters the content being taught. Not only is it the student’s responsibility to master content, but my responsibility to ensure that they are mastering the content. I treat each student as if they were my own child and expect them to give 110% effort daily during instruction.
I think that one of the ways I’ve grown as an educator, is through researching and sharing ideas with other educators. There is no reason to spend hours researching and coming up with ideas and solutions for everything by yourself, when you can share ideas with others around the world via the internet.
I really feel like during the last 3 years that I have been teaching, I’ve accumulated many technology tools and sites that help me teach math. These sites are interesting for students and also provide hands-on instruction to reinforce concepts being taught. Some of the different points that I am to blogging about include, math games, math resources, and calendar math sites. I really want to share these ideas with other educators across the country in hopes that it will enhance math instruction for other classrooms. This site will also be helpful for me, I can link to all of these accumulated resources and use during math class. I think that students need differentiation of instruction, or they become disengaged during lessons. It is my daily goal, to keep learning fun and interesting for students so that every student masters the content being taught. Not only is it the student’s responsibility to master content, but my responsibility to ensure that they are mastering the content. I treat each student as if they were my own child and expect them to give 110% effort daily during instruction.
I think that one of the ways I’ve grown as an educator, is through researching and sharing ideas with other educators. There is no reason to spend hours researching and coming up with ideas and solutions for everything by yourself, when you can share ideas with others around the world via the internet.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Week 16 article
Remote Access article
Buy this Book
This article encourages you to buy Bill Kist’s new book “Socially Networked Classroom.” This book is completely relevant to education today, because there is more and more focus on integrating technology into the classroom. A new reading program called Kidbiz3000 that I am using this year encourages students to email and discuss a question regarding their reading article. My students love this!!
Teachers are socially linked to other educators around the world through different types of social networking systems like My Space and Facebook. I really think this book would be interesting to read, given that a lot of the technology sites I implemented during this class were all mostly foreign to me at first. The more we read and research information about ways to successfully implement technology, will not only benefit us, but our students as well.
Buy this Book
This article encourages you to buy Bill Kist’s new book “Socially Networked Classroom.” This book is completely relevant to education today, because there is more and more focus on integrating technology into the classroom. A new reading program called Kidbiz3000 that I am using this year encourages students to email and discuss a question regarding their reading article. My students love this!!
Teachers are socially linked to other educators around the world through different types of social networking systems like My Space and Facebook. I really think this book would be interesting to read, given that a lot of the technology sites I implemented during this class were all mostly foreign to me at first. The more we read and research information about ways to successfully implement technology, will not only benefit us, but our students as well.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Week 15 article
OLDaily Stephen’s Web Article
US Self-paced eLearning Market
Sam S. Adkins Ambient Research
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi?post=50856
What’s all the hype about eLearning? The US market for eLearning products and services reached 16.7 billion in 2009. As the demand for the eLearning increases, more and more products are being integrated into the classroom. I personally use eLearning daily in reading and math. I use the products eWord Game that comes with Harcourt Reading Series and math lingo that comes with Harcourt Math Series. The eWord Game is an awesome way to practice vocabulary words before students take their reading vocabulary quizzes. I really see and understand why there is a major focus on integrating products and services linked to eLearning in education. Students are “digital natives” and quickly understand how to utilize many different types of technology. Students use technology at home and at school. Many of my students think of technology (computers, Smart Board, document camera) as second nature to them. I think that eLearning does enhance the instruction for students and improves their performance.
US Self-paced eLearning Market
Sam S. Adkins Ambient Research
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi?post=50856
What’s all the hype about eLearning? The US market for eLearning products and services reached 16.7 billion in 2009. As the demand for the eLearning increases, more and more products are being integrated into the classroom. I personally use eLearning daily in reading and math. I use the products eWord Game that comes with Harcourt Reading Series and math lingo that comes with Harcourt Math Series. The eWord Game is an awesome way to practice vocabulary words before students take their reading vocabulary quizzes. I really see and understand why there is a major focus on integrating products and services linked to eLearning in education. Students are “digital natives” and quickly understand how to utilize many different types of technology. Students use technology at home and at school. Many of my students think of technology (computers, Smart Board, document camera) as second nature to them. I think that eLearning does enhance the instruction for students and improves their performance.
Week 13, 14, 15 Technology Floods
I am thinking and thinking, about my final project for this class. There are so many things I want to do and it is difficult to narrow them down to just one. I want to choose something that will have an impact and be beneficial for someone else taking this course. I have really had to think a lot about each task for this course.
I would really like to put together a toolbox for others to use during the time they take this course. Some of the tools, would be "help" tools to use when there are "oh no" moments.
I really like the idea of putting together sites to help other students, it will have a great impact on the successes of others taking this class.
I would really like to put together a toolbox for others to use during the time they take this course. Some of the tools, would be "help" tools to use when there are "oh no" moments.
I really like the idea of putting together sites to help other students, it will have a great impact on the successes of others taking this class.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Week 14 article
OLDaily Stephen’s Web
Yahoo’s Newest Strategy: Lot’s and lot’s of Facebook
Mashable Stephen Ostrow
http://mashable.com/2009/12/02/yahoo-facebook-connect/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
According to Yahoo’s latest strategy is to incorporate lot’s and lot’s of face book! Yahoo is planning to partner with Facebook to build it’s social networking system. I really like the conviction that Downes writes with about Facebook. I too do not or would not trust a Facebook account. I think that there are too many open-ended ways to misconstrue data and the ways information is presented. I do not think of it as being a professional way to present or share information regarding education topics. I completely see why Downes does not trust Facebook to “behave itself.” I would not trust this system either. I can see some reasons for educators to use some networking service to convey and share educational issues with other educators. But I do think there needs to be careful boundaries when using different social networking services as educators. Too many students use these services and one statement can be completely misconstrued into meaning something other that what it’s meaning is. I think educators need to keep in mind, as their using Facebook, My Space and many other social networking services, to keep their ideas and comments professional.
Yahoo’s Newest Strategy: Lot’s and lot’s of Facebook
Mashable Stephen Ostrow
http://mashable.com/2009/12/02/yahoo-facebook-connect/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
According to Yahoo’s latest strategy is to incorporate lot’s and lot’s of face book! Yahoo is planning to partner with Facebook to build it’s social networking system. I really like the conviction that Downes writes with about Facebook. I too do not or would not trust a Facebook account. I think that there are too many open-ended ways to misconstrue data and the ways information is presented. I do not think of it as being a professional way to present or share information regarding education topics. I completely see why Downes does not trust Facebook to “behave itself.” I would not trust this system either. I can see some reasons for educators to use some networking service to convey and share educational issues with other educators. But I do think there needs to be careful boundaries when using different social networking services as educators. Too many students use these services and one statement can be completely misconstrued into meaning something other that what it’s meaning is. I think educators need to keep in mind, as their using Facebook, My Space and many other social networking services, to keep their ideas and comments professional.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Week 13 Article
OLDaily Stephen’s Web
Pattern Seeking Instead of Content Delivery
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi?post=50947
Angela Maiers, Weblog
Angela Maiers presents how we fail to deliver lessons, because we are planning as teachers, instead of readers. I agree that most of the time, I do not put myself in the shoes of the students and how the content is being recieved. Most of the time my focus is on how to teach the lesson, and not how to learn/grow from the lesson. Maiers makes some valuable points on how to change the patterning of teaching. Looking at lessons through the eyes of the students and how successfully they are learning from the lessons, will have more of an impact then focusing solely on how to teach the lessons. I too, believe that teaching is a lifelong journey. If we do not examine and analyze the way we deliver lessons then we will lose our impact on students and there will be little comprehension of information. The important things to improve upon as educators are thinking, reading, and communication. Without thinking about and reading about what you are planning to teach, the delivery of the lesson will lose it’s pizzazz. Also, without communication you are already at a loss with winning students over. Students must have respect and the willingness to please you, or they will not strive to do their best in lessons.
Pattern Seeking Instead of Content Delivery
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi?post=50947
Angela Maiers, Weblog
Angela Maiers presents how we fail to deliver lessons, because we are planning as teachers, instead of readers. I agree that most of the time, I do not put myself in the shoes of the students and how the content is being recieved. Most of the time my focus is on how to teach the lesson, and not how to learn/grow from the lesson. Maiers makes some valuable points on how to change the patterning of teaching. Looking at lessons through the eyes of the students and how successfully they are learning from the lessons, will have more of an impact then focusing solely on how to teach the lessons. I too, believe that teaching is a lifelong journey. If we do not examine and analyze the way we deliver lessons then we will lose our impact on students and there will be little comprehension of information. The important things to improve upon as educators are thinking, reading, and communication. Without thinking about and reading about what you are planning to teach, the delivery of the lesson will lose it’s pizzazz. Also, without communication you are already at a loss with winning students over. Students must have respect and the willingness to please you, or they will not strive to do their best in lessons.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Week 12: Things to Do- Proposal of Final Project
How should research be done?
- using the web
- reading scholary articles or books
- collaborating with educators through blogs, discussion boards, or chat forums
What should be studied?
Any gray areas or uncertainty about a topic should be fully researched by educators. There are many things to study and reflect on in Distance Education.
Once all students are in agreement about the final project, then what to study and research will be easier to focus on. Some of the suggestions that I have, about what to study include:
- pick a topic, research it, add to a DE online text book
- pick a topic, research it, add to a DE tutorial
- using the web
- reading scholary articles or books
- collaborating with educators through blogs, discussion boards, or chat forums
What should be studied?
Any gray areas or uncertainty about a topic should be fully researched by educators. There are many things to study and reflect on in Distance Education.
Once all students are in agreement about the final project, then what to study and research will be easier to focus on. Some of the suggestions that I have, about what to study include:
- pick a topic, research it, add to a DE online text book
- pick a topic, research it, add to a DE tutorial
Week 12 Things to Write: DE Topic and Research
The 21st Century, Technology, and Teaching
According to Kearsley, "the 21st century will bring tremendous advances in computers and networks, dramatically changing our daily lives- and how we learn or teach." Technology is changing our lives as educators and the lives of learners. Teachers can find any information they need about a topic they are teaching, on the web, then use the research to enhance a lesson they are teaching. Not only does the educator benefit, by presenting the topic with more knowledge, but the learner attains more information about the topic. There are many ways to improve instruction and learn using technology including:
Teacher-
power point presentations
online games
simulations
Student-
podcasts
video making
webquests
games/sims
These are only a few suggestions of ways that implementing technology enhances a lesson. The traditional classroom, was once prevalent, but is slowly being erased and replaced with online learning.
