It's time for that final reflection. 21 Things really are a lot of things to accomplish in this short amount of time, however, I have to say, I'm very glad that I have had the opportunity to learn about each one of them.
Thing 15 was about creating PDF files, and using Google calendar. Finding ways to transfer a handful of paper down to a file is wonderful for educators. Working on grade level projects, now we can save a tree by transferring information to a PDF file. I used Zamzar and it was very simple. I didn't transfer a large file, just a two-page rubric, however, it was quick and easy.
Using Google Calendar is an easy way to display due dates on one project, the week's schedule, or for special events. Students and parents have easy access and it is quick and easy to plug in the information.
Thing 16 was learning about Professional Learning Networks. I was pleased to see that YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook can all have very positive educational value. My biggest problem with Twitter was trying to figure out what to tweet about. Most people are very banal in their tweets and when Ron demonstrarted how he uses Twitter a bright new world of possibilities opened up. I already know that kids like to follow their teachers Facebook page, so I figure Twitter would be the same thing. Twitter is another way to impart information on a more relaxed stage. As far as a site available to educators, Learnport was excellent. Not only can I access classes for CEU credits, but you will also find latest information on a number of topics.
Thing 17- Research Reference Tools
I chose to compare and contrast the eLibrary Kids Elementary site with Kids Infobite.org.
Both sites requested a library card ID, however, elibrary left the option for a drivers license instead, which may be a good option, because everyone still does not have a library card or access to a library, but their parent will more likely have a drivers license.
Both sites offer fantastic resources for kids. Kids Infobites is geared towards K-5, while elibrary is K-12. Reading levels are simplified for Kids Infobites by easy, more difficult, while elibrary kids offers multiple reading levels, as well as a source key to understand these levels. Kids Infobites offers something that I believe is wonderful, especially in the case of struggling readers and ESL students, which is an audio choice. Students can choose to listen to an Infbites reader read the article and may choose to listen or read along. This also allows for MP3 download for later listening.
For many elementary students I would probably recommend the Kids Infobite site because it is all information that is within their grade level K-5, which means it will be much less information for them to sort through. eLibrary is very user friendly and is good for all levels, but possibly not as "fun" to use as Kids Infobites.
For 5th grade and up I believe eLibrary offers more diversity and a wider choice of materials, and that is because what they will be exposed to increases with each grade level.
I went to each source, looking up newspapers, magazines, books, maps, pictures, audio/visual, and transcripts. All was very user friendly and a solid source of resources for students to depend on when writing papers, working on projects, or research.
Thing 18 RSS- Aggrigators
I joined Netvibes and have called mine, Kathy's Netvibe. Not original, but I can always change it later. I now will have updates on technology for the 21st century educator (so many things came up for that topic!) and the MSNBC network.
This can be helpful in the classroom because it's another way the teacher can set up a resource that the parents and students can go to access homework assignments, to check grades, go to specific websites that the classroom is using for a specific topic. Teachers can use it to provide daily lesson plans.
It is great to be able to add and sort as many widgets as you want to. I haven't had much time to sort through all of them of course, but I've chosen some widgets that I like personally, and I also believe will be of benefit to my students, so I will have them on my public page. Widgets from Newsweek, US Today, etc...provide current national topics that students can easily access for current events work. I believe that the biggest plus for me at this point is the availability of so much information so quickly. I can keep sites available that carry information on the topics we are covering in our core classes. Whether review, assignments, test preparation, any site the student would need access to is contained in one place for them. I know how frustrating it is to find the sites with the information you are looking for, and now that will be provided for them and they can get right to the business of doing their research, review, or whatever. They
will be reminded what is due immediately and what they have more time to work on. As an educator I can have the satisfaction of knowing that I've provided one more tool for them to access to make their learning process a more successful one. Information can be provided week by week, as well as providing the sites that will help them. Parents can access all of the same information which will give them the option of becoming more involved with their student's work. Having worked with many Spanish families with parents who don't speak or read English, this would not be that helpful unless versions could be provided in Spanish. That would be something worth checking into; any widgets in Espanol?
This is a site I need to spend a copious amount of time experimenting with. The downside to having so many Things to learn about is having only a brief introduction before you have to hurry on to the next thing. I already wish I could have access to the moodle for 21 Things after the class is over so I can go through all of the material again. I know that I will learn to appreciate all that tools like Netvibes, have to offer me as an educator, both personally, and for my classroom
Thing 19
This was of particular interest to me since I am involved in this type of learning at my high school. As a geometry paraprofessional I spend my mornings working with Novanet students in the blended program. Novanet is not the best resource and they will be replacing it for the 2011-2012 school year, but I don't know what with as yet. I know they will continue using it throughout the Summer School program. This really does marry the relationship between face-to-face and on-line instruction. The rate at which students progress through the Novanet lessons is certainly up to them, however, the face-to-face portion keeps them on track to move through the material at a steady rate.
As an elementary teacher working in a high school geometry class, I have enjoyed working through the Novanet lessons just ahead of the students, so that I may be an adequate mentor when they have questions. Although the teacher answers most of the questions, I have been able to keep up and be of help to the students as well as the teacher. On top of that I am finally learning geometry.
Thing 20
Graphic organizers are wonderful tools to help us organize our thoughts and ideas. I imagined my 5th grade science class brainstorming thoughts about our ecosystem. I used Bubbl.us and it was appropriate for this type of activity. Not only could the students do their original brainstorming on this topic, it would be very easy to now put them in groups and have each group focus on a topic of importance to them on how we can impact our ecosystem. They can use this graphic organizer to expand on the original ideas; say, on the topic of recycling. After they ennumerate the different aspects involved in responsible recycling, they can then choose how to divide up the work or research. Each person can then create their own organizer for their particular part of the project. Graphic organizers focus us on the important 'stuff ' of our work and help us to visually see the bigger picture.
I created a word cloud with Tagxedo. I wrote some things about my son and he became my first word cloud. He would be very unhappy with me if he knew...
I can see that students would enjoy this very much. There are a number of elements they can control to form their word cloud. As a jaded high school worker I can say that teachers would have to be on their toes as to the content of those word clouds. Teenagers can become masters of technology when it comes to getting around their teachers and trying to slip contraband sites, songs, etc...past them. On the positive side, students would enjoy this creative alternative to expressing themselves academically. While I would not be able to except a word cloud alone for a project, if the text came with the visual of the word cloud, that would be impressive and show me that the student wanted to make an impact with their work.
Thing 21
Well, I believe I've covered my bases by providing the url as well as the MP4 video that I made. I blubbed my way through and really enjoyed it! Having screen-o-matic free, is wonderful. Again, I gauge everything based on "when" I get a classroom again, however, when I do, I will use Thing 21 all of the time! My first year of teaching I tutored 5th graders before and after school several times a week in math. 5th graders really struggle with fractions of every kind. Having the ability to make a short recording that they can play at their own rate, watch as many times as they need to until they "get it" is wonderful! This can be a wonderful help in learning languages as well. Conjugating verbs can be so confusing (I speak from my own personal experience with Spanish) How easy and helpful to make short videos on the verbs they are working on weekly. I can definitely see students' grades improving with a help like this in place. I will use this frequently and for many different ways to help my students learn more effectively. Some students may never need this aid, but for those who do, it's as close to one-on-one as you can get without actually being there!
As I was watching the Screencasts demo I watched the videos where teachers were giving their students feedback for projects. Another wonderful way to use this tool, giving students an auditory feedback as well as a written one for their work.
