Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009
Attendance and Participation 422B
The 422 classes have been a great experience for me. I started as a real neophyte but have expanded my computer knowledge greatly. In reading the journals in 422b I am amazed at what teachers are doing in the classroom with the computer and the many mind-blowing software programs available for educational purposes. I still consider myself a neophyte but maybe as a Level 2 neophyte. I sense there are an infinite number of levels but as long as I can keep plodding along experimenting with programs, practicing what I have learned in the 422 classes and continuing to subscribe to organizations like Edutopia,ISTE and others I may make some valuable progress.
Working with a MAC has been a pleasurable experience. The MAC seems to be very “educationally adept” and it’s myriad of programs are exceptional. My wife had been considering purchasing a MAC for over 2 years and finally decided to make the “cut” from the PC. Although I still use the PC I was very happy she did this because I discovered the IMOVIE program. Learning to use the IMOVIE program was my favorite
portion of the class. The information, software applications and collaborative tools explored in the 422 class were fantastic but the IMOVIE gave me the most satisfaction. I was unable to complete the IMOVIE project in class using the IMOVIE 4 (?) program so attempted to learn the IMOVIE program on my wife’s computer which was IMOVIE 6. This did take me 15-20 hours to figure out but finally I was able to piece together a 1 minute video. The completion and submission of this 1 minute video project gave me a great feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. The 15+ hours was worth it. I will be using this program not only for professional use but for personal use. I know I still have a long road to hoe in becoming proficient at it but I know it will be fun.
Working with a MAC has been a pleasurable experience. The MAC seems to be very “educationally adept” and it’s myriad of programs are exceptional. My wife had been considering purchasing a MAC for over 2 years and finally decided to make the “cut” from the PC. Although I still use the PC I was very happy she did this because I discovered the IMOVIE program. Learning to use the IMOVIE program was my favorite
portion of the class. The information, software applications and collaborative tools explored in the 422 class were fantastic but the IMOVIE gave me the most satisfaction. I was unable to complete the IMOVIE project in class using the IMOVIE 4 (?) program so attempted to learn the IMOVIE program on my wife’s computer which was IMOVIE 6. This did take me 15-20 hours to figure out but finally I was able to piece together a 1 minute video. The completion and submission of this 1 minute video project gave me a great feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. The 15+ hours was worth it. I will be using this program not only for professional use but for personal use. I know I still have a long road to hoe in becoming proficient at it but I know it will be fun.
JOURNAL 10 Making History
Shein, Esther (October 2008). Making History. The Journal, Retrieved 12/19/2008, from http://www.thejournal.com/articles/23394
The author brilliantly discusses through anecdotes how the “..use of collaborative, technology-infused project-based learning…” can improve textbook teaching and
“…incorporating technology use creates a more powerful learning experience than a standard lecture can provide….” Jennifer Dorman’s class utilizing the Discovery Education Streaming and PowerMedia Plus were able to create authentic World War II podcasts “…that placed them in the midst of pivotal moments in…World War II …” The students reenacted radio reports from that era through streaming audio files as speeches, music and video supplied by Discovery Education. Audacity , an open source media program enabled students mix and edit the Discovery data to place themselves into the World War II scenes. This was a very effective tool providing motivation and students creativity. Capsim Management Simulations provided Ms.Fuesz business class with computer-based business simulations and games that increased their creativity, improved their tolerance to listen to each other and problem solving abilities. Ms. Fuesz and the students “…came away with a strong understanding of how collaborative projects and the use of technology can dramatically charge up the learning process.” Janet Fisher, a retired business teacher, wanted to engage her students in “… real-life marketing projects…” so enlisted the help of Mead Map, a software which provides “… away to logically structure….research notes, arguments, and information… “ into collaborative projects. Computer-project based collaborative learning is a technology to be reckoned with. It may not take the place of actual teachers but is very “…engaging and current for students.” I would definitely incorporate this project-based technology in a class. The business programs would adapt to math instruction easily and in addition to providing math practice it could be shown to be very relevant. Collaborative activities would augment student cooperative learning and socialization.