According to Kearsley, "the 21st century will bring tremendous advances in computers and networks, dramatically changing our daily lives- and how we learn or teach." Technology is changing our lives as educators and the lives of learners. Teachers can find any information they need about a topic they are teaching, on the web, then use the research to enhance a lesson they are teaching. Not only does the educator benefit, by presenting the topic with more knowledge, but the learner attains more information about the topic. There are many ways to improve instruction and learn using technology including:
Teacher-
power point presentations
online games
simulations
Student-
podcasts
video making
webquests
games/sims
These are only a few suggestions of ways that implementing technology enhances a lesson. The traditional classroom, was once prevalent, but is slowly being erased and replaced with online learning.
Week 12 Things to Write
Kearsley and Research
According to Kearsley, "the school-level impact of online learning depends on the characteristics of the students and the nature of the learning activities." Research proves that the more interaction students have with technology, the more availability there is for students to improve teaching activities. I have had a lot of practice using new types of technology by taking this class, which has shaped the way I teach content. I am creating online games, making presentations on the Smart Board, and coming up with projects for students to complete using technology. Educators and students are evolving now, more than ever. There are so many technological resources available to enhance learning and improve instruction.
According to Kearsley, "the school-level impact of online learning depends on the characteristics of the students and the nature of the learning activities." Research proves that the more interaction students have with technology, the more availability there is for students to improve teaching activities. I have had a lot of practice using new types of technology by taking this class, which has shaped the way I teach content. I am creating online games, making presentations on the Smart Board, and coming up with projects for students to complete using technology. Educators and students are evolving now, more than ever. There are so many technological resources available to enhance learning and improve instruction.
Week 12 Things to Do
Blog and Gator
coolcatteacher@gmail.com (Victoria A Davis, Cool Cat Teacher)
Get Some Java and Spend Some Time with Jane in Java
I found a really neat article at Cool Cat Teacher, about spending time improving oneself, as an educator. This blog was about, an educator- Jane Ross, being an inspiration for teachers. I was very curious to see what ideas this person could offer that was so motivating. After reading a few of Ross's blogs, I began to understand. There were many great ideas that I found to use as an educator.
Blog by Ross:
Blog 1:1 in Practice at Sinarmas World Academy
link- http://1to1inpractice.blogspot.com/
I found this blog, by Jane, very interesting. This particular blog, discussed OOo4Kids or Open Office for Kids. Using this software application, students were able to complete podcasts and make images using, Artrage. This approach to learning is great. Students would be able to present a lesson on any topic to the class using this type of technology. I can see ways to integrate these podcasts into my classroom.
One of the other links I viewed was, an ebook about movie making for kids. This site was very popular and visited by many individuals. It would be a good learning experience for students to video themselves presenting information. Students can not only learn from their peers, but work on ways to improve their speaking skills and build confidence.
Viewing this article about Jane Ross, has opened up my eyes even more about ways to grow as an educator. We should always be researching ways to improve instruction. This educator, Jane Ross, is a motivated teacher. It is inspiring to read about an educator who shares their passion and enthusiasm for teaching so openly. This blog really made me think about ways to integrate these types of technology into my curriculum. Students' learning would be enhanced by the implementation of movie making and podcasts.
coolcatteacher@gmail.com (Victoria A Davis, Cool Cat Teacher)
Get Some Java and Spend Some Time with Jane in Java
I found a really neat article at Cool Cat Teacher, about spending time improving oneself, as an educator. This blog was about, an educator- Jane Ross, being an inspiration for teachers. I was very curious to see what ideas this person could offer that was so motivating. After reading a few of Ross's blogs, I began to understand. There were many great ideas that I found to use as an educator.
Blog by Ross:
Blog 1:1 in Practice at Sinarmas World Academy
link- http://1to1inpractice.blogspot.com/
I found this blog, by Jane, very interesting. This particular blog, discussed OOo4Kids or Open Office for Kids. Using this software application, students were able to complete podcasts and make images using, Artrage. This approach to learning is great. Students would be able to present a lesson on any topic to the class using this type of technology. I can see ways to integrate these podcasts into my classroom.
One of the other links I viewed was, an ebook about movie making for kids. This site was very popular and visited by many individuals. It would be a good learning experience for students to video themselves presenting information. Students can not only learn from their peers, but work on ways to improve their speaking skills and build confidence.
Viewing this article about Jane Ross, has opened up my eyes even more about ways to grow as an educator. We should always be researching ways to improve instruction. This educator, Jane Ross, is a motivated teacher. It is inspiring to read about an educator who shares their passion and enthusiasm for teaching so openly. This blog really made me think about ways to integrate these types of technology into my curriculum. Students' learning would be enhanced by the implementation of movie making and podcasts.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Week 11 Technology Flood
No floods this week, just a lot of work to be done! I find myself thinking, and thinking more about these questions each week. It is getting easier for me to answer them and see how I am no longer answering the questions objectively so much, but more subjectively.
Week 11 Ch. 4 Kearsley
This chapter discusses the research linked to online learning and teaching. Some of the research suggests that most students achieve and learn content effectively in online courses and online courses are effective as on-campus classes. I do agree with this research and think that student achievement depends upon the student. Just as in a traditional classroom, students will participate and complete work with as much effort as they are willing to put into the course. The case is the same for an online course, the student will participate and complete work with as much effort as they are willing to put into the class. The student make's the decision about how much they want to apply themselves during the time they are taking a course. The teacher-student interaction does not change, whether the student is taking an online class or working in a traditional classroom. The teacher and student still have ample amounts of time to conference and communicate during an online class, probably just as much, if not more time, than in a traditional classroom.
Week 11
Things to Write
2. Are the goals and objectives changed when you take a course online compared to classroom based instruction?
No, the goals and objectives are not changed. The goals and objectives depend on the teacher's course content. The way that there would be any variation for goals and objectives amongst different classes, whether online or in a traditional classroom, is dependant upon the goals/objectives set in place by the teacher. The content should be the consistent for a course that could be taught online or in a traditional classroom.
2. Are the goals and objectives changed when you take a course online compared to classroom based instruction?
No, the goals and objectives are not changed. The goals and objectives depend on the teacher's course content. The way that there would be any variation for goals and objectives amongst different classes, whether online or in a traditional classroom, is dependant upon the goals/objectives set in place by the teacher. The content should be the consistent for a course that could be taught online or in a traditional classroom.
Week 11
Things to Write
1. Does the global nature of the web have an effect on evaluation?
Yes, the global nature of the web does have an effect on evaluating assignments for a course. Given that you can pull resources off the web to enhance an assignment, many things come into play during evaluation of class work. Some of the ways that using the web can help the student and the teacher during evaluations include:
Student - The web helps the student on assignments that will be evaluated by the instructor.
- The student can search additional websites for ideas, information, and assistance on assignments.
- The student can have discussions through IM, discussion boards, email, or blogs with teacher or classmates to collaborate and share ideas.
Teacher- The teacher can use the web to evaluate assignments completed by students.
- The teacher can search the web to get ideas on how to put assignments together, in ways that will enhance students' learning, as well as help them out with future evaluations.
- The teacher can collaborate and have discussions with faculty or students through IM, discussion boards, email, or blogs.
1. Does the global nature of the web have an effect on evaluation?
Yes, the global nature of the web does have an effect on evaluating assignments for a course. Given that you can pull resources off the web to enhance an assignment, many things come into play during evaluation of class work. Some of the ways that using the web can help the student and the teacher during evaluations include:
Student - The web helps the student on assignments that will be evaluated by the instructor.
- The student can search additional websites for ideas, information, and assistance on assignments.
- The student can have discussions through IM, discussion boards, email, or blogs with teacher or classmates to collaborate and share ideas.
Teacher- The teacher can use the web to evaluate assignments completed by students.
- The teacher can search the web to get ideas on how to put assignments together, in ways that will enhance students' learning, as well as help them out with future evaluations.
- The teacher can collaborate and have discussions with faculty or students through IM, discussion boards, email, or blogs.
Week 11 Blog and Gator
Article from OLDaily
Reshaping Learning from the Ground Up
James Daly
This article was informative in the way that school , “is a system that is completely out of time, designed to produce industrial workers.” I do think this perspective is interesting, and makes me think about the ways we offer education to students. I do agree that we no longer need all students learning at the same pace, such as reading textbooks in the same way, at the same time. I think that textbooks should have diversity, offering a variety of information for students to choose from. Students are not all interested in the same content, so offering them books that have content that they are interested in, will enhance their interest to learn. Daly says we should “get the current system out of our heads.” I think that we have a concrete view that is a traditional stance on what school should be like for students. But I believe the classroom is evolving and teachers are finding more ways to diversify the instruction for students and encourage students to become active participants in their education.
Reshaping Learning from the Ground Up
James Daly
This article was informative in the way that school , “is a system that is completely out of time, designed to produce industrial workers.” I do think this perspective is interesting, and makes me think about the ways we offer education to students. I do agree that we no longer need all students learning at the same pace, such as reading textbooks in the same way, at the same time. I think that textbooks should have diversity, offering a variety of information for students to choose from. Students are not all interested in the same content, so offering them books that have content that they are interested in, will enhance their interest to learn. Daly says we should “get the current system out of our heads.” I think that we have a concrete view that is a traditional stance on what school should be like for students. But I believe the classroom is evolving and teachers are finding more ways to diversify the instruction for students and encourage students to become active participants in their education.
Week 11
Blog and Gator
End of Year Evaluations
Remote Access Clarence Fisher
I really liked the perspective that Clarence Fisher had on “End of Year Evaluations.” I do agree that evaluations are a way to cover yourself. At work we have a great way to document reading and math progress through Star Reading and Star Math we administer three times a year. I do agree with Fisher, that if you have ongoing documentation of assessments, it is available to pull and show to administers or concerned parents. With the Star Reading and Star Math running records, there is always data available in reading and math, to pull and show to my administrator or concerned parents. There is so much emphasis put on evaluating data and analyzing data for new teachers, that it is overwhelming. My KTIP portfolio was completely stuffed, with data analysis in two monstrous binders. I had to choose two identified students and keep running records on them of their progress, as well as work on presenting and evaluating 3 lessons for my administrator, 3 lessons for my KTIP teacher, and 3 lessons for my college representative. There were several other things to complete for my portfolio including a project to create and manage school wide, that would enhance the school learning environment. I do agree with Fisher, that end of year evaluations are essential. Without them, you do not have documentation to cover yourself.