Some of the things in 21 Things are repetitious, but they all offer other things as well, so each is also unique. This is a worthwhile course for every educator to take, however, I would stretch it out over a longer semester, two months was too quick to really get a chance to get too comfortable with anything before having to move on to the next Thing.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
Thing 21
Oh my, this is it!
http://screencast-o-matic.com/watch/cXh0rYFof
Well, I believe I've covered my bases by providing the url as well as the MP4 video that I made. I blubbed my way through and really enjoyed it! Having screen-o-matic free, is wonderful. Again, I gauge everything based on "when" I get a classroom again, however, when I do, I will use Thing 21 all of the time! My first year of teaching I tutored 5th graders before and after school several times a week in math. 5th graders really struggle with fractions of every kind. Having the ability to make a short recording that they can play at their own rate, watch as many times as they need to until they "get it" is wonderful! This can be a wonderful help in learning languages as well. Conjugating verbs can be so confusing (I speak from my own personal experience with Spanish) How easy and helpful to make short videos on the verbs they are working on weekly. I can definitely see students' grades improving with a help like this in place. I will use this frequently and for many different ways to help my students learn more effectively. Some students may never need this aid, but for those who do, it's as close to one-on-one as you can get without actually being there!
As I was watching the Screencasts demo I watched the videos where teachers were giving their students feedback for projects. Another wonderful way to use this tool, giving students an auditory feedback as well as a written one for their work.
http://screencast-o-matic.com/watch/cXh0rYFof
Well, I believe I've covered my bases by providing the url as well as the MP4 video that I made. I blubbed my way through and really enjoyed it! Having screen-o-matic free, is wonderful. Again, I gauge everything based on "when" I get a classroom again, however, when I do, I will use Thing 21 all of the time! My first year of teaching I tutored 5th graders before and after school several times a week in math. 5th graders really struggle with fractions of every kind. Having the ability to make a short recording that they can play at their own rate, watch as many times as they need to until they "get it" is wonderful! This can be a wonderful help in learning languages as well. Conjugating verbs can be so confusing (I speak from my own personal experience with Spanish) How easy and helpful to make short videos on the verbs they are working on weekly. I can definitely see students' grades improving with a help like this in place. I will use this frequently and for many different ways to help my students learn more effectively. Some students may never need this aid, but for those who do, it's as close to one-on-one as you can get without actually being there!
As I was watching the Screencasts demo I watched the videos where teachers were giving their students feedback for projects. Another wonderful way to use this tool, giving students an auditory feedback as well as a written one for their work.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Thing 20
When I worked with my 5th grade team we used graphic organizers to plan our group projects, like our reading incentives and our Heritage Project. I buy what was said about the amount of information we take in visually compared to just text. It's one more way to reach out to more students and capture their interest and engage them in learning.
I created a word cloud with Tagxedo. I wrote some things about my son and he became my first word cloud. He would be very unhappy with me if he knew...
I can see that students would enjoy this very much. There are a number of elements they can control to form their word cloud. As a jaded high school worker I can say that teachers would have to be on their toes as to the content of those word clouds. Teenagers can become masters of technology when it comes to getting around their teachers and trying to slip contraband sites, songs, etc...past them. On the positive side, students would enjoy this creative alternative to expressing themselves academically. While I would not be able to except a word cloud alone for a project, if the text came with the visual of the word cloud, that would be impressive and show me that the student wanted to make an impact with their work.
I would certainly lobby for my school to have access to these sites if they don't already have them.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Thing 19- The Virtual Classroom
This was of particular interest to me since I am involved in this type of learning at my high school. As a geometry paraprofessional I spend my mornings working with Novanet students in the blended program. Novanet is not the best resource and they will be replacing it for the 2011-2012 school year, but I don't know what with as yet. I know they will continue using it throughout the Summer School program. This really does marry the relationship between face-to-face and on-line instruction. The rate at which students progress through the Novanet lessons is certainly up to them, however, the face-to-face portion keeps them on track to move through the material at a steady rate.
As an elementary teacher working in a high school geometry class, I have enjoyed working through the Novanet lessons just ahead of the students, so that I may be an adequate mentor when they have questions. Although the teacher answers most of the questions, I have been able to keep up and be of help to the students as well as the teacher. On top of that I am finally learning geometry.
The other classes I am a paraprofessional in are the E2020 computer classes. These are not blended and cover all of the curriculum. The main teacher, tech parapro and myself are more limited in how we may help students in this format. This is more about the on-line course. We are able to help with mentoring in some areas but have to call for help in others. Both the Novanet and E2020 courses can be accessed at home as well as at school.
Navigating the Land of Online Learners is a great way to introduce the basics to educators and students alike. After completing the student 'trip' you realize that the student has many responsibilities in being an on-line learner. With these responsibilities come options that the traditional student does not have; such as scheduling when and how much time you will put into each class. Students are responsible to contact their teacher or mentor with any questions or problems that come up while they are working through their on-line coursework. Feedback is important and students need to have a balance of independence, feedback from peers, and input from educators. In taking on-line courses students must know what their rights are and what they can expect in terms of course work helps, mentor help, teacher help. They must know what their course work is building for them in their educational pursuits. Is the class accredited? Will it count towards graduation? Taking an on-line course doesn't mean that a student shouldn't expect the full support and aid of a teacher, technician, or mentor.
As an elementary teacher working in a high school geometry class, I have enjoyed working through the Novanet lessons just ahead of the students, so that I may be an adequate mentor when they have questions. Although the teacher answers most of the questions, I have been able to keep up and be of help to the students as well as the teacher. On top of that I am finally learning geometry.
The other classes I am a paraprofessional in are the E2020 computer classes. These are not blended and cover all of the curriculum. The main teacher, tech parapro and myself are more limited in how we may help students in this format. This is more about the on-line course. We are able to help with mentoring in some areas but have to call for help in others. Both the Novanet and E2020 courses can be accessed at home as well as at school.
Navigating the Land of Online Learners is a great way to introduce the basics to educators and students alike. After completing the student 'trip' you realize that the student has many responsibilities in being an on-line learner. With these responsibilities come options that the traditional student does not have; such as scheduling when and how much time you will put into each class. Students are responsible to contact their teacher or mentor with any questions or problems that come up while they are working through their on-line coursework. Feedback is important and students need to have a balance of independence, feedback from peers, and input from educators. In taking on-line courses students must know what their rights are and what they can expect in terms of course work helps, mentor help, teacher help. They must know what their course work is building for them in their educational pursuits. Is the class accredited? Will it count towards graduation? Taking an on-line course doesn't mean that a student shouldn't expect the full support and aid of a teacher, technician, or mentor.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Thing 18
This can be helpful in the classroom because it's another way the teacher can set up a resource that the parents and students can go to access homework assignments, to check grades, go to specific websites that the classroom is using for a specific topic. Teachers can use it to provide daily lesson plans.
It is great to be able to add and sort as many widgets as you want to. I haven't had much time to sort through all of them of course, but I've chosen some widgets that I like personally, and I also believe will be of benefit to my students, so I will have them on my public page. Widgets from Newsweek, US Today, etc...provide current national topics that students can easily access for current events work. I believe that the biggest plus for me at this point is the availability of so much information so quickly. I can keep sites available that carry information on the topics we are covering in our core classes. Whether review, assignments, test preparation, any site the student would need access to is contained in one place for them. I know how frustrating it is to find the sites with the information you are looking for, and now that will be provided for them and they can get right to the business of doing their research, review, or whatever. They will be reminded what is due immediately and what they have more time to work on. As an educator I can have the satisfaction of knowing that I've provided one more tool for them to access to make their learning process a more successful one. Information can be provided week by week, as well as providing the sites that will help them. Parents can access all of the same information which will give them the option of becoming more involved with their student's work. Having worked with many Spanish families with parents who don't speak or read English, this would not be that helpful unless versions could be provided in Spanish. That would be something worth checking into; any widgets in Espanol?
This is a site I need to spend a copious amount of time experimenting with. The downside to having so many Things to learn about is having only a brief introduction before you have to hurry on to the next thing. I already wish I could have access to the moodle for 21 Things after the class is over so I can go through all of the material again. I know that I will learn to appreciate all that tools like Netvibes, have to offer me as an educator, both personally, and for my classroom.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Thing 17
I chose to compare and contrast the eLibrary Kids Elementary site with Kids Infobite.org.
Both sites requested a library card ID, however, elibrary left the option for a drivers license instead, which may be a good option, because everyone still does not have a library card or access to a library, but their parent will more likely have a drivers license.
