Saturday, February 25, 2012
Blog Assignment #5
"Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff, Please?"...
I really enjoyed reading "Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff, Please?", by Scott McLeod. Dr. McLeod is an associate professor and a blogger. On Dr. McLeod's website, dangerouslyirrelevant.org, he provides links to his many other blogging sites. I enjoyed reading "Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff, Please?" because I liked that Dr. McLeod used reverse psychology. He listed all of the misconceptions that people have about teaching children how to use technology and turned it around in the end by saying the children who have been taught to use technology will have a "leg up" in the future. I know many parents and teachers have reservations about teaching children about technology, but whether they like it or not, the world is heading more and more in that direction.. If we do not teach children how to use technology now, they will be completely lost and unprepared for the real world when they become adults.
I really enjoyed reading "Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff, Please?", by Scott McLeod. Dr. McLeod is an associate professor and a blogger. On Dr. McLeod's website, dangerouslyirrelevant.org, he provides links to his many other blogging sites. I enjoyed reading "Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff, Please?" because I liked that Dr. McLeod used reverse psychology. He listed all of the misconceptions that people have about teaching children how to use technology and turned it around in the end by saying the children who have been taught to use technology will have a "leg up" in the future. I know many parents and teachers have reservations about teaching children about technology, but whether they like it or not, the world is heading more and more in that direction.. If we do not teach children how to use technology now, they will be completely lost and unprepared for the real world when they become adults.
The iSchool Initiative..
The iSchool Initiative (Mobile Learning) was a very interesting video. Travis has an interesting idea in theory, however, I do not know how successful this iSchool program would really be. The first aspect I find questionable is the fact that there would be no face to face student-teacher interaction. This could pose a problem for some students who are not "digital learners", especially on the elementary level. Also, meeting in a classroom setting on a regular scheduled time teaches children structure and responsibility. I thinks it is a good idea to incorporate the iSchool into the traditional school setting, but I do not think it is a good idea to use it as the only form of education for students to receive. Although the iSchool would potentially save money, I do not feel students would be thoroughly prepared for the real world. Teachers play a huge part in students' academic career.Eliminating them altogether and replacing them with a machine might seem like a good idea, but it would not give the students the one on one time and the attention that so many of them need while learning new things.
Virtual Choir
The video, Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir, was fascinating. I can't believe the use of technology in this video. I also can't believe that all of these people sang their parts individually without hearing the other parts. I was in choir all four years of high school and I know how difficult it can be to blend your voice with everyone else's. I think it is amazing how fr technology has come and this video proves it. The song was beautifully put together, I loved it.
Teaching in the 21st Century..
I think the video, Teaching in the 21st Century by Kevin Roberts, portrays the message that the teachers of today need to be prepared to teach technology to children. Like the video said, teachers are no longer the main source of information, they are the filter. Students have a endless supply of information and it is the teacher's responsibility to tell them if the information is correct or not. Also, I think Mr. Roberts is saying teachers need to be constantly learning and researching things as well. Teachers can't just teach out of a text book anymore, they need to research the information and find out all they can about it. Teachers of the 21st century have to be constantly learning new things as well as teaching them; new technology comes out practically every day. Teachers need to be prepared to learn all they can about the new forms of technology so they can teach it to the children.
Readingrockets.org..
The website, readingrockets.org, is very insightful. I really enjoyed exploring it because it has so many great resources on it. I like that it has a link called Reading Topics A to Z that has every reading topic you could think of, plus several ideas for teachers to go along with it. I also like that there are games on there and writing prompts. I also like the ABCs of teaching reading section. This is a very useful website and I will be using it in the future once I become a teacher.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Blog Assignment #4
First Graders Create their own Read Along Adiobook
When I read 1st Graders Create their own Adiobook, I thought it was a great idea. I love this idea because it gets the children excited about reading. I also liked the fact that the children were so enthusiastic about the assignment that they wanted to re-record their part if their voices did not sound how they wanted them too. Not only is this a creative way to get kids reading, but it also is a good way to improve their listening skills as well. The kids have to read their part, and because they want it to sound good, they will re-read the story. It improves their listening skills because they have to follow along and read the script as the podcast is playing. I also liked that they added dinosaur sounds and other sound effects. I thought the added sound effect at the beginning of a new chapter was a great idea for children who might have lost their place when following along.
When I read 1st Graders Create their own Adiobook, I thought it was a great idea. I love this idea because it gets the children excited about reading. I also liked the fact that the children were so enthusiastic about the assignment that they wanted to re-record their part if their voices did not sound how they wanted them too. Not only is this a creative way to get kids reading, but it also is a good way to improve their listening skills as well. The kids have to read their part, and because they want it to sound good, they will re-read the story. It improves their listening skills because they have to follow along and read the script as the podcast is playing. I also liked that they added dinosaur sounds and other sound effects. I thought the added sound effect at the beginning of a new chapter was a great idea for children who might have lost their place when following along.
