As I was looking at my "Beginning of the Semester Reflection" I said I think teachers need to be familiar with the technology that is out there so they can effectively teach students in an egaging way, using technology the students are already experts at.
I feel like I have made great progress in learning about the new technology that is available to me as a future teacher. I feel like I know about all my options now having gone through this class. And, i'll be able to help others who are unfamiliar with all this "technology stuff."
My view on technology hasn't changed very much, I still think it is a great tool that is especially useful to us teachers. I now have a greater understanding of it all which makes its usefulness to me as a future teacher greater.
I feel like I made great progress on the NETS for teachers I focused on this semester. I focused on number 2
Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments.
I feel like I definitely have learned how to design relevant learning experiences that incorporate digital tools and resources to promote student learning and creativity. Through these new technologies, for example all of the SMART board capabilities, students have the ability to be active participants in setting their own educational goals, and managing their own learning.
Every new tool, resource, and gagit I learned about this sememster will help me motivate, inspire, and teach my future students. That is what this NET standard is all about.
Overall, this was a good class with lots of resources, new knowledge and information that is definitely useful in the classroom.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Reflection #6 Part II
Jobs in Washington
I was looking at this Jobs section on the OSPI website, and I thought I would share the link if you haven't seen it before. The OSPI website is a really great reference, especially to find a job. It seems like they have everything you'll need to know! There is also a link towards the bottom of the page to find out how much you'll get paid for the amount of years you have worked and the amount of education you have.
I've been told it's all about networking and getting your name out there!
I was looking at this Jobs section on the OSPI website, and I thought I would share the link if you haven't seen it before. The OSPI website is a really great reference, especially to find a job. It seems like they have everything you'll need to know! There is also a link towards the bottom of the page to find out how much you'll get paid for the amount of years you have worked and the amount of education you have.
I've been told it's all about networking and getting your name out there!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
A Few Favorite Websites
Here are a few websites that are interesting:
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
Educaton Place
Scholastic
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
Educaton Place
Scholastic
Assignment #4 - Technology Project
These SMART board slides and created YouTube video, are what I created for my final project. The first three slides are for teaching a reading lesson on the phonemes, /c/, /ck/, and /k/. I used the cloning tool to make an infinite number of letters. I locked many objects and words so they would not move. I created labels for pictures and locked them so they would not change, but made them able to move. I stacked the words on top of each other to create a pile, like a pile of cards. So when you take one word off it reveals the next word. I also used the grouping tool as well. There were many background themes, but I chose the "ABCs" since it fit the theme of my lesson and it was most educational.
What was it like creating this project?
- It was very time consuming, because at the same time I was creating it, I was learning how to do new things that I have not done before. Creating this video and putting it on my blog was the most boggling because I first had to create an account with YouTube then trim my video with the FlipShare software so it would fit the specified time requirements for YouTube. Then it took a very long time for the video to upload onto YouTube, probably because my connection was slow. After all that, it finally worked and I was able to embed it onto my blog.
- It was also interesting. I liked learning new things about the SMART board and I'm glad I learned how to use YouTube, because as a teacher all my students will definitely be fluent in many technologies, especially YouTube.
What does this project mean to me?
I'm proud of my work on this project. When looking at it, I feel I learned a lot through-out the making of it and I like to show it to people. This project means effort to me.
NET STANDARDS for Teachers:
The NETS for teachers that are covered in my project include:
#1 Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity
- I promoted, supported and modeled creative thinking and inventiveness
- I engaged students in exploring real-world issues (mostly in the planet lesson) using digital tools and resources (SMART board).
#3 Model Digital-Age Work and Learning
- I'm exhibiting knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional digital society.
- I demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.
- I communicate relevant information and ideas to students using digital-age media formats.
- I model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to support learning.
#4 Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility
- I modeled safe, legal, and ethical use of digital information and technology, including respect for copyright (My YouTube video is an example of this).
- I modeled digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related to the use of technology and information.
NET STANDARDS for Students:
The NETS for Students that are covered in my project include:
#1 Creativity and Innovation
- In both lessons, the students demonstrate creative thinking by actively participating with the SMART board.
- Students use existing knowledge to generate products, in the Space Lesson by thinking of the planets they know.
- Use models and simulations to explore complex systems. (In the Space Lesson, the students used balloons to represent planets.)
#4 Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making
- Students use critical thinking skills to conduct and make decisions and solve problems using digital tools and resources.
- Identify questions for investigation.
- collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions.
#6 Technology Operations and Concepts
- Students deomonstrate a sounds understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.
- They understand and use technology systems
- Use applications effectively and productively
- Transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies.
The next six slides were created for a science lesson on planets.
-- On the first slide I created a hidden URL link to a YouTube video showing planets in orbit around the sun.
--The second slide I is for the students to write in the names of the planets. I used the screen shade to cover up the correct names of the planets which were also in order.
-- Like a few other slides I downloaded a picture and used that picture as a background to the slide.
-- The fourth slide I found a picture from the SMART board website. I then added the white arrows and names for the planets.
-- For the fifth slide I also used a screen shade to lower for each definition we learned.
This is a video of my lesson I gave involving the Planets in Motion SMART board slides.
I was only able to show 10 minutes out of 26 minutes, but you'll still get the gist of the lesson.
What was it like creating this project?
- It was very time consuming, because at the same time I was creating it, I was learning how to do new things that I have not done before. Creating this video and putting it on my blog was the most boggling because I first had to create an account with YouTube then trim my video with the FlipShare software so it would fit the specified time requirements for YouTube. Then it took a very long time for the video to upload onto YouTube, probably because my connection was slow. After all that, it finally worked and I was able to embed it onto my blog.
- It was also interesting. I liked learning new things about the SMART board and I'm glad I learned how to use YouTube, because as a teacher all my students will definitely be fluent in many technologies, especially YouTube.
What does this project mean to me?