Both sites offer fantastic resources for kids. Kids Infobites is geared towards K-5, while elibrary is K-12. Reading levels are simplified for Kids Infobites by easy, more difficult, while elibrary kids offers multiple reading levels, as well as a source key to understand these levels. Kids Infobites offers something that I believe is wonderful, especially in the case of struggling readers and ESL students, which is an audio choice. Students can choose to listen to an Infbites reader read the article and may choose to listen or read along. This also allows for MP3 download for later listening.
For many elementary students I would probably recommend the Kids Infobite site because it is all information that is within their grade level K-5, which means it will be much less information for them to sort through. elibrary is very user friendly and is good for all levels, but possibly not as "fun" to use as Kids Infobites.
For 5th grade and up I believe elibrary offers more diversity and a wider choice of materials, and that is because what they will be exposed to increases with each grade level.
I went to each source, looking up newspapers, magazines, books, maps, pictures, audio/visual, and transcripts. All was very easy to do and I loved that with each resource additional related documents were available and offered.
I found both sites easy to navigate and very appropriate for students.
MP3 downloads are available as well as citation helps. I especially loved that feature because I am one of those people who are citation challenged. (yes, along with being technologically so, but this class is helping to change that). Since I know I struggle with proper citations, I am especially eager that my students learn where to go to get the help they need to create the proper citation. This site lives up to its "one stop source" claims and would be very helpful for classroom use.
In going to Citation Tools in General One File, I found I was not able to download the citation. Each attempt was met with a message saying they could not open the file and then asked if I wanted to choose where to open it. I tried Acrobat and it said an error occured and now I can't get past Acrobat. Each time I choose MLA or APA it takes me right back to Acrobat Reader and the same message. HELP RON!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Thing 16-Professional Learning Networks
Learnport is a professional development portal with much to offer. Not only are there multiple courses available that offer CEU credits, but there are also reports on research being done in the educational system with results and place for feedback. I read a report on blended teaching and its impact in education. Grand Rapids Public Schools figured chiefly in this report. Since I am involved in the blended geometry program I found it interesting to see what the reports showed. The blended program used in our school has been a frustration to most of the teachers and many students are confused by the way GRPS is implementing it.
I went through the tutorial on how to register but could not find a link that actually allowed me to register. When looking at registering through NetTrekker, they want a school code number and I've already asked several teachers about that and they have never heard of it., so, long story short, I was not able to registrer to Learnport, but would certainly like to pursue doing so. It is a fantastic resourse for continuing education at an affordable price.
I have accounts with both Facebook and Twitter. I will make my first tweet today. I am one of those who think carefully about what I say before I say it on-line, so a "I'm having coffee" is not what I would consider a worthwhile tweet. I appreciated the examples Ron gave on how he tweets and I can now see it as a valuable resource. Facebook is probably more widely used by students than Twitter and I've already seen that it can be an effective tool in education. When students have been friended by their teacher(s) they keep up with them regularly. My son checks several of his teachers' Facebook pages regularly. With Twitter and Facebook you can take something the students love and utilize it for their education. With Twitter you can enter into a "conversation" based on your interests, and students can be directed and learn to use Twitter in an informative way, not just for gossip. Educators must utilize the tools the students love to use, and Facebook and Twitter can both be positive educational additions to their learning experience.
The cons to using these sources would be the temptation for students to ignore what you are trying to do in education and just use the time to tweet or talk to their friends. Facebook is one of the sites students are most frequently caught trying to get around blocks to access. YouTube is right up there as well and is another tool that can be very beneficial to education if you can keep them focused.
I have submitted my application to MACUL space. Funny, when I was filling out the registration, it did not accept my zip code. Strange, for "city" they actually asked for Hometown. Since I couldn't figure out what that would have to do with registration and the zip code I would have to offer would further not correspond with the school I am working at, I changed it to Grand Rapids and had to finally change to zip code to one that is in GR, but not mine. Hmmmmmmm...
I spent a lot of time pouring through TWICE, Two Way Interactive Connections in Education. Since literacy is my passion, I absolutely love this site and all that it offers the educator as well as students.
Their main program, ASK (Author, Specialist, Knowledge) brings video conferences to students with authors or specialists in an area that students have been reading about in a novel. This is an excellent resource to promote reading for understanding, journal writing, and interviewing.
The cost of TWICE is $200 ISD/ESA (all districts served by ISD/ESA are TWICE members)
or $75 per Individual school/District
ASK has a fee of $40 for TWICE members or $80 for non-members.
Ask was developed by Dr. Kettel . If you have ever planned a field trip, this is pretty much the same thing, only you never leave your room. Each author or specialist is available at set times and it is a shared session, with not more than 3 classrooms participating at one time. Because they like to make sure that sessions will be fully booked, they encourage you to get on the waiting list if the time slot you wanted in unavailable. Openings happen frequently and you may still get that first slot you wanted. They wil give educators step by step guidance for successful videoconferencing. There are also opportunities to partner with classrooms in other schools and make it a joint project between schools.
Professional Development classes are also available in Videoconferencing, Best Practices & Research Videos are examples, with emphasis on videoconferencing.
If I had my own classroom right now I would love to introduce my students to videoconferencing and collaboration with students from another school. What an exciting way to bring a new light to literature for your students. TWICE gives you the tools, the how tos, and sets you and your students up for success. This is something that I would purchase myself if my school did not have it. I give it 5*! (yes, and an exclamation point, I loved it that much). My contribution to this interactive site would be in the form of participation and feedback. Because I believe this can be highly effective I would also encourage other educators to look at it and see if it would fit into their curriculum.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Thing15
I found the experience of creating a PDF file fast and easy. Using Zamzar I downloaded the PDF converter software and in four short steps my word document was turned into a PDF document. While I chose a small document to turn into a PDF document, this tool is really geared towards more cumbersome files. Since a PDF cnverter is independent from my computer's operating system, hardware, and application software, it makes it compatible to computers whose configurations may differ from yours. I remember going to the school library and having to look up the hard copies of research done on a particular topic and how difficult it was to make copies for myself and the three other members of my team. The PDF format saves of tons of paper, bulk, and precious trees. Sending someone the work in a PDF file, carrying a hard copy around for each of you...which would you choose? With PDF files you can incorporate hyperlinks, bookmarks, text, graphic,or multimedia content.Security features allow the user to prohibit editing, unauthorized copying, viewing, or printing of their PDF file. Great protection.
For classroom use, wow, I remember when I taught science at an NHA charter school. They had no science book or set curriculum, but did have sources on-line that could be used. I would have loved to have been able to convert the material into PDF files, sorted by category, standards, etc...To be able to insert the video or audio resources that would fit well with lessons, links to sites that would enhance the material, and have it all saved in files that I could bring up easily,would have been wonderful. I would be able to update my files, incorporate new materials, etc... and would be able to keep up with state standards, which seem to change often, (at least in the area of science). I would like to spend more time familiarizing myself with this tool after the class is completed (aswith many of the other tools we've been shown). The frustrating part of shoving 21 Thingsw into a few short weeks is that you have a brief moment to go,
"Wow! I like that!" and then you have to move on to the next.Google calendar is easy and fast and gives you and your students a visual on what is coming up in the week. I created a sample Mon-Fri. calendar but there are many ways that you can utilize a calendar for the classroom. Whether it's a calendar of specific due dates for one big project, or a calendar showing the special celebrations and events that come up in school, reminding students to get in permission slips, etc... Google calendar is easy to use.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Thing 14
First of all I'd like to state my frustration. I couldn't post my blog last night because my computer crashed. I attempted to get on from 8:00-11:30 when I finally gave up for the night.
Reflections on Things8-14
In these Things we covered everything from copyright laws to video and audio streaming. All were important and all can positively enhance and educators practice as well as offering important technology to enhance a student's educational experience.
Beginning with copyright laws. As educators it is good to be refreshed on what is legal and what is not when it comes to using others' work. Students will be writing many papers and doing projects throughout their educational experience, and using copyrighted material is many times, a part of that. When we, as educators, make it a priority to give this information to our students correctly from the beginning of their experience, the more it will become ingrained in their educational pursuits correctly, from the beginning.
