How is living what you believe both difficult and easy for teachers?
I think it's easy to live what you believe because that is what comes naturally. If you truly believe that all children are decent human beings you will treat them kindly and fairly. I think as we learn about becoming teachers it's easy to get excited about teaching and think how cute the children will be, how we will differentiate, how we will integrate the subjects, and how we will change their lives. But I'm sure when we start teaching it will be a highly challenging job. I think the difficulty will be remembering in the daily grind what we want to teach like. I think it will be important to constantly reflect on how well we are doing and what we can do better. It will be imperative to continuously learn new things and use current teaching techniques and information. As a teacher it will be important to truly get to know the students and try to cater our teaching to their interests, personalities, and their level of learning. It will be important to know them so we can truly care about and help them. I want the students to enjoy learning and enjoy each other. My goal is to remember the lofty goals that we have learned in school and to help each student progress from where they start and help them become a better human being.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Amazing Morning Meetings September 15, 2010
Reflect on what you learned about creating community in your classroom from our visitor, Sylvia Allan.
I think morning meetings are a great way create community in the classroom. The children get to know each other through greetings, news, and especially sharing. I was impressed that the class got so close that they could share their deepest fears and experiences. I loved the story about Hunter reciting Good Timber by Douglas Malloch. That is a type of atmosphere that I dream about my classroom having-where all the children validate and appreciate each other and their accomplishments. In this way they are truly working as a team. Their successes and triumphs are multiplied. I think it tells what type of relationship Mrs. Allan had with her students that Hunter would come back to share his excitement at graduating from high school. I hope I can have such a close knit classroom community.
I am also impressed that morning meetings help solve the majority of behavior problems and that the students learn to take charge of their own learning. They also learn to help solve behavior problems in the classroom. I think that as students know each other and their teacher they are more likely to respect one another. I also like the fact that morning meetings start the day off with 100% of the children participating and being successful. In this way a the classroom is a positive place to come to every day.
I think morning meetings are a great way create community in the classroom. The children get to know each other through greetings, news, and especially sharing. I was impressed that the class got so close that they could share their deepest fears and experiences. I loved the story about Hunter reciting Good Timber by Douglas Malloch. That is a type of atmosphere that I dream about my classroom having-where all the children validate and appreciate each other and their accomplishments. In this way they are truly working as a team. Their successes and triumphs are multiplied. I think it tells what type of relationship Mrs. Allan had with her students that Hunter would come back to share his excitement at graduating from high school. I hope I can have such a close knit classroom community.
I am also impressed that morning meetings help solve the majority of behavior problems and that the students learn to take charge of their own learning. They also learn to help solve behavior problems in the classroom. I think that as students know each other and their teacher they are more likely to respect one another. I also like the fact that morning meetings start the day off with 100% of the children participating and being successful. In this way a the classroom is a positive place to come to every day.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Student needs September 6,2010
2a. What does the following phrase mean, and what do you think about it? "emotions trump learning."
I think this means that no matter what you do to teach children, unless they feel safe and acccepted they cannot truly learn. I think children must first be fed, have water, feel safe from other students physically and mentally, and feel accepted by the teacher. Otherwise, students will be thinking about what they need to do to survive and not what the teacher is teaching. I know I am more willing to participate when teachers acknowledge me and appreciate my comments. I am also more willing to share what I truly believe if a teacher says, "I don't care what your opinion is, I just want you to share what you believe and why." I have a neighbor boy who is overweight and has gotten into a lot of trouble in the past at school. He was telling me at the beginning of the school year that all the teachers were out to get him. He did remember though that one awesome teacher never yelled at him once his whole fourth grade year. That's the type of teacher that I'd like to be-that's remembered for being kind and respectful. I want to establish a classroom that is like a family where all feel safe and peaceful so that learning can take place.
I think this means that no matter what you do to teach children, unless they feel safe and acccepted they cannot truly learn. I think children must first be fed, have water, feel safe from other students physically and mentally, and feel accepted by the teacher. Otherwise, students will be thinking about what they need to do to survive and not what the teacher is teaching. I know I am more willing to participate when teachers acknowledge me and appreciate my comments. I am also more willing to share what I truly believe if a teacher says, "I don't care what your opinion is, I just want you to share what you believe and why." I have a neighbor boy who is overweight and has gotten into a lot of trouble in the past at school. He was telling me at the beginning of the school year that all the teachers were out to get him. He did remember though that one awesome teacher never yelled at him once his whole fourth grade year. That's the type of teacher that I'd like to be-that's remembered for being kind and respectful. I want to establish a classroom that is like a family where all feel safe and peaceful so that learning can take place.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Differentiation blog #1
1c On page 12 of this reading assignment, Tomlinson says,"...the most effective teaching does not seek transmission of knowledge isolated from human need, but rather attempts to help young learners discover the power of knowledge to reveal, amplify, and develop the best that is in them. What does this mean to you?