I'm proud of my work on this project. When looking at it, I feel I learned a lot through-out the making of it and I like to show it to people. This project means effort to me.
NET STANDARDS for Teachers:
The NETS for teachers that are covered in my project include:
#1 Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity
- I promoted, supported and modeled creative thinking and inventiveness
- I engaged students in exploring real-world issues (mostly in the planet lesson) using digital tools and resources (SMART board).
#3 Model Digital-Age Work and Learning
- I'm exhibiting knowledge, skills, and work processes representative of an innovative professional digital society.
- I demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations.
- I communicate relevant information and ideas to students using digital-age media formats.
- I model and facilitate effective use of current and emerging digital tools to support learning.
#4 Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility
- I modeled safe, legal, and ethical use of digital information and technology, including respect for copyright (My YouTube video is an example of this).
- I modeled digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related to the use of technology and information.
NET STANDARDS for Students:
The NETS for Students that are covered in my project include:
#1 Creativity and Innovation
- In both lessons, the students demonstrate creative thinking by actively participating with the SMART board.
- Students use existing knowledge to generate products, in the Space Lesson by thinking of the planets they know.
- Use models and simulations to explore complex systems. (In the Space Lesson, the students used balloons to represent planets.)
#4 Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making
- Students use critical thinking skills to conduct and make decisions and solve problems using digital tools and resources.
- Identify questions for investigation.
- collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions.
#6 Technology Operations and Concepts
- Students deomonstrate a sounds understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations.
- They understand and use technology systems
- Use applications effectively and productively
- Transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Reflection #5 of Part II
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
I was looking for ideas for one of my lessons, and found this site in one of the technology magazines Professor Sorenson let us have. This website is amazing and very useful, interesting, and FULL of information and lesson plans. There is a tab that gives you PDFs and information on how to turn your classroom into a space station! I love space, stars, and the moon! I think this would be a great way to introduce your students to Space science and to encourage them to imagine their possibilities in life.
I'm excited to turn my classroom into a space station, or even a jungle, or the beach!
I was looking for ideas for one of my lessons, and found this site in one of the technology magazines Professor Sorenson let us have. This website is amazing and very useful, interesting, and FULL of information and lesson plans. There is a tab that gives you PDFs and information on how to turn your classroom into a space station! I love space, stars, and the moon! I think this would be a great way to introduce your students to Space science and to encourage them to imagine their possibilities in life.
I'm excited to turn my classroom into a space station, or even a jungle, or the beach!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Software Review - Required
Today, we learned much about Pageflakes, Kidspiration, Webspiration, and Chalksite. All these programs are really interesting and very much useful, especially for teachers, which we will soon be.
On Kidspiration, which is very useful for students especially, I found pictures of planets and ordered them in the correct order. Webspiration is definitely created more for older students, teachers and really anyone who wants to brainstorm visually. There are many ways to map out ideas, brainstorm with others, and create mind maps in a visual way on this website. Now, Chalksite is a great free website to have a gradebook, post assignments, have discussions with students, and have a class website for parents and students to go to. It was very organized as well.
These were all great resources.
On Kidspiration, which is very useful for students especially, I found pictures of planets and ordered them in the correct order. Webspiration is definitely created more for older students, teachers and really anyone who wants to brainstorm visually. There are many ways to map out ideas, brainstorm with others, and create mind maps in a visual way on this website. Now, Chalksite is a great free website to have a gradebook, post assignments, have discussions with students, and have a class website for parents and students to go to. It was very organized as well.
These were all great resources.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Reflection #4 of Part II
The other day I went to meet my cooperating teacher, and the class I will be student teaching next semester. She is an older lady who seems like a really good teacher. She's really easy to talk to and I think I'll learn a lot from her. The students were so cute.
We sat down and I shared with her my passion for teaching, basically why I want to be a teacher.
I'm excited to get started, learn, and become more comfortable in a teaching position.
I definitely could not do all this without God by my side. It is because of Christ that I've made it this far. I want to encourage any of you that read this, to keep praying and spending time with God everyday. It really makes the world of difference, in our daily lives, and the path we go down. I'm so excited for all of us to become teachers and to educate the world. Whether we stay local or find our selves teaching in a different country, God will work through us to love others, reflect Christ in all that we do, and bring people to personally know Him. Ahhh I'm so excited!
We sat down and I shared with her my passion for teaching, basically why I want to be a teacher.
I'm excited to get started, learn, and become more comfortable in a teaching position.
I definitely could not do all this without God by my side. It is because of Christ that I've made it this far. I want to encourage any of you that read this, to keep praying and spending time with God everyday. It really makes the world of difference, in our daily lives, and the path we go down. I'm so excited for all of us to become teachers and to educate the world. Whether we stay local or find our selves teaching in a different country, God will work through us to love others, reflect Christ in all that we do, and bring people to personally know Him. Ahhh I'm so excited!
Reflection #3 of Part II
I observed a 1/2nd grade class at Discovery Community School. When I arrived to the class, the teacher introduced me as Mrs. Burch to the very sweet students, then the teacher said, "Lets give Mrs. Burch a warm welcome!" so then they all clapped for me. Then she said to the students, "Mrs. Burch might walk around and ask you questions about what you're doing."
I thought this was really great, that she was expecting me to walk around and interact with the students.
Discovery Community School is a really great "choice" school. There are three classrooms. The "Youngers" - 1/2nd grade, "Middles" - 3/4th grade and "Olders" - 5/6th grade. The one thing about this school I thought was interesting, was for a child to attend this school, the parents collectively need to volunteer 65 hours in their student's classroom.
I thought this was really great, that she was expecting me to walk around and interact with the students.
Discovery Community School is a really great "choice" school. There are three classrooms. The "Youngers" - 1/2nd grade, "Middles" - 3/4th grade and "Olders" - 5/6th grade. The one thing about this school I thought was interesting, was for a child to attend this school, the parents collectively need to volunteer 65 hours in their student's classroom.