Students love photo sharing on the web. Using tools like Picassa 3 will not only enhance material that you, as an educator, desire to use in the classroom, but it will allow students to produce much more effective photos, slide shows, etc...Learning to use this tool to bring out the best part of your particular shot will enhance their work and allow them to put forth a more impressive presentation.
Digital Storytelling is a fantastic tool that allows students to implement Picassa 3 into their work if they desire to do so. It provides them with another venue in which to present a body of work. All students would do well to learn how to create a digital story whether it's "their thing" or not. Learning the creative aspects of digital storytelling teaches them to work with audio, scripting, background music, timing, as well as with pictures. Preplanning by way of using a storyboard is an important and necessary part of putting together a digital story that works.
Prezi is a tool that students will find multiple uses for. As an educator, Prezi could be used in numerous ways with easy access by your students. Prezi is like PowerPoint plus, so in any area where I might use one for my classroom, I could more effectively use Prezi. Being able to add links, urls, and even movies clips into your Prezi presentation makes this a tool that will enable students to put forth much more information in putting together a presentation, which will give them more effective ways to present their material. As an educator, any information that I can put out there for my students to use to enhance their learning experience, I will use it. In the lesson I did I made it a test review. I was able to include a movie clip, links to sites that gave additional information in a short appealing format for students, as well as downloading some pictures to round out the review information I provided. I was abel to provide multiple ways for my diverse classroom of students to review for a test. There will be aspects of this Prezi review that will call to every kind of learner, thus enabling them to better learn and retain the material.
WIth data warehousing, student information systems, management systems, etc...there are benefits for educator, student, and for parents. I had the opportunity to work with one of these systems for the four years I taught in a NHA charter school. We did NWEA testing 3X a year, and with the data warehousing system used, I was able to show the parents and each student how they were doing in the areas of reading, language arts, and math. They could see how their child stacked up with the expectations the school had for them in these areas, how they compared to other students in their grade level in the district, as well as how they compared to students who took the same testing whereever it was given. Text plus a line graph gives parents information plus a visual to better understand how their student is performing. The beautiful thing about this is that it also breaks down each subject into categories and lets the student know their strengths and weaknesses in specific detail. As an educator it helps to know what areas to work on with each student, and for student and parent they are encouraged by areas of success and by areas that they know will be a focus for improvement.
In my short experience with teaching, (4 years) I was able to use a site, United Streaming, to pull up short videos to enhance classroom teaching experience. There are many more sites available now than when I had my classroom and I am looking forward to using them to enhance their learning experience. For the students it is a win/win. They gain another dimension to their learning experience, plus they are trained in finding that technology offers many free tools for them and we can help them know where to find them and use them properly.
As I mentioned above, I was fortunate enough to be able to use United Streaming in my 5th grade classroom. United Streaming makes it easy to find material according to topic and grade level. I was able to insert a 20 minute clip into a lesson that would add a new dimension to the lesson we were on. In many instances there are several choices which may differ timewise and qualitywise. Being able to preview these videos makes selection of the right video easy. I was able to use United Streaming in my science classes and in history as well. Many times finding that right 15 minute video underscored the lesson just right and stimulated more conversation when students reflected on what they had learned. I imagine that now, 3 years later, there are more videos available than ever before. With the addition of being able to use YouTube, the resources an educator can draw from to enhance their classroom teaching are numerous.
Although I have not used audio technology, as an educator, hearing Martin Luther King Jr. give his "I Have A Dream" speech is much more effective than merely reading through it and discussing it.
As far as comparing audio to video, it would really depend on what you needed. As stated above, while a video of Martin Luther King giving his speech is effective, I would argue how much more impactful the speech can be if students are focused only on the words and the passion of the speech. Each has a place and both are important tools to bring life to the lessons we are presenting to our students.
I will post a photo of a site now that my computer is working again. Thank you Ron for the information you gave me. Within two hours after class I had a computer that ran better than it has in quite a while.
Reflections on Things8-14
In these Things we covered everything from copyright laws to video and audio streaming. All were important and all can positively enhance and educators practice as well as offering important technology to enhance a student's educational experience.
Beginning with copyright laws. As educators it is good to be refreshed on what is legal and what is not when it comes to using others' work. Students will be writing many papers and doing projects throughout their educational experience, and using copyrighted material is many times, a part of that. When we, as educators, make it a priority to give this information to our students correctly from the beginning of their experience, the more it will become ingrained in their educational pursuits correctly, from the beginning.
Students love photo sharing on the web. Using tools like Picassa 3 will not only enhance material that you, as an educator, desire to use in the classroom, but it will allow students to produce much more effective photos, slide shows, etc...Learning to use this tool to bring out the best part of your particular shot will enhance their work and allow them to put forth a more impressive presentation.
Digital Storytelling is a fantastic tool that allows students to implement Picassa 3 into their work if they desire to do so. It provides them with another venue in which to present a body of work. All students would do well to learn how to create a digital story whether it's "their thing" or not. Learning the creative aspects of digital storytelling teaches them to work with audio, scripting, background music, timing, as well as with pictures. Preplanning by way of using a storyboard is an important and necessary part of putting together a digital story that works.
Prezi is a tool that students will find multiple uses for. As an educator, Prezi could be used in numerous ways with easy access by your students. Prezi is like PowerPoint plus, so in any area where I might use one for my classroom, I could more effectively use Prezi. Being able to add links, urls, and even movies clips into your Prezi presentation makes this a tool that will enable students to put forth much more information in putting together a presentation, which will give them more effective ways to present their material. As an educator, any information that I can put out there for my students to use to enhance their learning experience, I will use it. In the lesson I did I made it a test review. I was able to include a movie clip, links to sites that gave additional information in a short appealing format for students, as well as downloading some pictures to round out the review information I provided. I was abel to provide multiple ways for my diverse classroom of students to review for a test. There will be aspects of this Prezi review that will call to every kind of learner, thus enabling them to better learn and retain the material.
WIth data warehousing, student information systems, management systems, etc...there are benefits for educator, student, and for parents. I had the opportunity to work with one of these systems for the four years I taught in a NHA charter school. We did NWEA testing 3X a year, and with the data warehousing system used, I was able to show the parents and each student how they were doing in the areas of reading, language arts, and math. They could see how their child stacked up with the expectations the school had for them in these areas, how they compared to other students in their grade level in the district, as well as how they compared to students who took the same testing whereever it was given. Text plus a line graph gives parents information plus a visual to better understand how their student is performing. The beautiful thing about this is that it also breaks down each subject into categories and lets the student know their strengths and weaknesses in specific detail. As an educator it helps to know what areas to work on with each student, and for student and parent they are encouraged by areas of success and by areas that they know will be a focus for improvement.
In my short experience with teaching, (4 years) I was able to use a site, United Streaming, to pull up short videos to enhance classroom teaching experience. There are many more sites available now than when I had my classroom and I am looking forward to using them to enhance their learning experience. For the students it is a win/win. They gain another dimension to their learning experience, plus they are trained in finding that technology offers many free tools for them and we can help them know where to find them and use them properly.
As I mentioned above, I was fortunate enough to be able to use United Streaming in my 5th grade classroom. United Streaming makes it easy to find material according to topic and grade level. I was able to insert a 20 minute clip into a lesson that would add a new dimension to the lesson we were on. In many instances there are several choices which may differ timewise and qualitywise. Being able to preview these videos makes selection of the right video easy. I was able to use United Streaming in my science classes and in history as well. Many times finding that right 15 minute video underscored the lesson just right and stimulated more conversation when students reflected on what they had learned. I imagine that now, 3 years later, there are more videos available than ever before. With the addition of being able to use YouTube, the resources an educator can draw from to enhance their classroom teaching are numerous.
Although I have not used audio technology, as an educator, hearing Martin Luther King Jr. give his "I Have A Dream" speech is much more effective than merely reading through it and discussing it.