QUESTIONS:
1. Did this article enlighten me or confuse me more?
I can’t believe how innovative teachers can be and inventive private business is. It is wonderful to read about what curious and progressive teachers can do to help themselves and improve their students learning.I didn’t even have an inkling that this type of software was available.It pays to study and read.
2. What will they think of next?
I guess one can only say “ the sky is the limit.” To be involved in education is to be on the cutting edge of technology. Even as old as I am the younger generation (anyone younger than myself) always seem to be the seekers and risk takers
(shoveling out $400 for an IPOD!!).I know it will get even more interesting as time goes by and I hope I am in the game.
The author brilliantly discusses through anecdotes how the “..use of collaborative, technology-infused project-based learning…” can improve textbook teaching and
“…incorporating technology use creates a more powerful learning experience than a standard lecture can provide….” Jennifer Dorman’s class utilizing the Discovery Education Streaming and PowerMedia Plus were able to create authentic World War II podcasts “…that placed them in the midst of pivotal moments in…World War II …” The students reenacted radio reports from that era through streaming audio files as speeches, music and video supplied by Discovery Education. Audacity , an open source media program enabled students mix and edit the Discovery data to place themselves into the World War II scenes. This was a very effective tool providing motivation and students creativity. Capsim Management Simulations provided Ms.Fuesz business class with computer-based business simulations and games that increased their creativity, improved their tolerance to listen to each other and problem solving abilities. Ms. Fuesz and the students “…came away with a strong understanding of how collaborative projects and the use of technology can dramatically charge up the learning process.” Janet Fisher, a retired business teacher, wanted to engage her students in “… real-life marketing projects…” so enlisted the help of Mead Map, a software which provides “… away to logically structure….research notes, arguments, and information… “ into collaborative projects. Computer-project based collaborative learning is a technology to be reckoned with. It may not take the place of actual teachers but is very “…engaging and current for students.” I would definitely incorporate this project-based technology in a class. The business programs would adapt to math instruction easily and in addition to providing math practice it could be shown to be very relevant. Collaborative activities would augment student cooperative learning and socialization.
QUESTIONS:
1. Did this article enlighten me or confuse me more?
I can’t believe how innovative teachers can be and inventive private business is. It is wonderful to read about what curious and progressive teachers can do to help themselves and improve their students learning.I didn’t even have an inkling that this type of software was available.It pays to study and read.
2. What will they think of next?
I guess one can only say “ the sky is the limit.” To be involved in education is to be on the cutting edge of technology. Even as old as I am the younger generation (anyone younger than myself) always seem to be the seekers and risk takers
(shoveling out $400 for an IPOD!!).I know it will get even more interesting as time goes by and I hope I am in the game.
JOURNAL 09 "5" Common Mistakes in Using Blogs with Students
Reynard, PH.D., Ruth (October 2008). Avoiding the 5 Most Common Mistakes in Using Blogs with Students. The Journal, Retrieved 12/19/2008, from http://www.the journal.com/articles/23434
The author believes in the use of technology to enhance students “learning outcomes” and in this article focuses on blogging. Implementing and integrating blogging or any “learning resource” into an “ overall course design “ is important. There is no “ one-way” to incorporate blogging but “careful planning and skill management” must be addressed. Online instructors must be very clear in their blog use, how they will accomplish “…student learning needs and objectives”, and how they will evaluate student work. Five (5) common mistakes are discussed “ …that should be avoided when using blogs in instruction.” The first is Ineffective Contextualization that asserts the inability of the instructor to connect the blogging activity with any instructional content. There “…must be a certain amount of content preparation already covered…to support the blogging activity.” The second mistake is the blog has an Unclear Learning Outcome. The instructor becomes more focused on a course objective rather than utilizing the blog to “...develop new higher level thinking skills.” A third mistake is Misuse of Environment. The blog offers a specific type of environment which is “…intended to be an individual publication...”, otherwise, for the student. The environment is not a wiki or a forum for online discussion. The fourth mistake involves Illusive Grading Practices whereby the instructor does not make clear how a student will be evaluated. The fifth mistake is Inadequate Time Allocation. Students are “ …different in their processing times within any learning context…” and the instructor should allow students ample time to maximize the blog tool. Technology offers instructors many excellent tools to deliver an effective educational experience to students. Blogging is only one example of how technology can be beneficial to education but as communicated by the author planning and management of these tools is essential. I am convinced technology offers instructors an immense opportunity to expand a students learning experience but the teacher must put in the time to be innovative and creative in attaining their desired results.
