It's been fun Mr. Sir!
Monday, August 10, 2009
eXTRa CReDiT: JouRNaL #10
Pignatiello, R. (2009, August). New Skills for a New Generation. Retrieved 8/10/2009, from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=August_No_1_2&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4363&ContentID=23906&DirectListComboInd=D
This article speak about an academy program, the Cisco Networking Academy, whose major goal is to provide the necessities of modern technology in schools with hopes of meeting the diverse nature of today’s students with the knowledge that today’s student has distinct intentions and interests. Students are evolving with the internet and social networks that have encompassed social norms, however, education is not necessarily following the trend and students are suffering in the process. The Cisco Academy opens the door for continued education, expanding professionally, and economic growth. The program is geared to encourage continued education by way of offering college credit units that carry over to assist when entering community college and/or four year universities. Students are taught how to “use actual routing and switching equipment in the classroom” in the event that they choose to continue their education or enter a job that requires them to carry out similar duties and will be require to draw from previous experience from the skills they picked up in the labs sessions and classrooms through the Cisco Academy.
Questions:
1. What web based programs would benefit students throughout their future?
Computer programs, much like the ones that we have been introduced to and have implemented into our lives through edu422 such as; wikis, blogs, and even Twitter. These types of online programs offer the opportunity for educators to interact with students, as well as for students to interact with one another through social web networking.
2. What benefits will the use of such tools mentioned above provide students?
These tools will aid to build critical-thinking skills, creativity levels, and give students an edge when they are expected to accomplish complicated duties. Furthermore, these tools will serve as guides and help to make students preferred contender throughout the job market and qualify them for high paid employment.
This article speak about an academy program, the Cisco Networking Academy, whose major goal is to provide the necessities of modern technology in schools with hopes of meeting the diverse nature of today’s students with the knowledge that today’s student has distinct intentions and interests. Students are evolving with the internet and social networks that have encompassed social norms, however, education is not necessarily following the trend and students are suffering in the process. The Cisco Academy opens the door for continued education, expanding professionally, and economic growth. The program is geared to encourage continued education by way of offering college credit units that carry over to assist when entering community college and/or four year universities. Students are taught how to “use actual routing and switching equipment in the classroom” in the event that they choose to continue their education or enter a job that requires them to carry out similar duties and will be require to draw from previous experience from the skills they picked up in the labs sessions and classrooms through the Cisco Academy.
Questions:
1. What web based programs would benefit students throughout their future?
Computer programs, much like the ones that we have been introduced to and have implemented into our lives through edu422 such as; wikis, blogs, and even Twitter. These types of online programs offer the opportunity for educators to interact with students, as well as for students to interact with one another through social web networking.
2. What benefits will the use of such tools mentioned above provide students?
These tools will aid to build critical-thinking skills, creativity levels, and give students an edge when they are expected to accomplish complicated duties. Furthermore, these tools will serve as guides and help to make students preferred contender throughout the job market and qualify them for high paid employment.
eXTRa CReDiT: JouRNaL #5
Brock, D.H. (2009, August). Show Us the Money! Planning and Persistence Can Help You Get Ed Tech Stimulus Funding. Retrieved August 11, 2009, from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=August_No_1_2&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4363&ContentID=23905&DirectListComboInd=D
This article touches on an issue that is common and very much current for numerous people, lack of funds. Since it is easy to wait for funds that are expected for the school, the article lays out basic step by step guidelines on the ways to go about receiving funds and grants to support the sought after technology curriculum through different programs such as, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT). These programs, as well as others, can award additional grants and funds to schools for programs to begin and/or continue. Many of these programs are not sought after, but they should be as they provide the necessary financial support to aid such programs that infuse technology into classroom curriculum.
The step by step process as offered in the article is as follows:
Step 1: Create a plan
Step 2: Research results
Step 3: Find success stories
Step 4: Find out what’s available
Step 5: Create a spreadsheet
Step 6: Include professional development
Step 7: Make it look good
Step 8: Develop relationships
The article also states that research has been provided signifying how professional development and the infusion of technology in the classroom settings positively influence the accomplishment, turnout, and discipline of the learners.
Questions:
1. What are the overall benefits are gained with the addition of technology in the classroom?
The benefits are direct to the students providing inspiration, escalating their reach and need for success, and attracting them in influential ways towards a future with more opportunity.
2. What must teachers do when infusing technology into the curriculum?
Teachers must become familiar with the technology and combine the new materials into the flow study. Teachers must be well aware and enthusiastic about the technology tools infused into the curriculum in order to encourage students to jump on board with the new.
This article touches on an issue that is common and very much current for numerous people, lack of funds. Since it is easy to wait for funds that are expected for the school, the article lays out basic step by step guidelines on the ways to go about receiving funds and grants to support the sought after technology curriculum through different programs such as, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT). These programs, as well as others, can award additional grants and funds to schools for programs to begin and/or continue. Many of these programs are not sought after, but they should be as they provide the necessary financial support to aid such programs that infuse technology into classroom curriculum.
The step by step process as offered in the article is as follows:
Step 1: Create a plan
Step 2: Research results
Step 3: Find success stories
Step 4: Find out what’s available
Step 5: Create a spreadsheet
Step 6: Include professional development
Step 7: Make it look good
Step 8: Develop relationships
The article also states that research has been provided signifying how professional development and the infusion of technology in the classroom settings positively influence the accomplishment, turnout, and discipline of the learners.
Questions:
1. What are the overall benefits are gained with the addition of technology in the classroom?
The benefits are direct to the students providing inspiration, escalating their reach and need for success, and attracting them in influential ways towards a future with more opportunity.
