There are many technological strategies discussed in the "Special Feature" insert on page 450 of the textbook, many of which I would consider using in the classroom. Although there are many options and forms of technology I could use, the one I find particularly interesting is integrating "teacher-created content" into technology. This article discusses allowing the teacher to create there own content, but still rely on technology for convenience. This feature would allow you to create your own website where students and parents could access digital media versions of practice tests, homework assignments, project reviews, lecture materials, and more. I feel this would be an awesome aid to instruction, because it can be accessed at any time, from any place. Students could also use this website to communicate with me and share ideas about how to improve the site. Other useful technological resources discussed in the Special Feature insert were curriculum websites, integration strategies, and blogs. These are all ideas I feel would be useful in my instruction in the classroom.
The topic I found was very interesting and also commonly discussed through other students blogs is Wiki. Myself included, discussed Wiki and it's value and benefits in my blogs. I think it's interesting how students can communicate and collaborate so easily, without even meeting up. Judging by the discussion in the blogs, I feel that all of us were glad we learned about Wiki, and how to use, because now we all have ideas and hopes of what we could use Wiki for in the future. Some other popular topics among our blogs were Excel, Powerpoint, and website creation. Overall, I feel like we all learned so much, and now have to much left to learn and look into regarding technology and education.
The technology-related skill I would most like to learn next, beside HTML coding and web-design, which I discussed in my last blog, would be how to master Excel. I look forward to fully mastering such skills and showing what I’ve learned through our final project. Working on the final project has helped me to become more comfortable, but there are still many formulas and concepts I haven't fully grasped and been able to use. Thus, the next technology-related skill I would like to possess is a better mastery of Excel.
As discussed in my previous blog, I would love to take more classes regarding technology, because there is so much I still want to learn and be able to allow my students to learn from me. Technology is becoming increasingly important in education today, and I hope that by the time I have my own classroom I'm able to aid my students in functioning and benefitting from these advancements. Taking classes, creating my own website, and utilizing available resources such as Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Wiki, Inspiration, and Podcasts effectively are all things that will help me to achieve my educational goals, which are to help my students to the best of my abilities.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Post 9
Although I'm not very familiar with a wide variety of web-based tools I could use in education, one I do know I could use is Wiki. I learned about Wiki through this class, and feel that it's a very appropriate and beneficial educational tool. Wiki is a program that allows groups of people to share information with one another, and also to collaborate with one another. You can add information, or edit existing information, making group work and assignments much more convenient. It allows groups to meet and work together without physically having to be in the same location. I could use Wiki in the classroom by allowing my students to utilize the program in group work, or by using it myself to collaborate with other educators.
Wiki is a program that can be used to be educators and students alike, because it is very simple and basic. It isn't complicating, which allows students to access a mutual site, editing and adding information to the project. Also, as a teacher, I could too work with my students through Wiki, either adding additional information, or editing work they've already posted. Moreover, the simplicity and convenience of Wiki makes it a web-based tool/program I feel would be beneficial in my career as an educator, and also as a student.
The skill I would like to learn about and use next, is html coding. I feel that it would be very useful to me to be able to create websites that my students could access and utilize in class. I could post homework assignment, help, and contact information on this site. I know that html coding is a big part of creating websites, and I have no prior experience with it. Also, beside being able to create a class site for my students, I could also use a website for parents to communicate with me, and check grades. Knowing how to manage my own site would allow me to independently handle websites I use in my class, making the process a lot easier for myself. Thus, hmtl coding and website development is the skill I would like to learn next to benefit me in the classroom.
There are many educational technology-related goals I possess. Before I have my own class and students, I would like to be able to better use Excel, and Powerpoint. I am grateful I was introduced to these programs in this class, and one way I could reach my goals to master my skills in these programs would be to take another computer class, or do technological training sometime before taking on my own class. Another goal I have, as mentioned earlier, is to be able to develop my own website. I would like to be able to post assignments, grades, field trip information, and just communicate in general with my students and parents through this site. I feel a website would be convenient for both my students and I, because it can be accessed at any time, and is always there. In order to achieve this goal, I plan to take a website development class next semester. Overall, in order to achieve my technology-related goals in the classroom, I need more education in using Excel, Powerpoint, and website development. Thankfully, this class has definitely started me off on the right foot.