As far as comparing audio to video, it would really depend on what you needed. As stated above, while a video of Martin Luther King giving his speech is effective, I would argue how much more impactful the speech can be if students are focused only on the words and the passion of the speech. Each has a place and both are important tools to bring life to the lessons we are presenting to our students.
I will post a photo of a site now that my computer is working again. Thank you Ron for the information you gave me. Within two hours after class I had a computer that ran better than it has in quite a while.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Thing 13-Interactive Learning Tools
The 2nd picture is of the house I grew up in located in South Haven, MI. What you can't see, is that to the West of our house, just down a small hill, is the South Beach right on Lake Michigan. What a beautiful view I had to enjoy for years.
The 3rd picture shows my placemark on my house as I zoomed out over the city.
http://quizlet.com/_156za For this portion on the assignment I chose a set of flashcards for a science class that helps review for a test on simple machines. Having been the 5th grade science teacher at my school for four years, this was a portion of science my students thoroughly enjoyed. Testing in science, however, is a different matter. Had I had the opportunity to prepare my students for upcoming tests with flashcards like these and at a site like Quizlet, the outcome would have been much different. With the game features on Quizlet, even those students more easily bored with the traditional book work, would enjoy studying with this. It is also a study tool that they can use at home on their computer. This is not a new method of learning for the students I worked with, however it covers a much broader range of academics than they have previously been exposed to. My students worked with programs designed to strengthen their skills in the areas of reading, language arts, and math. They loved the challenge and competing with each other to do their best while playing games. Quizlet is several steps ahead of this and I will put it to use in my classroom.
Thing 12
vhttps://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGg3eWxDMHh1aWVkRk9IRmNlejhtVUE6MQ
I'm going to start with #3 first. When I worked for NHA we did NWEA testing in the Fall, Winter, and in the Spring. We were then able to print out the results of the testing which was greatly helpful in a number of areas. Results were available in both text form and in line graph form. I always printed off both, making them available to my parents at teacher conferences. With the line graph I am able to show them where their student falls according to expectations for where they fall at their grade level. I am then able to show them how their child's performance compares to other students in that grade level in the area as well as anywhere the NWEA testing is being done. This visual aid is very effective with parents and students alike, because it 'cuts to the chase' and let's them see immediately, one aspect of how they are progressing.
The students are tested in Reading , Math, and Language Arts. Each section is then broken down into sections and an individual readout informs you where a students particular strengths and weaknesses lay in a given subject. I could easily go over this information with the student or parent and we could target the areas each student needed to spend time working on. I would laminate a copy for each student to carry with them to the computer lab so they could work on strengthening that area.
Although it's a pain to have so much testing, on top of the MEAP testing, it really is helpful to see how a student is progressing and what areas you can work with them in individually. The one drawback is that NWEA testing or MEAP testing will not necessarily get the best work a student can do. If they are having an off day the testing will not accurately reflect where they are. Overall however, data warehousing, student information systems, management systems, etc... are invaluable tools to aid an educator who wants to effectively help her students to progress and succeed.
I'm going to start with #3 first. When I worked for NHA we did NWEA testing in the Fall, Winter, and in the Spring. We were then able to print out the results of the testing which was greatly helpful in a number of areas. Results were available in both text form and in line graph form. I always printed off both, making them available to my parents at teacher conferences. With the line graph I am able to show them where their student falls according to expectations for where they fall at their grade level. I am then able to show them how their child's performance compares to other students in that grade level in the area as well as anywhere the NWEA testing is being done. This visual aid is very effective with parents and students alike, because it 'cuts to the chase' and let's them see immediately, one aspect of how they are progressing.
The students are tested in Reading , Math, and Language Arts. Each section is then broken down into sections and an individual readout informs you where a students particular strengths and weaknesses lay in a given subject. I could easily go over this information with the student or parent and we could target the areas each student needed to spend time working on. I would laminate a copy for each student to carry with them to the computer lab so they could work on strengthening that area.
Although it's a pain to have so much testing, on top of the MEAP testing, it really is helpful to see how a student is progressing and what areas you can work with them in individually. The one drawback is that NWEA testing or MEAP testing will not necessarily get the best work a student can do. If they are having an off day the testing will not accurately reflect where they are. Overall however, data warehousing, student information systems, management systems, etc... are invaluable tools to aid an educator who wants to effectively help her students to progress and succeed.
I created a rubric for a presentation. In a desire to give students as much creative freedom as possible the presentation topic is Saving the Environment. This allows students to choose their particular topic and to create a presentation in a form that they desire. Whether a diorama, PowerPoint, poster, booklet, paper, sculpture, rap, or perhaps more creatively, a project designed using Prezi or perhaps using Photostory 3. Whatever each student will choose will still need to be presented to the class, where presence, posture, clarity, knowledge of their choice of topic, etc... They will hopefully be much more invested in the project when so many choices are open to them to express the topic in their own unique way.
Having worked with students (mostly 5th graders) who lean up against the whiteboard, bend over a stool, wiggle while talking, make little eye contact, and speak in a near whisper when at any other time their loud voices carry with no effort, presentation is important. As well as knowing how to present a student needs to know how to be a good listener when it is their classmates turn to present. Being able to ask a question that will bring out more information from the presenter (instead of,"Did you like making this project?) is a component of a presentation as well. Peer rubrics can also be very effective and teach students to look at the effort and quality of each others work, as opposed to giving high marks to their best friends.
The link at the top of the page is to the survey I've written. When I get the results I will post those. I decided to use a survey format and ask students in my blended geometry class, how they liked the blended learning experience. The results will be posted when they are in.
Lastly, FERPA and HIPAA are important because they provide privacy protection when it comes to student records. This would include records, files, documents, and other materials that are directly related to a student. While there are situations were legitimate sharing of information will come into play, FERPA and HIPAA protect students and their families from the abuses. Loss of school funding may result and that is not something schools are willing to risk.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Thing 11-Prezi
http://s667.photobucket.com/albums/vv38/ProfessionalFirefighter/?action=view¤t=JeannedArc.mp4
http://prezi.com/hkfmuprjkz4v/joan-of-arc/
Above are the links to a short film that is part of my Prezi presentation and the second is the presentation itself.
Since I don't have my own classroom at this time I chose to do my presentation on a part of the 6th grade history unit on medieval ages. I felt this was very timely, because, when doing my student teaching assignment I worked in a 6th grade classroom and the unit I was asked to do covered this unit. A favorite of the students was the story of Joan of Arc. She appealed to 6th grade students for a number of reasons. First of all, she was their age when she first received her calling to fight for France. Her strength of character, humility, and passion were all something that resounds with these students. That she was willing to die for her beliefs, that she did not conform to what men expected of her makes her a champion to these students. This is the time of year they were learning these lessons, and it is also appropriate because it was in May that Joan was burned at the stake.
Included in the site are pictures, a movie clip, and biographical websites which will appeal to students who look for other options while reviewing material for a test. While I could have gone into more detail concerning the 100 Year War and how France was a divided country, students will get that information when they go the the websites where brief biographical sketches of her life give them the information they seek, quickly and simply.
There is no comparison between a PowerPoint presentation and a Prezi presentation; Prezi far surpasses anything that a PowerPoint can accomplish. Because it is interactive, students are able to do much more within their presentation to make it a higher quality and more thoroughly presented piece of work. Because students don't come 'once size fits all' being able add elements such as movie clips, website links, etc...will appeal to all students. Giving them as many options as possible to fulfill an assignment is a teachers responsibility if they want quality work from their students; work which students have invested more of themselves into.
Students can use Prezi for various projects in all of the content areas. A science project, a history project such as the one presented here, an English project on Shakespeare, a presentation for phys.ed, all will benefit greatly using a Prezi presentation. Students will quickly learn how to navigate the creative process and Prezi offers help when you get stuck by quickly taking you through the steps to creating a successful presentation.