End of Year Evaluations
Remote Access Clarence Fisher
I really liked the perspective that Clarence Fisher had on “End of Year Evaluations.” I do agree that evaluations are a way to cover yourself. At work we have a great way to document reading and math progress through Star Reading and Star Math we administer three times a year. I do agree with Fisher, that if you have ongoing documentation of assessments, it is available to pull and show to administers or concerned parents. With the Star Reading and Star Math running records, there is always data available in reading and math, to pull and show to my administrator or concerned parents. There is so much emphasis put on evaluating data and analyzing data for new teachers, that it is overwhelming. My KTIP portfolio was completely stuffed, with data analysis in two monstrous binders. I had to choose two identified students and keep running records on them of their progress, as well as work on presenting and evaluating 3 lessons for my administrator, 3 lessons for my KTIP teacher, and 3 lessons for my college representative. There were several other things to complete for my portfolio including a project to create and manage school wide, that would enhance the school learning environment. I do agree with Fisher, that end of year evaluations are essential. Without them, you do not have documentation to cover yourself.
Week 11
Blog and Gator
Taking Stock of the First Six Months Beyond the Walls: I Had No Idea…Really…
Barbara Ganley
from Stephen's Web ~ OLDaily
I found this really interesting article on “Taking Stock on the First Six Months Beyond the Walls” by Ganley. Ganley evaluated the process of college students learning through “collaborative learning” and taking ownership of their learning. But, as she was leaving the classroom for other adventures to experience in education, she conjured up the thoughts that maybe this isn’t the way students learn, given that you have an “artificial environment.” Ganely compares the aspects of teaching in an academic environment, completely different from teaching outside of a classroom-type setting. In the real-world, working with non-profit organizations and the community, she feels that school was a “comfort confine.” I do agree that often school is comfortable, the teacher talks and the students listen. This year I have been challenging myself to be more creative as I teach, stepping away from whole group teaching and lecturing. I am integrating small groups, interactive play, manipulatives, investigations, technology exploration, and am finding my students growing and responding to these new learning options. It is not that I haven’t always used them in my classroom, just in moderation, given that the school day has a limited amount of teaching time. Working in an elementary school, it seems that you are always playing catch-up, but I like this new approach to learning. This article made me think, we can get too comfortable as educators in a school/academic setting.
Taking Stock of the First Six Months Beyond the Walls: I Had No Idea…Really…
Barbara Ganley
from Stephen's Web ~ OLDaily
I found this really interesting article on “Taking Stock on the First Six Months Beyond the Walls” by Ganley. Ganley evaluated the process of college students learning through “collaborative learning” and taking ownership of their learning. But, as she was leaving the classroom for other adventures to experience in education, she conjured up the thoughts that maybe this isn’t the way students learn, given that you have an “artificial environment.” Ganely compares the aspects of teaching in an academic environment, completely different from teaching outside of a classroom-type setting. In the real-world, working with non-profit organizations and the community, she feels that school was a “comfort confine.” I do agree that often school is comfortable, the teacher talks and the students listen. This year I have been challenging myself to be more creative as I teach, stepping away from whole group teaching and lecturing. I am integrating small groups, interactive play, manipulatives, investigations, technology exploration, and am finding my students growing and responding to these new learning options. It is not that I haven’t always used them in my classroom, just in moderation, given that the school day has a limited amount of teaching time. Working in an elementary school, it seems that you are always playing catch-up, but I like this new approach to learning. This article made me think, we can get too comfortable as educators in a school/academic setting.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Week 10 Technology Flood
My technology flood for the week is not being able to write enough. I feel like I am writing all that I can to fully answer this week's questions, but that the responses are inadequate. I have struggled with this week's questions. After reading other blogs, I understand more of what the questions were asking. It is helpful to read and reflect upon other views.
Ch. 9 Kearsley
Policies, require a lot of maintenance from many individuals to make a course successful. The part of this chapter that I connected with and related to the policies I encounter at work was the user policy agreement form that you must have to use a computer. The school system in which I work, requires that all users accessing technology, must have a policy agreement form on file before they can use the computers. I have to check and make sure that all my students have turned in a form before they can use computers in class or in the computer lab. Having the forms on file, are a way for the schools to ensure that content is acceptable and legitimate.
Week 10 Blog and Gator
Clarence Fisher writes about how his students demonstrate learning. Find one of his stories and write about it.
I read an article written by Fisher, "Units as Mash- Ups" and thought wow. I really liked the point that he was trying to convey about units of study being woven together with many layers of learning. The content of a unit does not have to be taught in a chronological order, because not all learners comprehend the content in the same way. The idea of throwing in multiple ways to learn content, is very appealing. Offering students the opportunity to voice their thoughts and learn from one another through technological tools such as blogs, wiki, and podcasts is such a great way to build up students' interest in learning. Giving students the chance for individual reflections, creates another avenue of learning the content ( in a much more appealing way for most learners).
How are other teachers writing about what's happening in their classrooms?
Teachers are writing about what's happening in their classrooms through websites, chat rooms, scholarly articles, newsletters, wiki, blogs, podcasts, and many more sources. I think one of the popular sources for teachers to reflect about their classrooms is through personal web pages. At my school, we have personal web pages that are a way to post learning successes and keep parents informed about important news. I think that we can learn from others' web pages and adapt new ideas to try in our own classrooms.
There's a lot of buzz about "portfolio" out there. What's the big deal?
Portfolios have negative and positive connotations. To me, portfolios have a positive impact on students. Yes, standardized portfolios are frowned upon by classroom teachers and students that have to complete them. Luckily, less emphasis is put upon the scoring of portfolios this year, although students are required to have a working portfolio. Students need be aware of the different forms and purposes of writing. Requiring students to include different types of writing pieces in their portfolio (personal narrative, transactive piece, etc.), builds their writing skills and assists them in becoming better writers. Putting together a portfolio, helps students have more tools to use as they write.
I read an article written by Fisher, "Units as Mash- Ups" and thought wow. I really liked the point that he was trying to convey about units of study being woven together with many layers of learning. The content of a unit does not have to be taught in a chronological order, because not all learners comprehend the content in the same way. The idea of throwing in multiple ways to learn content, is very appealing. Offering students the opportunity to voice their thoughts and learn from one another through technological tools such as blogs, wiki, and podcasts is such a great way to build up students' interest in learning. Giving students the chance for individual reflections, creates another avenue of learning the content ( in a much more appealing way for most learners).
How are other teachers writing about what's happening in their classrooms?
Teachers are writing about what's happening in their classrooms through websites, chat rooms, scholarly articles, newsletters, wiki, blogs, podcasts, and many more sources. I think one of the popular sources for teachers to reflect about their classrooms is through personal web pages. At my school, we have personal web pages that are a way to post learning successes and keep parents informed about important news. I think that we can learn from others' web pages and adapt new ideas to try in our own classrooms.
There's a lot of buzz about "portfolio" out there. What's the big deal?
Portfolios have negative and positive connotations. To me, portfolios have a positive impact on students. Yes, standardized portfolios are frowned upon by classroom teachers and students that have to complete them. Luckily, less emphasis is put upon the scoring of portfolios this year, although students are required to have a working portfolio. Students need be aware of the different forms and purposes of writing. Requiring students to include different types of writing pieces in their portfolio (personal narrative, transactive piece, etc.), builds their writing skills and assists them in becoming better writers. Putting together a portfolio, helps students have more tools to use as they write.
Week 10 Things to Write
1. How you might assess learning of a student who's "thinking like a learner?"
To assess a student that is "thinking like a learner", they need to be challenged. If one task is completed successfully and the learner has exceeded their expectations. Then more tasks should be given to challenge the learner about the information that is being studied. To assess, the learner has to have understood and accomplished assignments with a full understanding of the content. Then assessments include many forms. The assessment depends upon what type of assignments there are, ranging from writing tasks to projects. I think the learner will apply themselves as much as possible, if given reasonable tasks to complete. The learner must feel like the tasks are attainable and reachable, before they can be "thinking like a learner." If the tasks are not clear and the learner feels like the tasks are not attainable, the the learner will not be "thinking like a learner."
2. How do you know if students are learning anyway? Is it different if you're teaching in the classroom?
It is obvious to the teacher, whether or not the student is learning. It is the role of the teacher to know if the student is ascertaining the material. The teacher is not only the facilitator, but the manager of what is learned. If a student is receiving poor grades, then that student needs assistance or tips on how to bring their grades up. If a student is doing well, then the learner does not require assistance or tips on how to bring up their grades. Whether learning is taking place in a classroom or online, all of these suggestions apply to both types of learning environments. There is no difference of learning material in the classroom or online, the teacher will be able to determine if students are learning.
To assess a student that is "thinking like a learner", they need to be challenged. If one task is completed successfully and the learner has exceeded their expectations. Then more tasks should be given to challenge the learner about the information that is being studied. To assess, the learner has to have understood and accomplished assignments with a full understanding of the content. Then assessments include many forms. The assessment depends upon what type of assignments there are, ranging from writing tasks to projects. I think the learner will apply themselves as much as possible, if given reasonable tasks to complete. The learner must feel like the tasks are attainable and reachable, before they can be "thinking like a learner." If the tasks are not clear and the learner feels like the tasks are not attainable, the the learner will not be "thinking like a learner."
2. How do you know if students are learning anyway? Is it different if you're teaching in the classroom?
It is obvious to the teacher, whether or not the student is learning. It is the role of the teacher to know if the student is ascertaining the material. The teacher is not only the facilitator, but the manager of what is learned. If a student is receiving poor grades, then that student needs assistance or tips on how to bring their grades up. If a student is doing well, then the learner does not require assistance or tips on how to bring up their grades. Whether learning is taking place in a classroom or online, all of these suggestions apply to both types of learning environments. There is no difference of learning material in the classroom or online, the teacher will be able to determine if students are learning.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Technology Trouble
I could not open this site George Siemens' blog on Connectivism. I did find articles related to this theory at OLDaily and was able to read about this theory there. I have blogged my thoughts on this new theory under things to do.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 9 Things to Write
Week 9 Things to Write
Citation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constructivism_(learning_theory))
1. It has been awhile since I’ve researched and studied learning theories. I had to familiarize and refresh my knowledge of what Construcitivism views are. Piaget’s theory of constructivist learning has had a huge impact on learning theories and teaching methods. According to Piaget, play is important for cognitive deveolpment. I agree, students need hands-on approaches to learning. The constuctivist view believes that students learn through experience. I believe this too, partially. Students are always accumulating new information to add to their experiences. Some of the ways they learn are through the things they have had experiences with, such as field trips, projects, investigations and so on. Every learner is unique and learns in many different ways. “Social constructivism encourages the learner to arrive at his or her version of the truth, influenced by his or her background, culture, or embedded worldview.” I do think that the learner has the responsibility to apply and collect information. Having the learner be in control of learning content, advocates them to take ownvership of learning.