2. What must teachers do when infusing technology into the curriculum?
Teachers must become familiar with the technology and combine the new materials into the flow study. Teachers must be well aware and enthusiastic about the technology tools infused into the curriculum in order to encourage students to jump on board with the new.
PoWeRPoiNT: NeTS-S I, II, & III
PowerPoint NETS-S
Above is a PowerPoint Presentation that I created using Microsoft PowerPoint. I created slides which included custom animations, graphics, text information, and a hyperlink. This presentation showcases information of my perceptions of ISTE NETS for Students grade level K-2, and how I would implement them into my classroom as a future teacher.
View more presentations from tesster.
Friday, August 7, 2009
JouRNaL #9
Mader, J & Smith, B. (2009, August). Science + Technology = Creativity (and Fun!). Learning and Leading with Technology, 1, Retrieved 8/7/2009, from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=August_No_1_2&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4363&ContentID=23906&DirectListComboInd=D
One of the most important tools mentioned in this article, in my opinion, is PowerPoint presentations, which is a tool I was unaware of until my first online course two years into college, and I had to learn how to use it all by myself. It is available to everyone and is not a difficult program to maneuver around even without instruction. When I think of all the ways I could have benefited from using PowerPoint throughout all my school years, it seriously bums me out. I have never been a fan of speeches or oral presentations, as many are usually not, but having a PowerPoint has made it easier for me to present and feel more comfortable. If I was familiar with this technology earlier in my schooling career, I truly believe I could have been better at speaking or performing in front of people. I would always become extremely anxious and begin flub my words, then I would become embarrassed, lose my thoughts, and eventually just give up (needless to say my presentation grades suffered as a result of this). Once I started using PowerPoint presentations, I became more comfortable; this program allows me to integrate pictures, text, video, and links that can aid me during a presentation. Had I become familiar with PowerPoint sooner in school, I feel as though I could have branched out further into the world of technology and utilized personalized video and audio tools to create projects as the article mentions with music videos and play-by-play audio roller coaster coverage. In the end, I believe that if teachers implemented digital technology into their classroom curriculum, their students would be more comfortable and secure with the work they were producing and it would allow them an outlet to reach further and advance into creativity and originality.
Questions:
1. Why is it necessary for students to have opportunities to use scientific and creative tools?
It helps to give students a place for expression and guides them on a different path of learning and creativity. Providing students with digital tools (cameras, videos, and microphones) will further their basis of wanting to be creative and put their own personal touch and personality into their work and later into their life.
2. How does this technology benefit the student and the classroom?
The benefit lies purely within allowing the student to be or become creative and place their own unique stamp on the curriculum of the classroom.
One of the most important tools mentioned in this article, in my opinion, is PowerPoint presentations, which is a tool I was unaware of until my first online course two years into college, and I had to learn how to use it all by myself. It is available to everyone and is not a difficult program to maneuver around even without instruction. When I think of all the ways I could have benefited from using PowerPoint throughout all my school years, it seriously bums me out. I have never been a fan of speeches or oral presentations, as many are usually not, but having a PowerPoint has made it easier for me to present and feel more comfortable. If I was familiar with this technology earlier in my schooling career, I truly believe I could have been better at speaking or performing in front of people. I would always become extremely anxious and begin flub my words, then I would become embarrassed, lose my thoughts, and eventually just give up (needless to say my presentation grades suffered as a result of this). Once I started using PowerPoint presentations, I became more comfortable; this program allows me to integrate pictures, text, video, and links that can aid me during a presentation. Had I become familiar with PowerPoint sooner in school, I feel as though I could have branched out further into the world of technology and utilized personalized video and audio tools to create projects as the article mentions with music videos and play-by-play audio roller coaster coverage. In the end, I believe that if teachers implemented digital technology into their classroom curriculum, their students would be more comfortable and secure with the work they were producing and it would allow them an outlet to reach further and advance into creativity and originality.Questions:
1. Why is it necessary for students to have opportunities to use scientific and creative tools?
It helps to give students a place for expression and guides them on a different path of learning and creativity. Providing students with digital tools (cameras, videos, and microphones) will further their basis of wanting to be creative and put their own personal touch and personality into their work and later into their life.
2. How does this technology benefit the student and the classroom?
The benefit lies purely within allowing the student to be or become creative and place their own unique stamp on the curriculum of the classroom.
JouRNaL #8
Bouterse, B., Corn, J.O., & Halstead, E.O. (2009/08, August). Choosing the Perfect Tools for One-to-One. Learning and Leading with Technology, 1, Retrieved 8/7/2009, from
http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/Current_Issue/L_L_August.htm
This article is basically an informational guide comparing the different options at one’s disposal for electronic devices in the classroom. It is common to think that there is just one computer to choose from, but this is just not the case. In this article, not only are the different computer systems mentioned, but the different programs that run on these systems are also showcased. As well, an informational side-by-side comparison of the computer systems and their difference is provided in chart form comparing purpose, supported operating systems, install local applications, web applications, install local content, web content, peripheral equipment integration, printer, projector, battery life, and durability. The comparison of the laptops are showcased to allow one to make a decision on what would better suite their style as well as their classroom. I appreciate the comparison chart in the article, similar to one I have made myself when preparing to purchase a new phone; it provides the details needed on each device in order for me or another to make an informed decision on purchase and use.
Questions:
1. What are the best devices?
To each their own! It would have to be a judgment call based on each individual’s preferences, however, in a school setting, Windows and MAC devices and systems should be most widely used for the simple fact that most are familiar with them and how to operate them, and therefore money and time would not be wasted on training for such systems.