Wiki is a program that can be used to be educators and students alike, because it is very simple and basic. It isn't complicating, which allows students to access a mutual site, editing and adding information to the project. Also, as a teacher, I could too work with my students through Wiki, either adding additional information, or editing work they've already posted. Moreover, the simplicity and convenience of Wiki makes it a web-based tool/program I feel would be beneficial in my career as an educator, and also as a student.
The skill I would like to learn about and use next, is html coding. I feel that it would be very useful to me to be able to create websites that my students could access and utilize in class. I could post homework assignment, help, and contact information on this site. I know that html coding is a big part of creating websites, and I have no prior experience with it. Also, beside being able to create a class site for my students, I could also use a website for parents to communicate with me, and check grades. Knowing how to manage my own site would allow me to independently handle websites I use in my class, making the process a lot easier for myself. Thus, hmtl coding and website development is the skill I would like to learn next to benefit me in the classroom.
There are many educational technology-related goals I possess. Before I have my own class and students, I would like to be able to better use Excel, and Powerpoint. I am grateful I was introduced to these programs in this class, and one way I could reach my goals to master my skills in these programs would be to take another computer class, or do technological training sometime before taking on my own class. Another goal I have, as mentioned earlier, is to be able to develop my own website. I would like to be able to post assignments, grades, field trip information, and just communicate in general with my students and parents through this site. I feel a website would be convenient for both my students and I, because it can be accessed at any time, and is always there. In order to achieve this goal, I plan to take a website development class next semester. Overall, in order to achieve my technology-related goals in the classroom, I need more education in using Excel, Powerpoint, and website development. Thankfully, this class has definitely started me off on the right foot.
Post 8
Chapter 8 discussed the common issues/problems we face today in regard to computer crime, hacking, and other illegal acts. As technology progresses and advances, unfortunately, so do technology related crimes and issues with personal and public computers. One problem, a problem I'm sure we've all either encountered or heard about, is the computer virus. Computer viruses are programmed or designed to get into your computer and slow them down, delete things, or completely crash your computer. Another problem, is hacking. Hackers can steal your identity, or on a more national level, hack into government files/systems. Identity theft is a common problem, and hackers use identity theft to steal credit card information, make unauthorized purchases, and often ruin peoples' credit. Vandalism, identity theft, and computer viruses are all negative problems associated with technology that we need to address and solve as a community. Aside from problems with technology, the chapter also discussed assistive technology. This is technology that can help disabled people, such as the blind, deaf, or mentally disabled. This is helpful in extending the benefits of technology to all people.
The power point project we did over the break taught me a lot about the program and the tools you can use to make it more useful. Prior to the assignment I had little experience with power point, and the experience I did have was very limited. I didn't know how to add animation and transitions, which I feel made my project much better than it would have been. Doing this second power point project, I'm sure, will be a challenge.
My spring break was fabulous. I hope everyone else had as much fun as I did. I gave technology a rest and enjoyed the good ‘ole outdoors. My dad came home from Korea for a brief midtour…just in time to celebrate my birthday! Unfortunately he has to head back at the end of the month, but I am so glad I got to see him and to spend some quality time not only with him but with my whole family. I miss them so much!
The power point project we did over the break taught me a lot about the program and the tools you can use to make it more useful. Prior to the assignment I had little experience with power point, and the experience I did have was very limited. I didn't know how to add animation and transitions, which I feel made my project much better than it would have been. Doing this second power point project, I'm sure, will be a challenge.
My spring break was fabulous. I hope everyone else had as much fun as I did. I gave technology a rest and enjoyed the good ‘ole outdoors. My dad came home from Korea for a brief midtour…just in time to celebrate my birthday! Unfortunately he has to head back at the end of the month, but I am so glad I got to see him and to spend some quality time not only with him but with my whole family. I miss them so much!