2. Is Constructivism a theory or religion, why?
This is a tough question for me to answer. I feel that it is a theory and a religion at times. The learner is motivated from within to apply themselves. According to Vygotsky, sustaining motivation to learn is strongly dependent on the learner’s confidence in his or her potential for learning. The theory holds true that, learning is an active experience and we should be challenged continually to reach our optimal development of growth. We are inspired from our religious stance, which drives the way we perform. The constructivism theory is just a theory, but it does correlate with one’s religion.
3. What do we KNOW about teaching and learning theories? How do we know?
We know about teaching and learning theories through our experiences. I have accumulated my knowledge of teaching and learning theories through research, discussion with other educators, and applications of lesson plans/other activities. We know as much information about learning, as we choose to know. I feel that if you want to be informed and aware of teaching strategies and learning theories you must be a lifelong learner. If you are not, you will not grow as an educator. You have to put forth the time and energy to study and research new ideas in education to modify ways that you teach.
Citation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constructivism_(learning_theory))
1. It has been awhile since I’ve researched and studied learning theories. I had to familiarize and refresh my knowledge of what Construcitivism views are. Piaget’s theory of constructivist learning has had a huge impact on learning theories and teaching methods. According to Piaget, play is important for cognitive deveolpment. I agree, students need hands-on approaches to learning. The constuctivist view believes that students learn through experience. I believe this too, partially. Students are always accumulating new information to add to their experiences. Some of the ways they learn are through the things they have had experiences with, such as field trips, projects, investigations and so on. Every learner is unique and learns in many different ways. “Social constructivism encourages the learner to arrive at his or her version of the truth, influenced by his or her background, culture, or embedded worldview.” I do think that the learner has the responsibility to apply and collect information. Having the learner be in control of learning content, advocates them to take ownvership of learning.
2. Is Constructivism a theory or religion, why?
This is a tough question for me to answer. I feel that it is a theory and a religion at times. The learner is motivated from within to apply themselves. According to Vygotsky, sustaining motivation to learn is strongly dependent on the learner’s confidence in his or her potential for learning. The theory holds true that, learning is an active experience and we should be challenged continually to reach our optimal development of growth. We are inspired from our religious stance, which drives the way we perform. The constructivism theory is just a theory, but it does correlate with one’s religion.
3. What do we KNOW about teaching and learning theories? How do we know?
We know about teaching and learning theories through our experiences. I have accumulated my knowledge of teaching and learning theories through research, discussion with other educators, and applications of lesson plans/other activities. We know as much information about learning, as we choose to know. I feel that if you want to be informed and aware of teaching strategies and learning theories you must be a lifelong learner. If you are not, you will not grow as an educator. You have to put forth the time and energy to study and research new ideas in education to modify ways that you teach.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Ch. 10 Kearsley
This chapter focus on learning in the informative age. There are many points that this chapter dwells on including:
1. The gap between those with and those without computers.
2. The focus on technology, to some it is good and to others it is evil.
3. The individual's privacy is not protected in an online environment.
4. The quality of the information on the web may limited.
5. The cost of online education may not be possible for all.
6. There is resistance from individuals and organizations from fear to change.
Online education challenges learners and is different from learning that takes place in a traditional classroom. Which is better? I feel that the focus in the 21st century is on distance education. Learning in a traditional classroom setting is losing and learning through technology is winning. I think that everyone is responsibible to educate themselves and practice using technology in order to effectively be informed of issues in the world.
1. The gap between those with and those without computers.
2. The focus on technology, to some it is good and to others it is evil.
3. The individual's privacy is not protected in an online environment.
4. The quality of the information on the web may limited.
5. The cost of online education may not be possible for all.
6. There is resistance from individuals and organizations from fear to change.
Online education challenges learners and is different from learning that takes place in a traditional classroom. Which is better? I feel that the focus in the 21st century is on distance education. Learning in a traditional classroom setting is losing and learning through technology is winning. I think that everyone is responsibible to educate themselves and practice using technology in order to effectively be informed of issues in the world.
Week 9 Things to Do OLDaily article
Article from OLDaily CCK09: Does Connectivisim want to change the world?
Ignatia Webs
http://ignatiawebs.blogspot.com/2009/10/cck09-does-connectivism-want-to-change.html
The writer of this article states that there are communities of networks where individuals change messages back. I do agree that there must be an open network of ongoing communication for learning, growing, and creating to take place.
The writer points out distinctions between interpretative social science and critical social science. The purpose of CSS is to empower and liberate individuals so they can feely explore to reach higher levels of achievement. I feel that it is invaluable to fight for the right to openly communicate and express ideas. Are there doors closed and the rights to educational tools limited? I think it depends on the individual and how they view how much empowerment and freedom one should have. I think that when accessing educational tools, it should be with a careful approach. What is the point of prohibiting researchers looking for technological resources to assist them? The researcher has the responsibility to access appropriate resources related to the content they are studying. So the connectivisim theory of social sciences suggests that we are active participants. I do agree that we continually grow and develop through being actively involved in evaluating explanations and forming social relationships. These levels of dimension to the connectivisim theory are complex and challenging for me to understand. It is a new approach to thinking about how we work and evolve through social sciences.
Article from OLDaily Connectivisim Positions
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi
I found an article from Stephen Downes related to the Connectivism Theory. So is Connectivism a new learning theory? This article reflected the position others had of George Siemens’ blog and whether Connectivism is a relevant theory. I enjoyed reading the comments from different posts to ascertain what other views of the connectivisim theory are.
Ignatia Webs
http://ignatiawebs.blogspot.com/2009/10/cck09-does-connectivism-want-to-change.html
The writer of this article states that there are communities of networks where individuals change messages back. I do agree that there must be an open network of ongoing communication for learning, growing, and creating to take place.
The writer points out distinctions between interpretative social science and critical social science. The purpose of CSS is to empower and liberate individuals so they can feely explore to reach higher levels of achievement. I feel that it is invaluable to fight for the right to openly communicate and express ideas. Are there doors closed and the rights to educational tools limited? I think it depends on the individual and how they view how much empowerment and freedom one should have. I think that when accessing educational tools, it should be with a careful approach. What is the point of prohibiting researchers looking for technological resources to assist them? The researcher has the responsibility to access appropriate resources related to the content they are studying. So the connectivisim theory of social sciences suggests that we are active participants. I do agree that we continually grow and develop through being actively involved in evaluating explanations and forming social relationships. These levels of dimension to the connectivisim theory are complex and challenging for me to understand. It is a new approach to thinking about how we work and evolve through social sciences.
Article from OLDaily Connectivisim Positions
http://www.downes.ca/cgi-bin/page.cgi
I found an article from Stephen Downes related to the Connectivism Theory. So is Connectivism a new learning theory? This article reflected the position others had of George Siemens’ blog and whether Connectivism is a relevant theory. I enjoyed reading the comments from different posts to ascertain what other views of the connectivisim theory are.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Week 8 Things to Do
1.Article from Cool Cat Teacher about the Role of Students in the Classroom
The role of the student is multi-faceted. The student is not only a learner, but a thinker. I found an interesting article at Cool Cat Teacher called "Cheating" http://www.ed421.com/?p=976. The article examines the difference between cheating in school and the nature of how we get our work done. There are many ways to cheat on your work assignments, including using cell phones. There was a study completed on how 35% of students cheat electronically and the ways they use their cell phones to cheat with. These points about cheating are not irrelevant, because more and more pressure is put on standardized testing and students are expected to perform well. With these expectations on standardized tests, is this one reason students feel the need to cheat? Many students are expected to memorize information and details for tests through rote memorization. Rote memorization does have a meaningful purpose, to an extent. It is important for students to memorize information and build their reading comprehension skills. There are ways to remember information other than cheating using a cell phone or through rote memorization. Some of the bloggers and responses from this article mentioned intervention strategies to incorporate into the classroom, so students will not feel they have to memorize every detail. Other ways to assess and measure learning include: open book exams, performance assessments , projects, using multiple testing formats, and creating/playing games.
2. "Teachers and Students Meet in the Middle" Reflection
Teachers and students should have positive communication. I learn a lot from looking at and thinking about the many ways students process information. Learning is an active process and the students should share thoughts and ideas as they learn information. The teacher is a guide and a facilitator, but not a dictator. Students should feel comfortable contributing ideas and asking questions. Without interaction and feedback, learning would be stagnate.
The role of the student is multi-faceted. The student is not only a learner, but a thinker. I found an interesting article at Cool Cat Teacher called "Cheating" http://www.ed421.com/?p=976. The article examines the difference between cheating in school and the nature of how we get our work done. There are many ways to cheat on your work assignments, including using cell phones. There was a study completed on how 35% of students cheat electronically and the ways they use their cell phones to cheat with. These points about cheating are not irrelevant, because more and more pressure is put on standardized testing and students are expected to perform well. With these expectations on standardized tests, is this one reason students feel the need to cheat? Many students are expected to memorize information and details for tests through rote memorization. Rote memorization does have a meaningful purpose, to an extent. It is important for students to memorize information and build their reading comprehension skills. There are ways to remember information other than cheating using a cell phone or through rote memorization. Some of the bloggers and responses from this article mentioned intervention strategies to incorporate into the classroom, so students will not feel they have to memorize every detail. Other ways to assess and measure learning include: open book exams, performance assessments , projects, using multiple testing formats, and creating/playing games.
2. "Teachers and Students Meet in the Middle" Reflection
Teachers and students should have positive communication. I learn a lot from looking at and thinking about the many ways students process information. Learning is an active process and the students should share thoughts and ideas as they learn information. The teacher is a guide and a facilitator, but not a dictator. Students should feel comfortable contributing ideas and asking questions. Without interaction and feedback, learning would be stagnate.
