Dear Fellow Students:
I have really enjoyed taking EDM 310 with each one of you. I did not get to know some of you, but I am sure our paths will cross again before we are finished. There are many of you that I never talked to, because you were on the other side of the room, but I am sure we will get the chance. I feel that we each have knowledge to offer to the other and I look forward to sharing ideas in future classes. This has been one of the best classes that I have taken at USA. Good professors and classmates really make a difference in students learning new skills. Good luck and God Bless each of you and I hope to see you next semester.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
What I Learned in EDM 310
EDM 310 has been a very educational class. I have really enjoyed taking this class under the instruction of Dr. Strange and will recommend this class to other students. I have learned how to use the computer as an educational tool and how to incorporate using the computer in my classroom.
I discovered, through EDM 310, how to use blogs in the classroom. Blogging is a good way for the teacher and the students to stay in touch with each other. iTunes is another good tool to use in reinforcing information on certain subjects. The amount of podcasts is phenomenal. Google is also a very useful tool that I was introduced to. Google can be used to do many different things. Teachers and students can make igoogle pages with gmail, google talk and numerous google gadgets. Google documents can be used to type papers, make presentations and store information that is readily available from any computer.
EDM 310 showed me a lot of ways to make use of technology in my classroom. I was unaware of blogging, podcasts and igoogle before taking this class. Dr. Strange also helped with foliotek, which is required for certain classes. Foliotek is not easy to understand by teachers and students and Dr. Strange explained using it very well.
I discovered, through EDM 310, how to use blogs in the classroom. Blogging is a good way for the teacher and the students to stay in touch with each other. iTunes is another good tool to use in reinforcing information on certain subjects. The amount of podcasts is phenomenal. Google is also a very useful tool that I was introduced to. Google can be used to do many different things. Teachers and students can make igoogle pages with gmail, google talk and numerous google gadgets. Google documents can be used to type papers, make presentations and store information that is readily available from any computer.
EDM 310 showed me a lot of ways to make use of technology in my classroom. I was unaware of blogging, podcasts and igoogle before taking this class. Dr. Strange also helped with foliotek, which is required for certain classes. Foliotek is not easy to understand by teachers and students and Dr. Strange explained using it very well.
My Chat with Another Teacher
I contacted two teachers for my correspondence assignment. They were both very interesting. Mrs. B is from New York and has been in education for about 27 years, and Mrs. Hayes is from South Africa. I think it is absolutely amazing that we can connect with someone across the world in only a few seconds. Anyway, here is my correspondence.
Hi Jenna,
I am sorry for not getting back to you. I go to school three days a week and I try to substitute when I am not in school, plus I have a 12 year old daughter and a 9 year old son, a 17 year old stepson and a husband, so I have no extra time.
I think it is so neat to be connecting with a teacher all the way in South Africa. I hope you are having a great week. I have to substitute tomorrow at the Jr. High School in my county. I will be in the Special Ed classroom and that is my favorite place to be. The mentalities of the kids in there are not much higher than 2nd or 3rd graders. I love them though.
Second grade is probably my choice of teaching. The children at this age are excited about learning and they want to be loved. I have subbed most of the grades so I think anything k-6th grade will be okay.
Do you feel that the US could better educate children if we had a different Education system? I am not sure if I agree with the No Child Left Behind Act because I see in the higher grades attitudes and kids not concerned about learning. It is hard to make a child interested and motivate them when they just don't care.
I agree with producing critical thinkers. My EDM 310 professor refers to "spoon-feeding" as burping back. I can see a lot of burping back in my kids school. I can also see in some cases how it is the only way some will learn. I guess it has to be used in moderation and the ones who like to be challenged need that form of critical learning to give them a challenge.
Where did you receive your teaching degree? How long have you been a teacher? Do you have a lot of parental influence? Parents make a big difference in the attitudes of the students. Many of the bad attitudes I see in the students come from the parents.
Anyway, I guess you probably have plenty to do so I will let you go for now. Thanks for corresponding with me.
Have a great day!
Sandy Presley
On Tue, Oct 28, 2008 at 6:30 AM, Jenna Hayes wrote:
Hi there Sandy,
I would be delighted to share some news with you. One of your other class students has already spoken to me too...:-)
First a bit of background: I am a second year teacher (graduated end of 2006). I teach at a middle class public school. The school I teach at is in the capital of South Africa, Pretoria, about 30km North of Johannesburg. During the apartheid days, my school was for whites only and was known as a Model C school. Since 1994 it has become free to all races. Today, our school is a mix of all cultures, blacks being predominant. It is an English medium school and mostly all the kids are fluent with some exceptions who come to our school from the rural schools. I teach grade 2's (7-8 year olds).
The technology access we all have here in SA is the same as you mostly. Many of our children have cell phones (my nightmare). They are not allowed to keep them at school, and only incase of emergency, they may bring them but then hand it in to the secerataries. They are very much in the technology era ie a lot of children have more computer skills than the older teachers at school. They always want to show me where to plug the DVD player in, but hello, I'm not an old teacher and keep reminding them that. They mostly all have computers, internet, playstation/xbox/Wii etc at home. At school, the children attend computer classes twice a week where they learn basic computer skills. The older children (Grade 7's) are being introduced to excel. They also play educational games. Last week the grade 2's had to design a sea creature (our theme this term) using the shapes toolbar in MSword.