Post 7
Chapter 6 introduced technology integration, or "curriculum integration." As do the other chapters in the book, this chapter focused mainly on how to integrate different educational learning strategies into the classroom. Curriculum integration, in summary, is the mixture or combination of all available resources and technology. This combination is meant to aid and benefit learning aptitude in the classroom. This mixture can include any available technology, such as computer programs, the internet, etc. Besides these commonly known resources, another useful tool discussed in the chapter was the ASSURE model. The ASSURE model is used by educators to create or develop lesson plans. The aspects featured in this model to create the plans are: analyzation of the learner, the state of the objects in the lesson plan, selection methods, media and material involvement, learner participation, and evaluation and revision of the plan. The model helps to ensure that teachers don't forget any important aspects in their lesson plans, and can be used fairly easily for any age or grade level. Of course, not only does education rely on programs such as these to successfully teach children, but influential educators with effective learning theories are essential. Ultimately, the combination of good teachers, good strategies, and technology are imperative to success in the classroom.
Before this project, I had NO IDEA what "wiki" was. I feel that the past week I have learned a lot about the objectives and concepts of wiki, but still think it's complicated. I had trouble changing sizes of fonts, adding pictures, etc, but I did learn a lot. I also found that being able to have multiple people join the space and edit to be very convenient. I could definitely envision wiki being a very useful tool in the world of education, as advice and help from others is always critical in teaching.
This week, I'd like to share with the class how this could potentially benefit us all. I know we don’t really get a chance to get to know one another in class. But this wiki gives us an opportunity to somewhat get to know each other and its nice to know that we can always use the class wiki if we need help. I think it’s a wonderful means of communication.
Before this project, I had NO IDEA what "wiki" was. I feel that the past week I have learned a lot about the objectives and concepts of wiki, but still think it's complicated. I had trouble changing sizes of fonts, adding pictures, etc, but I did learn a lot. I also found that being able to have multiple people join the space and edit to be very convenient. I could definitely envision wiki being a very useful tool in the world of education, as advice and help from others is always critical in teaching.
This week, I'd like to share with the class how this could potentially benefit us all. I know we don’t really get a chance to get to know one another in class. But this wiki gives us an opportunity to somewhat get to know each other and its nice to know that we can always use the class wiki if we need help. I think it’s a wonderful means of communication.
Post 6
This chapter in the book discusses digital media, and how it can be used to benefit education and classroom curriculum. "Digital media" is described as technology that can be altered and changed to create presentations or lesson plans. Digital media uses multi-media elements to form the computer-based presentations. Graphics, audio, video, animation, and text are all features that are considered multi-media elements and are used in the presentations. Digital media application, the process of putting these elements to use, is what we're going to learn in our project this week. The Wiki project we're going to do will use digital media and collaboration within our groups to create a lesson plan. As the chapter discusses, we can use educational software in creating our project. Educational software can be a computer program used in the classroom or a tool used to create a lesson plan for the classroom. All of these tools discussed in the chapter and our knowledge about them will benefit us in creating our own lesson plan for the project.
Since my last post I learned a lot about using the table function in Microsoft Word to create evaluation forms. I also learned how to use check boxes and other unique tools in my form. Creating the form took me a long time to complete, but I feel that it really helped me to advance my skills using MS Word. Also, although I'm still not as familiar as I'd like to be, I began to learn about Wiki. The video we watched in class explained that Wiki is something that allows many people to collaborate on one project, and edit, add, or delete things as they please. I hope the project will help increase my familiarity with Wiki.
The only thing I have to share with the class this week is that I am looking forward to learning how to use a Wiki. From the sounds of it I will not only be able to use this when I become a teacher, but could perhaps use apply it to my life right now. I was looking for an easy way to communicate my plans for my wedding and somehow get help from my friends and incorporate their ideas too, but we all go to different colleges so I thought planning would be a nightmare. However things are beginning to look a little brighter…I think using a Wiki will be the perfect solution to my wedding planning dilemma.
Since my last post I learned a lot about using the table function in Microsoft Word to create evaluation forms. I also learned how to use check boxes and other unique tools in my form. Creating the form took me a long time to complete, but I feel that it really helped me to advance my skills using MS Word. Also, although I'm still not as familiar as I'd like to be, I began to learn about Wiki. The video we watched in class explained that Wiki is something that allows many people to collaborate on one project, and edit, add, or delete things as they please. I hope the project will help increase my familiarity with Wiki.