Word, Excel & Powerpoint Features - Required
Uses of Word, Excel & PowerPoint:
Word:
- Write all types of formats, like articles, resumes, essays, research papers, calendars, etc.
- Can do research
- Dictionary
- Thesaurus
- Spell Check
- Creates tables
- Different shapes available
- Clip Art
- Can e-mail documents
- Word count
- Different languages available
Excel:
- Pie charts
- Columns
- Scatter plots
- Organizes finances
- Calculates your work
- Different math formulas available
Powerpoint:
- Creates presentations
- Has slide animations and sounds
- Has a slide timer
- Can narrate slides
- Can insert movies and sounds
- Has charts
- Photo albums
- Many background designs
- Tables
One project I could do to help my students learn PowerPoint, is to have them create a few slides. On each slide, ask them to use a new feature of PowerPoint, either a new animation, or the use of a chart or diagram, or a new sound for something. Then on the last slide, combine all the features that were used.
Another project I can do is have the students create slides about their families. In doing this, I can have the students pick a feature they do not know so well, and incorporate it in their presentation. I can teach them about the narration tool and have them incorporate this feature as well.
Lastly, I can have the students gather a few statistics around the classroom, like "Favorite Type of Cookie" or "Color of Hair" and then ask the students to use the pre-made diagrams available for data use. Then enter one statistic per slide.
Word:
- Write all types of formats, like articles, resumes, essays, research papers, calendars, etc.
- Can do research
- Dictionary
- Thesaurus
- Spell Check
- Creates tables
- Different shapes available
- Clip Art
- Can e-mail documents
- Word count
- Different languages available
Excel:
- Pie charts
- Columns
- Scatter plots
- Organizes finances
- Calculates your work
- Different math formulas available
Powerpoint:
- Creates presentations
- Has slide animations and sounds
- Has a slide timer
- Can narrate slides
- Can insert movies and sounds
- Has charts
- Photo albums
- Many background designs
- Tables
One project I could do to help my students learn PowerPoint, is to have them create a few slides. On each slide, ask them to use a new feature of PowerPoint, either a new animation, or the use of a chart or diagram, or a new sound for something. Then on the last slide, combine all the features that were used.
Another project I can do is have the students create slides about their families. In doing this, I can have the students pick a feature they do not know so well, and incorporate it in their presentation. I can teach them about the narration tool and have them incorporate this feature as well.
Lastly, I can have the students gather a few statistics around the classroom, like "Favorite Type of Cookie" or "Color of Hair" and then ask the students to use the pre-made diagrams available for data use. Then enter one statistic per slide.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
"Blogs for Educators" - Required
I decided to check out the blog called, "Free Technology for Teachers." I looked at the blog entry titled,
"World Clock - World Statistics in Real-Time"
This entry is really interesting. The blogger gave a link to this website that has "continuous updates of demographic statistics from around the world." It's a great educational tool for students. However, I would recommend the website to older students, maybe fourth grade and higher. It has statistics on how many abortions happen every day, and they truly happen every second; same with deaths from different diseases and illnesses. The website also has information about the amount of oil produced, and the earth's temperature.
As a teacher you can use this website to teach students about geography, history, and social justice issues. Students could do a report on a certain issue related to one of the statistics from the website. It gives students a piece of real life issues. I think the information on the website is important for students to see and understand.
"World Clock - World Statistics in Real-Time"
This entry is really interesting. The blogger gave a link to this website that has "continuous updates of demographic statistics from around the world." It's a great educational tool for students. However, I would recommend the website to older students, maybe fourth grade and higher. It has statistics on how many abortions happen every day, and they truly happen every second; same with deaths from different diseases and illnesses. The website also has information about the amount of oil produced, and the earth's temperature.
As a teacher you can use this website to teach students about geography, history, and social justice issues. Students could do a report on a certain issue related to one of the statistics from the website. It gives students a piece of real life issues. I think the information on the website is important for students to see and understand.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Reflection #2 of Part II
Testing Students in Washington State
I was looking around in the OSPI website and was curious about the new state wide test that was created.
I learned about the test for 3-8 grade is called the Measurements of Students Progress (MSP) test.
The test for high school is called High School Proficiency Exam (HSPE).
The MSP test section said this, "The dates for testing in spring 2010 are May 12-28 for paper-and-pencil and May 3-June 4 for online testing in grades 6-8 in reading and math."
I heard that it was all online, but I guess just part of the test is online, and the online part is only for 6-8 in reading and math.
There is also now a separate test for students with special needs, which I think is such a great idea and I'm surprised they didn't think of this when the WASL was still going on.
Also, I didn't know there was a guidline called, "Washington State’s Accommodations Guidelines for Students with Disabilities. Before I thought students with special needs, who took the WASL were left to fend for themselves and somehow take the WASL the best they could, no matter their disability.
Anyways, I thought this all was quite interesting, and definitely important for us future teachers.
I was looking around in the OSPI website and was curious about the new state wide test that was created.
I learned about the test for 3-8 grade is called the Measurements of Students Progress (MSP) test.
The test for high school is called High School Proficiency Exam (HSPE).
The MSP test section said this, "The dates for testing in spring 2010 are May 12-28 for paper-and-pencil and May 3-June 4 for online testing in grades 6-8 in reading and math."
I heard that it was all online, but I guess just part of the test is online, and the online part is only for 6-8 in reading and math.
There is also now a separate test for students with special needs, which I think is such a great idea and I'm surprised they didn't think of this when the WASL was still going on.
Also, I didn't know there was a guidline called, "Washington State’s Accommodations Guidelines for Students with Disabilities. Before I thought students with special needs, who took the WASL were left to fend for themselves and somehow take the WASL the best they could, no matter their disability.
Anyways, I thought this all was quite interesting, and definitely important for us future teachers.
Online Learning Experience: Required
K12 Online Conference: Connecting Classrooms Across Continents
I learned to communicate expectations upfront with the partnering teacher.
- Create a homebase for collaborating the project together.