At the beginning of the year, our school purchased Mimio (like Smartboard). We have begun using these in our classes and the children have responded well to this. Our blackboards have also now been replaced with whiteboards to be able to use the Mimio.
Pros and cons of our education system:
Pros:
The children are taught to critically analyse and solve problems in all areas. We try to generate critical thinkers instead of "spoonfeeding" them. They are taught to question all the time. We follow the OBE system (Outcomes Based Education) and the children do a lot of group work. In the foundation phase (Gr 1 - 3) the children are taught the basic Literary (Main outcomes are Reading, Speaking, Writing, collectin and analysing info) and Numeracy (counting, number patterns, basic operations, data analysing) skills. Our third major subject in foundation phase is Life Skills ie learning about diseases (TB, HIV), how to protect/prevent themselves from these diseases, personal development (using aparatus such as balls, balancing, throwing, catching, using their bodies etc), safety in the home and school, road safety, etc. I agree with all these and feel it is necessary at school.
Cons:
The standard is often too high for the children. There are a lot of second language learners (black children who don't speak home language English) even though they cope on a fluent level in English, they still battle to understand a lot of the language usage. Also there has seemed to be a general decline in the understanding of children overall and the standard of work is far too high. Even from when I was in school, the standard of work has since got higher. Work that I was doing in the beginning of Grade 4 is what they are doing in Grade 2 and Grade 3.
Overall, we are not in the dark ages as many other nations think. We are on the correct path, we just need to channel it correctly. We have come a long way since apartheid days and are slowly on the mend. I'm just thankful that all are given the opportunity to be educated. If a parent cannot afford school fees, they fill out an extensive form and given permission to be excempt of subsidised.
I hope this info is useful. Let me know if there is anything else you need to know.
Regards,
Jenna.
From: spresley73@gmail.com
> To: jehabean@hotmail.com
> Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:55:52 -0500
> Subject: (Miss Hayes and her Grade 2's) : Teaching in Africa
>
>
> Hi, I am an Education Major at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. I came across your blog while searching for a teacher to contact for one of my class assignments. I think it is neat that you are a teacher in South Africa. I was hoping to correspond with you some and discuss education and some of the pros and cons. Have you ever been a teacher in the United States? What kind of technology do you have access to in South Africa? I am very excited about discussing topics with you. Hope you have time to email me back.
>
> Thanks and have a great day
>
> Sandy Presley
Sandy, I ended up writing my reply on the blog--just in case any student wants to be impressed by all that we are doing! And, please feel free to check the blog periodically and comment. We'd love that! Good luck with teaching. It's been 27 years and I'm still loving it, although, on any given days, a student can just amaze me with what they do--good or bad!
barb bassette
For more about our classroom:
www.creativityfrom303.blogspot.com
-----"Sandy Presley" wrote: -----
To: "bbassett@groton.cnyric.org"
From: "Sandy Presley"
Date: 10/10/2008 12:08PM
Subject: Researching Teaching Methods
- Hide quoted text -
Hi, I am in Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. I was researching information on Burp Back Education and I came across your blog about burping back information and how a student must add to the information. I have a daughter in the 7th grade and I see a lot of burping back in her classes. For tests, we simply study the study guide. The tests are usually multiple choice and they are not asked to elaborate on what they actually learned. I have my pros and cons on multiple choice testing.
Can you tell me a little bit about the teaching tools that you use and how you effectively enable your students to learn?
Thank you for your time!
Sandy Presley
Hi Jenna,
I am sorry for not getting back to you. I go to school three days a week and I try to substitute when I am not in school, plus I have a 12 year old daughter and a 9 year old son, a 17 year old stepson and a husband, so I have no extra time.
I think it is so neat to be connecting with a teacher all the way in South Africa. I hope you are having a great week. I have to substitute tomorrow at the Jr. High School in my county. I will be in the Special Ed classroom and that is my favorite place to be. The mentalities of the kids in there are not much higher than 2nd or 3rd graders. I love them though.
Second grade is probably my choice of teaching. The children at this age are excited about learning and they want to be loved. I have subbed most of the grades so I think anything k-6th grade will be okay.
Do you feel that the US could better educate children if we had a different Education system? I am not sure if I agree with the No Child Left Behind Act because I see in the higher grades attitudes and kids not concerned about learning. It is hard to make a child interested and motivate them when they just don't care.
I agree with producing critical thinkers. My EDM 310 professor refers to "spoon-feeding" as burping back. I can see a lot of burping back in my kids school. I can also see in some cases how it is the only way some will learn. I guess it has to be used in moderation and the ones who like to be challenged need that form of critical learning to give them a challenge.
Where did you receive your teaching degree? How long have you been a teacher? Do you have a lot of parental influence? Parents make a big difference in the attitudes of the students. Many of the bad attitudes I see in the students come from the parents.
Anyway, I guess you probably have plenty to do so I will let you go for now. Thanks for corresponding with me.
Have a great day!
Sandy Presley
On Tue, Oct 28, 2008 at 6:30 AM, Jenna Hayes
Hi there Sandy,
I would be delighted to share some news with you. One of your other class students has already spoken to me too...:-)
First a bit of background: I am a second year teacher (graduated end of 2006). I teach at a middle class public school. The school I teach at is in the capital of South Africa, Pretoria, about 30km North of Johannesburg. During the apartheid days, my school was for whites only and was known as a Model C school. Since 1994 it has become free to all races. Today, our school is a mix of all cultures, blacks being predominant. It is an English medium school and mostly all the kids are fluent with some exceptions who come to our school from the rural schools. I teach grade 2's (7-8 year olds).