QUESTIONS:
1. How can I use blogging as an instructional tool in a math class?
A math instructor could create a blog that students could access to find posted extra credit problems, “today’s” math problems and solutions, additional math web sites helpful to students, homework problems could be posted, assignments posted. They can be very useful to the teacher and student.
2. How can individual student blogs be useful in a math class?
By having students post to their own blogs and a teacher having access, perhaps, a teacher can discover insights on how to become a better teacher and improve communication with this student. Each student has different needs and he/she may not feel comfortable verbalizing themselves in class but a blog may offer a safer venue to express there concerns and subject difficulties.
The author believes in the use of technology to enhance students “learning outcomes” and in this article focuses on blogging. Implementing and integrating blogging or any “learning resource” into an “ overall course design “ is important. There is no “ one-way” to incorporate blogging but “careful planning and skill management” must be addressed. Online instructors must be very clear in their blog use, how they will accomplish “…student learning needs and objectives”, and how they will evaluate student work. Five (5) common mistakes are discussed “ …that should be avoided when using blogs in instruction.” The first is Ineffective Contextualization that asserts the inability of the instructor to connect the blogging activity with any instructional content. There “…must be a certain amount of content preparation already covered…to support the blogging activity.” The second mistake is the blog has an Unclear Learning Outcome. The instructor becomes more focused on a course objective rather than utilizing the blog to “...develop new higher level thinking skills.” A third mistake is Misuse of Environment. The blog offers a specific type of environment which is “…intended to be an individual publication...”, otherwise, for the student. The environment is not a wiki or a forum for online discussion. The fourth mistake involves Illusive Grading Practices whereby the instructor does not make clear how a student will be evaluated. The fifth mistake is Inadequate Time Allocation. Students are “ …different in their processing times within any learning context…” and the instructor should allow students ample time to maximize the blog tool. Technology offers instructors many excellent tools to deliver an effective educational experience to students. Blogging is only one example of how technology can be beneficial to education but as communicated by the author planning and management of these tools is essential. I am convinced technology offers instructors an immense opportunity to expand a students learning experience but the teacher must put in the time to be innovative and creative in attaining their desired results.
QUESTIONS:
1. How can I use blogging as an instructional tool in a math class?
A math instructor could create a blog that students could access to find posted extra credit problems, “today’s” math problems and solutions, additional math web sites helpful to students, homework problems could be posted, assignments posted. They can be very useful to the teacher and student.
