Graphic Organizer

This is a graphic organizer I created using Inspiration, an application used to organize and display information.

Journal 9

Science + Technology = Creativity & Fun

Bouterse, Brian, Corn Jenifer O. & Halstead Elizabeth O. (2009, August). Science + technology = creativity and fun. Learning & Leading With Technology, [37(1)], [30-31].

Usually when you think of a scientist, the word “creative” isn't the first word that pops into mind. But just like everything else in today's world of education, this is changing too. (For the better of course!) There are specific steps a teacher can take to ensure he/she is allowing their students to have the opportunity to develop their creative intuition while working on scientific exploration. These steps are:

• Give them tools

• Give them time

• Be vague

Students need the opportunity to use tools such as microphones and digital cameras. By using technology such as this, they are learning the basics of hardware and software alongside with the class content. Students are able to build their technological database when a teacher provides both structure and clear expectations of assignments. At this step in the learning process, the students are learning how to choose appropriate technology tools to complete an assignment. The transition to an open ended assignment given by the teacher requires more thinking time on the student's part. The students will need more time to explore new technology tools and more time to process the assignment. Once the students have expanded their digital tool belts, the teacher can be vague when discussing the final product expected from an assignment. A teacher can be specific about content, but by leaving the chosen technological medium up to the student, the teacher is encouraging the student to be creative.

Question 1

Is this a fair learning process to the students?

Yes, this approach is extremely fair and beneficial to students. It understands the student's current level of technological knowledge and eventually step by step prepares them to be creative and able to make their own decisions regarding appropriate technology tools and the final outcome of assignments.

Question 2

Can this teaching technique be used for any grade level?

Yes, I believe so. A teacher would only have to modify the assignments and expectations of their students. I am hoping to teach second or third grade. I could definitely implement this teaching strategy in my classroom. I can begin with clear expectations from my assignments and then gradually work my way up to allowing my students to choose what technology tool they feel is most appropriate.

Crossword Puzzle - NETS 3

This is an interactive crossword puzzle created on an Excel worksheet. There are clues on Sheet 2 to help the students to complete the puzzle. What a fun learning tool!
Ed422_crossword Workbook Filled

Journal 8

Choosing the Perfect Tools for One-to-One

Bouterse, Brian, Corn Jenifer O. & Halstead Elizabeth O. (2009, August). Choosing the perfect tools for one-to-one. Learning & Leading With Technology, [37(1)], [14-17].

The face of the traditional classroom has changed. Today, many schools and districts nationwide are using portable computers to create a one-to-one learning environment for the students and teachers. These portable computers allow flexible technology access for this new learning environment. But the change is not easy, schools & districts are faced with the challenge of maximizing learning at a sustainable cost by selecting the appropriate computing device. In order to best meet the needs of the students and teachers, the schools must select a computing device that best fits their specific situation. There are basically six questions that must be addressed in order to achieve these goals. They are:

• Will the computing device be used for a single purpose or as a multipurpose machine?
• What operating system can the school financially support?
• Does the school want to install local or web based applications, or both?
• Does the school want to install local or web based content, or both?
• Will the school be using peripheral equipment?
• What can the school do to protect the computing device from wear and tear of everyday use by students and staff?

Careful consideration and planning will provide important information needed to select the most appropriate portable computing device for a school or district's particular learning needs. There are also other questions to consider: the training of personnel to ensure they are able to proficiently use the equipment, the costs associated with connecting to the Internet, additional software applications to be purchased and the amount of money needed to to wire an existing physical location.

Question 1

Are schools left to face these issues alone?

No, there are companies like The Consortium of School Networking (CoSN) who specialize in evaluating the effective use of technology within K-12 learning environments.

Question 2

Are students and staff ready for changes such as this?

Yes, I believe students and staff are more than ready! In order to stay competitive within the learning environment, schools and districts must be ready and able to make changes which incorporate technology into education.

Newsletter - NETS 1

Newsletter - NETS 1

I created this appealing newsletter using Microsoft word. I used Word Art for the title, incorporated graphics and clip art, included custom bullets and added a beautiful border!

Power Point - NETS 3

Power Point - NETS 3
I created this power point slide presentation to demonstrate my knowledge of the 2007 ISTE NETS-S and the performance indicators for a specific grade range. My power point includes custom animation, a hyperlink, images and clip art. Enjoy!

iMovie- NETS 1

This is an editing project I completed using footage supplied by my professor. This short video clip contains, a voice overlay, transitions, music and special effects.