The technology access we all have here in SA is the same as you mostly. Many of our children have cell phones (my nightmare). They are not allowed to keep them at school, and only incase of emergency, they may bring them but then hand it in to the secerataries. They are very much in the technology era ie a lot of children have more computer skills than the older teachers at school. They always want to show me where to plug the DVD player in, but hello, I'm not an old teacher and keep reminding them that. They mostly all have computers, internet, playstation/xbox/Wii etc at home. At school, the children attend computer classes twice a week where they learn basic computer skills. The older children (Grade 7's) are being introduced to excel. They also play educational games. Last week the grade 2's had to design a sea creature (our theme this term) using the shapes toolbar in MSword.
At the beginning of the year, our school purchased Mimio (like Smartboard). We have begun using these in our classes and the children have responded well to this. Our blackboards have also now been replaced with whiteboards to be able to use the Mimio.
Pros and cons of our education system:
Pros:
The children are taught to critically analyse and solve problems in all areas. We try to generate critical thinkers instead of "spoonfeeding" them. They are taught to question all the time. We follow the OBE system (Outcomes Based Education) and the children do a lot of group work. In the foundation phase (Gr 1 - 3) the children are taught the basic Literary (Main outcomes are Reading, Speaking, Writing, collectin and analysing info) and Numeracy (counting, number patterns, basic operations, data analysing) skills. Our third major subject in foundation phase is Life Skills ie learning about diseases (TB, HIV), how to protect/prevent themselves from these diseases, personal development (using aparatus such as balls, balancing, throwing, catching, using their bodies etc), safety in the home and school, road safety, etc. I agree with all these and feel it is necessary at school.
Cons:
The standard is often too high for the children. There are a lot of second language learners (black children who don't speak home language English) even though they cope on a fluent level in English, they still battle to understand a lot of the language usage. Also there has seemed to be a general decline in the understanding of children overall and the standard of work is far too high. Even from when I was in school, the standard of work has since got higher. Work that I was doing in the beginning of Grade 4 is what they are doing in Grade 2 and Grade 3.
Overall, we are not in the dark ages as many other nations think. We are on the correct path, we just need to channel it correctly. We have come a long way since apartheid days and are slowly on the mend. I'm just thankful that all are given the opportunity to be educated. If a parent cannot afford school fees, they fill out an extensive form and given permission to be excempt of subsidised.
I hope this info is useful. Let me know if there is anything else you need to know.
Regards,
Jenna.
From: spresley73@gmail.com
> To: jehabean@hotmail.com
> Date: Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:55:52 -0500
> Subject: (Miss Hayes and her Grade 2's) : Teaching in Africa
>
>
> Hi, I am an Education Major at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. I came across your blog while searching for a teacher to contact for one of my class assignments. I think it is neat that you are a teacher in South Africa. I was hoping to correspond with you some and discuss education and some of the pros and cons. Have you ever been a teacher in the United States? What kind of technology do you have access to in South Africa? I am very excited about discussing topics with you. Hope you have time to email me back.
>
> Thanks and have a great day
>
> Sandy Presley
Sandy, I ended up writing my reply on the blog--just in case any student wants to be impressed by all that we are doing! And, please feel free to check the blog periodically and comment. We'd love that! Good luck with teaching. It's been 27 years and I'm still loving it, although, on any given days, a student can just amaze me with what they do--good or bad!
barb bassette
For more about our classroom:
www.creativityfrom303.blogspot.com
-----"Sandy Presley"
To: "bbassett@groton.cnyric.org"
From: "Sandy Presley"
Date: 10/10/2008 12:08PM
Subject: Researching Teaching Methods
- Hide quoted text -
Hi, I am in Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. I was researching information on Burp Back Education and I came across your blog about burping back information and how a student must add to the information. I have a daughter in the 7th grade and I see a lot of burping back in her classes. For tests, we simply study the study guide. The tests are usually multiple choice and they are not asked to elaborate on what they actually learned. I have my pros and cons on multiple choice testing.
Can you tell me a little bit about the teaching tools that you use and how you effectively enable your students to learn?
Thank you for your time!
Sandy Presley
Monday, November 24, 2008
Blogging in the Classroom
After reading Ashley Denson's blog and Robin Terry's blog, as well as posting my own blogs this semester, I believe that blogging in classrooms could be a very helpful tool. Blogging is a good way for students to stay in touch with each other and the teacher. The blogs that we have posted in EDM 310 show some of the information we have gained from taking the class. Burping back can be alleviated because students can give opinions and form their own summary of what they learn about certain topics.
Blogging in classrooms provides students with the opportunity to show their knowledge of a subject. Students who are very knowledgeable and creative might give other students ideas on how to develop their own ways of thinking. It is a great way to communicate with each other. When students miss class they can go to the blog to see what they are supposed to be doing. They can keep up with assignments and collaborate with each other on projects. It is a fun way to keep students interested in school and learning.