Ch. 11 Kearsley
What makes the design and delivery of an online course successful? Many things must be taken into consideration as you are designing and delivering an online course. First, you must study and look for reasons why other online courses are successful. Searching the web for content, tools, objectives, and other information to include in the course will help in establishing the course. Troubleshooting should be prevalent. For things to run smoothly and have a clear focus many things must be considered including: network costs, network software, providers, network connections, and the nature of the work. Without trials and test runs of how to set-up the course and things to include, then the course will not be successful. I think that constant feedback is vital and open waves of communication between faculty/faculty and faculty/student is essential. Ways to improve or begin a course should be discussed with other staff and compared to other sources. The more feedback available, the better the design and development of the class will be.
Week 8 Things to Write
In a dynamic system that is a course there are many roles of the student. Just as the instructor has many things to facilitate, the student has many tasks to complete. Some of these roles that the student must engage in to be successful are: start with a positive attitude, have a determined effort, be consistent, complete all tasks, add extra information as needed, and complete tasks in a timely manner. The role of the student is ever changing. Each course has different: purposes, workloads, expectations, and timelines.
The function of a "know-it-all" in class does have a purpose in the class. Their purpose is the same as everyone else, to complete all tasks and meet all expectations for the course. It is a good habitat to add extra information and ideas, if necessary. The student that seems to know-it-all has boundaries, just as the other students do.
The "teacher's pet" to me, is a student that continually strives to perform and do their best to please the teacher. Being a teacher's pet is not a negative recognition. Every student should strive for excellency and desire to do their best for the teacher. If the desire and the passion to do well in class, is not there, then some students may not have a desire to do their best. Some students perform well and excel because they enjoy seeing good grades, and accomplishment of tasks. However, if some students are not motivated by seeing accomplishments/good grades, then will they be motivated to learn if they are not motivated to please their teacher?
To deal with "front row/back row" dynamics, collaboration is crucial. If there is an ongoing collaboration between the teacher and students, and students with students, then there will be an even distribution of ideas/participation. Communication between all participants in the class, gives everyone an opportunity to share information/ideas and gain new information/ideas. Some students will participate a little, other students too much, and then some students will not participate enough. So what is the key to positive dynamics and equality for students? The key is to continually collaborate and share ideas/information to grow together throughout the course.
The function of a "know-it-all" in class does have a purpose in the class. Their purpose is the same as everyone else, to complete all tasks and meet all expectations for the course. It is a good habitat to add extra information and ideas, if necessary. The student that seems to know-it-all has boundaries, just as the other students do.
The "teacher's pet" to me, is a student that continually strives to perform and do their best to please the teacher. Being a teacher's pet is not a negative recognition. Every student should strive for excellency and desire to do their best for the teacher. If the desire and the passion to do well in class, is not there, then some students may not have a desire to do their best. Some students perform well and excel because they enjoy seeing good grades, and accomplishment of tasks. However, if some students are not motivated by seeing accomplishments/good grades, then will they be motivated to learn if they are not motivated to please their teacher?
To deal with "front row/back row" dynamics, collaboration is crucial. If there is an ongoing collaboration between the teacher and students, and students with students, then there will be an even distribution of ideas/participation. Communication between all participants in the class, gives everyone an opportunity to share information/ideas and gain new information/ideas. Some students will participate a little, other students too much, and then some students will not participate enough. So what is the key to positive dynamics and equality for students? The key is to continually collaborate and share ideas/information to grow together throughout the course.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Story from Gator- Role of the Teacher
Bridge to Learning- the role of the teacher?
Story from gator
Does the teacher affect the learning climate? Yes, I feel that the teacher drives the learning climate of the classroom. I picked an article from OLDaily, (Personal Learning Environments, Vygotsky), to learn more about the impact of the teacher on the learning environment. The Zone of Proximal Development and other theories by Vygotsky are believed to be more important than ever. “Vygotsky believed that learning shouldn’t follow development, but rather should lead it." I am firm believer that students learn by doing; and for a learner to continually grow they must work beyond their capabilities. The teacher should be challenging the student to really think and encourage students to lead their learning.
Personal Learning Environments or PLEs is the idea that the student creates their own virtual space to facilitate their learning. So how do we allow students to reach the top of their ZPD effectively? The article suggests that standardized testing is a hindrance for students. I do agree with this in one sense. Standardized testing can be a stressful experience for students. I think students need to feel pressure and have different challenges of learning content. But putting students in the position, where they either perform well or poor, on a state test, is hindering them from reaching the highest level within their ZPD. Not all students perform well on standardized tests and may even shut down emotionally. The article suggests an ongoing assessment of students progress is necessary. I think a variety of assessment types should be administered throughout the class to differentiate learning for students.
According to the article, technology is underrepresented in schools today. I do agree and strive to incorporate different types of learning through technology. The Smart Board and document camera have had a huge impact upon the way material is presented to students. The learning climate has changed and using technology more, differentiates the way content is taught.
Story from gator
Does the teacher affect the learning climate? Yes, I feel that the teacher drives the learning climate of the classroom. I picked an article from OLDaily, (Personal Learning Environments, Vygotsky), to learn more about the impact of the teacher on the learning environment. The Zone of Proximal Development and other theories by Vygotsky are believed to be more important than ever. “Vygotsky believed that learning shouldn’t follow development, but rather should lead it." I am firm believer that students learn by doing; and for a learner to continually grow they must work beyond their capabilities. The teacher should be challenging the student to really think and encourage students to lead their learning.
Personal Learning Environments or PLEs is the idea that the student creates their own virtual space to facilitate their learning. So how do we allow students to reach the top of their ZPD effectively? The article suggests that standardized testing is a hindrance for students. I do agree with this in one sense. Standardized testing can be a stressful experience for students. I think students need to feel pressure and have different challenges of learning content. But putting students in the position, where they either perform well or poor, on a state test, is hindering them from reaching the highest level within their ZPD. Not all students perform well on standardized tests and may even shut down emotionally. The article suggests an ongoing assessment of students progress is necessary. I think a variety of assessment types should be administered throughout the class to differentiate learning for students.
According to the article, technology is underrepresented in schools today. I do agree and strive to incorporate different types of learning through technology. The Smart Board and document camera have had a huge impact upon the way material is presented to students. The learning climate has changed and using technology more, differentiates the way content is taught.
Teacher Blog- Role of the teacher
Role of the teacher changing?
Teacher-related blog
The role of the teacher is changing in many ways. At Cool Cat Teacher Blog, I found articles correlated with the focus of a flat classroom. This was interesting information to read, about efforts from educators around the globe towards an open model that promotes authentic assessment, project-based learning, differentiated instruction, authentic research, technology skills, and collaboration on a global basis. There is a need for funding and organizations such as Elluminate, are linking up to make this project possible. There are sites to volunteer at for flat classroom projects. I think that the teacher must adapt to new changes and be flexible as they encounter new information. The teacher must study, research, and be a life-long learner in order to share new ideas and have current information for students to process. The teacher must be enthusiastic and passionate about learning new things, and I truly believe that the students will share/take part in the enthusiasm too.
Role of the teacher changing?
Teacher blog- Internet Safety (Cool Cat Teacher Blog)
I came across some internet safety tips to equip students with as they explore cyberspace. The more safety tips and cautioning that students have as they use the internet, the less students will be at risk. The tips included are:
1) Stop
2) Screenshot
3) Block
4) Tell
5) Share
Emphasizing these online safety tips will better equip students with the essential skills they need guard themselves with, as they potentially face many threats, including cyberbullying.
Teacher-related blog
The role of the teacher is changing in many ways. At Cool Cat Teacher Blog, I found articles correlated with the focus of a flat classroom. This was interesting information to read, about efforts from educators around the globe towards an open model that promotes authentic assessment, project-based learning, differentiated instruction, authentic research, technology skills, and collaboration on a global basis. There is a need for funding and organizations such as Elluminate, are linking up to make this project possible. There are sites to volunteer at for flat classroom projects. I think that the teacher must adapt to new changes and be flexible as they encounter new information. The teacher must study, research, and be a life-long learner in order to share new ideas and have current information for students to process. The teacher must be enthusiastic and passionate about learning new things, and I truly believe that the students will share/take part in the enthusiasm too.
Role of the teacher changing?
Teacher blog- Internet Safety (Cool Cat Teacher Blog)
I came across some internet safety tips to equip students with as they explore cyberspace. The more safety tips and cautioning that students have as they use the internet, the less students will be at risk. The tips included are:
1) Stop
2) Screenshot
3) Block
4) Tell
5) Share
Emphasizing these online safety tips will better equip students with the essential skills they need guard themselves with, as they potentially face many threats, including cyberbullying.
Week 7 Things to Write
Role of the teacher?
The role of the teacher encompasses many aspects of facilitating learning. The teacher supplies tools, shares ideas, encourages learning, and models how to complete tasks. Not only is the teacher a facilitator of learning, but a coach too. The teacher determines the expectations and drives the learning climate of the classroom. If there is a classroom full of diverse learners, the teacher must find a way to foster a way for all students to achieve the daily learning goals. Whether your in a classroom, or online teaching, the role of the teacher does not change. Given that while your teaching classes online, you may not meet students face-to-face, it is still crucial to build a positive relationship.
Relationship between teacher and learner?
There should be a positive relationship between the teacher and learner. Without a positive learning climate, the learner or the teacher cannot communicate effectively. It is the teacher’s responsibility to formulate a way to communicate effectively with all students. Every learner has a different level of learning and the teacher must facilitate learning, so that all levels of learning are reached. The student is often motivated by the expectations and methods of communication from the teacher. I can create a positive learning climate in the classroom in minutes, through positive praise. Also, it is not only important to have positive methods of communication, but realistic goals to. All goals and standards must be clear and understandable so students can meet their goals effectively.
Is the role of the teacher imposed or does it arise within you?
I think that the role of the teacher is a choice and you can choose to impose your methods of teaching upon the learner; or you can choose to motivate the learner from the heart. I think that the learner is motivated from the teacher choosing to find the methods and strategies from within them to motivate and drive learning. It is a choice, for how you choose to teach. The students will always strive to learn and please their teacher when they feel the teacher cares and does everything possible to ensure they feel safe. The learner must feel safe and comfortable, knowing they can answer/complete tasks without receiving negative criticism. The teacher sets-up the learning climate, on day 1, and continues to structure the learning climate. It is up to the teacher to have a positive or a negative impact upon the learner.