- Break down project into different steps and stages.
- Determine assessments at the end of each stage.
- Provide a way for the students to communicate with the students across the world.
- Include tools for the project like: wikis, blogs, Skype, podcasts, Flikr, voicethred& google apps.
- Wikis: wetpaint, wikispaces, pbwiki, media wiki
- Blogs: wordpress, edublogs, blogger
Project Wiki: http://thereadingconnection.wikispaces.com/
Presentation resources: http://globallyconnectedproj.wikispaces.com/
Voice Thread of Essential Questions: http://voicethread.com/share/222585
Tips: Keep communication building, combine & reuse tools, start small, remove barriers before project.
I enjoyed hearing about connecting with other classrooms across the world. Imagine the possibilities! I definitely would love to try something like this with my future classroom. Both classrooms could learn so much about another culture!
I learned to communicate expectations upfront with the partnering teacher.
- Create a homebase for collaborating the project together.
- Break down project into different steps and stages.
- Determine assessments at the end of each stage.
- Provide a way for the students to communicate with the students across the world.
- Include tools for the project like: wikis, blogs, Skype, podcasts, Flikr, voicethred& google apps.
- Wikis: wetpaint, wikispaces, pbwiki, media wiki
- Blogs: wordpress, edublogs, blogger
Project Wiki: http://thereadingconnection.wikispaces.com/
Presentation resources: http://globallyconnectedproj.wikispaces.com/
Voice Thread of Essential Questions: http://voicethread.com/share/222585
Tips: Keep communication building, combine & reuse tools, start small, remove barriers before project.
I enjoyed hearing about connecting with other classrooms across the world. Imagine the possibilities! I definitely would love to try something like this with my future classroom. Both classrooms could learn so much about another culture!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Technology Project Plan
My plan for my Technology Project is to create a website with a wiki, and perhaps a blog, and video.
I will be able to use this website when I am a teacher or a student teacher. It will give students, parents and other visitors an idea of what our class is like and the different things the students are learning.
I look forward to creating this website. :o)
My podcast link
I will be able to use this website when I am a teacher or a student teacher. It will give students, parents and other visitors an idea of what our class is like and the different things the students are learning.
I look forward to creating this website. :o)
My podcast link
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Assignment #3
My partner is Emily Stuart. And we created a Google Custom Search with many Educational websites/tools for teachers. We chose our toolbox because it seemed most efficient and user friendly. We were unable to manually organize our websites. The Google Custom Search asked us to enter the websites and tag words, then it created the engine for us.
Tools for Teachers Search Engine
Here is our search engine website, these are our tag words:
art, science, lesson plans, history, wiki, foss, web, k12, biology, educational videos, video, math
http://www.fossweb.com/ <--This site is an excellent site for science curriculum. It is geared towards K-8 grades. FOSS is a researched based science curriculum. It is full of information for parents, teachers, & school districts. The FOSS curriculum can be sent to your class and also there are many activities right on the website. I would definitely use this website when teaching science lessons.
http://teachertube.com/ <-- This site is many educational videos that teachers and educators have uploaded for others to see and learn from. This is an excellent alternative to youtube.com. I could use this website with any subject. Showing a video for an anticipatory set is a great way to introduce a topic.
http://www.creativeteachingsite.com/ <-- This site was created by a teacher who has taught for 40 years. It has good solid information for teachers. It has teaching ideas, other links for teachers, computer wallpapers for teachers, a creative teaching page with great ideas for teaching, and a virtual teaching page. This site has won lots of awards for being a good educational site. I would use this page perhaps when I need some new ideas, and a little inspiration and flavor in my teaching.
Tools for Teachers Search Engine
Here is our search engine website, these are our tag words:
art, science, lesson plans, history, wiki, foss, web, k12, biology, educational videos, video, math
http://www.fossweb.com/ <--This site is an excellent site for science curriculum. It is geared towards K-8 grades. FOSS is a researched based science curriculum. It is full of information for parents, teachers, & school districts. The FOSS curriculum can be sent to your class and also there are many activities right on the website. I would definitely use this website when teaching science lessons.
http://teachertube.com/ <-- This site is many educational videos that teachers and educators have uploaded for others to see and learn from. This is an excellent alternative to youtube.com. I could use this website with any subject. Showing a video for an anticipatory set is a great way to introduce a topic.
http://www.creativeteachingsite.com/ <-- This site was created by a teacher who has taught for 40 years. It has good solid information for teachers. It has teaching ideas, other links for teachers, computer wallpapers for teachers, a creative teaching page with great ideas for teaching, and a virtual teaching page. This site has won lots of awards for being a good educational site. I would use this page perhaps when I need some new ideas, and a little inspiration and flavor in my teaching.
Bob Spankle's, "Caught on Video" Article - Required
This article is very eye-opening, and I now want a Flip Video Camera. I learned of all the things it could be used for by a teacher in a classroom. It seems it would be so helpful for teachers, in student teacher conferences, reflecting on students' thoughts, hopes, and dreams, etc., helping student's with homework, and capturing what a student has completed for that day and then showing their parents what they learned. This Flip camera would be another great communication tool between teachers and parents. Like the author said, "A picure is worth a thousand words."
Required Reflection on ActivBoard & Clickers
I thought the ActivBoard was really awesome. In a way it seemed easier to use than the SMART board. I liked the features of the ActivBoard, it seems simpler than the SMART board. The Clickers are amazing, and such a great tool for all levels and grades. They seem like they are greatly useful when teaching and asking for understanding of a subject.
I look forward to using an ActivBoard or SMART board in my classroom.
I look forward to using an ActivBoard or SMART board in my classroom.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Reflection #6
I was just thinking how many teaching opportunities we have outside the classroom. To take your class for a walk, you can point out the different leaves, trees, the animals that may live inside the trees, the animals in the woods or that live near by, the ivy that grows on the tree, the sky, clouds, sun, rain, snow, then expand, what is snow, where does rain come from...etc. I can think of lots more, but my point is, I think it's important to have interactive learning experiences like this, and it's good to get kids excited about the world around them, (especially these days) so they don't get sucked into TV, videogames, computer games, etc. Let's raise up environmentalists, scientists of all types, astronauts, people that will change the world for the better.