Although blogging is fun, there are some negative aspects for using blogs in the classroom. Teachers have to be careful not to load the students down with too many assignments. Blogging takes time and if students are looking up information before posting blogs, they can become stressed from lack of time to get all their assignments done. Some students may not take blogging seriously and post things that are inappropriate for the classroom. Some students may not have access to computers outside of school. This hinders them from keeping up with blog posts outside of school.
Blogging can be fun in a classroom. It is a great way for students and teachers to stay in contact outside of school. It provides a means for students to add to what they are learning in the classroom. Teachers have to be careful because blogging can be time consuming for them as well as their students.
Blogging in classrooms provides students with the opportunity to show their knowledge of a subject. Students who are very knowledgeable and creative might give other students ideas on how to develop their own ways of thinking. It is a great way to communicate with each other. When students miss class they can go to the blog to see what they are supposed to be doing. They can keep up with assignments and collaborate with each other on projects. It is a fun way to keep students interested in school and learning.
Although blogging is fun, there are some negative aspects for using blogs in the classroom. Teachers have to be careful not to load the students down with too many assignments. Blogging takes time and if students are looking up information before posting blogs, they can become stressed from lack of time to get all their assignments done. Some students may not take blogging seriously and post things that are inappropriate for the classroom. Some students may not have access to computers outside of school. This hinders them from keeping up with blog posts outside of school.
Blogging can be fun in a classroom. It is a great way for students and teachers to stay in contact outside of school. It provides a means for students to add to what they are learning in the classroom. Teachers have to be careful because blogging can be time consuming for them as well as their students.
The Center for Documentary Studies at Duke
The Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University has numerous podcasts that can be listened to for obtaining valuable information about history. The various podcasts cover different historical times. The podcasts that I listened to were organized and well presented. Some of the topics covered tragedies such as the Virginia Tech shooting, 911 and racial problems and prejudices.
These podcasts would be helpful to students taking history classes in high schools and colleges. Students can learn how other students study history. Many of these podcasts discuss how to overcome barriers and prejudices in hopes of changing the ways of thinking and how people are treated. I enjoyed listening to these podcasts and will use them when I teach.
These podcasts would be helpful to students taking history classes in high schools and colleges. Students can learn how other students study history. Many of these podcasts discuss how to overcome barriers and prejudices in hopes of changing the ways of thinking and how people are treated. I enjoyed listening to these podcasts and will use them when I teach.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Our EDM 310 Podcasts
Our podcasts were great! There is no room for improvement. Just kidding, although they were really good to have been our first. It was really hard to find anything to criticize. However, there is always room for improvement in everything that we do. In order for us to be the best that we can be, we must be able to accept criticism. Our way may not always be the best way to reach someone and positive criticism can be used as a tool for improvement.
Okay, now it's time to be a critic. I find it extremely annoying to listen to a speaker who is saying "um" in every other sentence. It absolutely drives me crazy! I think that this is a sign of being nervous and I understand to well what it is like to be nervous. I am not a good speaker. Hopefully, by making a person aware that they are doing this, they will become more conscious of using this word.
Speaking clearly and professionally is also very important. Our choice of words says a lot about us as a person and if we want to be treated as professionals, then we have to act as professionals. If we desire to be a good influence on others, then we have to present ourselves in an appropriate manner. We also have to choose topics that will hold a person's attention. If the topics are not interesting, the audience will loose interest quick.
Okay, now it's time to be a critic. I find it extremely annoying to listen to a speaker who is saying "um" in every other sentence. It absolutely drives me crazy! I think that this is a sign of being nervous and I understand to well what it is like to be nervous. I am not a good speaker. Hopefully, by making a person aware that they are doing this, they will become more conscious of using this word.
Speaking clearly and professionally is also very important. Our choice of words says a lot about us as a person and if we want to be treated as professionals, then we have to act as professionals. If we desire to be a good influence on others, then we have to present ourselves in an appropriate manner. We also have to choose topics that will hold a person's attention. If the topics are not interesting, the audience will loose interest quick.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Mathematics with Technology
According to Mrs. Judy Chandler's podcast, Mathematics with Technology, many teachers feel that technology is not needed in Math classes, but actually, technology can enhance learning Mathematics. She offers several websites that would be valuable tools for learning Math. Some teachers are concerned that they do not have enough time to integrate technology in their daily lessons, but Mrs. Chandler has found that many Math activities might cover 4-5 text book lessons.
Podcasts, such as this, can be very helpful to me, as a teacher. I can search for podcasts related to the subjects that I am teaching. Podcasts can keep me informed about various teaching tools. Many podcasts discuss where to find reinforcement activities on subjects. I can also research projects to enhance learning.
Podcasts, such as this, can be very helpful to me, as a teacher. I can search for podcasts related to the subjects that I am teaching. Podcasts can keep me informed about various teaching tools. Many podcasts discuss where to find reinforcement activities on subjects. I can also research projects to enhance learning.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Growth vs "Fixed" Minds Podcast
The podcast, "Growth vs 'Fixed' Minds", was very interesting. Mrs. Carol Deweck, of Standford University, conducted a study with two groups of students to see if they could learn more when motivated and taught in the right way. Many students assume that they are born with a certain amount of intelligence and cannot gain anymore knowledge. The "fixed" mindset hinders them from motivating themselves to learn more. The group that was given the Growth Mindset lesson was motivated to learn and actually showed improvement after a certain amount of time. The other group showed no improvement and lacked motivation.