I think this means teachers shouldn't robotically teach the same prescribed lessons day after day but they need to interact with students to discover their current level of development,their interests, personality, and talents. The teacher can then help students discover the power of knowledge. If students are learning on the level that is correct for them and studying things that they are interested in learning can be exciting, fun, and enjoyable. Students can develop their talents and their loves. By adjusting lessons to fit the students teachers can show that they truly value students as an individual and that they value their talents and contributions. I think nothing motivates a student more than learning about something that intrigues them and knowing that they have a special unique talent to share. Students will then be more willing to work, study, and explore. By recognizing needs teachers and students can experience a fulfilling journey together.
I think this means teachers shouldn't robotically teach the same prescribed lessons day after day but they need to interact with students to discover their current level of development,their interests, personality, and talents. The teacher can then help students discover the power of knowledge. If students are learning on the level that is correct for them and studying things that they are interested in learning can be exciting, fun, and enjoyable. Students can develop their talents and their loves. By adjusting lessons to fit the students teachers can show that they truly value students as an individual and that they value their talents and contributions. I think nothing motivates a student more than learning about something that intrigues them and knowing that they have a special unique talent to share. Students will then be more willing to work, study, and explore. By recognizing needs teachers and students can experience a fulfilling journey together.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Flowers and Children
As you look at a field of flowers you appeciate their beauty as a group but as you look closer you appreciate each flower for its uniqueness-its shape, color, and size. The observant might also notice how the colors complement and accentuate each other. You also notice the progress of each flower as it blooms in its season. You come to anticipate when each flower will come-the crocus in the spring, the lily in the summer, and the mums in the fall.
A classroom is much like a field of flowers. You first take note of the whole group and then notice a few more outgoing, vibrant, or unusual students. As you look for student's uniqueness you notice their preferences, gender, personality, talents, culture, friendships, and "what makes them tick." You learn to appreciate and love each child for who they are. A good teacher can then help each student feel safe and valued. They can tailor the lessons to interest the students and teach them in ways that interest different types of learners. The teacher can assist each student in progressing at their own level and developing their talents.
A classroom is much like a field of flowers. You first take note of the whole group and then notice a few more outgoing, vibrant, or unusual students. As you look for student's uniqueness you notice their preferences, gender, personality, talents, culture, friendships, and "what makes them tick." You learn to appreciate and love each child for who they are. A good teacher can then help each student feel safe and valued. They can tailor the lessons to interest the students and teach them in ways that interest different types of learners. The teacher can assist each student in progressing at their own level and developing their talents.
TenderTeacher: What do you see?
TenderTeacher: What do you see?: "As you look at the field of flowers often the first reaction is, 'The hillside is colored with beautiful flowers.' Next you might note the y..."
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Final week of EDEL 3250!
This week we are putting the final touches on our digital story. We are still trying to locate a few sources of pictures that we are using. We are adding audio to the story and need to add the music. I can't wait to see what it turns out like. I'm also excited to share it with the class and see the other digital stories that our class has created.
I am glad that I have learned how to make a digital story and think it would be useful in my other classes and at home and work. It would be neat to make an emotional and engaging presentation for work using this format. I would also love to use it to make engaging digital photo albums. Digital storymaking is a great tool!
I feel that I have learned so much in this class. I look forward to using my skills to enrich my classroom. The first thing that I learned was how to follow what the teacher is doing on the computer on a projector and relate it to my computer. It has also been amazing to learn how to set up google docs, my own class website, make my own calender and homework lists, record podcasts and vidcasts, make webquests, digital stories, and lesson plans using uber media. I feel like I've learned a lot in this class although I have much more to learn. I'm sure with media it's vital to always learn and utilize the latest technology in order to give students the best learning opportunities.
I am glad that I have learned how to make a digital story and think it would be useful in my other classes and at home and work. It would be neat to make an emotional and engaging presentation for work using this format. I would also love to use it to make engaging digital photo albums. Digital storymaking is a great tool!
I feel that I have learned so much in this class. I look forward to using my skills to enrich my classroom. The first thing that I learned was how to follow what the teacher is doing on the computer on a projector and relate it to my computer. It has also been amazing to learn how to set up google docs, my own class website, make my own calender and homework lists, record podcasts and vidcasts, make webquests, digital stories, and lesson plans using uber media. I feel like I've learned a lot in this class although I have much more to learn. I'm sure with media it's vital to always learn and utilize the latest technology in order to give students the best learning opportunities.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Digital story December 4, 2009
This week I have been continuing to work on my digital story. It's been fun to collect images, put them in order, and manipulate them. I have been learning how to use Photostory. It's amazing how many things you can do and how simple it is to use. This week my group is also going to add narration, credits, and music. I can't wait to see how it turns out!
I would love to use this tool for lesson plans or projects in other classes. I would also like to use it to make a digital story of something like a wedding, baptism, or eagle ceremony. It would also be neat to do a life history using a digital story. It would also be useful to teach my children so they could make one for a school project. At their school they can do a research project which they present to the class. It would be really fun to do it in a digital story.