2. Would one-on-one learning initiatives benefit every student?
Absolutely, it would benefit every student that was offered and provided access to these learning initiatives.
http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/Current_Issue/L_L_August.htm
This article is basically an informational guide comparing the different options at one’s disposal for electronic devices in the classroom. It is common to think that there is just one computer to choose from, but this is just not the case. In this article, not only are the different computer systems mentioned, but the different programs that run on these systems are also showcased. As well, an informational side-by-side comparison of the computer systems and their difference is provided in chart form comparing purpose, supported operating systems, install local applications, web applications, install local content, web content, peripheral equipment integration, printer, projector, battery life, and durability. The comparison of the laptops are showcased to allow one to make a decision on what would better suite their style as well as their classroom. I appreciate the comparison chart in the article, similar to one I have made myself when preparing to purchase a new phone; it provides the details needed on each device in order for me or another to make an informed decision on purchase and use.
Questions:
1. What are the best devices?
To each their own! It would have to be a judgment call based on each individual’s preferences, however, in a school setting, Windows and MAC devices and systems should be most widely used for the simple fact that most are familiar with them and how to operate them, and therefore money and time would not be wasted on training for such systems.
2. Would one-on-one learning initiatives benefit every student?
Absolutely, it would benefit every student that was offered and provided access to these learning initiatives.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
iNSPiRaTioN: NeTS-T I, II, & III
Here is a diagram I created with a program called Inspiration 8. Simliar to a family tree, this diagram contains graphics, links, and informational text showcasing the relation between the ISTE NETS for Teachers and my work and assignments throughout the edu422 course.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
FaiR uSe HaRBoR CoPYRiGHT: NeTS IV
Below is a document put together collectively in a group effort through Google Docs. I worked with two fellow classmates researching and pulling out key points involved in using copyright information to report on and further our knowledge of our rights in using copyright materials in our classrooms.
Copyright_Britt_Tess_Christa(2)
Copyright_Britt_Tess_Christa(2)
eXCeL SPReaDSHeeT CRoSSWoRD PuZZLe: NeTS I, II, & III
422 Crossword
Above is a crossword puzzle I created using Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet. Through the online tutorials provided by Atomic Learning, I was able to apply the proper formatting to create a working puzzle. This was embedded into my blog using Scribd.
Above is a crossword puzzle I created using Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet. Through the online tutorials provided by Atomic Learning, I was able to apply the proper formatting to create a working puzzle. This was embedded into my blog using Scribd.
CLaSSRooM NeWSLeTTeR: NeTS I & III
Below is a Classroom Newsletter that I created using Microsoft Word. Through Word I utilized graphics, drop cap text, borders, specialized bullet points, and tables. I embedded this newsletter into my blog with Scribd.
422 Newsletter
422 Newsletter
iMoVie: NeTS I, II, & III
Here is short Public Service Announcement I created on a MAC computer using iMovie about California State University San Marcos. Through the different tools within iMovie I was able to edit video clips, incorporate transitions from one slide to the next in order to achieve a smooth flow to the picture, and added audio, text and special effects, as well I incorporated a personalized voice over. Feel free to press play for a preview!
Monday, August 3, 2009
MooF WiKi: NeTS I, II, & III
MooF
http://csusmwebtools.wetpaint.com/page/Moof
http://www.embedit.in/QXUykpDu6A
This is a Wiki page that I created using Wetpaint. Wikis can be accessed, commented on and edited by all users. For my Wiki page, I found a free social network music media player called Moof, that allows one to search and save music and videos by any artist into a personal library to be played at their convenience. As well Moof allows one to upload their own person music from iTunes into their Moof library as a backup of files. Moof also allows access from any computer. I have embedded my Wiki into this blog using Embedit.
http://csusmwebtools.wetpaint.com/page/Moof
http://www.embedit.in/QXUykpDu6A
This is a Wiki page that I created using Wetpaint. Wikis can be accessed, commented on and edited by all users. For my Wiki page, I found a free social network music media player called Moof, that allows one to search and save music and videos by any artist into a personal library to be played at their convenience. As well Moof allows one to upload their own person music from iTunes into their Moof library as a backup of files. Moof also allows access from any computer. I have embedded my Wiki into this blog using Embedit.
JouRNaL #7: NeTS I, II, III, & V
Reynard, R (2009, July). Beyond Social Networking: Building Toward Learning Communities. THE Journal, Retrieved August 3, 2009, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume_35_2007_2008_/MayNo7/L_L_May_2008.htm
This article touches on the ups and downs of social networking sites and there relevance to the classroom. In the article it is suggested that an integration of social networking sites and the classroom could be a way for teachers and students to connect on a level that is more comfortable for the student, the fact of the matter is teachers and students are supposed to be socializing on that aspect. Students use these networking sites to express themselves, talk to friends, and many other things that they usually attempt to separate from their school and classroom settings, it is a place from them to have their own secure private space that teachers, parents, and people who they do not consider friends cannot invade.
Questions:
1. Is it a good thing to have teachers and students become friend on social networking sites?
In my opinion, not so much! I do not think that the line between teacher and student should be crosses in cyberspace any more than it is allowed in face- to- face setting. If students and teachers are not allowed to converse on a phone call, they should not be socializing on the web either. Once the teacher and student are not in class together and there are no issues around legal age, if one wants to befriend the other on a social networking site that could be fine. There could be a class based site were students and teachers interact (as we have with Blackboard and WebCT), but class agendas and issues should not held in the networks of facebook, twitter, or any other social site.
2. Are there any risks integrating social networking sites with classes?
Yes! Social networking sites can contain much personal information and that can be used against either party in any situation, plus everything is text form (emails and all forms of messaging) can be taken out of context and statements can be interpreted incorrectly. Tone cannot be heard through text and therefore if you are not completely familiar with the person with whom you are exchanging text/messages with, many things can be construed wrong. I think it is a bad idea all together; the worlds should be kept separate.
