Ed 422A has been quite an experience for me. Prior to starting this class I thought I had a pretty good grip on the computer. That was short lived. I soon discovered how limited my abilities were and was thrown immediately into confusion. I barely know I use a PC but when we started using a MAC I knew I was in trouble. However, overtime and with compassion and help from several students and Mr. Jeff Heil , our instructor, I was able to struggle through and actually began to get somewhat comfortable. This is not to say I became over confident and thoroughly knowledgeable but at least I was able ( albeit –very late) to complete the assignments.
The information I have gained in this class has been very valuable and I know whether I ever get to use it in a classroom or not I will use this in knowledge in my everyday life. Word is a very valuable program to me. Learning to use word art, create text boxes, and place clip art will add some fun and creativity to letters. Learning about bookmarking and the website Delicious.com will come in handy and knowing about it allow me to access favorite websites wherever I am. The blogging section has opened up avenues for discussion for me and I can create a blog to display my wifes artwork. She has been wondering how to do this for sometime.
Perhaps my favorite was learning to use Power Point. I have been substituting in high schools and already I have been able to apply my gained knowledge in Power Point when a teacher left her lesson plans in a Power Point format. Although it took me forever ( as you know) to create my presentation it was the subject I enjoyed most. I can see how useful this can be in a classroom and/or in a business situation. Power Point can make for a more interesting and enjoyable experience for the presenter and for the audience. I will use this tool most.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Journal 05
Christensen & Horn , C (2008).Disrupting Class: Student-Centric Education Is the Future. Edutopia. August 08,
The article “Disrupting Class “ explains that “…the key to transforming the classroom with technology is in how it is implemented.” The mere presence of computers in a classroom does not always mean learning is going on. Typical computer applications are not always beneficial or understood by learners but “… a disruptive innovation extends its benefits to people who, for one reason or another, are unable to consume the original product…” Disruptive Innovations is defined as a product ( e.g. computer application) “…that is not as good as that which companies are already selling..” but “..take root in simple, undemanding applications..” and because of their simplicity benefit more people who were unable to “…consume the original product-so called non-consumers.” Since disruptive innovations is simpler it can be used to better “…implement computer-based learning in a way that transforms the classroom into a student-centric one…”
At first this article appeared nonsensical to me. How can disrupting a class be the future of education. Upon reading further I began to understand that “Disrupting Class” meant companies often accidental development of simpler computer products often not as good as the original may “… implement computer based learning in a way that transforms the classroom into a student- centric one…” These disruptive innovations can
improve the way “…students learn.”
1. Is computer based learning as reliable as classroom instruction?
This may depend on the students themselves. As there are different modes of learning( e.g. tactile, audio, visual.. etc.) the computer alone may not offer the best learning method for a student. It certainly can be another tool but many students would like actual teacher-student contact. Perhaps a combination of the two would better serve a students learning environment.
2. Would smaller classes be more beneficial to the “ non-consumers”?
Online learning is an innovative instructional method but to really reach those “non-consumers” I believe an actual classroom with lower teacher-student ratios
could be more beneficial. Individual attention with immediate teacher-student feedback , I believe, is the most effective method of instruction. Primarily this would apply to grades K-12. College level students , however, should be able to
manage Online Instruction without difficulty.
The article “Disrupting Class “ explains that “…the key to transforming the classroom with technology is in how it is implemented.” The mere presence of computers in a classroom does not always mean learning is going on. Typical computer applications are not always beneficial or understood by learners but “… a disruptive innovation extends its benefits to people who, for one reason or another, are unable to consume the original product…” Disruptive Innovations is defined as a product ( e.g. computer application) “…that is not as good as that which companies are already selling..” but “..take root in simple, undemanding applications..” and because of their simplicity benefit more people who were unable to “…consume the original product-so called non-consumers.” Since disruptive innovations is simpler it can be used to better “…implement computer-based learning in a way that transforms the classroom into a student-centric one…”
At first this article appeared nonsensical to me. How can disrupting a class be the future of education. Upon reading further I began to understand that “Disrupting Class” meant companies often accidental development of simpler computer products often not as good as the original may “… implement computer based learning in a way that transforms the classroom into a student- centric one…” These disruptive innovations can
improve the way “…students learn.”
1. Is computer based learning as reliable as classroom instruction?
This may depend on the students themselves. As there are different modes of learning( e.g. tactile, audio, visual.. etc.) the computer alone may not offer the best learning method for a student. It certainly can be another tool but many students would like actual teacher-student contact. Perhaps a combination of the two would better serve a students learning environment.
2. Would smaller classes be more beneficial to the “ non-consumers”?
Online learning is an innovative instructional method but to really reach those “non-consumers” I believe an actual classroom with lower teacher-student ratios
could be more beneficial. Individual attention with immediate teacher-student feedback , I believe, is the most effective method of instruction. Primarily this would apply to grades K-12. College level students , however, should be able to
manage Online Instruction without difficulty.