I feel like my view is opening to all the media that is available to students to use. I would love to use digital stories in my lesson plans at school. It would also be neat to teacher older students how to create a digital story. I could envision using a digital story to go along with a class presentation on Vetran's Day, for example. I think this knowledge will make me a better teacher and colleague.
I watch a video called Managing Millennials by Lynne Lancaster. She had many good ideas about managing millennials born from 1980-2000. She had many good insights about the characteristics of different generations and how to work together. She said the millenials are confident, hopeful, practical, and goal oriented. She said in order to recruit them companies need to be up to date, have strong values, set expectations, and allow millenials to collaborate with others. Lancaster also suggested that supervisers be leaders, keep millenials challenged, make work fun, repect the millenial's ideas, and be flexible. I think that the rising generation is competent and intelligent. We need to work together with them to achieve together.
I would love to use this tool for lesson plans or projects in other classes. I would also like to use it to make a digital story of something like a wedding, baptism, or eagle ceremony. It would also be neat to do a life history using a digital story. It would also be useful to teach my children so they could make one for a school project. At their school they can do a research project which they present to the class. It would be really fun to do it in a digital story.
I feel like my view is opening to all the media that is available to students to use. I would love to use digital stories in my lesson plans at school. It would also be neat to teacher older students how to create a digital story. I could envision using a digital story to go along with a class presentation on Vetran's Day, for example. I think this knowledge will make me a better teacher and colleague.
I watch a video called Managing Millennials by Lynne Lancaster. She had many good ideas about managing millennials born from 1980-2000. She had many good insights about the characteristics of different generations and how to work together. She said the millenials are confident, hopeful, practical, and goal oriented. She said in order to recruit them companies need to be up to date, have strong values, set expectations, and allow millenials to collaborate with others. Lancaster also suggested that supervisers be leaders, keep millenials challenged, make work fun, repect the millenial's ideas, and be flexible. I think that the rising generation is competent and intelligent. We need to work together with them to achieve together.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Field work-Happy Thanksgiving!
This week one of the things my supervising teacher did was teaching about music. She taught the students about different types of music and different instruments and what catagories they go in. Miss Kelley gave each student a picture of a musical instrument and had them put them in categories. At the end of the lesson she showed a movie of Peter and the Wolf which has many different instruments playing as characters in the story.
The students really enjoyed interacting and learning about music. Miss Kelley used watching the movie as a reward for participating in the discussion. It seems like any time she turns on a movie the children are engrossed. She used the whole lesson to prepare the students to go to a performance by the Utah Valley Symphony. I think it gave the students a good background about the instruments and the type of music that would be played.
I would love to use technology like movies in the future as a teacher. It's good to use movies sparingly so the students are excited about them and really pay attention. Miss Kelley has bought a lot of materials like movies herself. She said she first tried using an audio tape of Peter and the Wolf but the students didn't pay attention that much. I'm sure it will take time as a teacher to figure out which lessons work and to collect books, movies, and things for class use.
I watched a video on Teachertube about James Otis and the subject of taxation without representation. This was a fun video of a man in period costume telling the story of James Otis. Otis was a man who was hired to argue against the ritz of assistance but instead argued for it. Otis is famous for the quote taxation without representation is tyranny. The people of the US smuggled ingredients to make rum from the Spanish Dutch and French when they couldn't obtain enough ingredients through England. Otis had a sad and tragic life but he was a revolutionary man who fought for his beliefs. This would be a fun and worthwhile video to share with students.
The students really enjoyed interacting and learning about music. Miss Kelley used watching the movie as a reward for participating in the discussion. It seems like any time she turns on a movie the children are engrossed. She used the whole lesson to prepare the students to go to a performance by the Utah Valley Symphony. I think it gave the students a good background about the instruments and the type of music that would be played.
I would love to use technology like movies in the future as a teacher. It's good to use movies sparingly so the students are excited about them and really pay attention. Miss Kelley has bought a lot of materials like movies herself. She said she first tried using an audio tape of Peter and the Wolf but the students didn't pay attention that much. I'm sure it will take time as a teacher to figure out which lessons work and to collect books, movies, and things for class use.
I watched a video on Teachertube about James Otis and the subject of taxation without representation. This was a fun video of a man in period costume telling the story of James Otis. Otis was a man who was hired to argue against the ritz of assistance but instead argued for it. Otis is famous for the quote taxation without representation is tyranny. The people of the US smuggled ingredients to make rum from the Spanish Dutch and French when they couldn't obtain enough ingredients through England. Otis had a sad and tragic life but he was a revolutionary man who fought for his beliefs. This would be a fun and worthwhile video to share with students.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Field Work Week 3
This week I learned more how my supervising teacher uses the computer. She has a class website where she posts announcements, the calender, the spelling list, the weather, and other homework. She also has all her grades recorded online. The students do homework through a UEN site. There are a variety of games for different subjects and the computer even grades the student's work. Miss Kelley said the students don't even notice that they're doing homework. She also tracks the weather online twice a day and the kids record the weather.