A well known race car coach felt like there was a connection between growth mindset and optimal performance. Mrs Deweck feels that a person must be able to admit their mistakes and learn from them. In effect, they will grow more intelligence. The difference between winning and loosing the race is what you do with the mistakes that are made.
This discussion will really help me as a teacher. I will know to look for the "fixed" minded students who do not think that they can do better and find ways to motivate their learning. Teachers need to be motivated too and podcasts such as Mrs Deweck's podcast are great tools for inspiring teachers to use different techniques when teaching.
A well known race car coach felt like there was a connection between growth mindset and optimal performance. Mrs Deweck feels that a person must be able to admit their mistakes and learn from them. In effect, they will grow more intelligence. The difference between winning and loosing the race is what you do with the mistakes that are made.
This discussion will really help me as a teacher. I will know to look for the "fixed" minded students who do not think that they can do better and find ways to motivate their learning. Teachers need to be motivated too and podcasts such as Mrs Deweck's podcast are great tools for inspiring teachers to use different techniques when teaching.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Podcasts are Great Tools
I enjoyed listening to the Podcasts found on WGBH. They are a great way to give children information on topics that they are studying. Podcasts are an alternative to paper resources. Kids stay focused when the are offered different learning styles. They are a fun way to enhance listening skills.
The K-5 Podcasts offer a variety of topics for teachers to use in their classrooms. Some of the Podcasts I listened to were "Solar Eclipses", "Why Doesn't the Moon Fall Down", "What is a Planet", "Energy Flow in the Coral Reef", and "Observe Clouds". This is a good tool to use when searching for creative ways to teach children. The Podcasts are not too long and when there is video, they can see pictures. Another great reason for using Podcasts is that they are free and all teachers need as many "freebies" as they can get.
The K-5 Podcasts offer a variety of topics for teachers to use in their classrooms. Some of the Podcasts I listened to were "Solar Eclipses", "Why Doesn't the Moon Fall Down", "What is a Planet", "Energy Flow in the Coral Reef", and "Observe Clouds". This is a good tool to use when searching for creative ways to teach children. The Podcasts are not too long and when there is video, they can see pictures. Another great reason for using Podcasts is that they are free and all teachers need as many "freebies" as they can get.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Edutopia
The Edible Schoolyard and A Night in the Global Village Podcasts offered by Edutopia are good examples of Hands on Education. This type of education gets kids involved and interested in learning. Schools like Rocky Mountain School in Denver, Colorado and Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Burkley, California have taken Education to a higher step by offering Hands on Education to their students.
A Night in the Global Village shows Rocky Mountain School students visiting Heifer Ranch in Perryville, Arkansas. They learned how life is in other countries like Guatemala, Thailand, and Zambia. The students were given some supplies, but they had to decide how to get other supplies from the countries who had what they needed. They spent the night in the same kind of housing that each country actually lives in. The students gained an understanding of how children live in other countries.
The Edible Schoolyard shows Martin Luther King Jr Middle School students learning Math, Science, Social Studies and life skills while working in a garden. They actually grow food and eat it. At the same time, they are using math skills, learning about topics such as condensation and growing processes, and learning how to work with others.
These podcasts are excellent tools for teachers to use in their classrooms. They can show students how other students are learning. This type of learning is a good way to motivate students who struggle in the classroom. Students also get to see how other students learn to work together and include each other in projects. This is a great resource and I enjoyed watching the programs.
A Night in the Global Village shows Rocky Mountain School students visiting Heifer Ranch in Perryville, Arkansas. They learned how life is in other countries like Guatemala, Thailand, and Zambia. The students were given some supplies, but they had to decide how to get other supplies from the countries who had what they needed. They spent the night in the same kind of housing that each country actually lives in. The students gained an understanding of how children live in other countries.
The Edible Schoolyard shows Martin Luther King Jr Middle School students learning Math, Science, Social Studies and life skills while working in a garden. They actually grow food and eat it. At the same time, they are using math skills, learning about topics such as condensation and growing processes, and learning how to work with others.
These podcasts are excellent tools for teachers to use in their classrooms. They can show students how other students are learning. This type of learning is a good way to motivate students who struggle in the classroom. Students also get to see how other students learn to work together and include each other in projects. This is a great resource and I enjoyed watching the programs.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Podcasting
Podcasts are becoming more and more popular. Teachers are forming podcasts to share information with other teachers as well as students. Students are producing podcasts for discussions pertaining to educational learning.
Podcasts are being recorded in the business world to provide listeners with information when buying new products. The podcast, This Week In Photography, is a good podcast for photographers to subscribe to in order to find out about new cameras and printers as well as other supplies. Many podcasts discuss the pros and cons of buying certain brands.
The topics found on podcasts are unlimited. There are numerous educational topics. Some of the topics include Creative Writing, Science discussions, Math, Foreign Languages and so on. The podcasts are great resources for teachers and students to use when they are researching information. Teachers can use podcasts, such as the KidCast, to explore ideas on how to effectively present materials. Students can use podcasts to get ideas for projects and experiments in certain subjects like Science. They can also use podcasts for tutoring and reinforcement.
For podcasts to be effective, the speakers must be clear with a steady flow of conversation. Many podcasts have more than one speaker. After listening to several podcasts, I feel that multiple speakers keep the conversation flowing and are able to hold the attention of the audience longer. Podcasts such as SmartBoard Lessons, Ed TechTalk and MacBreak Weekly provided clear and professional discussions about many topics.