Reflection #5
I was looking at teacher websites and found this website, www.teachingheart.net/tquotes.htm
I thought the quotes were really encouraging.
Then I found this book that looked really good. It's called, You're God's Gift to Teachers: Passages of Biblical Encouragment. I think it will be important to have Biblical encouragment when we become teachers. I love books and tools like this one.
I thought the quotes were really encouraging.
Then I found this book that looked really good. It's called, You're God's Gift to Teachers: Passages of Biblical Encouragment. I think it will be important to have Biblical encouragment when we become teachers. I love books and tools like this one.
Reflection #4
In our instructional Design class we have been learning how to create lesson plans. Lesson plans are good, because they help me feel prepared to teach, but they are also very much time consuming.
We created four topics with at least four subject areas we could integrate the topic into, then today we were to pick a topic to create a lesson plan out of. I pick Thanksgiving, because it seemed the easiest and most fun to do. One subject area I paired with Thanksgiving is "Music," which I thought we could sing the song, Turkey Lurkey we learned from Professor Mohan.
It's great how we can integrate all our classes, and use material from one class to help us in another class.
We created four topics with at least four subject areas we could integrate the topic into, then today we were to pick a topic to create a lesson plan out of. I pick Thanksgiving, because it seemed the easiest and most fun to do. One subject area I paired with Thanksgiving is "Music," which I thought we could sing the song, Turkey Lurkey we learned from Professor Mohan.
It's great how we can integrate all our classes, and use material from one class to help us in another class.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Reaching My Goal Regarding the NET Standard
In my assignment #1 post I talked about NET Standard #3 and what I would like to do to improve in this standard, for the sake of my future students.
In my previous post I mentioned, "My plan on improving in this area is to learn how to design and develop tools that can be used to give the best learning experience for my future students, and also to find the best possible ways for my future students to personally engage and have control in their learning."
The process I am making in reaching my goal to improve in this area, is coming along well. I am learning so much in class about technology and how to use it. I am learning more and more about the SMART board, and have downloaded the software for future use with it. I plan on using my webs.com website to communicate with my future students and parents of students. I am learning about tools that will engage my students involvement, like customized search engines to find educational websites, and participation with the SMART board. I plan on learning much more, about Wikis, podcasts, and SMART board clickers.
In my previous post I mentioned, "My plan on improving in this area is to learn how to design and develop tools that can be used to give the best learning experience for my future students, and also to find the best possible ways for my future students to personally engage and have control in their learning."
The process I am making in reaching my goal to improve in this area, is coming along well. I am learning so much in class about technology and how to use it. I am learning more and more about the SMART board, and have downloaded the software for future use with it. I plan on using my webs.com website to communicate with my future students and parents of students. I am learning about tools that will engage my students involvement, like customized search engines to find educational websites, and participation with the SMART board. I plan on learning much more, about Wikis, podcasts, and SMART board clickers.
Reflection #3
I was looking at one of my previous posts and clicked on http://www.teachertube.com/
This video is really interesting, it's about Thanksgiving, you all should watch it. :o)
It was interesting hearing about what really happened on Thanksgiving; a bit of the history. I wonder how many Americans don't know the history behind what they are celebrating.
This video is really interesting, it's about Thanksgiving, you all should watch it. :o)
It was interesting hearing about what really happened on Thanksgiving; a bit of the history. I wonder how many Americans don't know the history behind what they are celebrating.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Reflection #2
I was at a womens prayer group yesterday, there was a lady who works with students with special needs. She was talking about how great they are and the joy they have. She mentioned one student, who has DS remembered who she was, and it had been a year since they interacted. For a while now I've thought about getting certified to teach Special Needs after college, and last night when I was hearing how she enjoyed it so much, it got me thinking more about teaching them. I think I have the patience and the compassion to do it. We'll see where God sends me, but I'll definitely be praying about this possibility during this next year.
Assignment #2 - SMART board activity
My first SMART board activity is called "Choosing the Right Word"
My second SMART board activity is called "Mother's Day Math"
The NETS standards for students in the activity, "Choosing the Right Word" include standard one, three, and six.
This activity meets standard one because in the activity the student demonstrates creative thinking, creates orginial works in the creation of sentences, and forcasts the possibilities in creating the correct sentence.
This activity also meets standard three because in the activity the student uses a digital tool, the SMART board, to gather, evaluate, and use information. The student also process' data and reports results in this activity.
This activity meets the sixth standard because the student is demonstrating an understanding of technology systems and operations within the activity. While performing the activity the student is using the technology system of the SMART board, and is using their current knowledge of how technology works and is applying it to this activity.
The NETS standard for teachers in the activity, "Choosing the Right Word," include standards one, two, and three.
This activity meets standard one because the teacher is using his/her knowledge of how technology works to facilitate this activity. The teacher is also promoting creative thinking using a digital tool to engage student learning.
This activity meets standard two because the teacher is adapting relevant learning experiences that incorporate the SMART board and it's tools to promote student learning and creativity. The teacher is also enriching the learning environment by using a tool that captures the students attention and active participation.
This activity meets the third standard because the teacher is exhibiting knowledge, and skills of a technological system when using and demonstrating the use of the SMART board. The teacher is also modeling and facilitating the use of the SMART board to support the work of the students.
My second activity, "Mother's Day Math," shares the same standards of my first activity, because it is using the same skill and participation of the students and the teacher.
I think the SMART board will improve the student learning in my future classroom in many ways. When comparing today's technology to the technology that was used when I was in Elementary school, the technology of today has improved and is more efficient than ever. I can only imagine the possibilities will increae. With the SMART board the students will be more inspired, more encouraged to expand their technological skills, and there will be more learning styles met.