This article touches on the ups and downs of social networking sites and there relevance to the classroom. In the article it is suggested that an integration of social networking sites and the classroom could be a way for teachers and students to connect on a level that is more comfortable for the student, the fact of the matter is teachers and students are supposed to be socializing on that aspect. Students use these networking sites to express themselves, talk to friends, and many other things that they usually attempt to separate from their school and classroom settings, it is a place from them to have their own secure private space that teachers, parents, and people who they do not consider friends cannot invade.
Questions:1. Is it a good thing to have teachers and students become friend on social networking sites?
In my opinion, not so much! I do not think that the line between teacher and student should be crosses in cyberspace any more than it is allowed in face- to- face setting. If students and teachers are not allowed to converse on a phone call, they should not be socializing on the web either. Once the teacher and student are not in class together and there are no issues around legal age, if one wants to befriend the other on a social networking site that could be fine. There could be a class based site were students and teachers interact (as we have with Blackboard and WebCT), but class agendas and issues should not held in the networks of facebook, twitter, or any other social site.
2. Are there any risks integrating social networking sites with classes?
Yes! Social networking sites can contain much personal information and that can be used against either party in any situation, plus everything is text form (emails and all forms of messaging) can be taken out of context and statements can be interpreted incorrectly. Tone cannot be heard through text and therefore if you are not completely familiar with the person with whom you are exchanging text/messages with, many things can be construed wrong. I think it is a bad idea all together; the worlds should be kept separate.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
JouRNaL #6: NeTS IV
Richardson, K (2008, May). Don't Feed the Trolls: Using Blogs to Teach Civil Discourse. Learning & Leading with Technology, 35, Retrieved July 28, 2009, from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume_35_2007_2008_/MayNo7/L_L_May_2008.htm
With almost everything available on the internet these days, it is quite difficult to escape cyber world regardless of who you are. Even if you do not actively participate in cyberspace in some way shape or form, it may be likely that that some else is including into their internet use with or without your permission. This article refers to trolls as “a person who posts rude or offensive messages on the Internet, such as in online discussion forums, to disrupt discussion or to upset its participants”, and how many of these incidences are we aware of…too many! Even with online classes one finds those who just seem to want to pick a fight.
Questions:
1. What is the most important part of using programs online?
Remembering that just because it is not face-to-face does not mean that you are given a free pass to say or “act” in any manner. It must be conveyed that actions and conversation on the internet must mirror what one would be willing and able to say in person. It is okay to have reactions to others, but they must be done in a proper manner even though most or all of the interaction is head over the net.
2. How do we educate students today to prevent “trolls” from taking over?
I feel the best way to teach students proper and improper use of their internet time is to use previous incidences as examples, the same way history is studied and taught, issues of internet abuse and problems should be entertained and discussed. This will allow the students to be familiar with different possibilities and different resolutions.
With almost everything available on the internet these days, it is quite difficult to escape cyber world regardless of who you are. Even if you do not actively participate in cyberspace in some way shape or form, it may be likely that that some else is including into their internet use with or without your permission. This article refers to trolls as “a person who posts rude or offensive messages on the Internet, such as in online discussion forums, to disrupt discussion or to upset its participants”, and how many of these incidences are we aware of…too many! Even with online classes one finds those who just seem to want to pick a fight.
Questions:
1. What is the most important part of using programs online?
Remembering that just because it is not face-to-face does not mean that you are given a free pass to say or “act” in any manner. It must be conveyed that actions and conversation on the internet must mirror what one would be willing and able to say in person. It is okay to have reactions to others, but they must be done in a proper manner even though most or all of the interaction is head over the net.
2. How do we educate students today to prevent “trolls” from taking over?
I feel the best way to teach students proper and improper use of their internet time is to use previous incidences as examples, the same way history is studied and taught, issues of internet abuse and problems should be entertained and discussed. This will allow the students to be familiar with different possibilities and different resolutions.
JouRNaL #4 PHoTo SHaRiNG: NeTS I, II, III, & V
Classroom 2.0/Web 2.0 Exploration
http://www.classroom20.com/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=photos
Photo sharing is a way for users to store and share pictures with one another over the net; which allows people to access the stored photos from any computer usually by becoming a member, creating a user name and password, and typically for free. There are some photo sharing sites that charge for membership, but many are free of charge and allow others free access as well. Such photo sharing sites that many are familiar with are Picasa, Flickr, Snapfish, Kodak EasyShare, and Costco. Many people have used these sites to store and share photos, some are better than others depending on what you plan to use them for.
I have personally not used Flickr or Picasa but I have heard amazing things about both that I may be inclined to use Picasa fairly soon here. I have used Snapfish, Costco, and Kodak EasyShare; they are all quite similar in the sense that they are free to join, store, and share photos, however, after a certain period of time (usually a year), if you have not made a purchase they will delete you file, photos, and membership. I did not know this until I received the notice to purchase or my file would be deleted, which was most frustrating. I do not like the fact that I cannot just store my photos and purchase if I chose, and this is why I choose this tool so I may find a photo sharing tool that better suites me and my life style.