The only thing I have to share with the class this week is that I am looking forward to learning how to use a Wiki. From the sounds of it I will not only be able to use this when I become a teacher, but could perhaps use apply it to my life right now. I was looking for an easy way to communicate my plans for my wedding and somehow get help from my friends and incorporate their ideas too, but we all go to different colleges so I thought planning would be a nightmare. However things are beginning to look a little brighter…I think using a Wiki will be the perfect solution to my wedding planning dilemma.
Post 5
The evaluation of educational technology, along with integration strategies, were the main topics in Chapter 7. The point of evaluating educational technology is to determine it's effectiveness and appropriateness of the site or tool, using various criteria. This criteria can be organized into a rubric or an evaluation form. The rubric or form will evaluate various elements such as content, affiliation, purpose, authority, effectiveness, sources, authenticity, and other crucial topics. These forms or rubrics will more or less judge or determine the value of that particular website or other technological resource. The second topic in the chapter was integration strategies, which involves technology in the classroom, may it be computers or other sources. I thought this was particularly useful because the whole structure of this class is based on how to use and benefit from technology in the classroom. Different forms of "integration" include computer labs and one & multi-computer classrooms. Some common integration activities are discussed, as these activities help educators involve computers and other technology appropriately in the classroom.
I learned a lot this week in class from the in class web hunt. I had very limited previous experience using Google, as I had always used Yahoo. I didn't know about the advanced search feature that allows you to narrow your search. For example, you can specify what type of file you wish to search for. I also learned a lot about Word, again. I didn't know how to create check boxes or any tools used to make the evaluation sheet, so this assignment was very beneficial to me.
This week I'd like to ask the class about the amount of time it requires individuals to complete the assignments in this class. I don't know if it's because I'm computer illiterate or what, but it takes me quite a long time to complete assignments in this class. Does anyone else find they spend a lot of time on assignments in here?
I learned a lot this week in class from the in class web hunt. I had very limited previous experience using Google, as I had always used Yahoo. I didn't know about the advanced search feature that allows you to narrow your search. For example, you can specify what type of file you wish to search for. I also learned a lot about Word, again. I didn't know how to create check boxes or any tools used to make the evaluation sheet, so this assignment was very beneficial to me.
This week I'd like to ask the class about the amount of time it requires individuals to complete the assignments in this class. I don't know if it's because I'm computer illiterate or what, but it takes me quite a long time to complete assignments in this class. Does anyone else find they spend a lot of time on assignments in here?
Post 4
After reading this chapter I felt I learned more practical information than I did after most of the others. This chapter focused on the internet, how it functions, how it's used and can be used, and some key terms everyone who uses the internet should know. Unlike when I was younger, internet is now an extremely common tool used for communication, research shopping, and various other uses. Internet is broken into "packets," which are smaller clusters of information that are then sent or used as input/output within the web. The world wide web, search engines, and subject directories are all commonly used tools that are explained in depth within the chapter, which I feel is really useful and practical.
Since my last post I've learned to use an entirely new program, Inspiration. Prior to last week I hadn't even heard of the program, so it was very useful to me. I learned how to make web diagrams and incorporate the many tools and applications included in Inspiration to my benefit. I also, after reading the chapter, am more familiar with names and functions on the internet and within the various applications on my computer.
All I really have to share this week with the class is that I am even more excited about becoming a teacher and putting together my own lesson plans, knowing that there are so many available resources at my disposal. I plan on incorporating Inspiration into my curriculum somehow because I think it is a wonderful program that will reach out to students of all learning styles, whether they are visual learners or kinesthetic learners, the software will cater to every individuals need.
Since my last post I've learned to use an entirely new program, Inspiration. Prior to last week I hadn't even heard of the program, so it was very useful to me. I learned how to make web diagrams and incorporate the many tools and applications included in Inspiration to my benefit. I also, after reading the chapter, am more familiar with names and functions on the internet and within the various applications on my computer.