Podcasts are being recorded in the business world to provide listeners with information when buying new products. The podcast, This Week In Photography, is a good podcast for photographers to subscribe to in order to find out about new cameras and printers as well as other supplies. Many podcasts discuss the pros and cons of buying certain brands.
The topics found on podcasts are unlimited. There are numerous educational topics. Some of the topics include Creative Writing, Science discussions, Math, Foreign Languages and so on. The podcasts are great resources for teachers and students to use when they are researching information. Teachers can use podcasts, such as the KidCast, to explore ideas on how to effectively present materials. Students can use podcasts to get ideas for projects and experiments in certain subjects like Science. They can also use podcasts for tutoring and reinforcement.
For podcasts to be effective, the speakers must be clear with a steady flow of conversation. Many podcasts have more than one speaker. After listening to several podcasts, I feel that multiple speakers keep the conversation flowing and are able to hold the attention of the audience longer. Podcasts such as SmartBoard Lessons, Ed TechTalk and MacBreak Weekly provided clear and professional discussions about many topics.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Randy Pausch
WOW! This lecture was a bit lengthy, but the message was awesome. Professor Pausch revealed his passion for teaching and he proposed techniques for reaching students. He felt that there are some key attributes in enabling students to learn.
Many techniques to successful learning were mentioned in his lecture. He explained that "Brick walls are there for a reason". We all run into brick walls, but instead of giving up, we should look for ways to climb over, knock them down, or go around. Pausch expressed that the brick walls simply "help to show dedication".
Another technique that was mentioned was "Always find the best in everyone". His instructions were to keep looking within students and adults until you find something good in them. I try to use this technique when I substitute. There is always a student that I get warned about, but instead of going into the classroom expecting the worst from that student, I go in with a good attitude, expecting the same from them. I do manage to find good qualities in every student. There are a lot of students who do not get blessed with loving/caring parents like he did. Parents do make a difference!
I really enjoyed watching his web cast. I look forward to using his techniques/ideas in my classroom. His ways of thinking are a great asset to teachers. I almost cried when he had the audience sing "Happy Birthday" to his wife.
Many techniques to successful learning were mentioned in his lecture. He explained that "Brick walls are there for a reason". We all run into brick walls, but instead of giving up, we should look for ways to climb over, knock them down, or go around. Pausch expressed that the brick walls simply "help to show dedication".
Another technique that was mentioned was "Always find the best in everyone". His instructions were to keep looking within students and adults until you find something good in them. I try to use this technique when I substitute. There is always a student that I get warned about, but instead of going into the classroom expecting the worst from that student, I go in with a good attitude, expecting the same from them. I do manage to find good qualities in every student. There are a lot of students who do not get blessed with loving/caring parents like he did. Parents do make a difference!
I really enjoyed watching his web cast. I look forward to using his techniques/ideas in my classroom. His ways of thinking are a great asset to teachers. I almost cried when he had the audience sing "Happy Birthday" to his wife.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
iPod Use in Instruction
No one in my family owns an iPod, so I was really unfamiliar with what they can do other than play music. During my research of iPod use, I discovered that this little instrument can be very helpful in the education setting. I find it amazing that students can use iPods for educational purposes. In the school where I currently substitute, bringing iPods to school is against the rules. Students can download lots of information that could help with better study habits, podcasts, language classes, educational games, and more.
Duke University has started incorporating iPod usage into many of the courses being taught. According to the Duke News Website, the university gives iPods to students who enroll in a class that requires an iPod. When Duke started passing out free iPods, every first year student received one. Now, they have developed a new strategy for receiving the free iPod, which is the specific course enrollment. Technology is exploding and Duke is setting a new example for other universities to follow.
iPods and Learning
Duke University has started incorporating iPod usage into many of the courses being taught. According to the Duke News Website, the university gives iPods to students who enroll in a class that requires an iPod. When Duke started passing out free iPods, every first year student received one. Now, they have developed a new strategy for receiving the free iPod, which is the specific course enrollment. Technology is exploding and Duke is setting a new example for other universities to follow.
iPods and Learning
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Meet Dr. Alice Christie
I really enjoyed exploring Dr. Alice Christie's website. This website is a very useful website for teachers as well as students. The information that she provides is very extensive. There are numerous links to aid in classroom planning such as Workshops, Web Design, Educational Technology, and Photography.
I found the link "Searching the Web" to be very interesting and useful. Students would enjoy exploring on this site. They could use this website to research topics, find encyclopedias with information about subjects and look at videos. This site would be very helpful to teachers when evaluating other websites, finding ideas for field trips, as well as other valuable information. Teachers would benefit greatly from the use of this website in and out of the classroom.
I found the link "Searching the Web" to be very interesting and useful. Students would enjoy exploring on this site. They could use this website to research topics, find encyclopedias with information about subjects and look at videos. This site would be very helpful to teachers when evaluating other websites, finding ideas for field trips, as well as other valuable information. Teachers would benefit greatly from the use of this website in and out of the classroom.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
ACCESS AT MCHS
I recently visited the ACCESS Lab at Monroe County High School, in Monroeville, AL. MCHS has been involved with ACCESS for about two or three years. The instructor is new so she is still in the learning stage as well as the students. Currently, there are two students using the ACCESS Lab, but that number changes each semester.