Judy Scharf Podcast Collection
This article is very informative. I really like the list of podcast ideas that Ms. Scharf listed. I watched the video, How to Create a Podcast, and it taught me a lot of things. Before watching this video, I honestly had no idea how to make a podcast. This video shows every step of making a podcast, even how to download the software. I will definitely be referring back to this video in the future when I make my podcast.
The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom
The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom was a very interesting video. I really enjoyed seeing how the sixth grade teacher incorporated podcasting into his classroom. I thought it was a creative idea to have other teachers help him read the story in character. I think listening to story that has sound effects and people playing the characters will keep the children's attention more than just reading straight from the book. I also liked the part that showed the 3 kids creating their own podcast, they came up with a creative way to explain the different regions in the United States. After watching this video, I believe podcasting can be an important teaching tool to use in the classroom.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
C4T Post #1
The teacher I am assigned to is David Hopkins. I read quite a few of his posts and really enjoyed reading them.
The first blog post I commented on is called QR Code Trend Infographic. In the post, Mr. Hopkins discusses the numerous QR codes for smart phones that are popping up everywhere. He also speculates that companies have to offer consumers something in return for scanning the QR code. I agree with Mr. Hopkins in that consumers are not going to take their time to scan the QR code unless they will get something out of it such as discounts and coupons. Mr. Hopkins gave an example of a Calvin Klein billboard that apparently had a picture that was too racy to show the public. Therefore, consumers had to scan the QR code to see the picture. I like this example because it is not offering a discount, but instead offering a chance to view something that the average consumer cannot see with out scanning the QR code.
The second blog post I commented on is called 'Noir' Photography App. In this post, Mr. Hopkins discusses a new app that allows you to edit your photos. You can enhance the colors or change them altogether. The only draw back to the app is that it will not allow you to upload the edited photo to social networks. Hopefully they will eventually change it and allow the photos to be uploaded.
The first blog post I commented on is called QR Code Trend Infographic. In the post, Mr. Hopkins discusses the numerous QR codes for smart phones that are popping up everywhere. He also speculates that companies have to offer consumers something in return for scanning the QR code. I agree with Mr. Hopkins in that consumers are not going to take their time to scan the QR code unless they will get something out of it such as discounts and coupons. Mr. Hopkins gave an example of a Calvin Klein billboard that apparently had a picture that was too racy to show the public. Therefore, consumers had to scan the QR code to see the picture. I like this example because it is not offering a discount, but instead offering a chance to view something that the average consumer cannot see with out scanning the QR code.
The second blog post I commented on is called 'Noir' Photography App. In this post, Mr. Hopkins discusses a new app that allows you to edit your photos. You can enhance the colors or change them altogether. The only draw back to the app is that it will not allow you to upload the edited photo to social networks. Hopefully they will eventually change it and allow the photos to be uploaded.
Blog Assignment #3
Technology in Special Education
In the video Technology in Special Education, I learned a lot about the use of technology. I am sad to say I never thought of how technology could affect special education. This video showed me how many wonderful things can be done with technology. I loved when it showed Kris, who has trouble speaking. Kris' computer allowed him to spell out what he wanted to say. I also liked when it showed the boy who had trouble writing. The teacher said it used to take him a long time to complete his assignments, but now that he has a computer, he can type out his work and turn it in on time.
The video also showed that the use of technology can keep a student's attention and get him or her engaged in learning. Technology can make a classroom come to life and make the students feel like they are apart of what they are learning about. I am glad that I watched this video and saw how much technology can help students with special needs.
In the video Technology in Special Education, I learned a lot about the use of technology. I am sad to say I never thought of how technology could affect special education. This video showed me how many wonderful things can be done with technology. I loved when it showed Kris, who has trouble speaking. Kris' computer allowed him to spell out what he wanted to say. I also liked when it showed the boy who had trouble writing. The teacher said it used to take him a long time to complete his assignments, but now that he has a computer, he can type out his work and turn it in on time.
The video also showed that the use of technology can keep a student's attention and get him or her engaged in learning. Technology can make a classroom come to life and make the students feel like they are apart of what they are learning about. I am glad that I watched this video and saw how much technology can help students with special needs.
Ipad
In How the iPad Works with Academics for Autism, Braden is using the iPad to help him learn. Braden's dad downloaded several apps to help Braden work on his counting, reading, and writing. In the video, it says that Braden never showed any interest in learning before they got the iPad. The counting app that Braden was using turned learning into a game. The app was colorful and it spoke to Braden, which kept his attention. I really liked watching Braden and his dad interacting with the iPad and I also enjoyed seeing the positive feedback Braden was receiving from his dad.