Once I entered into the Classroom 2.0 Photo Sharing tool, I found many different posts and information, however, I decide to focus on an area that would not only be beneficial to me, but also aid me as a teacher in my classroom. In making this decision, I did not follow the posts listed for Flickr, but rather followed “Suggestions Needed for Online Storage”, posted by Ginger Lewman, and “Video Attribution”, posted by Peter Lane. The technology behind the Photo Sharing tool, in the discussions followed, is to allow students to have access to their own work that they have complied throughout the year and the process of the class. One program mentioned in particular was Box.Net, which does have a fee to join ($50 for 5gig of storage space per year), but it can be used by the entire class. Having to use a program that charges is never a plus, especially because students and teachers do not necessarily have the means to spend, however, for the benefit of the class, it may be worth it to spend the money per year. So instead of just posting, saving, and sharing photos, teachers and students are able to post, store, and share photos, video, documents, and any other work they see fit to aid them throughout the school year as well as after. This type of tool would also allow teachers to post lesson plans (both written and verbal - by way of podcast), videos, photos, as well as other important and informational documents. This is a great tool for students to be able to gain access to and keep all of their work that they have accomplished. This tool had taught me that through certain programs, the host (most likely the teacher in this case) can grant access to others (students) under their personal account that would not require each individual to sign up separately or enroll; the students would simply use a common user name and password set up by the teacher awarded to the group for that year. After a certain period of time (for that year or once the teacher feels it is time) the host may close out the access to this group and allow access to the next group (new class of students). As a future teacher I would absolutely implement this tool and this program. I feel that keeping everything pertaining to the class in one common area where each student has access to it at any time would be beneficial to the class and the outcome of the students work. As well, students will be able to connect with each other for guidance, ideas, and help which will further their collaboration skills and help them to build on their overall performance as a whole.
http://www.classroom20.com/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=photos
Photo sharing is a way for users to store and share pictures with one another over the net; which allows people to access the stored photos from any computer usually by becoming a member, creating a user name and password, and typically for free. There are some photo sharing sites that charge for membership, but many are free of charge and allow others free access as well. Such photo sharing sites that many are familiar with are Picasa, Flickr, Snapfish, Kodak EasyShare, and Costco. Many people have used these sites to store and share photos, some are better than others depending on what you plan to use them for.
I have personally not used Flickr or Picasa but I have heard amazing things about both that I may be inclined to use Picasa fairly soon here. I have used Snapfish, Costco, and Kodak EasyShare; they are all quite similar in the sense that they are free to join, store, and share photos, however, after a certain period of time (usually a year), if you have not made a purchase they will delete you file, photos, and membership. I did not know this until I received the notice to purchase or my file would be deleted, which was most frustrating. I do not like the fact that I cannot just store my photos and purchase if I chose, and this is why I choose this tool so I may find a photo sharing tool that better suites me and my life style.Once I entered into the Classroom 2.0 Photo Sharing tool, I found many different posts and information, however, I decide to focus on an area that would not only be beneficial to me, but also aid me as a teacher in my classroom. In making this decision, I did not follow the posts listed for Flickr, but rather followed “Suggestions Needed for Online Storage”, posted by Ginger Lewman, and “Video Attribution”, posted by Peter Lane. The technology behind the Photo Sharing tool, in the discussions followed, is to allow students to have access to their own work that they have complied throughout the year and the process of the class. One program mentioned in particular was Box.Net, which does have a fee to join ($50 for 5gig of storage space per year), but it can be used by the entire class. Having to use a program that charges is never a plus, especially because students and teachers do not necessarily have the means to spend, however, for the benefit of the class, it may be worth it to spend the money per year. So instead of just posting, saving, and sharing photos, teachers and students are able to post, store, and share photos, video, documents, and any other work they see fit to aid them throughout the school year as well as after. This type of tool would also allow teachers to post lesson plans (both written and verbal - by way of podcast), videos, photos, as well as other important and informational documents. This is a great tool for students to be able to gain access to and keep all of their work that they have accomplished. This tool had taught me that through certain programs, the host (most likely the teacher in this case) can grant access to others (students) under their personal account that would not require each individual to sign up separately or enroll; the students would simply use a common user name and password set up by the teacher awarded to the group for that year. After a certain period of time (for that year or once the teacher feels it is time) the host may close out the access to this group and allow access to the next group (new class of students). As a future teacher I would absolutely implement this tool and this program. I feel that keeping everything pertaining to the class in one common area where each student has access to it at any time would be beneficial to the class and the outcome of the students work. As well, students will be able to connect with each other for guidance, ideas, and help which will further their collaboration skills and help them to build on their overall performance as a whole.
JouRNaL #3: NeTS I, II, & III
Zucker, A (2009, June/July). Assessment Made Easy. Learning and Leading with Technology, 18-21
This program seems to be the perfect tool for teachers and students to interact in this generation with today’s technology. Youth are so involved in text messaging, instant messaging, and social websites that their attention is usually misplaced in face-to-face settings and this program can bring their focus back into the classroom. Many students are not comfortable speaking in front of the entire class for reasons of embarrassment, and this way they are able to communicate directly one –on-one with the teacher without bringing attention to themselves which can build on their confidence and security levels. The process of having immediate interaction and reaction from the teacher is the selling point to this program and it should absolutely be implemented into every school.
Questions:
1. Why is it beneficial to have immediate results?
Often what many do not realize is the stress and anxiety that goes into test taking. Even if a student is fully aware of the material and can succeed in teaching it to someone else, when put on the spot in a test format, many become too nervous to perform correctly and temporary forget or confuse the material. Therefore having to wait weeks for a test result only makes it worse on the student who is assuming the worst and not really ready to take in any more or new knowledge at this point.
2. What procedures can be practiced with feedback results?
These feedback results will show the percentage of students that did well or poorly in certain areas giving the teacher a chance to review with the students in the event that a significant number performed poorly in any given area. With this feedback, students will be able to understand the review of the material while it is still fresh in their mind rather than weeks later when they are in the process of learning new material and become confused.