The role of the teacher encompasses many aspects of facilitating learning. The teacher supplies tools, shares ideas, encourages learning, and models how to complete tasks. Not only is the teacher a facilitator of learning, but a coach too. The teacher determines the expectations and drives the learning climate of the classroom. If there is a classroom full of diverse learners, the teacher must find a way to foster a way for all students to achieve the daily learning goals. Whether your in a classroom, or online teaching, the role of the teacher does not change. Given that while your teaching classes online, you may not meet students face-to-face, it is still crucial to build a positive relationship.
Relationship between teacher and learner?
There should be a positive relationship between the teacher and learner. Without a positive learning climate, the learner or the teacher cannot communicate effectively. It is the teacher’s responsibility to formulate a way to communicate effectively with all students. Every learner has a different level of learning and the teacher must facilitate learning, so that all levels of learning are reached. The student is often motivated by the expectations and methods of communication from the teacher. I can create a positive learning climate in the classroom in minutes, through positive praise. Also, it is not only important to have positive methods of communication, but realistic goals to. All goals and standards must be clear and understandable so students can meet their goals effectively.
Is the role of the teacher imposed or does it arise within you?
I think that the role of the teacher is a choice and you can choose to impose your methods of teaching upon the learner; or you can choose to motivate the learner from the heart. I think that the learner is motivated from the teacher choosing to find the methods and strategies from within them to motivate and drive learning. It is a choice, for how you choose to teach. The students will always strive to learn and please their teacher when they feel the teacher cares and does everything possible to ensure they feel safe. The learner must feel safe and comfortable, knowing they can answer/complete tasks without receiving negative criticism. The teacher sets-up the learning climate, on day 1, and continues to structure the learning climate. It is up to the teacher to have a positive or a negative impact upon the learner.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ch. 6 Kearsley
For online teaching to be effective, you must think about many things including:
- ensure a high level of student interaction/participation
- provide feedcack
- moderate/facilitate student discussions
- mastery of the online environment
- faculty collaboration
I feel that online teaching can be more time consuming than the traditional teaching approach. However, if well organized, the workload will not be so overwhelming. There many advantages and possibilities through distance education. Some of them include:
- community
- shared knowledge
- exploration
- authenticity
- studen-centeredness
- multisensory approach-
- collaboration
- unboundedness
- availability
For me, DE is an amazing opportunity to work and take classes. I love the many options that are available.
- ensure a high level of student interaction/participation
- provide feedcack
- moderate/facilitate student discussions
- mastery of the online environment
- faculty collaboration
I feel that online teaching can be more time consuming than the traditional teaching approach. However, if well organized, the workload will not be so overwhelming. There many advantages and possibilities through distance education. Some of them include:
- community
- shared knowledge
- exploration
- authenticity
- studen-centeredness
- multisensory approach-
- collaboration
- unboundedness
- availability
For me, DE is an amazing opportunity to work and take classes. I love the many options that are available.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Standard and Lesson Plan
Standard/Lesson Plan
To prepare lesson plans, you must first think about what standards you want students to achieve. The content of the lesson’s procedures are focused around the standards. KY Core Content has standards for each grade level that students must meet.
There are many parts to a lesson plan.
Step 1: Gather resources, content, and the curriculum you will be using.
Step 2: Make objectives and goals.
Step 3: Make guiding questions that focus on real-life connections.
Step 4: Learning connections and teaching strategies.
Step 5: Assessment
To ensure that you write a focused lesson plan, you can link to
http://www.ncrtec.org/tl/lp/, for help.
For state standards, visit http://www.academicbenchmarks.com/search/?&state=KY or the KY Department of Education.
There are thousands of free lesson plans online. Using the internet is a great way to find new ways to teach content or to find enrichment activities. Planning lessons can be a very time consuming task. With many places to find resources from, it is not so overwhelming.
To prepare lesson plans, you must first think about what standards you want students to achieve. The content of the lesson’s procedures are focused around the standards. KY Core Content has standards for each grade level that students must meet.
There are many parts to a lesson plan.
Step 1: Gather resources, content, and the curriculum you will be using.
Step 2: Make objectives and goals.
Step 3: Make guiding questions that focus on real-life connections.
Step 4: Learning connections and teaching strategies.
Step 5: Assessment
To ensure that you write a focused lesson plan, you can link to
http://www.ncrtec.org/tl/lp/, for help.
For state standards, visit http://www.academicbenchmarks.com/search/?&state=KY or the KY Department of Education.
There are thousands of free lesson plans online. Using the internet is a great way to find new ways to teach content or to find enrichment activities. Planning lessons can be a very time consuming task. With many places to find resources from, it is not so overwhelming.
Innovate Course Designs
Innovate Course Design
When I googled innovate course design, I found several links to training material.
At the Lost Library of MOO
I found links at sourceforge.net for training materials. Some of the material consisted of software updates, install configuration procedures, and design concepts. Some of the linking sites to find additional training materials or ideas for course design at MOO are:
Links
-Wikispaces, CMS systems, Graphics, message boards, site management, blogging, frameworks
(all of these links can be found under the LambdaMOO Server Source at sourceforge.net site at MOO)
Examples of links:
- Wikispaces- offers open communication and collaboration/ availability for web applications
- Message boards (XOOPS)- a web application platform for developing large and small community websites
When I googled innovate course design, I found several links to training material.
At the Lost Library of MOO
I found links at sourceforge.net for training materials. Some of the material consisted of software updates, install configuration procedures, and design concepts. Some of the linking sites to find additional training materials or ideas for course design at MOO are:
Links
-Wikispaces, CMS systems, Graphics, message boards, site management, blogging, frameworks
(all of these links can be found under the LambdaMOO Server Source at sourceforge.net site at MOO)
Examples of links:
- Wikispaces- offers open communication and collaboration/ availability for web applications
- Message boards (XOOPS)- a web application platform for developing large and small community websites
Monday, September 21, 2009
Week 6 Things to Write
The toolbox has had a tremendous impact, by making me think. I have thought a lot about what tools are essential for a DE class and why they are necessary. They have influenced my choice of design, making my design more focused. I no longer think in generic terms, but focus on what is the most important details to include in my design. I have obtained a great set of tools through this class, that assist me in making the details I include in my design, easier to find. I love so many of the tools and sites that I have explored. It is difficult to choose my favorite.
When designing a course it is important to use many tools. Having a variety of tools to choose from assists you in creating a thorough design. There are many tools that are necessary from both toolboxes. Without these tools it would take longer to research or explore specific topics. When given a topic to write about, you can immediately grab one of the tools that relates to the topic and get busy writing. Without these tools you would be surfing google until you were about to pull your hair out.
The course objectives are a fact of life. Without having these tools, resources, and writings you would not experience any growth. It is important to be equipped with many tools, to become a great writer/thinker. Without using these sites and tools, you would not develop a better understanding of the many facets of learning through technology.
When designing a course it is important to use many tools. Having a variety of tools to choose from assists you in creating a thorough design. There are many tools that are necessary from both toolboxes. Without these tools it would take longer to research or explore specific topics. When given a topic to write about, you can immediately grab one of the tools that relates to the topic and get busy writing. Without these tools you would be surfing google until you were about to pull your hair out.
The course objectives are a fact of life. Without having these tools, resources, and writings you would not experience any growth. It is important to be equipped with many tools, to become a great writer/thinker. Without using these sites and tools, you would not develop a better understanding of the many facets of learning through technology.
Advanced Toolbox
In an advanced toolbox you could include the following resources:
- MUD, MOO, MUSH
- Link to a 3-D virtual world
- Skype, Gizmo, or IM
- Wikispaces
- Elluminate
For me, these resources are extensions of the basic tools in my toolbox. These links are easily accessible with a wealth of information. They offer an extra way not only to find information, but a way to communicate with many others.
- MUD, MOO, MUSH
- Link to a 3-D virtual world
- Skype, Gizmo, or IM
- Wikispaces
- Elluminate
For me, these resources are extensions of the basic tools in my toolbox. These links are easily accessible with a wealth of information. They offer an extra way not only to find information, but a way to communicate with many others.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Ch. 7 Kearsley
Some of the most important factors that I think make an online course successful are having sufficient course documents, content, ample tools, flexibility, usability, and organization. The course documents vital to making the class successful for teacher/student are syllabuses, lesson plans, contact information, and good communication. The tools, content, usability, flexibility, and organization are "ingredients of good-quality online courses." The students, if these factors are all available, should perform well.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Lecture-Ware, Elluminate
Online Learning
When I googled Lecture-Ware many universities came up with speakers giving lectures. Through Eluminate, many online learning sessions for DE and training are possible. There is a benefit to using the Internet while someone lectures. The benefit is to enforce DE and for eLearning and open communication to take place. Synchronous Learning Systems have created new ways of teaching to integrate the real-time traditional classroom with the benefits of online communication and collaboration to reach a variety of learning styles. For students with a disability, it reaches those learners through audiovisual tools. (https://www.elluminate.com/ecc2007/sessions.jsp)
Skype, Gizmo, IM
Skype is a software application used for voice calls over the internet. Skype has experienced rapid growth in popular usage since the launch of its services.
Gizmo can be downloaded and used to send messages over any mobile phone.
Some of the top IM tools were Adium, google talk, iChat, Meebo, Pidgin, Skype, Trillan, and Windows Live Messenger. These tools are used to communicate using instant text messaging, voice, and video calls over the Internet.
3D Virtual Worlds
Virtual Worlds
Active World and Second Life are 3D virtual worlds. Second Life (SL) has brought the term "3-D world" closer to mainstream with millions more or participants this year. The Active Worlds program Active Worlds Educational Universe (AWEDU) incorporates many educational worlds for educators to explore. Second Life (SL) is the most sought after "virtual world" currently and continues to provide an exceptional effort in reaching out to the educational community and providing resources.
3D Virtual Worlds
Virtual Worlds
Active World and Second Life are 3D virtual worlds. Second Life (SL) has brought the term "3-D world" closer to mainstream with millions more or participants this year. The Active Worlds program Active Worlds Educational Universe (AWEDU) incorporates many educational worlds for educators to explore. Second Life (SL) is the most sought after "virtual world" currently and continues to provide an exceptional effort in reaching out to the educational community and providing resources.
Wikispaces
Wikispaces
Wikispaces are a hosting service available for business, educators... Wikis are simple web pages that groups, friends, and families can edit together.