I will look forward to using Prezi in my classroom and to passing along this excellent presentation tool to my students.
http://prezi.com/hkfmuprjkz4v/joan-of-arc/
Above are the links to a short film that is part of my Prezi presentation and the second is the presentation itself.
Since I don't have my own classroom at this time I chose to do my presentation on a part of the 6th grade history unit on medieval ages. I felt this was very timely, because, when doing my student teaching assignment I worked in a 6th grade classroom and the unit I was asked to do covered this unit. A favorite of the students was the story of Joan of Arc. She appealed to 6th grade students for a number of reasons. First of all, she was their age when she first received her calling to fight for France. Her strength of character, humility, and passion were all something that resounds with these students. That she was willing to die for her beliefs, that she did not conform to what men expected of her makes her a champion to these students. This is the time of year they were learning these lessons, and it is also appropriate because it was in May that Joan was burned at the stake.
Included in the site are pictures, a movie clip, and biographical websites which will appeal to students who look for other options while reviewing material for a test. While I could have gone into more detail concerning the 100 Year War and how France was a divided country, students will get that information when they go the the websites where brief biographical sketches of her life give them the information they seek, quickly and simply.
There is no comparison between a PowerPoint presentation and a Prezi presentation; Prezi far surpasses anything that a PowerPoint can accomplish. Because it is interactive, students are able to do much more within their presentation to make it a higher quality and more thoroughly presented piece of work. Because students don't come 'once size fits all' being able add elements such as movie clips, website links, etc...will appeal to all students. Giving them as many options as possible to fulfill an assignment is a teachers responsibility if they want quality work from their students; work which students have invested more of themselves into.
Students can use Prezi for various projects in all of the content areas. A science project, a history project such as the one presented here, an English project on Shakespeare, a presentation for phys.ed, all will benefit greatly using a Prezi presentation. Students will quickly learn how to navigate the creative process and Prezi offers help when you get stuck by quickly taking you through the steps to creating a successful presentation.
I will look forward to using Prezi in my classroom and to passing along this excellent presentation tool to my students.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
21 Things-Getting Started
I have proven, once again, that the title of 'technologically challenged' is one I wear well. It only took me one week to set up my blog! I thought I had set it up that first night of class, however, whenever I have tried to post a blog I was told my URL address was not valid! The problem was, every word I tried was supposedly already taken! You would not believe some of the words I tried, and I do not believe they are already a URL add. for someone else. Anyway, Ron suggested I begin again so I did, and success has occurred.
What I am looking forward to is learning all of the things I possibly can from this class so that I can pass them along to my classroom. I am the perfect example of, "If I can do it, anyone can". As a teacher I have seen how many students still struggle with literacy. I began my Master's degree in Education Reading, because I believe it is at the core of learning and living. The more things that I can introduce to my students that will catch their interest to learn, the better chance they will have to become literate members of society. Technology can be a great tool for many of them, and the more things that I can introduce them to, the more opportunities they will have to experience the newest technology and make it part of their lives.
I am hoping that not everything will come as hard as setting up this blog; however, if I keep experiencing difficulties, I know that I have the world's most patient instructor to help me along.
What I am looking forward to is learning all of the things I possibly can from this class so that I can pass them along to my classroom. I am the perfect example of, "If I can do it, anyone can". As a teacher I have seen how many students still struggle with literacy. I began my Master's degree in Education Reading, because I believe it is at the core of learning and living. The more things that I can introduce to my students that will catch their interest to learn, the better chance they will have to become literate members of society. Technology can be a great tool for many of them, and the more things that I can introduce them to, the more opportunities they will have to experience the newest technology and make it part of their lives.
I am hoping that not everything will come as hard as setting up this blog; however, if I keep experiencing difficulties, I know that I have the world's most patient instructor to help me along.
Thing 10- Digital Storytelling
Putting together the elements of this digital story was very enjoyable. I thought of numerous things I could do if I were totally creating a story that didn't already have a set theme. I can see that students will enjoy this very much for a number of reasons. This is a unique way for them to tell their stories, and there are many ways to express themselves. Music is a very important way to let people know who you are and being able to set your story to your favorite tune or to create your own music would be a very important element to their storytelling.
Being able to refine their story by re-recording portions they are not happy with is another element that students will appreciate. This feature will increase their desire to produce a good piece of work. Not only does it matter that the pictures flow throughout the story, and that the music is suitable to the background of the work, but it will be the words that tie it all together, and this feature, that allows for them to erase, re-record, preview how it sounds and make adjustments again, is invaluable.
http://www.screencast.com/t/ckhd4pXaenT Happily I can say that my digital story is ready for viewing. It's just under two minutes long. All comments and suggestions are welcome.
Thing 5
For the four years I have had in teaching I have found it helpful to offer books from numerous reading levels in my own classroom library. This was always helpful when a book report or review was required. I could find books in most of the students' interest areas in all of the reading levels.
Science is the class that I found to be the great equalizer. Science offers many hands-on activities, collaboration in smaller groups, and an opportunity to place struggling students in with stronger. I've noticed that the stronger students encourage and pull out the best from the ones that generally struggle. They are caught up more in the excitement of what they are doing and the discussions about it. Science is also a great subject to bring out the questioning spirit we want to see as educators.
I loved the idea in the lesson sample where the teacher provided books at four reading stations at various reading levels, had the students visit each station and the select the one they liked best. I know that having the different levels available to them gives them the opportunity to begin at the level they come into the classroom with and then make progress throughout the year.
I have had students who do better for testing standing up rather than sitting down, students who do better with an oral test than a pen and paper test, and students who will ask if they can give their own spin on an assignment. (For example, instead of writing a paper, presenting the material in a rap).
I found that whenever I can incorporate their interests and areas of strength, I have gotten better results in the work I wanted them to create. Engaging a student means being able to find out what interests them and how they best express themselves. Whenever school lends them the opportunity to blend those skills and interests into their schoolwork, the better a student is going to, not only do the work, but to actually retain what they learn.
Science is the class that I found to be the great equalizer. Science offers many hands-on activities, collaboration in smaller groups, and an opportunity to place struggling students in with stronger. I've noticed that the stronger students encourage and pull out the best from the ones that generally struggle. They are caught up more in the excitement of what they are doing and the discussions about it. Science is also a great subject to bring out the questioning spirit we want to see as educators.
I loved the idea in the lesson sample where the teacher provided books at four reading stations at various reading levels, had the students visit each station and the select the one they liked best. I know that having the different levels available to them gives them the opportunity to begin at the level they come into the classroom with and then make progress throughout the year.
I have had students who do better for testing standing up rather than sitting down, students who do better with an oral test than a pen and paper test, and students who will ask if they can give their own spin on an assignment. (For example, instead of writing a paper, presenting the material in a rap).
I found that whenever I can incorporate their interests and areas of strength, I have gotten better results in the work I wanted them to create. Engaging a student means being able to find out what interests them and how they best express themselves. Whenever school lends them the opportunity to blend those skills and interests into their schoolwork, the better a student is going to, not only do the work, but to actually retain what they learn.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Thing 9 Picassa 3
This Thing was so much fun! It took awhile because I had to get my camera back from my son so I could copy a picture of my brand new granddaughter, Kailyn Leigh Dawe. In this picture she was about 20 minutes old.
I wanted to try Picassa 3 and when it came to fine tuning the picture I went to Picnic. First I brightened the picture which really brought out her colors much better. I played with rotation and liked the side view for some reason. Every time I tried another position I kept coming back to this one; go figure...
I cropped the picture several times, added a border, curved the corners, and added text at the bottom of the picture that says, "Welcome to the world, Kailyn" I tried putting the text in the picture on Picnic, but it would only let me place it in the middle of the picture. I searched all over to find how I could move the text to another part of the picture and that is one feature I did not find. I added the caption through Picassa 3.
There are many tempting premium options available that I will be tempted to 'buy' once I finally get another teaching position. Right now I'm tempted but too poor. I'm excited to send a copy of my revised photo to my son. He is actually really technologically savvy, so will probably be using these already for their pictures.