This program seems to be the perfect tool for teachers and students to interact in this generation with today’s technology. Youth are so involved in text messaging, instant messaging, and social websites that their attention is usually misplaced in face-to-face settings and this program can bring their focus back into the classroom. Many students are not comfortable speaking in front of the entire class for reasons of embarrassment, and this way they are able to communicate directly one –on-one with the teacher without bringing attention to themselves which can build on their confidence and security levels. The process of having immediate interaction and reaction from the teacher is the selling point to this program and it should absolutely be implemented into every school.
Questions:
1. Why is it beneficial to have immediate results?
Often what many do not realize is the stress and anxiety that goes into test taking. Even if a student is fully aware of the material and can succeed in teaching it to someone else, when put on the spot in a test format, many become too nervous to perform correctly and temporary forget or confuse the material. Therefore having to wait weeks for a test result only makes it worse on the student who is assuming the worst and not really ready to take in any more or new knowledge at this point.
2. What procedures can be practiced with feedback results?
These feedback results will show the percentage of students that did well or poorly in certain areas giving the teacher a chance to review with the students in the event that a significant number performed poorly in any given area. With this feedback, students will be able to understand the review of the material while it is still fresh in their mind rather than weeks later when they are in the process of learning new material and become confused.
Monday, July 27, 2009
JouRNaL #2: NeTS V
Robson, M. (2009, July 13). How Teenagers Consume Media: the Study that Shook the City. Retrieved 7/27/09, from http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/jul/13/teenage-media-habits-morgan-stanley
This article simply showcases the evolution of technology and how everything has changed. I remember what a huge deal is was to go from cassette tapes to CD’s and how teens now do not even know what a cassette tape is (I won’t even go further back than that). Change is going to continue to occur is the vibe I was receiving from this article. Basically on a continuous basis, no matter what we get used to it will eventually change into something more current and “user friendly”. Plus everything on the internet is easier now, (conversation, contact, information, and work) it is just an all around way for things to get done and to keep connected. I know if it were not for the internet I would not be in touch with many people because I am not a talker, I like to text and email, I do not like to sit on the phone; therefore, this has made it easy for me to keep contact with many. As for news papers and radio, I am on the same wave link, with the exception of a morning talk show, I do not listen to the radio anymore, but rather to my iPod or Pandora internet streaming radio, this way I do not have to hear commercials or songs that I cannot stand.
Questions:
1. Has television evolved in a good or bad way?
I think television has seen the biggest turn around ever since TiVo and DVRs came in the picture. Having the option to record two or more programs at once as well as watch a program is pure genius. I definitely believe television has evolved in a good way. I personally do not watch live television programs anymore, everything I watch (or that I have time for) is what is recorded or saved on my TiVo.
2. What is the benefit behind TiVo and/or DVR boxes?
These boxes are beneficial to those that lead busy lives and do not necessarily have time for television at its scheduled time settings. For me personally, it is great because I can skip right through commercials (my favorite part), and just watch the program I wanted to see. The only down side is that I miss a lot of promotions for other shows and such. It is the best of both worlds in any case.
This article simply showcases the evolution of technology and how everything has changed. I remember what a huge deal is was to go from cassette tapes to CD’s and how teens now do not even know what a cassette tape is (I won’t even go further back than that). Change is going to continue to occur is the vibe I was receiving from this article. Basically on a continuous basis, no matter what we get used to it will eventually change into something more current and “user friendly”. Plus everything on the internet is easier now, (conversation, contact, information, and work) it is just an all around way for things to get done and to keep connected. I know if it were not for the internet I would not be in touch with many people because I am not a talker, I like to text and email, I do not like to sit on the phone; therefore, this has made it easy for me to keep contact with many. As for news papers and radio, I am on the same wave link, with the exception of a morning talk show, I do not listen to the radio anymore, but rather to my iPod or Pandora internet streaming radio, this way I do not have to hear commercials or songs that I cannot stand.
Questions:
1. Has television evolved in a good or bad way?
I think television has seen the biggest turn around ever since TiVo and DVRs came in the picture. Having the option to record two or more programs at once as well as watch a program is pure genius. I definitely believe television has evolved in a good way. I personally do not watch live television programs anymore, everything I watch (or that I have time for) is what is recorded or saved on my TiVo.
2. What is the benefit behind TiVo and/or DVR boxes?These boxes are beneficial to those that lead busy lives and do not necessarily have time for television at its scheduled time settings. For me personally, it is great because I can skip right through commercials (my favorite part), and just watch the program I wanted to see. The only down side is that I miss a lot of promotions for other shows and such. It is the best of both worlds in any case.
JouRNaL #1: NeTS I, III, & V
Owens, Aileen M. (2009). Do your teachers need personal trainers?. Learning and Leading with Technology, Retrieved 7/27/09, from http://www.iste.org
I found it extremely interesting that this project involved students interning in elementary grades and aiding younger students in alternate ways in which to conduct research and work on projects. I believe volunteering or interning are the most import positions especially for students, most of the time the hours are mandatory, but the students truly benefit from the experience and knowledge regardless. I really appreciate the approach and outlook of this program to bring students and teachers together, working in unison in order to further improve teaching and learning.
Questions:
1. What would be a benefit of using technology based lesson plans?
Of many, one of the more obvious benefits would be having everything on file electronically and the ability to reference the material at any point in time. This would make it easier to track when certain lessons took place, by which method, and allow the teacher to reflect on the triumph or failure of the project.
2. How would students benefit from technology in the classroom?
An important benefit, I believe, would be the overall access to the material. An issue of concern faced by students is the aftermath of an absence. When students miss a day of schooling they used to try to make up the work they missed, if it was possible and allowed by the teacher, however, technology would allow the student to access the material and stay in the flow of the course work.