A blog is a website, created mostly by an individual, with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as a video. The difference that I noted between a wiki and blog is that blogs are mostly posts/comments made by an individual and a wiki is a site where an individual posts/comments together with other individuals. I am not sure, but I think this is the main difference. I found my information at (wikipedia).
MOO, MUD, and MUSH
MOO, MUD, and MUSH
MUD is an online gaming network that is a virtual world for players to interact and attain goals like special powers. “Not all MUDs are games; some, more typically those referred to as MOOs, are used in distance education or for virtual conferences.” (wikipedia) MUD offers on-line teaching and learning and allows computer based communication.
MUSH is a text-based social network which allows multiplie users to interact socially.
“A primary feature of MUSH codebases that tends to distinguish it from other multi-user environments is the ability, by default, of any player to extend the world by creating new rooms or objects and specifying their behavior in the MUSH's internal scripting language.” (wikipedia) MUSH offers on-line teaching and learning and allows computer based communication.
MOO is a text-based online virtual world in which multiple users can interact. MOO offers the opportunity for anyone in the world to learn and interact with each other. Teaching and learning can take place through an educational MOO which has tools such as email, newspapers, documents, blackboards, and classrooms to reach all learners.
MUD is an online gaming network that is a virtual world for players to interact and attain goals like special powers. “Not all MUDs are games; some, more typically those referred to as MOOs, are used in distance education or for virtual conferences.” (wikipedia) MUD offers on-line teaching and learning and allows computer based communication.
MUSH is a text-based social network which allows multiplie users to interact socially.
“A primary feature of MUSH codebases that tends to distinguish it from other multi-user environments is the ability, by default, of any player to extend the world by creating new rooms or objects and specifying their behavior in the MUSH's internal scripting language.” (wikipedia) MUSH offers on-line teaching and learning and allows computer based communication.
MOO is a text-based online virtual world in which multiple users can interact. MOO offers the opportunity for anyone in the world to learn and interact with each other. Teaching and learning can take place through an educational MOO which has tools such as email, newspapers, documents, blackboards, and classrooms to reach all learners.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tool to use online and in the classroom
OLDaily source
http://chronicle.com/article/New-E-Textbooks-Do-More-Than/48324/?sid=at&utm_source=at&utm_medium=en
Article Title- New E-Textbooks Do More Than Inform: They'll Even Grade You
The McGraw-Hill publishing company is trying to adopt a new line of e-textbooks. Some of the features of the e-textbook are that they post homework assignments and then grade the homework as it's finished, all online. Professors and students will get the results from the homework quickly. The company is encouraging professors to have students purchase the e-textbook instead of having their own choice of a printed book or an e-textbook. The e-textbook is being designed so that students can jump around easily to find answers to homework or to specific parts of a professor's lecture.
In an online course the e-textbook would be ideal. Professors and students would have an easier task with homework. Students could jump around through chapters more quickly to find answers to homework. Professors could recieve the results of homework scores automatically.
In a classroom based course this e-textbook would not be ideal, unless all students had laptop computers. If everyone had access to a computer then the e-textbook would assist professors and students in saving time on homework. Students could find answers more quickly using an e-textbook and professors would spend less time grading homework.
More information about e-texbooks can be researched at
Inside Higher Ed http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2008/01/03/ebooks.
At this site it discusses the social-networking purposes and the publishers purposes for having e-textbooks.
http://chronicle.com/article/New-E-Textbooks-Do-More-Than/48324/?sid=at&utm_source=at&utm_medium=en
Article Title- New E-Textbooks Do More Than Inform: They'll Even Grade You
The McGraw-Hill publishing company is trying to adopt a new line of e-textbooks. Some of the features of the e-textbook are that they post homework assignments and then grade the homework as it's finished, all online. Professors and students will get the results from the homework quickly. The company is encouraging professors to have students purchase the e-textbook instead of having their own choice of a printed book or an e-textbook. The e-textbook is being designed so that students can jump around easily to find answers to homework or to specific parts of a professor's lecture.
In an online course the e-textbook would be ideal. Professors and students would have an easier task with homework. Students could jump around through chapters more quickly to find answers to homework. Professors could recieve the results of homework scores automatically.
In a classroom based course this e-textbook would not be ideal, unless all students had laptop computers. If everyone had access to a computer then the e-textbook would assist professors and students in saving time on homework. Students could find answers more quickly using an e-textbook and professors would spend less time grading homework.
More information about e-texbooks can be researched at
Inside Higher Ed http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2008/01/03/ebooks.
At this site it discusses the social-networking purposes and the publishers purposes for having e-textbooks.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Lost Library of Moo Article
One of the articles from the Lost Library of Moo was, MUD'S (Multiple user Dimensions) site.
This site was for a MUD Starter Kit and included a general overview of what the program is. I had no clue what this program was, after reviewing the eight user dimensions, I have a general knowledge of it’s uses. MUD has been referred to as a “text-based reality." With MUD you can interact with many users and your environment. It provides a virtual experience where you can communicate commands used in the real-world (like whisper/shout). You can also interact with users using non-verbal communication (like shake hands). There are many rooms you can visit to chat in like an office or castle. Also, there are games to play, most of the options are limited to one central goal (killing). One of the experiences that you can try is MUA’s (Multiple User Adventures) that is an interactive, multi-user computer game. MUA’s can be used to chat with several people all over the world or play a game alone.
This site was for a MUD Starter Kit and included a general overview of what the program is. I had no clue what this program was, after reviewing the eight user dimensions, I have a general knowledge of it’s uses. MUD has been referred to as a “text-based reality." With MUD you can interact with many users and your environment. It provides a virtual experience where you can communicate commands used in the real-world (like whisper/shout). You can also interact with users using non-verbal communication (like shake hands). There are many rooms you can visit to chat in like an office or castle. Also, there are games to play, most of the options are limited to one central goal (killing). One of the experiences that you can try is MUA’s (Multiple User Adventures) that is an interactive, multi-user computer game. MUA’s can be used to chat with several people all over the world or play a game alone.
Basic Toolbox
To teach a course online, some of the tools I would equip students with include:
- a required online reading materials link
- a threaded discussion link
- email and IM addresses
- Tappedin
- OLDaily
- Help Forum
- NSBAs Toolkit link
- Teacher Tap link
- webopedia.com link
- wordpress.com for blog address
-Google.com/view for blog feeder
The email/IM addresses, threaded discussion board, Tapedin, blogs, and help forum are essentials in keeping an open communication line between the instructor/student + student/student. Without these tools, daily communication would have many missed opportunities. These tools allow open discussions at any time of the day. I have used email and the help forum to assist me with several problems I was facing, as I was setting up my blog, gator, and linking addresses to my feeder.
The Tappedin, OLDaily, NSBAs Toolkit link, Teacher Tap link and webopedia.com are essential in learning new concepts or researching information. These sites are very helpful in answering questions that arise with the use/application of technology. I really like the OLDaily site because it allows you to explore current events around the world. The Tappedin site is great too because you can post questions and have discussions with other educators about concerns (as well as contribute ideas or tips).
The online reading materials link provides students one exclusive to site to check for all required readings. Students can check this site for all of the readings they may have to do, in addition to their readings from a textbook. This site can also provide links to games or simulations that students can explore to enhance their own classroom or position as an educator.
These are some of the tools that I think are vital to have in any toolkit for a DE class. Without these tools, there would be a breakdown in communication, as well as, breakdown in professional development.
Many of these sites would not be possible to link to, a decade ago, let alone two years ago. We continue to evolve as educators, adding to our toolboxes, infinite sources of information and possibilities.
- a required online reading materials link
- a threaded discussion link
- email and IM addresses
- Tappedin
- OLDaily
- Help Forum
- NSBAs Toolkit link
- Teacher Tap link
- webopedia.com link
- wordpress.com for blog address
-Google.com/view for blog feeder
The email/IM addresses, threaded discussion board, Tapedin, blogs, and help forum are essentials in keeping an open communication line between the instructor/student + student/student. Without these tools, daily communication would have many missed opportunities. These tools allow open discussions at any time of the day. I have used email and the help forum to assist me with several problems I was facing, as I was setting up my blog, gator, and linking addresses to my feeder.
The Tappedin, OLDaily, NSBAs Toolkit link, Teacher Tap link and webopedia.com are essential in learning new concepts or researching information. These sites are very helpful in answering questions that arise with the use/application of technology. I really like the OLDaily site because it allows you to explore current events around the world. The Tappedin site is great too because you can post questions and have discussions with other educators about concerns (as well as contribute ideas or tips).
The online reading materials link provides students one exclusive to site to check for all required readings. Students can check this site for all of the readings they may have to do, in addition to their readings from a textbook. This site can also provide links to games or simulations that students can explore to enhance their own classroom or position as an educator.
These are some of the tools that I think are vital to have in any toolkit for a DE class. Without these tools, there would be a breakdown in communication, as well as, breakdown in professional development.
Many of these sites would not be possible to link to, a decade ago, let alone two years ago. We continue to evolve as educators, adding to our toolboxes, infinite sources of information and possibilities.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Week 3 Class Critique
I feel really good about taking this class and that I am learning a lot.
I do also feel pretty stupid sometimes too. I am not technologically savvy. I did not have a blog and had no clue how to add other blogs to a feeder. I do now though and love it!!! I really enjoy reading about others' thoughts of DE and how it applies to their lives. I was very nervous in the beginning of taking this course and setting up the programs. Now, I really am excitied about this course and all of the infinite resources that abound. I have begun to use many of the sites in my classroom. It is nice to know anytime I am struggling with teaching a concept, a discipline problem (or whatever else) there are resources that I can turn to. I explored tappedin and viewed others thoughts about fieldtrips, classroom management and so on. I am feeling more comfortable and confident with the knowledge I am gaining through this class. ANY TOOLS or equipment I can add to my professional development is only beneficial to me.
I do also feel pretty stupid sometimes too. I am not technologically savvy. I did not have a blog and had no clue how to add other blogs to a feeder. I do now though and love it!!! I really enjoy reading about others' thoughts of DE and how it applies to their lives. I was very nervous in the beginning of taking this course and setting up the programs. Now, I really am excitied about this course and all of the infinite resources that abound. I have begun to use many of the sites in my classroom. It is nice to know anytime I am struggling with teaching a concept, a discipline problem (or whatever else) there are resources that I can turn to. I explored tappedin and viewed others thoughts about fieldtrips, classroom management and so on. I am feeling more comfortable and confident with the knowledge I am gaining through this class. ANY TOOLS or equipment I can add to my professional development is only beneficial to me.