It's neat to see what we've been learning about in class in action in the classroom. I think tracking grades online and having students do homework online would save a lot of time and paper. I think tracking the weather online is neat because it shows the kids the computer in action and allows students to have instant information.
I would like to use the computer for homework and to track grades. I was amazed to find out that the teacher doesn't even create the homework-it's already done! I will definitely use technology in the class-computers, overheads, projectors, movies, CDs, etc. I also want to use clips from the internet to help give students ideas for writing. It was interesting at our PLC meeting to see the teachers interact with each other. One of the teachers wants to do formative testing during math. One of the teachers listened to him but the other didn't seem to agree. I can see that it would be difficult to work as a team sometimes. It will be important to communicate fully with others and cooperate on projects.
I watched a Teachertube video on James Otis. He was an early patriot and government lawyer who was asked to argue for writs of assistance (search warrants) but instead quit his job and argued for it. He argued against the king of England taxing the United States. Otis is famous for his quote, "taxation without representation is tyranny." This video portrays a man in period costume explaining who Otis was and what he did. This is a fun video and I think students would enjoy it and also learn about James Otis and about the early government of the U.S. and the government of England.
It's neat to see what we've been learning about in class in action in the classroom. I think tracking grades online and having students do homework online would save a lot of time and paper. I think tracking the weather online is neat because it shows the kids the computer in action and allows students to have instant information.
I would like to use the computer for homework and to track grades. I was amazed to find out that the teacher doesn't even create the homework-it's already done! I will definitely use technology in the class-computers, overheads, projectors, movies, CDs, etc. I also want to use clips from the internet to help give students ideas for writing. It was interesting at our PLC meeting to see the teachers interact with each other. One of the teachers wants to do formative testing during math. One of the teachers listened to him but the other didn't seem to agree. I can see that it would be difficult to work as a team sometimes. It will be important to communicate fully with others and cooperate on projects.
I watched a Teachertube video on James Otis. He was an early patriot and government lawyer who was asked to argue for writs of assistance (search warrants) but instead quit his job and argued for it. He argued against the king of England taxing the United States. Otis is famous for his quote, "taxation without representation is tyranny." This video portrays a man in period costume explaining who Otis was and what he did. This is a fun video and I think students would enjoy it and also learn about James Otis and about the early government of the U.S. and the government of England.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Field Work Week 2
I'm learning about how technology is used right now in classrooms. The 4th graders go to computer lab once a week where they learn how to type. It's good for them to learn how to type but they don't utilize the computers much to help them learn. If they get done early they can play a drawing game. The students also use CD's of books once a week with their guided reading books. They really enjoy this and I think it improves their comprehesion and pronounciation. When I was doing my technology interview I found out about UTIP which is a program which allows teachers to create tests to review core topics. When you put in the subject the program creates a test for you. The students take the test online and then the computer graphs how the students did on various questions and can even graph how subgroups performed on the test. Then the teacher knows what their focus needs to be. I'm excited to see how much fun the children are and the huge impact I can have to help them learn.
Right now I'm learning how underutilized technology is in the classroom and also how much students enjoy it. I am trying to use technology in my lesson plans. I use the computer to help plan lessons and we are using a video in our lesson plan on Monday. I am also assisting the students in using the CDs to listen to books and helping them find the right place to follow along in the book.
In the future I would like to use some of the things that are being used in my class such as books to listen to, overheads, and truly utilizing computers. I would schedule the computer lab for additional time to reinforce subjects that we are studying. I will also encourage students to do homework on the computer to do homework, blog, use webquests, and create things like powerpoints. I am REALLY excited about UTIP. I would definitely use this to fully prepare my students for end of year testing and to insure that subjects are thoroughly understood.
I watched a video on Teachertube called Think Before You Post. The video was very well made and I think it would hit home with students the fact that anything you post can spread to family, friends, and anyone. I think as much as children use computers they need to be aware of the ramifications of posting. The need to avoid posting personal information such as inappropriate pictures, their name, address, phone number, and what they are doing. They can't take back information that they've shared. I've also read that they need to be careful what they post about their family and friends because it could effect their parent's jobs, reputations, and their entire family.
Right now I'm learning how underutilized technology is in the classroom and also how much students enjoy it. I am trying to use technology in my lesson plans. I use the computer to help plan lessons and we are using a video in our lesson plan on Monday. I am also assisting the students in using the CDs to listen to books and helping them find the right place to follow along in the book.
In the future I would like to use some of the things that are being used in my class such as books to listen to, overheads, and truly utilizing computers. I would schedule the computer lab for additional time to reinforce subjects that we are studying. I will also encourage students to do homework on the computer to do homework, blog, use webquests, and create things like powerpoints. I am REALLY excited about UTIP. I would definitely use this to fully prepare my students for end of year testing and to insure that subjects are thoroughly understood.