All I really have to share this week with the class is that I am even more excited about becoming a teacher and putting together my own lesson plans, knowing that there are so many available resources at my disposal. I plan on incorporating Inspiration into my curriculum somehow because I think it is a wonderful program that will reach out to students of all learning styles, whether they are visual learners or kinesthetic learners, the software will cater to every individuals need.
Post 3
In Chapter 4, different internal and external devices, such as hardware, software, storage units, and other devices that aid in computer functioning were explained and discussed. The two main ideas or topics discussed were input and output. Input is categorized into four categories, and defined or explained as "something you put into your computer." It could be information, data, etc. The four categories input is broken into are data, programs, commands, and user response. This "input" is entered using keyboards, your mouse, voice command, etc. After it's in the computer, it's processed and becomes output. Output could be sound, words, pictures, or any other function. Output can be shown on a screen, heard through speakers, or could be pages sent to your printer. Besides input and output, Chapter 4 also discusses storage. Storage is any device or application that saves information or programs. Storage could be an internal hard-drive, or external disks and CDs. Input, output, and storage are imperative for any computer to function properly.
This week, I'd like to share with the class my current confusion and frustration with Microsoft Word 2007. I was at my apartment trying to work on my newsletter that I was too tired to do in class, and somehow managed to "lock" Microsoft Word so that it wouldn't even let me type...my keyboard worked on the internet or with any other program, but it would not let me type on Word. Consequently, it is 4:00 in the morning, and I'm going to have to try and get to class early to do my newsletter!?! I don't really know..if anyone knows how to fix a "locked" Microsoft Word and could share that with me, that would be fabulous.
Since last class, although I haven't finished my newsletter yet, I learned how to insert a border onto my page, use Word Art, and make everything easier using textboxes. This assignment has also taught me a great deal regarding how to make things aesthetically pleasing, which will help me a lot in my teaching career. Now hopefully I can manage to finish this newsletter in time to get a grade for it. Obviously, although I've learned a lot, I'm still not very computer savvy.
This week, I'd like to share with the class my current confusion and frustration with Microsoft Word 2007. I was at my apartment trying to work on my newsletter that I was too tired to do in class, and somehow managed to "lock" Microsoft Word so that it wouldn't even let me type...my keyboard worked on the internet or with any other program, but it would not let me type on Word. Consequently, it is 4:00 in the morning, and I'm going to have to try and get to class early to do my newsletter!?! I don't really know..if anyone knows how to fix a "locked" Microsoft Word and could share that with me, that would be fabulous.
Since last class, although I haven't finished my newsletter yet, I learned how to insert a border onto my page, use Word Art, and make everything easier using textboxes. This assignment has also taught me a great deal regarding how to make things aesthetically pleasing, which will help me a lot in my teaching career. Now hopefully I can manage to finish this newsletter in time to get a grade for it. Obviously, although I've learned a lot, I'm still not very computer savvy.
Post 2
Chapter 3 was a helpful chapter in that it discussed various software and programs that can be used to complete everyday tasks and goals. Some of these programs are ones I've already used or heard of, such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Excel, but ranges to others that involve more complicated or less commonly used aspects of technology. These programs fall into five different categories, and include programs ranging from Microsoft Office to Word. Graphic tools are also discussed in this chapter, which include programs that can be used in one's career, in the classroom, or as tools used in various hobbies. This graphic software incorporates videos, pictures, graphic animation, and other various multimedia data. The chapter overall was beneficial in discussing various programs and software that can be used in our everyday lives.Since my last post I've learned how to better use Microsoft Word, but also how to use this "Blogger" website much better. I struggled in figuring out and remembering how to use this site with my first posts, but had a much less difficult time with this one. I noticed you can adjust the font, colors, and alignment as you choose. Also, the spell-check tool as been useful to me on more than one occasion so far.One thing I would like to ask the class is if they have heard/have any opinions about the extent in which technology should be used in the classroom? While, in my opinion, technology seems to be very convenient, I have heard debates and discussions suggesting that technology can stunt learning and should only be used after a certain age. Does anyone have any knowledge or thoughts regarding that topic?