Journal 7

Beyond Social Networking: Building Toward Learning Communities

Reynard, Ruth (2009, July 15). Beyond social networking: building toward learning communities. The Journal Transforming Technology Through Education, Retrieved August 5, 2009, this article begins with the idea that social networking is only the beginning of a longer and more complex process of socially constructed learning, collaboration and knowledge building. When actively participating in a learning community, ones social networking relationships should evolve into legitimate idea exchange and knowledge construction. Social networking builds on the social relationships already established by the users of today's technology, which are young and old alike. Basically, social networking provides new ways to connect and share information and create networks of interests. In the past, teachers had to organize and create situations where the students could connect together. Today, by utilizing social networking tools, students can immediately connect and group together. But, social networking does not create these learning communities independently. Instructors intentionally need to support this process to ensure a learning community is created and maintained. Even when using social networking as a learning tool, students still need to be encouraged and made aware that their ideas and contributions are valuable and needed in the learning community. Also, students still also need help building their confidence to openly share their ideas within the learning community. When participating in a social network, various other skills are developed as well. For instance, the skills of discussion and dialogue are enhanced when a student participates in an on line discussion group, idea sharing and collaboration are also developed when students participate in this kind of learning process.

Question 1
Do students prefer this "new way" of learning vs. the "old way?"

Yes, I believe students are more intrigued with today's style of learning vs. learning by the traditional standards. Keeping education current with technology is vital in keeping the student's interested in learning.

Question 2
Can students ever suffer from social networking as a learning process?

Yes, if the teacher fails to monitor the student's social networking and simply leaves the students up to their own agendas, the students learning will suffer. Social networking is a great tool within today's learning process, but it doesn't replace the important role of teachers.

Journal 6

Don't Feed the Trolls

Work-Richardson, Karen (2008, May). Don't feed the trolls. Learning & Leading With Technology, [35(7)], [12-15]

I agree with this article completely. It is our job as teachers to teach civil discourse to students regarding on-line and face-to-face interaction. Simply stating the rules for behavior isn't enough. If we want the students to really understand and respect civil discourse, we must engage the students in the learning process. Using blogs to teach civil discourse is an excellent idea. Students are able to review and reflect on specific segments of conversation chosen by either the teacher or themselves. Role playing is also a great way to teach and model civil discourse. Teaching reflection and self constraint while using collaborative technology not only benefits the students in the present, by creating a safe and supportive conversation place, but also benefits them in the future, by creating a solid foundation for a democratic society. I liked the notion being taught by the on-line interactive learning environment, Moose Crossing: “If you think you shouldn't do it, then you probably shouldn't.” That's a great rule of thumb for all ages. I also liked the idea, “think first, then post.” It's so important to teach students that people don't always agree and that disagreeing is a good and normal part of life, it's what being an individual is all about. The key to remember is, when we do disagree with others- we should do so civilly.

Question 1

Do teachers view teaching on-line civil discourse as a burden?

No, I believe teachers are willing to demonstrate and model proper on-line behavior with a positive attitude. Teachers have already dedicated themselves to the enrichment of their students, and on-line behavior is just as real & important as face-to-face interaction.

Question 2

Should teaching on-line civil discourse be integrated into school curriculum?

Yes, what a great idea. Collaborative technology is here to stay. If students are not taught correct behavior and thinking patterns from the beginning, we are actually setting them up to become “trolls” in the future.

Journal 4 Photo Sharing

Who doesn't love to share photos? Today we have new, free options available for easy photo sharing. Taking pictures and developing them on paper is now considered "the old way." Sharing photos on line is the latest and greatest way to share pictures! To do this, use a digital camera to take pictures, transport the pictures from the camera to your computer and then upload your pictures to the web using a service such as, Fickr.com or Webshots.com. These are free services that allow you to safely store and share photos. You can choose to make your pictures "private" or you can choose "public" and share your pictures with the world!
I followed a thread titled "How did you choose your profile photo?" There were many different reactions to this question. Some people choose not to use a photo at all, because of assumptions people make from appearances, while others can't wait to share their favorite picture, reminding them of a relaxing time or something exciting they did. Several people felt it was important to have a picture when on a social networking site, because it helps the other person create a visual connection. Like they say... "a picture says a thousand words."
Another thread I followed was titled, "photo sharing for classes." A teacher can create an online photo storage account for students, parents and staff to add and download pictures to and from. For security issues, a teacher can create a "private group" of photos that only the class parents can have access to.
I would love to do this for my classroom! It would be fun to take pictures of my students while painting, drawing or playing group games outside at P.E. time. I can have a link to Flickr.com on my classroom blog and the parents can see their children learning in motion!

Journal 3

Zucker, Andrew A. (2009, June/July). Assessment made easy. Learning & Leading With Technology, [36 (8)], [1-3].