Journal 04
Villano , M (2008).Text Unto Others..As You Would Have Them Text Unto You. The Journal . Sept 2008
Being a responsible citizen can be epitomized by the Golden Rule: Treat others, as you want to be treated. Mr.Villano’s article carry’s this intention into the new world of virtual
reality. As in the real world we know it is better to be cooperative, to be tolerant and treat others with respect. Today more students are spending their time in the virtual world and “...school districts are starting to acknowledge a new collective responsibility: to teach kids what it means to be a good digital citizen and how to go about being one.” There are 9 elements discussed “... which combine to constitute good digital citizenship”: Etiquette, Communication, Literacy, Access, Commerce, Law, Rights and Responsibilities, Health and Wellness and Security.
It would seem apparent that anyone participating in “virtual realty” would have the common sense to treat people with respect, act with common courtesy and understand that ”...if something isn’t yours, don’t take it. If you aren’t sure, err on the side of caution.” However, as in the real world, social conduct must be taught for the virtual world and there must be consequences if violations occur. We all would like to enjoy and feel safe in the real world as well as the virtual world.
1. Is the immediate family more responsible for teaching social conduct in the virtual world?
The immediate family is the first line of defense for social behavior whether it be in the real world or virtual world. A responsible parent would understand their obligations to society as to their own conduct and to their child’s conduct. Many parents are not acquainted with this virtual world but they can learn it. Life is a continuum of education. However, we know there are irresponsible parents. Consequently, in that instance the community can serve as an adjunct (e.g. schools) to assist in developing a child/student’s social conduct and behavior.
It may take more than the parent.
2. How can Educators in the classroom be of assistance?
Teachers can establish protocols in there own classroom as to when electronic devices can be used. Is it appropriate for students to listen to music
when taking a test? Text messaging in class? Talking on cell phones? Using a laptop computer in class to take notes? Educators must have rules of behavior. They can be flexible but there must be guidance and appropriate behavioral
conduct that serves the class.
Being a responsible citizen can be epitomized by the Golden Rule: Treat others, as you want to be treated. Mr.Villano’s article carry’s this intention into the new world of virtual
reality. As in the real world we know it is better to be cooperative, to be tolerant and treat others with respect. Today more students are spending their time in the virtual world and “...school districts are starting to acknowledge a new collective responsibility: to teach kids what it means to be a good digital citizen and how to go about being one.” There are 9 elements discussed “... which combine to constitute good digital citizenship”: Etiquette, Communication, Literacy, Access, Commerce, Law, Rights and Responsibilities, Health and Wellness and Security.
It would seem apparent that anyone participating in “virtual realty” would have the common sense to treat people with respect, act with common courtesy and understand that ”...if something isn’t yours, don’t take it. If you aren’t sure, err on the side of caution.” However, as in the real world, social conduct must be taught for the virtual world and there must be consequences if violations occur. We all would like to enjoy and feel safe in the real world as well as the virtual world.
1. Is the immediate family more responsible for teaching social conduct in the virtual world?
The immediate family is the first line of defense for social behavior whether it be in the real world or virtual world. A responsible parent would understand their obligations to society as to their own conduct and to their child’s conduct. Many parents are not acquainted with this virtual world but they can learn it. Life is a continuum of education. However, we know there are irresponsible parents. Consequently, in that instance the community can serve as an adjunct (e.g. schools) to assist in developing a child/student’s social conduct and behavior.
It may take more than the parent.
2. How can Educators in the classroom be of assistance?
Teachers can establish protocols in there own classroom as to when electronic devices can be used. Is it appropriate for students to listen to music
when taking a test? Text messaging in class? Talking on cell phones? Using a laptop computer in class to take notes? Educators must have rules of behavior. They can be flexible but there must be guidance and appropriate behavioral
conduct that serves the class.
Journal 03
Greenhow, C (2008).Who Are Today's Learners? Learning & Leading. Sept/Oct 2008, 12-15.
What engages Middle Grade Students to achieve in school and how do they view technology? A random sample of approximately 4000 North Carolina middle-school students who participated in a “...statewide after-school program...” was conducted to determine what they liked best in school. After answering questions “..about technology conditions, skills, and use for communication, collaboration, productivity, and entertainment…” it was found the majority of students were proficient in word processing , spreadsheets and Power Point and “…ranked using computers and doing internet research as the school activities they liked best.” Students made several suggestions to Educators which included a need for more technologies for learning, more portable technologies as wireless connectivity and “…loosening up some of the technology restrictions.”
The education field has conducted extensive research in the fields of learning and teaching technique. One reliable research activity appears to be staring Educators right in the face; asking the students themselves. Today’s students are comfortable and very proficient with technology. Technology is a means to connecting and reaching them.
1. Are students technology interests to narrow and limited?
It doesn’t matter whether or not a students technology interests are to narrow
( e.g. iphone, emailing….etc) or not they still have the feel and interest in technology. Throughout their schooling career students have been exposed to technology and have developed a propensity for it. It is not so foreign to them that they would be afraid to attempt new adventures.