I watched a video on Teachertube called Think Before You Post. The video was very well made and I think it would hit home with students the fact that anything you post can spread to family, friends, and anyone. I think as much as children use computers they need to be aware of the ramifications of posting. The need to avoid posting personal information such as inappropriate pictures, their name, address, phone number, and what they are doing. They can't take back information that they've shared. I've also read that they need to be careful what they post about their family and friends because it could effect their parent's jobs, reputations, and their entire family.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Fieldwork week 1
I was not able to do the technology worksheet because the school specialist can't meet with us until tomorrow. I will do the worksheet as soon as possible. This week I have been learning how teachers actually are using technology in the classroom. Our supervising teacher uses technology in many ways. She showed the children a video about C.S. Lewis which captured their attention. The children also went to computer lab and are learning there. The teacher records her grades online and has the children do their homework online if they have access to the computer. She thinks their spelling scores have increased because they enjoy doing their homework online.
The ways the teacher uses technology give me ideas about things that I can include in my lesson plans in college. I think it would be neat to include videos, documentaries, or pictures as I prepare lessons so I can practice for the future.
This changes my schema about all the things that can be done with technology in the classroom. I think it's a great idea to record grades online. It would be very neat and easy to track. Having the students do homework online would cut down on wasting paper and would cut down on clutter for the teacher and students. The video was a fun way to introduce C.S. Lewis. The teacher also has recordings of the books the students are reading which they get to listen to once a week. It was enjoyable for the students and I think it would increase their vocabulary and pronounciation. It's fun to see technology being used in the classroom!
The ways the teacher uses technology give me ideas about things that I can include in my lesson plans in college. I think it would be neat to include videos, documentaries, or pictures as I prepare lessons so I can practice for the future.
This changes my schema about all the things that can be done with technology in the classroom. I think it's a great idea to record grades online. It would be very neat and easy to track. Having the students do homework online would cut down on wasting paper and would cut down on clutter for the teacher and students. The video was a fun way to introduce C.S. Lewis. The teacher also has recordings of the books the students are reading which they get to listen to once a week. It was enjoyable for the students and I think it would increase their vocabulary and pronounciation. It's fun to see technology being used in the classroom!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
My Beliefs
I believe that technology should be used in the classroom. I think it is very useful for a teacher to have email and a class page so that students and parents are informed about assignments and can communicate with the teacher. Blogging is a fun way for students to improve their writing skills (whether they know it or not) and to express themselves. Having students create Powerpoint, digital stories, and webquests would also be a great way for them to learn and develop computer skills and other knowledge. Programs which teach students basic skills are also useful. I agree with NETS that it's important for teachers to have a sound understanding of computers and to continually stay curent with new technology. I plan on doing this!
The children of today live in a new age of technology. They expect instant communication and gratification. By using computers in the classroom I can "keep the joy of learning alive." (Millenial Generation video) By using technology in the classroom I can be a better, more relevant teacher. By using computers, students will develop vital skills which will prepare them for future life and careers. Technological skills will propel them forward and allow them to be the leaders of the future.
The children of today live in a new age of technology. They expect instant communication and gratification. By using computers in the classroom I can "keep the joy of learning alive." (Millenial Generation video) By using technology in the classroom I can be a better, more relevant teacher. By using computers, students will develop vital skills which will prepare them for future life and careers. Technological skills will propel them forward and allow them to be the leaders of the future.
Lessons Learned
The readings, videos, and web sites had great information. I liked the video on the Millenial Generation. I think it's true that true happiness comes from engaging in personally meaningful work and performing service to a cause greater than oneself. By truly integrating technology and having students create we can engage, teach and interest students. As we teach students they won't be using technology simply for entertainment but to learn, solve problems, and create.
I think the web site "Did you know" states some important facts. It's scary that the U.S. students lag so far behind China and India. The U.S. needs to invest in educational development in order to survive and thrive in the today's connected world. Teachers really are preparing students for jobs that don't exist now and getting them ready to solve problems that don't exist today. Students need to have a broad base of knowledge, relevant and current skills, interpersonal skills, and adaptabilty in the future. Technology is a vital part of that education. I want to help the U.S. to be a strong nation with students who are intelligent and well educated to face the future.
I think the web site "Did you know" states some important facts. It's scary that the U.S. students lag so far behind China and India. The U.S. needs to invest in educational development in order to survive and thrive in the today's connected world. Teachers really are preparing students for jobs that don't exist now and getting them ready to solve problems that don't exist today. Students need to have a broad base of knowledge, relevant and current skills, interpersonal skills, and adaptabilty in the future. Technology is a vital part of that education. I want to help the U.S. to be a strong nation with students who are intelligent and well educated to face the future.
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of my strengths according to the UNI survey and NET standards are my awareness of how computers can be used in business, industry, and society. I have used computers at work and know how vital they are to efficiency, record keeping, communication, and information availability. Another strength is using audio and visual resources. I think I have become better at finding sites which would be useful and interesting in class.