This was my favorite article so far! How exciting! I have never heard of a one-to-one lap top school. The Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST) is truly connecting to its students, and it shows in their success rate: 40% of the school comes from low-income families and yet the test scores are among the highest in the state and every graduating senior is accepted to a four-year college or university. Not to mention, the average public school graduation rate is only at 52%. This method of teaching has impacted both the teachers and students tremendously. More than 80% of teachers reported that the computers and related digital tools are "very important" and 65% of the students said the laptops have a very positive effect on their schooling. My favorite benefit of the laptop teaching method is the instant feedback it gives to students and teachers. Being able to asses and grade the students tests the same day is extremely effective for the students learning process. The information is fresh in the students minds and they are able to understand immediately what information was not learned. I also loved the idea of "reteach weeks." That seems like a teachers dream, being able to assess each student immediately in order to help and reteach the information so that the student is able to confidently meet the educational standards.

Question 1

How have the parents reacted to this style of teaching?

I believe the parents are thrilled, just like the teachers and the students! I know I would love my daughter to be able to participate in a learning environment such as this.

Question 2

Will other schools follow in the footsteps of DSST?

I believe so! The success rate of these students is so high, if given the opportunity, or grant, schools would jump at the chance to have a one-to-one laptop learning experience. It would definitely get my vote!

Journal 2

Robson, Matthew (2009, July 13). How teenagers consume media: the report that shook the city. Retrieved July 23, 2009, from guardian.co.uk Web site: http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/jul/13/teenage-media-habits-morgan-stanley

I thought it was great that this article was written by a 15 year old, who better to report on how teenagers are are engaging in technology than a teen! I'm not sure why this report “shook” the city though, the information seemed to be common knowledge. Even I know that kids today aren't reading newspaper and only listening to the radio for music. I liked how he knew exactly what he was reporting on. He covered all the technology bases and had up to date information. I also like how he used examples in each category. For instance, the average time teenage boys spend viewing television is about 5 hours during football season. It was also helpful that the author included prices of various media like, it costs about $.79 per to purchase a song from iTunes, and that is too expensive for teenagers, especially when they can get the music for free. I think it's great that teenagers today have so many choices when it comes to media and entertainment. Going to the movies and buying CD's is too expensive for most teenagers, and with everything being so accessible, why wouldn't they use the means available to them.

Question 1

Does having technological savvy help or hurt our teens today?

I believe our teens benefit from being savvy with their ways of obtaining media and entertainment. It's practically a requirement for this day & age. Go kids!

Question 2

Does having knowledge of various ways to obtain media help our kids in the classroom?

Yes, when our teens are asked to do a research assignment or work assignment, they will be familiar with the different ways of getting their needed information. Being creative and using the most cost effective ways to obtain information is definitely a plus for any teen and adult. (We just have to work out the legal issues. :) )

Journal 1

Owens, Aileen, M. (2009, June/July). Do Your Teachers need a personal trainer?. Learning & Leading With Technology, [36 (8)], [14-17].

Duquesne University found a solution for the problem of not having sufficient instructional technology coordinators for the teachers of the Mt. Lebanon School District in Pittsburgh. Initially, a coordinator worked with teachers before school, after school, and during lunch through a series of 45-min weekly meetings. The teachers and the coordinator enriched lessons by identifying available resources, technologies, and instructional strategies to increase learning or enable the teacher to teach the concept in a new way. This was great, and the teachers were able to retain the information learned, however, it was impossible to reach all the teachers in need. Aileen Owens and Professor Carbonara created a Student Internship Program for Instructional Technology. Students whose skills matched up with teacher's needs worked together to create technology rich lesson plans. This experiment was extremely successful and the information learned has been put on Wikki for teachers in other districts to learn from. Some of the accomplishments were: second graders learning Microsoft Word and creating reading fluency portfolios and a skills center link was created for kindergarteners. The program was a win-win situation for all, students gained experience from being in the classroom and the teachers received the support they needed. To top it off, the program is cost effective and needed in today's educational environment.

Question 1

Would it be beneficial to have the teachers who were able to receive assistance from the interns turn around and educate other teachers at their school with similar needs?

Yes, face to face interaction is always beneficial. Sharing the experience and how it affected their teaching style would greatly benefit the teachers who weren't able to participate in the program. Hearing first hand from the newly trained teachers would only add to the information already provided by the program.

Question 2

Would it benefit the outcome reports to describe the elementary student's feelings of learning through strategies centered around technology?

Yes, adding their feelings would add even more depth to the results of the training. The children where part of the process and their voices would be appreciated by their teachers and interns alike.

Social Bookmarking

Social Bookmarking

1. National Archives - I chose the Designs for Democracy exhibit. This site showcases nearly 125 design drawings that the US govt. has prepared, commissioned, received or approved. These drawings are of bridges, ships, flags, monuments and costumes. These drawings fall under Federal guidelines and programs and are submitted by artists, engineers, inventors and draftsmen. Using primary resources such as the National Archives is a reliable and safe teaching tool for teachers. The information provided is a great first step for students and teachers when exploring and learning information on many topics.