2. How can individual student blogs be useful in a math class?
By having students post to their own blogs and a teacher having access, perhaps, a teacher can discover insights on how to become a better teacher and improve communication with this student. Each student has different needs and he/she may not feel comfortable verbalizing themselves in class but a blog may offer a safer venue to express there concerns and subject difficulties.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
JOURNAL 08 A "Fantastic Super" Use of Technology: Closing the Digital Gap
Curtis, Diane (November 1,2002). A "Fantastic Super" Use of Technology: Closing the Digital Divide. Retrieved 12/19/2008, from http://www.edutopia.org
Mary Scroggs Elementary School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina is a leader in demonstrating the “Use of Technology” in the classroom. When the school was constructed in 1999 the intention was “…when we designed the school, not only did we design a new facility, but we really designed a new program.” This program included integrating technology “…into the curriculum and determination to close the digital divide.” With a grant from BellSouth contingent upon using a “’Power to Learn’ approach to instruction, which uses brain research in determining different learning plans for students” the Internet, closed-circuit school television, wireless laptops, computers in every classroom and many excellent software programs became “..an integral part of the learning package at the pre-K-5 school.” This package included heavy use of email to keep teachers informed and up-to-date but unique to this program was the ability to stay in touch with 90 percent of the Scroggs parents. Families without the means to purchase computers were loaned “…Internet access devices…” which gave students and their parents access to email, software, and there child’s school folders. This allowed parents to participate and play an essential role in there child’s education. In addition the program emphasized collaboration between teachers to teachers and teachers to administration creating a more professional atmosphere with support and training. Scroggs Elementary is what all schools should strive to become. The more tools and people you can get involved in a students education (technology, teacher, parent, administrator) I believe the better chance of success for the student.
Questions…
1.Given the California budget problems how can the
educational community maintain a connection and
furnish it’s needs for technology?
Just as Scroggs Elementary has been meeting it’s technology demands by allying with private industry it seems the California educational community can do the same. California’s being the “sixth largest country” and with Silicon Valley being the heart of technology it would seem the ideal place to begin inquiring about educational/private partnerships. I’m sure there are educational relationships in place today but why haven’t we heard of such innovations taking place in California as compared to North Carolina? I do not advocate private industry taking the reins of Public Education but there must be a “happy medium” that could be advantageous to both.
2.How important is parental involvement in a students' life?
I believe it is crucial to have parental involvement in a student’s educational life. I know it is very difficult for many parents but if an email system were instituted across the country as accomplished at Scruggs I believe student achievement would increase and parents/student relationships would dramatically improve. The speed, convenience, and ease of email are an ideal method of communication.
Mary Scroggs Elementary School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina is a leader in demonstrating the “Use of Technology” in the classroom. When the school was constructed in 1999 the intention was “…when we designed the school, not only did we design a new facility, but we really designed a new program.” This program included integrating technology “…into the curriculum and determination to close the digital divide.” With a grant from BellSouth contingent upon using a “’Power to Learn’ approach to instruction, which uses brain research in determining different learning plans for students” the Internet, closed-circuit school television, wireless laptops, computers in every classroom and many excellent software programs became “..an integral part of the learning package at the pre-K-5 school.” This package included heavy use of email to keep teachers informed and up-to-date but unique to this program was the ability to stay in touch with 90 percent of the Scroggs parents. Families without the means to purchase computers were loaned “…Internet access devices…” which gave students and their parents access to email, software, and there child’s school folders. This allowed parents to participate and play an essential role in there child’s education. In addition the program emphasized collaboration between teachers to teachers and teachers to administration creating a more professional atmosphere with support and training. Scroggs Elementary is what all schools should strive to become. The more tools and people you can get involved in a students education (technology, teacher, parent, administrator) I believe the better chance of success for the student.
Questions…
1.Given the California budget problems how can the
educational community maintain a connection and
furnish it’s needs for technology?
Just as Scroggs Elementary has been meeting it’s technology demands by allying with private industry it seems the California educational community can do the same. California’s being the “sixth largest country” and with Silicon Valley being the heart of technology it would seem the ideal place to begin inquiring about educational/private partnerships. I’m sure there are educational relationships in place today but why haven’t we heard of such innovations taking place in California as compared to North Carolina? I do not advocate private industry taking the reins of Public Education but there must be a “happy medium” that could be advantageous to both.
2.How important is parental involvement in a students' life?
I believe it is crucial to have parental involvement in a student’s educational life. I know it is very difficult for many parents but if an email system were instituted across the country as accomplished at Scruggs I believe student achievement would increase and parents/student relationships would dramatically improve. The speed, convenience, and ease of email are an ideal method of communication.
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