Week 3 Is DE for everyone? Pros/Cons
Is DE for everyone?
Distance Education is for everyone and there are vast opportunities that exist. Some of the opportunities for me are that I can learn and take classes while I have a full-time job. It is an amazing opportunity for me. I would not be able to take evening classes because of my job/taking care of my family. As an educator, there are many sites that I have discovered are wonderful tools to utilize in my classroom. I really like the Tappedin site and how you can post questions and receive many responses back. I like the OLDaily site and the informative articles that can be found there. I found a site to use at OLDaily with games that my students would like.
Pros/Cons of DE
For me, there are only really advantages, I will use DE often in my practice as an educator. Collaborating with others to share ideas is a huge benefit for me, as well as finding new sites to incorporate into my curriculum. I will continue to use DE in my practice even after I take this class because as an educator, you are a lifelong learner. I continually learn and apply new things in my classroom that I am learning from my online courses this semester. The only disadvantages of DE that I experienced were not knowing how to set up a blog/feeder/use tappedin properly (thats all ha-ha). These are all mistakes that I could fix and learn from though.
Distance Education is for everyone and there are vast opportunities that exist. Some of the opportunities for me are that I can learn and take classes while I have a full-time job. It is an amazing opportunity for me. I would not be able to take evening classes because of my job/taking care of my family. As an educator, there are many sites that I have discovered are wonderful tools to utilize in my classroom. I really like the Tappedin site and how you can post questions and receive many responses back. I like the OLDaily site and the informative articles that can be found there. I found a site to use at OLDaily with games that my students would like.
Pros/Cons of DE
For me, there are only really advantages, I will use DE often in my practice as an educator. Collaborating with others to share ideas is a huge benefit for me, as well as finding new sites to incorporate into my curriculum. I will continue to use DE in my practice even after I take this class because as an educator, you are a lifelong learner. I continually learn and apply new things in my classroom that I am learning from my online courses this semester. The only disadvantages of DE that I experienced were not knowing how to set up a blog/feeder/use tappedin properly (thats all ha-ha). These are all mistakes that I could fix and learn from though.
Ch. 3 Kearsley
Ch. 3 Kearsley
Kearsley states that email is the foundation for all forms of online learning and teaching. Through email, you can post and respond to questions in a quick and timely manner. I have found that it is much faster to communicate with most people through email, than by phone. Most people check their email much more throughout the day than any phone messages they may have.
According to Kearsley, the second most commonly used capability for online education is a threaded discussion system. I enjoy using the threaded discussion board this semester because it is an open communication line with your instructor and all the other students taking the class. It is interesting to read the comments posted by others. I especially like the Help Forum under the discussion board because I found a couple of feed addresses that I was unable to find on my own. I really needed the help setting up most of the programs for this class because they are new to me.
Kearsley states that in most school settings, students rarely get enough opportunity to practice skills or knowledge they learn. I completely agree with this theory. The typical school day in my classroom is full of concepts to be learned, but limited amounts of time to teach most days. According to Kearsley, computer simulations can change this situation significantly. I am looking forward to offering students the availability of online simulations in science especially. I want to find more science simulations of investigations/projects to use with each of my core content areas.
Kearsley states that email is the foundation for all forms of online learning and teaching. Through email, you can post and respond to questions in a quick and timely manner. I have found that it is much faster to communicate with most people through email, than by phone. Most people check their email much more throughout the day than any phone messages they may have.
According to Kearsley, the second most commonly used capability for online education is a threaded discussion system. I enjoy using the threaded discussion board this semester because it is an open communication line with your instructor and all the other students taking the class. It is interesting to read the comments posted by others. I especially like the Help Forum under the discussion board because I found a couple of feed addresses that I was unable to find on my own. I really needed the help setting up most of the programs for this class because they are new to me.
Kearsley states that in most school settings, students rarely get enough opportunity to practice skills or knowledge they learn. I completely agree with this theory. The typical school day in my classroom is full of concepts to be learned, but limited amounts of time to teach most days. According to Kearsley, computer simulations can change this situation significantly. I am looking forward to offering students the availability of online simulations in science especially. I want to find more science simulations of investigations/projects to use with each of my core content areas.
Ch. 2 Kearsley
Ch. 2 Kearsley
According to Kearsley, school and college systems with many locations in region or state are likely to lease high-speed data communication lines using fiber optics. The communication lines that we have the opportunity to use in technology today are amazing. Even at the elementary level, students are using email, messaging, and many online activity sites to communicate through. Email is an amazing tool that I use in the Kidbiz3000 program I teach. Students read articles and complete activties/thought questions/poll votes after reading. The last thing students can do with this program is respond to an email question. My students love emailing and voicing thier opinions.
Kearsley states, that luckily most educators need little understanding of infrastructure to engage in online teaching. I am happy that I have made it this far in setting up and utilizing the programs within this class. I feel like I am learning a lot and sometimes wish I was more savvy with these programs.
Kearsley states that the major value of Internet is to provide a gigantic online library system. Students are not limited to resources in the classroom/school library, but have infinite amounts of resources at their fingertips. I am motivating students in my classroom to read, through an interactive solar system bulletin board and students use the internet with this activity. As students get to research various planet facts, they are excited and enthusiastic about learning.
According to Kearsley, school and college systems with many locations in region or state are likely to lease high-speed data communication lines using fiber optics. The communication lines that we have the opportunity to use in technology today are amazing. Even at the elementary level, students are using email, messaging, and many online activity sites to communicate through. Email is an amazing tool that I use in the Kidbiz3000 program I teach. Students read articles and complete activties/thought questions/poll votes after reading. The last thing students can do with this program is respond to an email question. My students love emailing and voicing thier opinions.
Kearsley states, that luckily most educators need little understanding of infrastructure to engage in online teaching. I am happy that I have made it this far in setting up and utilizing the programs within this class. I feel like I am learning a lot and sometimes wish I was more savvy with these programs.
Kearsley states that the major value of Internet is to provide a gigantic online library system. Students are not limited to resources in the classroom/school library, but have infinite amounts of resources at their fingertips. I am motivating students in my classroom to read, through an interactive solar system bulletin board and students use the internet with this activity. As students get to research various planet facts, they are excited and enthusiastic about learning.
Ch. 1 Kearsley
Ch. 1 Kearsley
Online Education has many benefits for students and teachers. According to Kearsley, the biggest single change that online education brings about is an increased tendency toward collaboration among students and teachers. I am looking forward to the collaboration of ideas and thoughts that can enhance my classroom. Through the establishment of blog addresses, I have already discovered many useful websites to use as learning tools with my students. Kearsley states that, online education involves levels of connectivity, community, and knowledge sharing that are rarely seen in school settings. I enjoy hearing about other students' perspectives of what Distance Education is and how it can be applied to positively impact education.
I work with young children on a daily basis, so what is the purpose of games for young children? Kearsley suggests that young children love to explore, and online classes often use this approach. Learning can be made to be more exciting for children through the application of games and multimedia technology. I am looking forward to enhancing my third grade curriculum with new games and videos that will make learning daily concepts entertaining and fun.
Online Education has many benefits for students and teachers. According to Kearsley, the biggest single change that online education brings about is an increased tendency toward collaboration among students and teachers. I am looking forward to the collaboration of ideas and thoughts that can enhance my classroom. Through the establishment of blog addresses, I have already discovered many useful websites to use as learning tools with my students. Kearsley states that, online education involves levels of connectivity, community, and knowledge sharing that are rarely seen in school settings. I enjoy hearing about other students' perspectives of what Distance Education is and how it can be applied to positively impact education.
I work with young children on a daily basis, so what is the purpose of games for young children? Kearsley suggests that young children love to explore, and online classes often use this approach. Learning can be made to be more exciting for children through the application of games and multimedia technology. I am looking forward to enhancing my third grade curriculum with new games and videos that will make learning daily concepts entertaining and fun.
About Me
I teach third grade and love technology. I hope to become a better teacher by taking this class. I would like access to more resources and information that I could incorporate into my classroom. I hope to collaborate with other individuals and share ideas to find more tricks/tips to teach with. I hope to utilize the ideas/structure from this classroom, to make learning more interesting for my students.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Story from Gator
The story I chose to reflect on this week was from OLDaily "Kid's Page" (www.cia.gov/kids-page/). The article was informative and is something I could incorporate into my third grade classroom. Some of the concepts I teach in Social Studies are government, laws, and safety. This article could inform children about the CIA and how they protect us. I think that this would be an interesting subject to talk about with my students.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tapped-in "Tips and Tricks Tour"
The "Tips and Tricks Tour" took some time for me to understand. I really like the collaboration and exchange of ideas that can be gained from this tour. This site is informative and can be of assistance when questions arise and then there is someone who can advise and give tips.
Week 2 Technology flood
There was much less stress this week. I was able to enjoy mostly every assignment now that I have everything up and running.
OLDaily Story
The OLDaily is an interesting site to visit and I enjoyed reading the articles. I chose to reflect on the Learning4Content Project which is a funder that I would like to check into. I teach at a Title 1 school district. Title 1 was cut drastically this year and any additional projects or funding that can be added to our school district would only have a positive impact on the success/growth of students. Reports conclude that the project has already exceeded it's target for educators.
Citation- Learning4Content project Stephen's Web ~ OLDaily
Citation- Learning4Content project Stephen's Web ~ OLDaily
Week 1 was confusing, but informative
Week 1 was hectic and unsettling for me because I have never used many of the programs/services that we had to familiarize ourselves with. However, I am enjoying all of these new avenues in Technology and learning about many new things to use in my classroom.
Week 2 Do we all agree on what Distance Education is?
I really enjoyed reading other ideas of what Distance Education is. I am in complete aggreement that it is a fantastic approach to teaching/learning. When you have a job, family, schooling, and daily chores there is no time/energy left over to commute to evening classes at a campus. At the end of the day, all you need is a computer and your set for your class work. It is nice to see that others have such a postive belief of the benefits that Distance Education encompasses.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Distance Education
Distance Education focuses on connecting learners and teachers through a unique way of communication. Students who may not be able to attend classes physically, still have the opportunity to create a positive educational experience that best suits their needs. Students use a unique and special way of communication by electronic and administrative arrangements. Rather than using traditional teaching methods, students are extending learning through locations away from the classroom with computer technologies and other methods of communication.
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