I found it extremely interesting that this project involved students interning in elementary grades and aiding younger students in alternate ways in which to conduct research and work on projects. I believe volunteering or interning are the most import positions especially for students, most of the time the hours are mandatory, but the students truly benefit from the experience and knowledge regardless. I really appreciate the approach and outlook of this program to bring students and teachers together, working in unison in order to further improve teaching and learning.
Questions:
1. What would be a benefit of using technology based lesson plans?
Of many, one of the more obvious benefits would be having everything on file electronically and the ability to reference the material at any point in time. This would make it easier to track when certain lessons took place, by which method, and allow the teacher to reflect on the triumph or failure of the project.
2. How would students benefit from technology in the classroom?
An important benefit, I believe, would be the overall access to the material. An issue of concern faced by students is the aftermath of an absence. When students miss a day of schooling they used to try to make up the work they missed, if it was possible and allowed by the teacher, however, technology would allow the student to access the material and stay in the flow of the course work.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
del.icio.us SoCiaL BooKMaRKiNG: NeTS I, II, & III
http://www.delicious.com
1. National Archives: This links to a website that provides links and images to the documents of our national history. The Charters of Freedom national documents include The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The pictures and links open up into copies of the actual signed documents with explanations and background information, as well there is information provided about the presidents involved. I believe the value of including this in the classroom are that the knowledge and availability of these documents is important for students to be able to gain access to and easier for teachers to promote the learning of this history.
2. NEA: Students groups at the greatest risk of experiencing achievement gaps are racial and ethnic minorities, English language learners, students with disabilities, boys/girls, and students from low-income families. Under the “Becoming a Culturally Competent Educator” link the three areas that I feel fit my teaching style at this point the most are:
• "Engage school staff in discussions and activities that offer an opportunity to explore attitudes, beliefs, and values related to cultural diversity and cultural competence.
• Build and use a network of "natural helpers" at school and in the community as well as "experts" who have knowledge of the culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups served by your school.
• Network with parent, family, minority community, and faith-based organizations concerned with the needs of diverse students. Solicit their involvement and input in the design and implementation of initiatives for culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups".
I am drawn to these three areas because they are all centered around cultural diversity. I have studied cultural diversity and will continue to focus my studies and time in the genre in the future, and with each course I complete, I realize how much more needs to be done at a much earlier stage. I would like to implement cultural diversity in my classroom regardless of the age of students I may have; I believe it is never too early to begin.
3. Cyberbullying: according to the cyber bullying website, I am a “cyber saint”. This is very likely due to the fact that I do not need to use the internet to mask my thoughts and feelings about others. When I have something to say, believe me I say it... I have no filter. I just do not like the idea of talking behind barriers, everything with me is out in the open. The methods link on how to deal with cyber bullies seems quite helpful. This looks like it would be a good site to reference for guidance in the event such a situation arises in my classroom.
4. Kathy Schrock’s Guide for Educators: From “Subject Access” I choose performing arts and music, and from “Teacher Helpers” I choose gadgets and podcasting. The most interesting area of this site was the involvement in musicals and Broadway shows. As a musician and a believer that music and performing arts play a huge role in the learning experiences of children, I find it fascinating that this genre is included and considered when many tend to overlook it. I absolutely plan to incorporate music and arts into my curriculum; moreover, I would like to work within a VAPA program.
5. Multiple Intelligences: My top three intelligences were Musical at 100%, Interpersonal and Intrapersonal tied for second at 63%, and Bodily-Kinesthetic at 58%. The videos brought to light the different abilities that children possess in learning and know how I am able and unable to learn things, I understand that each child has a certain way in which they are able to take in and process information and I must be aware of these qualities in the future.
6. Teaching Tolerance Lesson Idea: This activity is for grades PreK - 2nd, subject is Creative Arts, and the topic is health issues. Students will begin with a story concerning body image, then they will converse about the diverse people they come into contact with, students will then trace their full body to realize their own distinctive shape and size, and speak of ideas to have a healthy life style. This lesson will help to guide children, even at this young age, to recognize and celebrate differences and diversity in body image and people. The link to this lesson plan is as follows: http://www.tolerance.org/teach/activities/activity.jsp?cid=827.
7. EdChange Multicultural Awareness Quiz: The two questions I found interesting were 1. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, what is the percentage of U.S. schools with no teachers of color on staff? and 2. A Princeton study of elite universities in the U.S. found that legacy applicants—people, usually white and wealthy, with a parent or grandparent who attended the institution—are far more privileged by legacy status than applicants of color are by affirmative action policies. The study determined that legacy status was roughly equivalent to how much of a boost to an applicant’s SAT score? I guess I should say I feel the first question irritated me, I feel it is ridiculous not for what it is asking, but for the way it is worded. I do not think that the proper wording of this question should be “teachers of color”, but rather ethnic or diverse or race, but at the same time there must be a reason for the question which is to shed light on that issue – I just do not agree with the wording. The second question was just interesting, but not surprising. I am not shocked with this question because this is a notion that I have heard many times and have heard to be fact. Whether or not this is true is not for me to decide, and though I still do not feel the wording of “applicants of color” is appropriate, I simply found this to be an attention-grabbing question – period!
8. Netiquette: My score was 60% which I found to be quite weird. I did not really understand some of the questions fully, especially the ones pertaining to chat rooms because I do not use chat rooms so I did not even know what they were asking. I feel it is important to teach students that there is another person on the end on technology and it should be treated in the same respect as face-to-face interaction. If it is not something they would say in the actual presence of the person, they should not say it at all. }: [
1. National Archives: This links to a website that provides links and images to the documents of our national history. The Charters of Freedom national documents include The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The pictures and links open up into copies of the actual signed documents with explanations and background information, as well there is information provided about the presidents involved. I believe the value of including this in the classroom are that the knowledge and availability of these documents is important for students to be able to gain access to and easier for teachers to promote the learning of this history.