Some of my weaknesses in computer knowledge are using the Macintosh sysytem, computer terminology, trouble-shooting techniques, and learning how to use graphic organizers. I have heard that many schools use Mac systems so I need to learn more about them. I found two sites that would be useful in developing my computer skills. The first is Switch 101 which teaches about Mac systems. The second is the Teacher tap site on graphic organizers called eduscapes.com. These sites look user friendly and informative. I would like to improve my weaknesses and continue learning more about technology. My goals as a teacher are to be an awesome teacher and earn lots of money.
My goal as a teacher is to integrate technology in the classroom. I would like to have the children create things like Powerpoint, their own calender, and a blogging site. I would also like students to use webquests. I think as I use technology I'll be a better teacher who interests the students and teaches them current issues.
Some of my weaknesses in computer knowledge are using the Macintosh sysytem, computer terminology, trouble-shooting techniques, and learning how to use graphic organizers. I have heard that many schools use Mac systems so I need to learn more about them. I found two sites that would be useful in developing my computer skills. The first is Switch 101 which teaches about Mac systems. The second is the Teacher tap site on graphic organizers called eduscapes.com. These sites look user friendly and informative. I would like to improve my weaknesses and continue learning more about technology. My goals as a teacher are to be an awesome teacher and earn lots of money.
My goal as a teacher is to integrate technology in the classroom. I would like to have the children create things like Powerpoint, their own calender, and a blogging site. I would also like students to use webquests. I think as I use technology I'll be a better teacher who interests the students and teaches them current issues.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Digital stories week two
Happy Halloween! We're on our second week of digital storytelling. This week we learned about writing our script, adding pictures, editing them, moving them around, zooming in and out, and adding text on top of the pictures. We also learned how to add music and the order we need to do everything in.
I think I could use digital storytelling in many ways. It would be a great way to introduce a topic to a class. It could also be used at the end of the year to make a fun slideshow with music and script. Digital storytelling would also be a good thing for students to learn how to do themselves. I would love to use it in my other classes here at UVU. I wish I had found out about it sooner. It would have been a neat project for the elementary education fair.
In the future I could see using digital storytelling in many ways. It would be a good way to motivate students to write. I think when you start thinking about something that really impacts you emotionally and is very powerful it really gets you excited about your subject. It makes you want to learn more. When you start to see images about your subject and start thinking about music that fits the theme it pulls you even deeper into the subject. I think digital storytelling would be a way to engage students in writing and research. I would love to use it in the classroom, with my family, and at church.
I watched the digital story on NASA. It was a really good digital story. It was sobering to see all the astronauts who have sacrificed their lives in the name of science. This story had a lot of really neat pictures and sensitive music that added to the story. I thought it was a very engaging digital story which educated without being boring. It really pulled me in and made me think about the human sacrifices that are made in order to advance the space program.
I think I could use digital storytelling in many ways. It would be a great way to introduce a topic to a class. It could also be used at the end of the year to make a fun slideshow with music and script. Digital storytelling would also be a good thing for students to learn how to do themselves. I would love to use it in my other classes here at UVU. I wish I had found out about it sooner. It would have been a neat project for the elementary education fair.
In the future I could see using digital storytelling in many ways. It would be a good way to motivate students to write. I think when you start thinking about something that really impacts you emotionally and is very powerful it really gets you excited about your subject. It makes you want to learn more. When you start to see images about your subject and start thinking about music that fits the theme it pulls you even deeper into the subject. I think digital storytelling would be a way to engage students in writing and research. I would love to use it in the classroom, with my family, and at church.
I watched the digital story on NASA. It was a really good digital story. It was sobering to see all the astronauts who have sacrificed their lives in the name of science. This story had a lot of really neat pictures and sensitive music that added to the story. I thought it was a very engaging digital story which educated without being boring. It really pulled me in and made me think about the human sacrifices that are made in order to advance the space program.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Digital Storytelling
This week we are learning about digital storytelling. In digital stories you can tell a compelling story with images, narration, music, and graphics. Digital stories remix information to make a greater impact. Digital stories can be used to introduce a topic or to learn more about a subject.
This week we are working on the first part of creation-scripting, narration, and a story board which will help us to start to form ideas and gather information to make our story.
Digital storytelling can be used in many ways. We can use it in classrooms to engage students in a subject. As a student I could use digital storytelling in my lesson plans. Digital storytelling could be used in social studies, english, science, and even math. Digital stories are compelling because they include narration, powerful pictures, and music that can invoke emotion.
In the future I would like to use digital storytelling in the classroom to interest and engage students. It would be a great assignment for students to make their own stories about something that they are passionate about. Students would be learning about a subject while also learning vital technological skills on the computer. My 11 year old can already easily make a powerpoint himself so this would be a new, more advanced skill. Digital storytelling would be an assignment which could challenge different levels of learners. I am excited about this assignment and the variety of things which can be expressed-especially inspiration. Digital storytelling could also be used in church, personal life, and in the community.