The app I would like to use in my classroom is called writing prompts. The app has thousands of ideas to get kids motivated to write. It will give the students a word or phrase and they have to expand their story based on the word or phrase. The iPad has allowed endless opportunities for teachers to motivate children to learn.
Gary's Social Media Count
This counter is amazing to look at; it does not stay the same for one second! It is overwhelming to think about how many things are posted on Facebook each second. Honestly, more things are shared on Facebook than I ever imagined. Another interesting count to me was the amount of videos watched on YouTube every second. I just can not believe how high the numbers are and how quickly they change!
A Vision of Students Today
A Vision of Students Today is a thought provoking video. The information that the students were holding up are a reflection of how a vast amount of college students feel. I really liked the one that said I spend hundreds of dollars on textbooks I never open. I know I can definitely relate to that one. I have had some classes that did not require a textbook. I have also had some classes that gave us the option of reading the book online for free or purchasing the ebook for under forty dollars. I really liked that the teachers were giving us options and understanding that textbooks are expensive.
The video showed a lot of statistics in it. I liked that actual college students were holding up the statistics. I understand that allowing students to bring their laptops to class can have negative consequences, but it can also open up so many learning possibilities as well. When I become a teacher, I hope to use technology in a way that will keep the children motivated and eager to learn.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Blog Assignment #2
Did You Know...
The Did You Know video had many interesting statistics in it. The one that surprised the most was 93% of students age 8-18 have computers, and that was two years ago! It surprises me because my stepson goes to a public middle school, and although we have a computer, he is continuously telling me that a vast number of students could not turn their projects in on time due to not owning a computer. Also, something to note is there is a difference between owning a computer and owning a computer with internet access. Many projects in schools today require internet access and most classrooms and definitely the school library have the internet. Technology is taking over in a huge way, whether everyone likes it or not. I understand the basics of computers and that's about it. I am not sure how I will work technology into my classroom, but I know with the sources available today there are thousands of ways to do so. I want to include projects that have to be done on the computer such as power point presentations, but I also think it is important to take into consideration that not everyone has (or can afford) the internet. Also, I would like to use the Smart board to get the students to interact and enjoy learning.
Another aspect of the video I found interesting was the prediction that by 2025 there will be more English speaking Chinese than the rest of the English speakers in the entire world combined. I know China has a massive population, but it amazes me that just Chinese people who learn to speak English could surpass the rest of the English-speaking population in the world!
Mr. Winkle Wakes
I really liked the "Mr. Winkle Wakes" video. I think it was a creative way to show how much the world has changed with in the last 100 years. Most of us today could not even begin to imagine a world without all of the computers and the machines. What's funny is, even the technology that seems ancient to us (such as the huge computers that show everything in green writing on the screen) would seem amazing to someone who is from 100 years ago. Even I can remember a time when the internet was unheard of and we had to do our research papers "the old fashioned way" by going to the library and looking in numerous books and encyclopedias. Granted, it hasn't been that way since I was in about fourth or fifth grade, but I can still remember it.
The part on the video when Mr. Winkle went into a school and was happy because it was just how remembered it with children sitting in chairs listening to the teacher all day long was an interesting way to make the point that schools need to change. Although there was a laptop in the classroom, it was not being utilized. With so much technology around, school can be a fun and enjoyable environment. Just the little I have learned about the Smart board so far has proven that there are so many creative ways to get students to interact, open up, and care about learning.
Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity
Mr. Robinson did a wonderful job of portraying the world's efforts to focus more on subjects that are considered less important than others. I think it is frustrating that just because a child can not sit still or does not pay attention to one subject as much as the other children, his or her parents and teachers want to find out what is "wrong with him or her. Mr. Robinson made a great point the creativity is educated out of us. When children are young, they know what they like and they aren't afraid that everyone else might not like it. Children take chances and are often steered in another direction towards what the "normal" thing.
The story that Mr. Robinson told about Jillian Lynn was very enlightening. Too often children are put on medicine and diagnosed with a problem that they might not even have. It is teachers' responsibility to not only teach the material, but also pay attention to the children and encourage them to pursue their creativity and make sure they understand that just because they do things differently does not mean they are wrong. It is also important for teachers to realize that not all children will like all the same subjects or learn in the same way or at the same pace.