2. NEA: Students groups at the greatest risk of experiencing achievement gaps are racial and ethnic minorities, English language learners, students with disabilities, boys/girls, and students from low-income families. Under the “Becoming a Culturally Competent Educator” link the three areas that I feel fit my teaching style at this point the most are:
• "Engage school staff in discussions and activities that offer an opportunity to explore attitudes, beliefs, and values related to cultural diversity and cultural competence.
• Build and use a network of "natural helpers" at school and in the community as well as "experts" who have knowledge of the culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups served by your school.
• Network with parent, family, minority community, and faith-based organizations concerned with the needs of diverse students. Solicit their involvement and input in the design and implementation of initiatives for culturally, linguistically, racially, and ethnically diverse groups".
I am drawn to these three areas because they are all centered around cultural diversity. I have studied cultural diversity and will continue to focus my studies and time in the genre in the future, and with each course I complete, I realize how much more needs to be done at a much earlier stage. I would like to implement cultural diversity in my classroom regardless of the age of students I may have; I believe it is never too early to begin.
3. Cyberbullying: according to the cyber bullying website, I am a “cyber saint”. This is very likely due to the fact that I do not need to use the internet to mask my thoughts and feelings about others. When I have something to say, believe me I say it... I have no filter. I just do not like the idea of talking behind barriers, everything with me is out in the open. The methods link on how to deal with cyber bullies seems quite helpful. This looks like it would be a good site to reference for guidance in the event such a situation arises in my classroom.
4. Kathy Schrock’s Guide for Educators: From “Subject Access” I choose performing arts and music, and from “Teacher Helpers” I choose gadgets and podcasting. The most interesting area of this site was the involvement in musicals and Broadway shows. As a musician and a believer that music and performing arts play a huge role in the learning experiences of children, I find it fascinating that this genre is included and considered when many tend to overlook it. I absolutely plan to incorporate music and arts into my curriculum; moreover, I would like to work within a VAPA program.
5. Multiple Intelligences: My top three intelligences were Musical at 100%, Interpersonal and Intrapersonal tied for second at 63%, and Bodily-Kinesthetic at 58%. The videos brought to light the different abilities that children possess in learning and know how I am able and unable to learn things, I understand that each child has a certain way in which they are able to take in and process information and I must be aware of these qualities in the future.
6. Teaching Tolerance Lesson Idea: This activity is for grades PreK - 2nd, subject is Creative Arts, and the topic is health issues. Students will begin with a story concerning body image, then they will converse about the diverse people they come into contact with, students will then trace their full body to realize their own distinctive shape and size, and speak of ideas to have a healthy life style. This lesson will help to guide children, even at this young age, to recognize and celebrate differences and diversity in body image and people. The link to this lesson plan is as follows: http://www.tolerance.org/teach/activities/activity.jsp?cid=827.
7. EdChange Multicultural Awareness Quiz: The two questions I found interesting were 1. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, what is the percentage of U.S. schools with no teachers of color on staff? and 2. A Princeton study of elite universities in the U.S. found that legacy applicants—people, usually white and wealthy, with a parent or grandparent who attended the institution—are far more privileged by legacy status than applicants of color are by affirmative action policies. The study determined that legacy status was roughly equivalent to how much of a boost to an applicant’s SAT score? I guess I should say I feel the first question irritated me, I feel it is ridiculous not for what it is asking, but for the way it is worded. I do not think that the proper wording of this question should be “teachers of color”, but rather ethnic or diverse or race, but at the same time there must be a reason for the question which is to shed light on that issue – I just do not agree with the wording. The second question was just interesting, but not surprising. I am not shocked with this question because this is a notion that I have heard many times and have heard to be fact. Whether or not this is true is not for me to decide, and though I still do not feel the wording of “applicants of color” is appropriate, I simply found this to be an attention-grabbing question – period!
8. Netiquette: My score was 60% which I found to be quite weird. I did not really understand some of the questions fully, especially the ones pertaining to chat rooms because I do not use chat rooms so I did not even know what they were asking. I feel it is important to teach students that there is another person on the end on technology and it should be treated in the same respect as face-to-face interaction. If it is not something they would say in the actual presence of the person, they should not say it at all. }: [
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
HeeRRRRooooo
Hey hey hey now... my name is Tess. I was born on the East coast, but I currently reside right here in San Diego, California. I went to school locally and graduated from Rancho Bernardo High School many years ago. My next stop was junior college where I received an Associates Degree from San Diego Community College District and even more exciting, just this past May, I earned my Bachelor’s degree from California State University San Marcos in Human Development, with an emphasis in Children Services. 
I have a strong personal interest in Music, Performing Arts, and Art programs and hope to work in Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) programs in the near future. As a musician, I want to focus my time, efforts, and talents in these areas of Arts and guide those in this field as well as evolve as a musician, professional, and educator.
At this moment in time I am currently a PC user. I rarely get the opportunity to use a MAC, and when I do I tend to get pretty frustrated when it does not act as a PC would just because I am so used to it. Although after this course I think I may change my mind, I kind of already have just after the one day. It is funny how things change when you actually KNOW what you are doing! I depend on technology more than I should I am sure, I use it on a daily basis; it is plain and simply MY LIFE! Everything I do is technology based, if my computer or phone are not working, I am a complete wreck. I am currently using Microsoft Office 2007 and sometimes still get quite frustrated with it.
The part of the CSUSM/COE Mission Statement that speaks to me is the mention of "life-long learning". Though it was not a factor in my decision to apply or attend at CSUSM, I feel as though it is the part that I agree with the most. As a future educator I feel as though I will be learning from my students as I teach them and that is extremely important to me.
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