2. Who really are today’s learners?
Although students have a ways to go in learning about the world I am definitely still learning about technology. I may have some knowledge but I am very limited. To catch up to them in using text messaging, social networks, gaming it
is I who am the true learner. I, myself, must put more effort into this if not more than today’s middle or high school students.
What engages Middle Grade Students to achieve in school and how do they view technology? A random sample of approximately 4000 North Carolina middle-school students who participated in a “...statewide after-school program...” was conducted to determine what they liked best in school. After answering questions “..about technology conditions, skills, and use for communication, collaboration, productivity, and entertainment…” it was found the majority of students were proficient in word processing , spreadsheets and Power Point and “…ranked using computers and doing internet research as the school activities they liked best.” Students made several suggestions to Educators which included a need for more technologies for learning, more portable technologies as wireless connectivity and “…loosening up some of the technology restrictions.”
The education field has conducted extensive research in the fields of learning and teaching technique. One reliable research activity appears to be staring Educators right in the face; asking the students themselves. Today’s students are comfortable and very proficient with technology. Technology is a means to connecting and reaching them.
1. Are students technology interests to narrow and limited?
It doesn’t matter whether or not a students technology interests are to narrow
( e.g. iphone, emailing….etc) or not they still have the feel and interest in technology. Throughout their schooling career students have been exposed to technology and have developed a propensity for it. It is not so foreign to them that they would be afraid to attempt new adventures.
2. Who really are today’s learners?
Although students have a ways to go in learning about the world I am definitely still learning about technology. I may have some knowledge but I am very limited. To catch up to them in using text messaging, social networks, gaming it
is I who am the true learner. I, myself, must put more effort into this if not more than today’s middle or high school students.
Journal #2
Groff & Haas, J (2008).WEB 2.0 Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning . Learning & Leading. Sept/Oct 2008, 12-15.
The computer has tremendous potential to be a teaching and learning tool. The younger generation (e.g. 18 years and younger) is very adept at using the computer for fun and games as for Social Networking , Simulations and Digital Games. Consequently, the critical question for Educators is “How can I tap into this interest and apply it to teaching and learning?” A logical step is for the Educator to explore these computer applications, learn how to use them and devise connections between the student’s interest and academic education.
Through the availability of computer applications like NING, Starlogo TNG, Explore Science and games like Diplomacy and in conjunction with knowledgeable colleagues Educators can learn to connect with their students on their level . Per Fitzgerald and Scheintaub “..students gain deeper conceptual knowledge, and they understand the content better.” An Educator would bring a “highly engaging “ technology which would be student-friendly. Scheintaub stated “ by bringing school into the modern era ,they like it and relate to it.”
The computer offer’s both pro’s and con’s . With proper “netiquette” there can be no greater learning tool but by abusing time with the computer, like the television, it can be a time waster and detriment to actual learning.
1. How can I tap into students computer interests and apply it to teaching and learning?
One of the first questions an educator might ask of a student is “ What do you use the computer for?” By discovering the students interests an educator can then begin learning the applications and seek out advice from computer resource personnel to begin to learn possible applications. An Educator can utilize what is already available and working for other educators.
2. What computer application could easily be used now?
One of the less complicated application could be Windows Power Point. An Educator could provide notes and additional examples and subject support on a Power Point presentation placed on a blog or school website accessible by students. A Frequent Question and Answers category could be setup so students could ask questions but other students could answer the questions for extra credit.
.
The computer has tremendous potential to be a teaching and learning tool. The younger generation (e.g. 18 years and younger) is very adept at using the computer for fun and games as for Social Networking , Simulations and Digital Games. Consequently, the critical question for Educators is “How can I tap into this interest and apply it to teaching and learning?” A logical step is for the Educator to explore these computer applications, learn how to use them and devise connections between the student’s interest and academic education.
Through the availability of computer applications like NING, Starlogo TNG, Explore Science and games like Diplomacy and in conjunction with knowledgeable colleagues Educators can learn to connect with their students on their level . Per Fitzgerald and Scheintaub “..students gain deeper conceptual knowledge, and they understand the content better.” An Educator would bring a “highly engaging “ technology which would be student-friendly. Scheintaub stated “ by bringing school into the modern era ,they like it and relate to it.”
The computer offer’s both pro’s and con’s . With proper “netiquette” there can be no greater learning tool but by abusing time with the computer, like the television, it can be a time waster and detriment to actual learning.
1. How can I tap into students computer interests and apply it to teaching and learning?
One of the first questions an educator might ask of a student is “ What do you use the computer for?” By discovering the students interests an educator can then begin learning the applications and seek out advice from computer resource personnel to begin to learn possible applications. An Educator can utilize what is already available and working for other educators.
2. What computer application could easily be used now?
One of the less complicated application could be Windows Power Point. An Educator could provide notes and additional examples and subject support on a Power Point presentation placed on a blog or school website accessible by students. A Frequent Question and Answers category could be setup so students could ask questions but other students could answer the questions for extra credit.
.
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