A Vision for 21st Century Learning
This video showed a new vision for students learning in the 21st century. The part that showed ancient Rome was very enjoyable. Something like that will keep students interested no matter what grade they are in. When something is so interesting and enjoyable, students will not even realize they are learning something new. Technology has made it possible for children to enjoy school. In this day and age, it is not only important for children to know what a computer is, but also how to operate properly. With all of the technology around and all of the technology that is yet to be invented, teachers have endless possibilities of creative ideas on how to teach children.
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smart
Ms. Davis has done an excellent job of bringing technology to her students. I think the projects they have to do with students from other parts of the world is an amazing idea. These projects allow students to see other cultures and other ways of doing things. I also liked the part when the boy was in front of the class teaching the other students new things to do with their avatars. The whole avatar thing is new and fascinating to me, we never had anything like that when I was in school. It just goes to show how much things can change in just a few short years. Technology is forever growing, therefore it is important to make sure that teachers are doing their best to grow with it and teach the kids about new technology.
The Did You Know video had many interesting statistics in it. The one that surprised the most was 93% of students age 8-18 have computers, and that was two years ago! It surprises me because my stepson goes to a public middle school, and although we have a computer, he is continuously telling me that a vast number of students could not turn their projects in on time due to not owning a computer. Also, something to note is there is a difference between owning a computer and owning a computer with internet access. Many projects in schools today require internet access and most classrooms and definitely the school library have the internet. Technology is taking over in a huge way, whether everyone likes it or not. I understand the basics of computers and that's about it. I am not sure how I will work technology into my classroom, but I know with the sources available today there are thousands of ways to do so. I want to include projects that have to be done on the computer such as power point presentations, but I also think it is important to take into consideration that not everyone has (or can afford) the internet. Also, I would like to use the Smart board to get the students to interact and enjoy learning.
Another aspect of the video I found interesting was the prediction that by 2025 there will be more English speaking Chinese than the rest of the English speakers in the entire world combined. I know China has a massive population, but it amazes me that just Chinese people who learn to speak English could surpass the rest of the English-speaking population in the world!
Mr. Winkle Wakes
I really liked the "Mr. Winkle Wakes" video. I think it was a creative way to show how much the world has changed with in the last 100 years. Most of us today could not even begin to imagine a world without all of the computers and the machines. What's funny is, even the technology that seems ancient to us (such as the huge computers that show everything in green writing on the screen) would seem amazing to someone who is from 100 years ago. Even I can remember a time when the internet was unheard of and we had to do our research papers "the old fashioned way" by going to the library and looking in numerous books and encyclopedias. Granted, it hasn't been that way since I was in about fourth or fifth grade, but I can still remember it.
The part on the video when Mr. Winkle went into a school and was happy because it was just how remembered it with children sitting in chairs listening to the teacher all day long was an interesting way to make the point that schools need to change. Although there was a laptop in the classroom, it was not being utilized. With so much technology around, school can be a fun and enjoyable environment. Just the little I have learned about the Smart board so far has proven that there are so many creative ways to get students to interact, open up, and care about learning.
Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity
Mr. Robinson did a wonderful job of portraying the world's efforts to focus more on subjects that are considered less important than others. I think it is frustrating that just because a child can not sit still or does not pay attention to one subject as much as the other children, his or her parents and teachers want to find out what is "wrong with him or her. Mr. Robinson made a great point the creativity is educated out of us. When children are young, they know what they like and they aren't afraid that everyone else might not like it. Children take chances and are often steered in another direction towards what the "normal" thing.
The story that Mr. Robinson told about Jillian Lynn was very enlightening. Too often children are put on medicine and diagnosed with a problem that they might not even have. It is teachers' responsibility to not only teach the material, but also pay attention to the children and encourage them to pursue their creativity and make sure they understand that just because they do things differently does not mean they are wrong. It is also important for teachers to realize that not all children will like all the same subjects or learn in the same way or at the same pace.
A Vision for 21st Century Learning
This video showed a new vision for students learning in the 21st century. The part that showed ancient Rome was very enjoyable. Something like that will keep students interested no matter what grade they are in. When something is so interesting and enjoyable, students will not even realize they are learning something new. Technology has made it possible for children to enjoy school. In this day and age, it is not only important for children to know what a computer is, but also how to operate properly. With all of the technology around and all of the technology that is yet to be invented, teachers have endless possibilities of creative ideas on how to teach children.
Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smart
Ms. Davis has done an excellent job of bringing technology to her students. I think the projects they have to do with students from other parts of the world is an amazing idea. These projects allow students to see other cultures and other ways of doing things. I also liked the part when the boy was in front of the class teaching the other students new things to do with their avatars. The whole avatar thing is new and fascinating to me, we never had anything like that when I was in school. It just goes to show how much things can change in just a few short years. Technology is forever growing, therefore it is important to make sure that teachers are doing their best to grow with it and teach the kids about new technology.
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