ACCESS is a great way for students to broaden their knowledge. Creative Writng, Advance and Marine Biology, Calculus, English Literature, Foreign Language, Psychology, and Web Design are some of the classes offered. Right now, MCHS connects with Charles Henderson High School in Troy and Pale City High School. The two students using ACCESS this semester are taking Latin. Students must be responsible and dedicated when taking these courses. Online courses require more discipline because, to some degree, the student is also the teacher.
The only problem the students have with the lab is when the server is down, they can not view their classes. The computers seem to be user friendly and are a fun way to learn.
Visiting the ACCESS Lab was very interesting. I substituted for the instructor last year and watched a student while they took Calculus. I thought it was neat to be able to see the classroom and the teacher as they were teaching. The interaction between the student and the teacher through the computer was amazing. I think that ACCESS is a great way for students to learn and for schools to connect. This program is helpful for schools, who have limited funding, to allow advancement for their students.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Is Wikipedia Reliable?
This blog assignment was my introduction to Wikipedia. Since I was unfamiliar with Wikipedia, I decided that I needed to explore the website before forming an opinion. After viewing some of the topics posted, I have decided that Wikipedia could be very useful to those who are researching certain topics. My husband said he is very impressed with Wikipedia. He uses the website to research information in the medical field regularly.
I do have some concerns with Wikipedia. If anyone can edit information, then problems that should be made known could actually be hidden. Such as a drug that is causing complications to a patient. The drug companies would not want this to be public knowledge. Also, someone could go in and add false information about topics just to misguide people. My daughter, who is in the 7th grade, said that her teachers do not feel that Wikipedia is reliable. They are not confident that the information is accurate. I can see the advantages and the disadvantages. I am sure that the more popular Wikipedia becomes, the more accurate the information will be.
I do have some concerns with Wikipedia. If anyone can edit information, then problems that should be made known could actually be hidden. Such as a drug that is causing complications to a patient. The drug companies would not want this to be public knowledge. Also, someone could go in and add false information about topics just to misguide people. My daughter, who is in the 7th grade, said that her teachers do not feel that Wikipedia is reliable. They are not confident that the information is accurate. I can see the advantages and the disadvantages. I am sure that the more popular Wikipedia becomes, the more accurate the information will be.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Customer Service
I enjoyed reading the blog "Customer Service" in the May postings by Karl Fisch. He explains how customer service has disappointed the consumers because everyone is "busy". I believe, from my own experience, that customer service is not priority in most businesses these days. Making money while keeping costs down is the first priority, so when expenses must be cut, customer service gets the knife. I get very aggravated when I call a company and I get sent from one computerized representative to another because everyone is too busy.
I like the way he relates customer service with the classroom. I also see how many customers are dissatisfied with the service they receive. The students and parents are the customers and many teachers are "too busy" to give them quality service. Some teachers seem to do everything they can to push the customers away. For example, a student turned in his English homework assignment, and because the paper was torn out of a notebook, the teacher gave the student a zero. I also understand that some parents/students are very hard to deal with. Teachers have a hard time communicating with unconcerned parents and lazy students.
I like the way he relates customer service with the classroom. I also see how many customers are dissatisfied with the service they receive. The students and parents are the customers and many teachers are "too busy" to give them quality service. Some teachers seem to do everything they can to push the customers away. For example, a student turned in his English homework assignment, and because the paper was torn out of a notebook, the teacher gave the student a zero. I also understand that some parents/students are very hard to deal with. Teachers have a hard time communicating with unconcerned parents and lazy students.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Technologically Illiterate?
Karl Fisch's statement "If a teacher today is not technologically literate-and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more-its equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write" is a very strong point for stressing why it is so important for teachers to be technologically literate. I agree totally with his idea. How can the world continue to function if the teachers can not properly train the students? If people are not technologically literate, they do not have a chance competing in the job market. Teachers who are technologically illiterate can not teach students the skills that they must possess to compete. Technology rules the world and those who are illiterate,and who refuse to learn, will eventually become lost. The world is advancing rapidly and in order to survive, everyone must be willing to learn new technology.
There are still some problems that are out of the control of teachers. There are still many under privileged people in this world who can not afford the technology at home. This makes it hard for students to apply the skills that they are being taught at home. Also, many schools do not have the funding to provide the necessary technology. Perhaps, if the school system were better funded, teachers would be more willing to advance their skills so they could better prepare their students.
Karl Fisch Blog
There are still some problems that are out of the control of teachers. There are still many under privileged people in this world who can not afford the technology at home. This makes it hard for students to apply the skills that they are being taught at home. Also, many schools do not have the funding to provide the necessary technology. Perhaps, if the school system were better funded, teachers would be more willing to advance their skills so they could better prepare their students.
Karl Fisch Blog
Monday, September 8, 2008
A Scottish Blog
Ewan McIntosh is a Scottish teacher and Social Media Specialist. He speaks internationally. From his blog, you can hear previous talks, find out where he will be speaking next, learn about Scottish Education and find out about upcoming events. There is a search engine for his blogs. Viewers can sign up to receive his regular posts.
Ewan's Blog
A Blog from Thailand
Kim Cofino is a teacher at the International School Bangkok in Thailand. She uses here blog space to review or add to her current teaching. She posts various articles on 21st century teaching and technology. There are videos on her topics that can be viewed through YouTube. Bloggers can subscribe to her feeds and learn more about her work through wikispace.