Post 1
Reading Chapter 1 has brought to my attention the various ways in which technology and education are integrated. Not only is technology a common tool used in education, the chapter tells why education is dependent on technology. Technology is present in every aspect of learning today, as students are prompted to master technological skills. The ISTE, which is the National Educational Technology Standards and Performance Indicators for Teachers, outlines different ideas and concepts teachers should incorporate and require in their teaching. Another concept involving technology education is the ARCS model, which gives four steps that are designed to help reach and motivate students, ensuring students benefit from and understand how they depend on technology in their lives and especially in the classroom.Since my last post I have acquired a few new skills regarding technology, and also read about various ways technology is used in the classroom that I hadn't previously considered. I, personally, have learned to use Microsoft Word to write tests, and have learned how to incorporate Words' various tools and applications to make writing papers and tests easier. I also read in Chapter 1 about the various ways technology is used in the classroom. Computers, along with calculators, headsets, televisions, radio, and scientific devices are used daily to aid students in their education.One thing I would like to share with the class is that I'm eager to begin teaching, but so far do not know very much regarding utilizing technology in the classroom. Through this class I hope to acquire new skills and knowledge that will eventually allow me to better educate my future students.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Post 0
As far as my experience with technology is concerned...it's not very extensive. I know the basics such as word, works, power point, a little bit about excel, how to use the internet, e-mail, facebook, and was just recently introduced to the world of myspace. A bit behind the times I know, but you would just have to know me and how strict my parents were in high school to understand why. I am very well versed in most photo editing software...I love pictures...so that's about the only thing you will find me playing around with on the computer. I myself get frustrated easily with computers so I tend to stay away from them at all costs, but right now, ironically, I am rather thankful for them. Computers have allowed me to keep in touch with friends I have parted with, but also my family and fiance who mean the world to me...so I guess it wouldn't hurt to get better acquainted and acclimated to computers, seeing as how they have helped me out a time or two.
I really want to become more knowledgeable about Microsoft excel...I used the application for my biology lab this past semester and it enabled me to do a LOT of really cool things that made making graphs and tabulating calculations a whole lot easier. I am also pretty excited about learning how to create my own website...despite my occasional hatred for computers...they really allow you to put yourself out there and to connect with so many other people...and I have come to find that life can be so much easier depending on who you know or who you meet. People are a wonderful resource and the internet is becoming an important key in establishing those connections. I am also looking forward to becoming acquainted with the gradebook software. I think this will really benefit later on when I actually become a teacher. For a change I actually feel like I am going to be learning a lot about things that are relevant to my future career and that is very promising!
So far I have found that the initial instruction on how to work a website, set up a blog, etc. is in fact helpful...but I think I am not fully able to grasp the concept until I get into the program and explore it myself. I've always been more of a visual and hands on learner, so this class should be perfect for me. Not only are we shown how to use the software...but we get to "play" with it to. Instead of just having an idea of how it works, I am going to be able to jump in there and do it myself...yay for intro to education technology :]
I really want to become more knowledgeable about Microsoft excel...I used the application for my biology lab this past semester and it enabled me to do a LOT of really cool things that made making graphs and tabulating calculations a whole lot easier. I am also pretty excited about learning how to create my own website...despite my occasional hatred for computers...they really allow you to put yourself out there and to connect with so many other people...and I have come to find that life can be so much easier depending on who you know or who you meet. People are a wonderful resource and the internet is becoming an important key in establishing those connections. I am also looking forward to becoming acquainted with the gradebook software. I think this will really benefit later on when I actually become a teacher. For a change I actually feel like I am going to be learning a lot about things that are relevant to my future career and that is very promising!
So far I have found that the initial instruction on how to work a website, set up a blog, etc. is in fact helpful...but I think I am not fully able to grasp the concept until I get into the program and explore it myself. I've always been more of a visual and hands on learner, so this class should be perfect for me. Not only are we shown how to use the software...but we get to "play" with it to. Instead of just having an idea of how it works, I am going to be able to jump in there and do it myself...yay for intro to education technology :]
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