My second SMART board activity is called "Mother's Day Math"
The NETS standards for students in the activity, "Choosing the Right Word" include standard one, three, and six.
This activity meets standard one because in the activity the student demonstrates creative thinking, creates orginial works in the creation of sentences, and forcasts the possibilities in creating the correct sentence.
This activity also meets standard three because in the activity the student uses a digital tool, the SMART board, to gather, evaluate, and use information. The student also process' data and reports results in this activity.
This activity meets the sixth standard because the student is demonstrating an understanding of technology systems and operations within the activity. While performing the activity the student is using the technology system of the SMART board, and is using their current knowledge of how technology works and is applying it to this activity.
The NETS standard for teachers in the activity, "Choosing the Right Word," include standards one, two, and three.
This activity meets standard one because the teacher is using his/her knowledge of how technology works to facilitate this activity. The teacher is also promoting creative thinking using a digital tool to engage student learning.
This activity meets standard two because the teacher is adapting relevant learning experiences that incorporate the SMART board and it's tools to promote student learning and creativity. The teacher is also enriching the learning environment by using a tool that captures the students attention and active participation.
This activity meets the third standard because the teacher is exhibiting knowledge, and skills of a technological system when using and demonstrating the use of the SMART board. The teacher is also modeling and facilitating the use of the SMART board to support the work of the students.
My second activity, "Mother's Day Math," shares the same standards of my first activity, because it is using the same skill and participation of the students and the teacher.
I think the SMART board will improve the student learning in my future classroom in many ways. When comparing today's technology to the technology that was used when I was in Elementary school, the technology of today has improved and is more efficient than ever. I can only imagine the possibilities will increae. With the SMART board the students will be more inspired, more encouraged to expand their technological skills, and there will be more learning styles met.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
HTML and Webs.com
Creating HTML was fun and a bit tedious. However, I now feel I'm more of a "computer techy" because I know HTML. :o) Knowing a little HTML is good when you do need it, but since we now have websites like Webs.com or Weebly, people don't need to know HTML as much. I thought it was cool how I could control what colors I wanted and actually hands-on design my own website. Instead of picking a selection of formats and colors that were all ready created by people.
Creating a website at Webs.com was fun as well. They had fun layouts and it is definitely a handy tool for a teacher to communicate information to parents, the principle, and the community. Maybe I'll even be able to use this website for my real class someday. I look forward to adding more information on it. It's a little difficult when I don't have a real class, with real information, but it's still fun making things up for now.
Mrs. Burch's Website
Creating a website at Webs.com was fun as well. They had fun layouts and it is definitely a handy tool for a teacher to communicate information to parents, the principle, and the community. Maybe I'll even be able to use this website for my real class someday. I look forward to adding more information on it. It's a little difficult when I don't have a real class, with real information, but it's still fun making things up for now.
Mrs. Burch's Website
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Reflection #1
I oberved a 1st grade class recently. They had an Interactive Board and a camera that showed up on the Interactive Board. There was lots of the students' work on the walls; it was great! They are SO cute! They are also at the beginning stages of learning to be a student. I can see myself teaching this grade; we'll see where I end up. I learned a lot; how to transition from lesson to lesson, little techniques of communicating with the students in a way to not lose their attention and keep them on task. I look forward to my next observation.
School Website Review
I looked at my high school's website, Woodinville High School. They basically just had the most important information one would need.
I liked: seeing pictures of my old teachers, seeing the Track & Field site, which had the scores of the past season, some pictures of the campus; it brought back memories.
I disliked: It seems like the website isn't that important to the school. It has basic information. It would be cool if teachers devoted more time trying to connect to the parents and community about what they're doing in the classrooms. I can see technology in the classrooms could be useful and possibly engage the students more. If there were some interesting things going on in the classrooms maybe the teachers would be motivated to share with others what they're doing.
What is missing?: Definitely missing some excitment. Maybe they could higher a photographer, or maybe have students take pictures of things they are doing, then submit them, then the whole issue of students photos being on the internet, but if they could get permission it could work. Also, someone more experienced and some creativity could help.
I also looked at my Elementary website, Bear Creek Elementary in Woodinville. This website had more life and color to it. They were more connected to the community and the parents. This is probably because the parents are more interested in their childs first years of school. After Elementary, they seem to know the routine and what to expect from their childs school. There was definitely more technology devoted to the youngsters, possibly to jump start their imagination and show them what is available to them. A child's elementary years are the years they child soaks the most information in, grows the most and actually "seem" like they really want to learn. Maybe this is why there is more technology and more materials for teaching to all learning styles available to them.
I liked: seeing pictures of my old teachers, seeing the Track & Field site, which had the scores of the past season, some pictures of the campus; it brought back memories.
I disliked: It seems like the website isn't that important to the school. It has basic information. It would be cool if teachers devoted more time trying to connect to the parents and community about what they're doing in the classrooms. I can see technology in the classrooms could be useful and possibly engage the students more. If there were some interesting things going on in the classrooms maybe the teachers would be motivated to share with others what they're doing.
What is missing?: Definitely missing some excitment. Maybe they could higher a photographer, or maybe have students take pictures of things they are doing, then submit them, then the whole issue of students photos being on the internet, but if they could get permission it could work. Also, someone more experienced and some creativity could help.