Students will love this program and I can see them having fun with it as well as learning how to show their pictures to their best advantage for a project or assignment. With digital photography students have immediate feedback. With ease of editing their pictures, as well as ease of distribution, digital photography is very effective for the classroom. Tools to enhance visualization, like adding color or text to a picture or document, are pluses, and digital photography is cost effective for classroom use as well. If needed, multiple copies can be made on an inkjet printer. When comparing the use of digital photography over traditional photography for classroom use, well, there is no comparison. Digital photography opens a world of possibilities to students that introduces them to cutting edge technology.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dawe-miller/?saved=1 I posted my picture on Flickr.com!
http://picasa.google.com/linux/download.html url for Picassa
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Thing 8- Copyright Quiz
Actually, based on the results I had when I took the on-line quiz, I wasn't surprised to find that my fellow educators were about as copyright savvy as I was. There were consistent areas where all were aware, to some degree, what the basics of Fair Use Law entailed. I was surprised that the majority of those who responded were not aware of the difference in regulations regarding face-to-face and use of digital technology in distance education. I remembered some of this information from my grad course in writing.
One person that took the quiz had just completed a paper on copyright laws in education and did very well on the quiz overall. He didn't remember about Creative Commons Licensing until I gave him a few hints, and forgot the name of the Teach Act, but knew what it was. All agreed that educators were not exempt from copyright laws but knew that we had a separate set of rights that applied.
Most indicated that, when making multiple copies for a classroom that the originator of the work should be present on the copies, or that special permission or a few needs to be paid before it is done. When asked if they went to those lengths on multiple copies they were honest and said they did not. One stipulated that they looked for workbooks that were created with the intent that multiple copies would be made by an educator. Is that an example of a work with Creative Commons Licensing? Several also stated that they make most of their own work or copy material on-line that has the copyright information included.
The gist of the quiz indicates that the teachers I work with have a basic understanding and respect for copyright laws, however, a brush up course would not be unadvised. I got from no one, a blatent disregard for copyright laws, only, like myself, a general ignorance of some of its finer points.
One person that took the quiz had just completed a paper on copyright laws in education and did very well on the quiz overall. He didn't remember about Creative Commons Licensing until I gave him a few hints, and forgot the name of the Teach Act, but knew what it was. All agreed that educators were not exempt from copyright laws but knew that we had a separate set of rights that applied.
Most indicated that, when making multiple copies for a classroom that the originator of the work should be present on the copies, or that special permission or a few needs to be paid before it is done. When asked if they went to those lengths on multiple copies they were honest and said they did not. One stipulated that they looked for workbooks that were created with the intent that multiple copies would be made by an educator. Is that an example of a work with Creative Commons Licensing? Several also stated that they make most of their own work or copy material on-line that has the copyright information included.
The gist of the quiz indicates that the teachers I work with have a basic understanding and respect for copyright laws, however, a brush up course would not be unadvised. I got from no one, a blatent disregard for copyright laws, only, like myself, a general ignorance of some of its finer points.
Monday, April 18, 2011
At the bottom of my home page to http://www.msmillerscommunityclassroom.weebly.com, is my proof that my site is now copyrighted. How I wish this site were a reality for me to use and my students to benefit from right now. Since I don't have a classroom at this time this is all excellent practice that I will gladly put into effect when I am connected with a classroom. How exciting to be able to offer this to my students and their parents as well.
All of the copyright information is staggering. When I took the quiz provided I showed how ignorant I was in many aspects of Copyright law. I understand the importance of being aware of what is and what is not allowed for students and educators, and we should not take for granted the great efforts that have been made to pave the way to easier access and use for us. It is for us, therefore, to be aware enough of the laws, that we make sure we respect them and follow them, as well as making sure our students know their importance as well.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Thing 7- My Web Pages
www.msmillersclassroomcommunity.weebly.com
How exciting! This is my web address! This took me a lot of time to put together. If I had my own classroom this would have been much easier to envision and complete, however I did draw from some of the sources I have from when I taught 5th grade.
I love the idea of having a site where students and parents and teacher can all interact. Being able to include documents of forms the students need is a plus, I can't tell you how many times I made copy after copy of a particular form because students keep losing theirs. This way, their parents can print off a copy at home and the student no longer has the excuse, "I can't find it!"
Being able to share websites is not only a jump start for students, but for their parents as well. It's one thing when you give them the web site address, but it's quite another when all they have to do is click on the link and they are there. That extra step makes a big difference, especially for students just beginning to learn how to use the web, and their parents who may have little to no experience.
I have to experiment more with how to insert pictures. I would have liked to used the space on page 2 of my website better.
I found that I wished the feature to add video was free, but sadly, it was not. When I again have my own classroom, that will be a feature worth purchasing.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Reflection on Things 1-7
The technology applications that have been given to use in the first seven lessons offer numerous helps, not only for the teacher, but for the students as well. The more students progress through their education experience the more they will be expected to access, to collborate on, and to write about a multitude of things. Learning the shortcuts, collaborative tools, internet help sites, etc...will make this process speedier and much more effective than students have been able to accomplish in the past.
As an educator, a world of possibilities open up as a result of availability of this same knowledge. Resources that are quickly accessed, producing documents much more quickly, book marking web pages that you access multiple times, and through collaboration with other educators having even more lesson plans and ideas available to benefit your own instruction .
In the area of technical litercy it is the teacher's responsibility to provide the information necessary to help their students aquire the knowledge and skills they will need to compete in the 21st Century. This technology is in line with UDLs three principles which are to provide multiple means of representation, expression, and of engagement.
Having been a 5th grade teacher I have seen the benefits of allowing students to work collboratively whenever possible, in all content areas. I was especially impressed with Google Docs. that allows students to share, collaborate, and edit on-line, in real time. Having been the science teacher for my 5th grade team, I immediately saw how well Google docs could work for a project concerning global warming. Since it such a controversial topic I would have my students choose a position, pro or con about the concept of global warming. Working in groups of from 3-5, students would be able to experience ongoing collabloration throughout the process of competing their project. Many times it can fall to one person to carry the brunt of the workload, but with Google docs division of the workload can be done fairly with the understanding that what each person contributes to the whole can be viewed, discussed, and edited by the others in their group. Although students may check on progress individually, they also have the choice to set up a 'meeting' in real time from home or other locations away from school. With bookmarking tools they can compile possible on-line resources to choose from, and with Jing, capturing pictures or documents allows the other members of their team to make their choices and give their input into what they will eventually use to state their position as strongly as possible.
Several Michigan state standards are met in just the technology area alone:
3-5 R1 Research and Information Literacy
This is only one brief glimpse of the powerful impact this technology can have on education in the 21st Century.
As an educator, a world of possibilities open up as a result of availability of this same knowledge. Resources that are quickly accessed, producing documents much more quickly, book marking web pages that you access multiple times, and through collaboration with other educators having even more lesson plans and ideas available to benefit your own instruction .
In the area of technical litercy it is the teacher's responsibility to provide the information necessary to help their students aquire the knowledge and skills they will need to compete in the 21st Century. This technology is in line with UDLs three principles which are to provide multiple means of representation, expression, and of engagement.
Having been a 5th grade teacher I have seen the benefits of allowing students to work collboratively whenever possible, in all content areas. I was especially impressed with Google Docs. that allows students to share, collaborate, and edit on-line, in real time. Having been the science teacher for my 5th grade team, I immediately saw how well Google docs could work for a project concerning global warming. Since it such a controversial topic I would have my students choose a position, pro or con about the concept of global warming. Working in groups of from 3-5, students would be able to experience ongoing collabloration throughout the process of competing their project. Many times it can fall to one person to carry the brunt of the workload, but with Google docs division of the workload can be done fairly with the understanding that what each person contributes to the whole can be viewed, discussed, and edited by the others in their group. Although students may check on progress individually, they also have the choice to set up a 'meeting' in real time from home or other locations away from school. With bookmarking tools they can compile possible on-line resources to choose from, and with Jing, capturing pictures or documents allows the other members of their team to make their choices and give their input into what they will eventually use to state their position as strongly as possible.