I couldn't get the assigned video to work so I watched a video on Teachertube about Newton's 3 laws of motion. It is a fun yet simple video. I would use it to introduce a lesson on the 3 laws of motion. I think students enjoy videos and listening to a different voice occassionally. The information is presented simply and has cartoons which demonstrate the laws in a fun way. I would definitely use this video.
This week we are working on the first part of creation-scripting, narration, and a story board which will help us to start to form ideas and gather information to make our story.
Digital storytelling can be used in many ways. We can use it in classrooms to engage students in a subject. As a student I could use digital storytelling in my lesson plans. Digital storytelling could be used in social studies, english, science, and even math. Digital stories are compelling because they include narration, powerful pictures, and music that can invoke emotion.
In the future I would like to use digital storytelling in the classroom to interest and engage students. It would be a great assignment for students to make their own stories about something that they are passionate about. Students would be learning about a subject while also learning vital technological skills on the computer. My 11 year old can already easily make a powerpoint himself so this would be a new, more advanced skill. Digital storytelling would be an assignment which could challenge different levels of learners. I am excited about this assignment and the variety of things which can be expressed-especially inspiration. Digital storytelling could also be used in church, personal life, and in the community.
I couldn't get the assigned video to work so I watched a video on Teachertube about Newton's 3 laws of motion. It is a fun yet simple video. I would use it to introduce a lesson on the 3 laws of motion. I think students enjoy videos and listening to a different voice occassionally. The information is presented simply and has cartoons which demonstrate the laws in a fun way. I would definitely use this video.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Webquests October 18,2009
We are on our final week of webquests. I read some information by Tom March on webquests. He had lots of great ideas. He said the first part should engage the students and bring up the core attributes of the subject but also create cognitive dissonance in order to motivate students to investigate further. Then he said the students should be able to learn the basic nature of the subject and remember prior knowledge. Next he said they should gather information from current news, videos, maps, podcasts, and other sources. He said the webquests give cognitive scaffolding and give students an appetite for learning. He said they are on the computer anyway so if we don't teach them we are doing them a disservice. Mr. March said by giving students a rubric we give them ownership for what they are doing. When we have students participate on blogs, posts, and bookmark highlights their thinking becomes visible. Webquests can help students at an appropriate level. Students can acquire information and transform it into new understandings.
I think the things that Mr. March said are so true. We need to use this great information as we learn how to be teachers. I am doing my best now to learn more about computers so that I can navigate them and teach my students all I know about them. Hopefully, I can stay ahead of them!
In the future, I would like to use ideas like webquests to allow students to investigate because I know they will be more self-initiated when they can explore and find their own answers. It's true that students are using computers and technology anyway so we might as well direct them to learn, explore vital information, and expand their knowledge. I am excited for the future and know that we need to empower students to use technology to think of novel ideas that will make the world better place and expand the knowledge that we have. They are our future!!
I watched the movie called "Do You Believe in Me?" by Dalton Sherman. He was an amazing and motivating speaker for being so young. He asked if the audience believed in him and the other graduates. He told them how important teachers, principals, school support staff, and parents are to students. He let them know that sometimes they are the only ones who believe in students and what they can achieve. I know that teachers who believed in me made me feel valued and appreciated and made me want to become more. It is true that our support is so vital to our children, extended family, students, and all children in our lives. As a teacher I want to teach my students that they are capable, valuable, and loved.
I think the things that Mr. March said are so true. We need to use this great information as we learn how to be teachers. I am doing my best now to learn more about computers so that I can navigate them and teach my students all I know about them. Hopefully, I can stay ahead of them!
In the future, I would like to use ideas like webquests to allow students to investigate because I know they will be more self-initiated when they can explore and find their own answers. It's true that students are using computers and technology anyway so we might as well direct them to learn, explore vital information, and expand their knowledge. I am excited for the future and know that we need to empower students to use technology to think of novel ideas that will make the world better place and expand the knowledge that we have. They are our future!!
I watched the movie called "Do You Believe in Me?" by Dalton Sherman. He was an amazing and motivating speaker for being so young. He asked if the audience believed in him and the other graduates. He told them how important teachers, principals, school support staff, and parents are to students. He let them know that sometimes they are the only ones who believe in students and what they can achieve. I know that teachers who believed in me made me feel valued and appreciated and made me want to become more. It is true that our support is so vital to our children, extended family, students, and all children in our lives. As a teacher I want to teach my students that they are capable, valuable, and loved.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Webquest Week 3
This week we are learning about webquests. They take a lot of time to put together but are long lasting and well worth the effort. I am learning how to copy, paste, find useful educational sites, and even add video and audio clips. I feel like I am learning the "behind the scenes" computer tricks and learning how to navigate in the computer. It takes practice, practice, practice.
I could see using webquests created for my students to learn about subjects from social studies to math to art to science. The possibilities are endless. I am going to look for webquests that might help me plan lessons for other classes and even have my own children use them to learn.