2. NEA Achievement Gap - Student groups who experience achievement gaps are American Indians & Alaska Natives, Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders, Black, Hispanic and Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender People. Under "Becoming a Culturally Competent Educator" the three areas that fit my teaching style are:

• Gather and organize resource materials related to culturally diverse groups for use by school staff. I could see myself gathering & organizing teaching tools that would help myself as well as my fellow teachers. I like to be helpful and help in projects that will benefits the group.
  
• Build and use a network of "natural helpers" at school and in the community as well as "experts" who have knowledge of the culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups served by your school. My social skills will be one of my strongest assets in teaching. I enjoy creating relationships and reaching out to people, especially if its for a good cause.
  

• Network with parent, family, minority community, and faith-based organizations concerned with the needs of diverse students. Solicit their involvement and input in the design and implementation of initiatives for culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups. I am looking forward to interacting with my parents and community, social interaction comes easy to me. I can use this strength for the benefit of my students and school. I would be happy to network with the groups of people to help my students.

My teaching style will be very personable and caring. These are natural traits for me & I am looking forward to interacting with my students, parents and school. I am dedicated to my work & will go the extra mile for my students and school.

3. Cyber Bullying - I am a cyber angel! This is mostly due to the fact that I don't do many of the items on the list to begin with. But, knowing me, I would not do those things any way. I am an angel in cyber space & in real life!
I learned about instant messaging on this site. I have never done IM, although my daughter does often. I learned that it is more difficult to trace who sent a harassing message on IM versus email. Becoming familiar with the technology my students are using today will enable me to understand the situations they are faced with & I will be better able to help when needed.

4. Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators - From the "Subject Access" section I liked the Calendars through the Ages link. This history is fascinating and would be a great addition to teaching a Calendar theme. This link describes how our lives are shaped by the movements of the earth, moon & sun and the people who discovered these truths. Adding this history of the calendar would enrich my lesson plan and help keep my students interested in the subject. In the "Teacher Helpers" section, I liked the Bullentin Board link. I can't wait to decorate my classroom! I feel that a cheerful & inspirational classroom setting is very important. Since my students and I will be spending so much time together in our classroom, its important for me to create an environment that is fun and meaningful. I am so happy that there are so many ideas and examples of what to do. This link has examples, a gallery and additional links to visit. I will be using this link every year!!

5. Multiple Intelligences - My top three intelligences were: Naturalistic, Intrapersonal & Verbal-Linguistic. I watched the video, Big Thinkers: Howard Gardner on MI. I learned that MI is a theory that emphasizes how human beings have different strengths for learning. This video also reminded me that in order to use the info learned, students must take an active role in learning, such as ask questions, do hands on projects and recreate the situation. If these things are not done, the information will disappear because it has nothing to hold on to. I agree with this theory and I plan to learn more about MI.

6. Teaching Tolerance - Grade chosen: 2nd, subject: Creative Art & Topic: Health Issues. Name of Lesson: Many Shapes and Sizes
Lesson Plan: This activity is for grades preK-2, it helps children celebrate size diversity. In this lesson, students read a story about body diversity and discuss the different shapes and sizes that people come in. I would have my students make body tracings that celebrate their unique shape and size. We would also talk about ways to keep our bodies healthy through good nutrition and activity.

7. EdChange Multicultural Awareness Quiz - I took the quiz and got all wrong but one.
Questions I found interesting are: According to a study by the American Association of Physicians for Human Rights, what percentage of physicians report witnessing a colleague giving reduced care or refusing care to lesbian, gay, or bisexual patients? - The correct answer is four times as likely. I was surprised by this answer. I thought doctors were fairly impartial when it came to issues like this. This shows that even doctors need to be educated on fairness and diversity.

Compared with White women, how likely are African American women in the U.S. to die during childbirth due to a lack of access to prenatal care, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality? - The correct answer to this question is 52% as likely. This shocked me. I thought most all woman receive good prenatal care due to welfare and medical. As educators, we need to stress the importance of prenatal care for all woman, of all heritages.

8. Netiquette Guidelines - I got a 60% on the quiz. Netiquette teaches students proper behavior while being online. Unless these "rules" are taught, students will not have a clear understanding of what is expected of them while being online. Just as we teach students proper behavior in "the real world" - it is our responsibility to teach online behavior as well. Students need to understand that an "everything goes" attitude is not accepted online simply because the interaction is not face to face. Teaching Netiquette gives students the tools needed to become socially responsible while being online. :)