Several Michigan state standards are met in just the technology area alone:
3-5 R1 Research and Information Literacy
- 3-5 R12- use digital tools to find, organize, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information.
- 3-5 CT.3 use digital resources to identify and investigate a state, national, or global issue.
- 3-5 TC.5- know how to exchange files with other students using technology, (e.g., network file sharing, flash drives).
This is only one brief glimpse of the powerful impact this technology can have on education in the 21st Century.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Thing 7
My 2nd site was on Aluminum Foil Detector Beanies. You'll notice in the 2nd and 3rd pictures from this site show that it is treated as a joke. There is barely any information about how it is supposed to block harmful rays, it is handled tongue-in-cheek throughout. It is not reputable in any way, shape, or form. It offers no validation from other sources, does not speak about it's own expertise in the area, nor does it really attempt to convince anyone that these 'beanies' are necessary. It basically begins and ends with the premise that whoever is looking at the site is either in on the joke, or already 'believes' wholeheartedly and wouldn't think about questioning validity, but whether one style over another would be best.
descy.50megs.com/akcj3/bmd.html zapatopi.net/afdb.html
I had some trouble getting through this lesson, but found it very interesting and informative. I especially like the Cybersafe Cafe and bookmarked the page to refer to my parents when I get another classroom. There are also a number of Netiquette rules that are important to know when you are putting material out on the web. Not only must you be careful about 'how' you come across when you put something on the web, but you must be sure you are aware of the legal guidelines involved. I failed the quiz overall, even though I did get about 1/3 of the questions correct. As teachers we need to know that what we are offering to our students is legal as well as conforming to good Netiquette.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Thing 4-Thinkfinity
http://www.sciencenetlinks.com/lessons.php?DodD=512
http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/talking-about-books-improve-913.html
Wow, Thinkfinity was fantastic! I've got to get rid of the frustration, however, before I get to the good stuff. Although I found the lessons that I wanted to use fairly quickly, getting the url to transfer to the blog was another whole matter...The first one worked beautifully, the 2nd took me over an hour, yes, I'm embarrassed to say that, over an hour to finally get on my blog! Is that pathetic or what? OK, frustration done, now to the good part,
Teachers from all over the country have donated lesson plans that have worked for them in all of the core subjects. This site addresses state standards and content for each lesson to help you know if it's a good fit for what you want to accomplish with your students.Two of the lessons that I chose were introductory in nature. The first, for science, was an introduction to Scientific Inquiry. Capturing and keeping students interest is very important and this lesson covered it well. I could see students engaged in a number of areas that would carry them from start to finish. They would have the opportunity to collaborate in small groups, and then share their findings with the other groups. They will want to know if their findings fit the average and who fits in what group in this inquiry about taste. In the process of having fun they are learning the Scientific Method.
The 2nd lesson, the one that I had so much trouble with getting the url correctly, was worth the trouble. My area of greatest interest in teaching is all things having to do with literacy. In my Masters work I am concentrating on the area of reading and writing because these two areas are a huge problem for students from elementary through high school. Comprehension is an area that you can't address too early. This lesson can be used with whatever reading material you may want to use; whether it's an excerpt from a book, a short story, etc... Getting students talking together in small groups and then leading them into a meaningful discussion about the material will be an experience that will create a lasting impression and a solid foundation on which they can build their comprehension skills. Students generally like to share their thoughts and opinions with their peers, and with the right instruction and guidance that can be done in a very productive way. Especially afterwards, in reflection, having them write about what new insight they learned as a result of the discussion is a great way to cement the comprehension process.
Unfortunately I don't have a classroom I can use these lessons in at this time, but I can easily picture them being very successful with the classes I have had in the past. The lesson plans are just one aspect of the site and there is so much there, yet so much more to look forward to discovering and using in the future. I'm very thankful to have this new information to draw from.
http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/talking-about-books-improve-913.html
Wow, Thinkfinity was fantastic! I've got to get rid of the frustration, however, before I get to the good stuff. Although I found the lessons that I wanted to use fairly quickly, getting the url to transfer to the blog was another whole matter...The first one worked beautifully, the 2nd took me over an hour, yes, I'm embarrassed to say that, over an hour to finally get on my blog! Is that pathetic or what? OK, frustration done, now to the good part,
Teachers from all over the country have donated lesson plans that have worked for them in all of the core subjects. This site addresses state standards and content for each lesson to help you know if it's a good fit for what you want to accomplish with your students.Two of the lessons that I chose were introductory in nature. The first, for science, was an introduction to Scientific Inquiry. Capturing and keeping students interest is very important and this lesson covered it well. I could see students engaged in a number of areas that would carry them from start to finish. They would have the opportunity to collaborate in small groups, and then share their findings with the other groups. They will want to know if their findings fit the average and who fits in what group in this inquiry about taste. In the process of having fun they are learning the Scientific Method.
The 2nd lesson, the one that I had so much trouble with getting the url correctly, was worth the trouble. My area of greatest interest in teaching is all things having to do with literacy. In my Masters work I am concentrating on the area of reading and writing because these two areas are a huge problem for students from elementary through high school. Comprehension is an area that you can't address too early. This lesson can be used with whatever reading material you may want to use; whether it's an excerpt from a book, a short story, etc... Getting students talking together in small groups and then leading them into a meaningful discussion about the material will be an experience that will create a lasting impression and a solid foundation on which they can build their comprehension skills. Students generally like to share their thoughts and opinions with their peers, and with the right instruction and guidance that can be done in a very productive way. Especially afterwards, in reflection, having them write about what new insight they learned as a result of the discussion is a great way to cement the comprehension process.
Unfortunately I don't have a classroom I can use these lessons in at this time, but I can easily picture them being very successful with the classes I have had in the past. The lesson plans are just one aspect of the site and there is so much there, yet so much more to look forward to discovering and using in the future. I'm very thankful to have this new information to draw from.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Thing 3-Skype
It says welcome Grace because my Skype name is Grace Underfire.I signed up for Skype before I learned from the video that is isn't a good idea to use your real name. I'm guilty of doing what I was told. When cool kitty(or whatever her name was) flashed the message,"Stop now and download Skype"so I did, and only afterwards, when I completed the video, did I realize I'd blown it by using my real name to sign up. Sigh...
I don't know anyone who has a Skype account but am eager to set up some addresses so I can try it out.I can see the wonderful opportunities for a classroom teacher. Since I presently don't have a classroom, it's harder to know exactly where I'll use it, but I can see the potential for many of the core subjects. The demonstration answered a basic question, "How do you find sources in other countries?" when she just added it to her blog, "We would like to hear from someone from ___________that we can work with."
Since I was the science teacher for 4 years for the 5th grade classes at my school, I would have loved to connect with some of the instructors I had and bring that to the classroom through Skype. My geology teacher at GVSU is now retired, however spent many years traveling with Jacques Cousteau ! He had the greatest stories and artifacts that he shared with our class and I'm sure he would get a kick out of sharing with a classroom from the comfort of his own home computer. I hope to have a classroom and the opportunity to explore all that can be done with Skype sometime soon. This is information that I wish I'd had when I had my classroom...
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Thing 2- Google docs
I decided to make a calendar of due dates for a Heritage project for my class of 5th graders. Finding a template was easy and using the features it offered was a great experience. I left several messages for my students for over Spring Break, and I easily deleted lines that I did not need. Deleting lines on a table or calendar can be a pain and this was very quickly done.
I can see many benefits in saving time. I haven't heard back from the person I've shared with, but look forward to the ease at which collaborating on this document can be done. I would have loved to have this when I was part of a 5th-grade team. We could have done so much more with this tool.
I can see many benefits in saving time. I haven't heard back from the person I've shared with, but look forward to the ease at which collaborating on this document can be done. I would have loved to have this when I was part of a 5th-grade team. We could have done so much more with this tool.
Thing Two-Templates
Providing a template for my students that clearly sets forth the expectations I have in a given assignment is very important. Being able to choose from such a wide variety is wonderful.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)