I also looked at my Elementary website, Bear Creek Elementary in Woodinville. This website had more life and color to it. They were more connected to the community and the parents. This is probably because the parents are more interested in their childs first years of school. After Elementary, they seem to know the routine and what to expect from their childs school. There was definitely more technology devoted to the youngsters, possibly to jump start their imagination and show them what is available to them. A child's elementary years are the years they child soaks the most information in, grows the most and actually "seem" like they really want to learn. Maybe this is why there is more technology and more materials for teaching to all learning styles available to them.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Assignment #1
Article Review
In this article, Art Education Technology: Digital Storytelling, Sheng Kuan Chung writes about the importance and impact of digital storytelling in the classrooms. As Chung stated, "[...] digital storytelling refers to the practice of incorporating digital text, imagery, video, and audio into the presentation of a computer-mediated, multimedia story" (Chung, 17). Digital storytelling teaches about culture and uses a variety of visual arts including the use of digital audio sounds, images from video's, possibly YouTube, PowerPoint, and much more. This sort of technology would be great for upper Elementary grade levels. It seems this article was written for higher-level students, but I can definitely see this used in Elementary grades. Before students use the computer to produce a story, students can have, let’s say, eight scenes/boxes on a paper. Then they could use the boxes to illustrate a sequential storyline; a storyboard, transfer it onto the computer, record their audio voice as a narrator, add text, and so on. This project would incorporate communication, arts, technology, and student imagination.
This article opened my eyes to how art can be incorportated into technology. This article talked about a specific way art education can be used in a technological generation of students. Chung stated, "Digital storytelling not only addresses art education's current concerns with visual culture, computer technology, and interdisciplinary pedagogy, but also allows learners to cultivate and apply their multiple literacy, artistic, and critical skills to give voice to greater issues of importance to a worldwide audience" (Chung, 17). I am excited to see how, as a future educator, I can incorporate the arts with computers for my students.
The Permalink to this article:
http://firma.northwestu.edu/login%20url=http://search.ebscohost.com.firma.northwestu.edu/login.aspx%20direct=true&db=ehh&AN=24120706&site=ehost-live
Sheng Kuan Chung. "Art Education Technology: digital storytelling." Art Education 60.2 (Mar. 2007): 17- 22. Education Research Complete. EBSCO. [Library name], [City], [State abbreviation]. 22 Sep. 2009 http://firma.northwestu.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com.firma.northwestu.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ehh&AN=24120706&site=ehost-live.
NETS for Teachers
The NETS for teachers I would like to focus on is number two, Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments. I feel this standard incorporates a little of every standard. In this standard the teacher not only "Designs and Develops Learning Experiences" but also at the same time is facilitating and inspiring student learning.
This standard is important for teachers because the teacher is putting a lot more effort in designing a learning experience for the students, developing environments for students to express their creativity, customizing and personalizing digital tools and resources, and provides students with assessments resulting from their learning.
This standard is important for students because they not only feel inspired to learn, but the standard effectively creates experiences that are customized to each students learning style, and gives the student lots of control and hands on learning.
My plan on improving in this area is to learn how to design and develop tools that can be used to give the best learning experience for my future students, and also to find the best possible ways for my future students to personally engage and have control in their learning.
NETS for Students
One of the standards I believe is important for students is standard number one, Creativity and Innovation.
This standard is great for young learners, and I believe it's most encouraging. This standard is less specific than other standards but is a great starting point for young learners. It encourages creative thinking, exploring new knowledge, and developing and expressing original works/projects.
A few ways I can incorporate this standard into my classroom:
- Use existing knowledge to create illustrations, generate ideas for projects involving let's say, weather.
- Creating original works / posters individually or in groups about for example a famous President or country.
- Identify trends when working on math problems or forecast possibilities when developing a plan for a science project.
- Lastly, when creating art projects, students can apply all of the above in the construction of an art project.
In this article, Art Education Technology: Digital Storytelling, Sheng Kuan Chung writes about the importance and impact of digital storytelling in the classrooms. As Chung stated, "[...] digital storytelling refers to the practice of incorporating digital text, imagery, video, and audio into the presentation of a computer-mediated, multimedia story" (Chung, 17). Digital storytelling teaches about culture and uses a variety of visual arts including the use of digital audio sounds, images from video's, possibly YouTube, PowerPoint, and much more. This sort of technology would be great for upper Elementary grade levels. It seems this article was written for higher-level students, but I can definitely see this used in Elementary grades. Before students use the computer to produce a story, students can have, let’s say, eight scenes/boxes on a paper. Then they could use the boxes to illustrate a sequential storyline; a storyboard, transfer it onto the computer, record their audio voice as a narrator, add text, and so on. This project would incorporate communication, arts, technology, and student imagination.
This article opened my eyes to how art can be incorportated into technology. This article talked about a specific way art education can be used in a technological generation of students. Chung stated, "Digital storytelling not only addresses art education's current concerns with visual culture, computer technology, and interdisciplinary pedagogy, but also allows learners to cultivate and apply their multiple literacy, artistic, and critical skills to give voice to greater issues of importance to a worldwide audience" (Chung, 17). I am excited to see how, as a future educator, I can incorporate the arts with computers for my students.
The Permalink to this article:
http://firma.northwestu.edu/login%20url=http://search.ebscohost.com.firma.northwestu.edu/login.aspx%20direct=true&db=ehh&AN=24120706&site=ehost-live
Works Cited
NETS for Teachers
The NETS for teachers I would like to focus on is number two, Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments. I feel this standard incorporates a little of every standard. In this standard the teacher not only "Designs and Develops Learning Experiences" but also at the same time is facilitating and inspiring student learning.
This standard is important for teachers because the teacher is putting a lot more effort in designing a learning experience for the students, developing environments for students to express their creativity, customizing and personalizing digital tools and resources, and provides students with assessments resulting from their learning.
This standard is important for students because they not only feel inspired to learn, but the standard effectively creates experiences that are customized to each students learning style, and gives the student lots of control and hands on learning.
My plan on improving in this area is to learn how to design and develop tools that can be used to give the best learning experience for my future students, and also to find the best possible ways for my future students to personally engage and have control in their learning.
NETS for Students
One of the standards I believe is important for students is standard number one, Creativity and Innovation.
This standard is great for young learners, and I believe it's most encouraging. This standard is less specific than other standards but is a great starting point for young learners. It encourages creative thinking, exploring new knowledge, and developing and expressing original works/projects.
A few ways I can incorporate this standard into my classroom:
- Use existing knowledge to create illustrations, generate ideas for projects involving let's say, weather.