Kim's Blog
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Teacher Blog in Missouri
WM Chamberlain is a 5th grade teacher at Noel Elementary School in Missouri. His class blog, Mr C's Class Blog, is loaded with links and information useful to the students for learning. His students can go to his blog and look up dictionary words, check the weather, view class videos, find educational games, and tons of other information. There is a link to the McDonald County School District site. He provides information about upcoming activities. He gives demonstrations on how to do class projects. This website should draw the interests of his students and parents. Each student has a blog.
You can visit this site at: http://mrcsclassblog.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Teacher Blog in Georgia
Teacher blogs are becoming more popular and are very useful in the edeucation field for teachers, parents, and students. At Lassiter High School in Georgia, Mrs Kendall's and Mrs Romeu's Blog is used to keep the students in their English classes informed about assignments and other activities going on with the English Department. There is a parent link for parents to use to check on the student's performance. There is also a link to the school and the school district. The blog offers numerous sites to visit for various information and appears to be very helpful to the students.
Please feel free to visit this site: http://lhsblogs.typepad.com/kendall/2008/09
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Did You Know/Shift Happens Video
The video "Did You Know/Shift Happens" focuses on how dependent the world has become on the use of computers. Children are introduced to computers when they are babies, and many know how to surf the Internet or play games before they start kindergarten. The use of computers in the business world is rapidly growing. Knowledge of computers is essential to kids becoming successful adults.
This video was very educating. Each one of us uses computers in some way, but we do not take the time to really think about how dependent the world has become on the use of computers. This video offers evidence to the growing use/dependence. In my opinion, this video was a little frightening. We are becoming so dependent that when a computer system fails, we do not know how to function any other way. At the same time, I am amazed that I can communicate with someone on the other side of the world in a matter of seconds.
This video was very educating. Each one of us uses computers in some way, but we do not take the time to really think about how dependent the world has become on the use of computers. This video offers evidence to the growing use/dependence. In my opinion, this video was a little frightening. We are becoming so dependent that when a computer system fails, we do not know how to function any other way. At the same time, I am amazed that I can communicate with someone on the other side of the world in a matter of seconds.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
ACCESS
ACCESS, which stands for Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, and Students Statewide, is a program offered at many schools. This program enables students to take advanced courses that are not offered at their school. There is interaction between the student and the teacher/class where the course is actually being taught. Teachers who teach must be highly qualified. Parents are welcome to go online and learn about ACCESS. Presentations and brochures can be found online, explaining the program as well as other special topics. The powerpoint presentation offers more information about the program and what teachers and students can expect.
This is an excellent program that allows students to advance when advancement is not offered at their school. For students who need a challenge, this is a great way to expand their knowledge. The school in my county offers certain distance learning classes as a way for them to take classes not offered at the school. This is a great way for teachers to meet new students, as well as, a way for students to meet new teachers. I plan to teach younger children, and I hope that this will be available for us as well.
This is an excellent program that allows students to advance when advancement is not offered at their school. For students who need a challenge, this is a great way to expand their knowledge. The school in my county offers certain distance learning classes as a way for them to take classes not offered at the school. This is a great way for teachers to meet new students, as well as, a way for students to meet new teachers. I plan to teach younger children, and I hope that this will be available for us as well.
Monday, August 25, 2008
ALEX
ALEX, which stands for Alabama Learning Exchange, is an excellent website where educational information is shared by teachers. This website can be used to obtain resources to aid teachers in the classroom. There are lesson plans available for different courses and grade levels. Class activities can be found for the different courses. The Alabama Virtual Library can be accessed through ALEX, as well as the distance learning program, which is called ACCESS. There are numerous student/teacher links to search for other useful information.
This website will help me tremendously in my classroom. As a teacher, I can use this website to store my information as well as gain ideas from other teachers that will help in my teaching. I can monitor how other teachers are presenting the information in case my way is less effective. There as many resources available on this website and it will be an advantage for me to use it.
This website will help me tremendously in my classroom. As a teacher, I can use this website to store my information as well as gain ideas from other teachers that will help in my teaching. I can monitor how other teachers are presenting the information in case my way is less effective. There as many resources available on this website and it will be an advantage for me to use it.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Just A Little About Me
I am a 35 year old wife and mother. I have been married for 14 years and I have a 17 year old stepson, a 12 year old daughter and a 9 year old son. My family keeps me very busy. My stepson is playing high school football and my daughter is a Jr High cheerleader. My 9 year old is playing soccer. If we are not at a school function, we are at a church function so there is never a dull moment at my house.
Most of my interests involve my husband and children. I don't have a lot of time just for me because I am always busy running kids or helping my husband with projects. When I do get time for me, I enjoy reading.
I graduated from USA in 2005 with a degree in AIS. I chose this degree because at the time I was going to be a stay at home mother. Since then, my husband has decided to change careers. He is a paramedic and is currently in RN school. He hopes to go to CRNA school when he gets his RN but to do that he can't work so someone is going to have to support the family. That will be me! I substitute teach and love it, so I decided to come back and get my teaching degree.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
News Today
Hey everyone. I think this class is going to be a lot of fun. I did not realize you could do all this stuff on google. I am a wife and mother so I don't have free time to sit at the computer and explore often.
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