Webquests are an exciting new tool that students would really enjoy using. Older students could even create their own webquests which would teach them computer skills and the subject they are learning about. Teachers could share webquests they create or find with colleagues. I had a lot of fun looking at the webquest on healthy eating and think it would be great for schools, scouting groups, and individuals. I hope my future students have plenty of access to computers so they can use webquests.
I watched the video on Sacagawea on TeacherTube. It was a neat video with lots of pictures and clear, simple information. I think students would enjoy watching this and that it would help Sacagawea come to life for them, perhaps spurring them on to learn more about her.
I could see using webquests created for my students to learn about subjects from social studies to math to art to science. The possibilities are endless. I am going to look for webquests that might help me plan lessons for other classes and even have my own children use them to learn.
Webquests are an exciting new tool that students would really enjoy using. Older students could even create their own webquests which would teach them computer skills and the subject they are learning about. Teachers could share webquests they create or find with colleagues. I had a lot of fun looking at the webquest on healthy eating and think it would be great for schools, scouting groups, and individuals. I hope my future students have plenty of access to computers so they can use webquests.
I watched the video on Sacagawea on TeacherTube. It was a neat video with lots of pictures and clear, simple information. I think students would enjoy watching this and that it would help Sacagawea come to life for them, perhaps spurring them on to learn more about her.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Webquests and Surface computing
The video on surface computing was amazing. The surface computing allows users to organize and resize photos or videos. The multitouch allows users to manipulate more than one thing at a time. Surface computing also allows a person to put a camera on the computer screen, manipulate it on the screen and transfer it to another item such as a phone wirelessly. The surface computer is about $5,000-$6,000 and will be used mainly in hotels and casinos initially. This technology is mind boogling!!
I could see using this in the classroom to allow myself or students to manipulate pictures or videos for reports or presentations. It would make putting visuals together much easier and faster. It would be fun to use this to display pictures of activities the class has done such as field trips or a powerpoint at the end of the year. Surface computing would allow students to manipulate maps or graphs to the size they want or the content they want to focus on. The wireless sharing would allow students to share information and collaborate more easily. Using this technology in the class would prepare students for not only jobs but life in the future.
The past few weeks our class has been learning about webquests. A webquest is a cite which allows you to explore a subject. It is like a map that allows you to explore a subject within parameters. Webquests can include information, pictures, videos, and assignments.
I think webquests are really cool because they teach students to navigate on the computer without being overwhelmed by simply surfing the web. They are also protected from unwanted information. I think this is important. Once when my son was in second grade he was doing a report on an author when a stripper came up. And this was a school computer! A webquest enables students to learn what they need to learn through exploration.
Webquests are a good way for students to learn computer skills. The best way to learn is by trying. You learn which buttons to push to get where you need to go. Students can help each other to navigate the computer.
I would love to use webquest in the classroom. The beauty of webquests is you could create it once and use it again and again. You could simply update the information if necessary. Upper grade students could even create a webquest themselves! I would use a webquest for history, to explore different books they might want to read, to learn about art history and famous artists, and even to see science experiments and make their own scientific conclusions. There are a myriad of ways webquests may be used! Also, I could use webquests created by others. A group of teachers could each create a webquest and share them. I think students would enjoy webquests because they include interesting things such as videos and pictures which make information come to life.
I could see using this in the classroom to allow myself or students to manipulate pictures or videos for reports or presentations. It would make putting visuals together much easier and faster. It would be fun to use this to display pictures of activities the class has done such as field trips or a powerpoint at the end of the year. Surface computing would allow students to manipulate maps or graphs to the size they want or the content they want to focus on. The wireless sharing would allow students to share information and collaborate more easily. Using this technology in the class would prepare students for not only jobs but life in the future.
The past few weeks our class has been learning about webquests. A webquest is a cite which allows you to explore a subject. It is like a map that allows you to explore a subject within parameters. Webquests can include information, pictures, videos, and assignments.
I think webquests are really cool because they teach students to navigate on the computer without being overwhelmed by simply surfing the web. They are also protected from unwanted information. I think this is important. Once when my son was in second grade he was doing a report on an author when a stripper came up. And this was a school computer! A webquest enables students to learn what they need to learn through exploration.
Webquests are a good way for students to learn computer skills. The best way to learn is by trying. You learn which buttons to push to get where you need to go. Students can help each other to navigate the computer.
I would love to use webquest in the classroom. The beauty of webquests is you could create it once and use it again and again. You could simply update the information if necessary. Upper grade students could even create a webquest themselves! I would use a webquest for history, to explore different books they might want to read, to learn about art history and famous artists, and even to see science experiments and make their own scientific conclusions. There are a myriad of ways webquests may be used! Also, I could use webquests created by others. A group of teachers could each create a webquest and share them. I think students would enjoy webquests because they include interesting things such as videos and pictures which make information come to life.
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