- Creating original works / posters individually or in groups about for example a famous President or country.
- Identify trends when working on math problems or forecast possibilities when developing a plan for a science project.
- Lastly, when creating art projects, students can apply all of the above in the construction of an art project.
Monday, September 21, 2009
"Generation IM" article response
This article was interesting. It made me realize the kinds of students I will most likely have when I become a teacher. Students are daily emmersed in technology and know greatly more about technology than many teachers. Therefore, as teachers we need to be caught up and familiarized with what technological resources are out there and how we can implement them in our classroom. The biggest road block for teachers to be familiar with new technology is their time and resources.
This article provided many ideas and ways for teachers to grasp on to the technology that is needed for students. There were many helpful websites like http://www.teachertube.com/ and http://www.wikispaces.com/
The need for technology in the classroom is growing. We can't be teaching students how we learned. Children these days are not learning the way we learned; they are a whole new generation with a whole new concept of learning.
The article states, "In a digital age, we simply cannot measure a child’s knowledge through an isolated, fact-driven standardized test" (Instructor Magazine). I would greatly agree with this quote. If we can teach students and test students that works best with their learning style, I think students would not only improve academically, but socially, and emotionally.
This article provided many ideas and ways for teachers to grasp on to the technology that is needed for students. There were many helpful websites like http://www.teachertube.com/ and http://www.wikispaces.com/
The need for technology in the classroom is growing. We can't be teaching students how we learned. Children these days are not learning the way we learned; they are a whole new generation with a whole new concept of learning.
The article states, "In a digital age, we simply cannot measure a child’s knowledge through an isolated, fact-driven standardized test" (Instructor Magazine). I would greatly agree with this quote. If we can teach students and test students that works best with their learning style, I think students would not only improve academically, but socially, and emotionally.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Beginning of Semester Reflection
I believe technology in any grade level classroom should be informed of the technology that is available, and classrooms/teachers should have the ability of including new technology to enhance their classrooms learning environment.
The role technology can and is playing in K-12 classrooms is boundless. As technology in society is continually advancing, so should the technology in the classroom. Children are becoming more and more aware of what is available to them technology wise, and they're becoming more and more "experts" in technology. Educators need to reinforce what children are already learning greatly from and apply it to their teaching in the classroom; for example, facebook, blogs, podcasts, computers, audio recordings, wiki, etc.
In this new era, and my soon to be life as a teacher, I should be aware of the usefulness of technology and how it can enhance the learning about any subject I plan on teaching.
I'm so eager to be a teacher. I want to encourage any dreams my students have; dreams of going to the moon, being President, or owning a bakery. I look forward to bringing these dreams to life for my students, and using technology as an tool for my students' dreams to become reality.
The role technology can and is playing in K-12 classrooms is boundless. As technology in society is continually advancing, so should the technology in the classroom. Children are becoming more and more aware of what is available to them technology wise, and they're becoming more and more "experts" in technology. Educators need to reinforce what children are already learning greatly from and apply it to their teaching in the classroom; for example, facebook, blogs, podcasts, computers, audio recordings, wiki, etc.
In this new era, and my soon to be life as a teacher, I should be aware of the usefulness of technology and how it can enhance the learning about any subject I plan on teaching.
I'm so eager to be a teacher. I want to encourage any dreams my students have; dreams of going to the moon, being President, or owning a bakery. I look forward to bringing these dreams to life for my students, and using technology as an tool for my students' dreams to become reality.
SMART boards are amazing!
“In all of my purchase decisions for classroom technologies, my top priority is ensuring that the new technology supports the goals and passions of our teachers and enhances student learning," says Stuart Posin, director of technology at the Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, California.
In the article I read titled SMART Products Fit the Mix at Buckley School, I learned about how SMART boards have enhanced the teaching effectiveness for teachers at Buckley School. The director of technology, Stuart Posin also mentioned, “I very quickly saw the value for our school. I believe that the software and the capabilities of the SMART Board complement classrooms from kindergarten through to Advanced Placement history or math. It fits a wide range of teaching styles and classroom configurations.”
Posin is in charge of integrating and finding new technology that can easily be learned and integrated into classrooms.
The author was saying that parents were wondering when their child's classroom would get a SMART board. Students were wondering this as well. Teachers were realizing that SMART boards are increasingly vital to the technology advancing classrooms. They can do so much! The software that comes with the board can show a graphing calculator to the students when learning math. They truly increase the level of engagement for students.
In the article I read titled SMART Products Fit the Mix at Buckley School, I learned about how SMART boards have enhanced the teaching effectiveness for teachers at Buckley School. The director of technology, Stuart Posin also mentioned, “I very quickly saw the value for our school. I believe that the software and the capabilities of the SMART Board complement classrooms from kindergarten through to Advanced Placement history or math. It fits a wide range of teaching styles and classroom configurations.”
Posin is in charge of integrating and finding new technology that can easily be learned and integrated into classrooms.
The author was saying that parents were wondering when their child's classroom would get a SMART board. Students were wondering this as well. Teachers were realizing that SMART boards are increasingly vital to the technology advancing classrooms. They can do so much! The software that comes with the board can show a graphing calculator to the students when learning math. They truly increase the level of engagement for students.
Monday, September 7, 2009
"Turning on the Lights" by Marc Prensky
In discussions about technology I have heard people say, "Technology is a blessing and a curse," it all depends on how we use it. I completely agree that cell phones, computers, video games, etc. are a distraction in schools, however they are one of the greatest inventions that kids are learning from, experiencing, and spending much of their time mastering. Yes, these inventions, specifically the computer and internet, can overly consume a child, but as the article was saying, the internet connects cultures and people; students learning about Australia can connect with Australian students wanting to learn about America.
I agree with Marc Prensky when he was talking about how students feel their schooling is completely irrelevant with their lives and their future. I believe school would be so much more fun and interesting for our students if they saw that educators wanted to know their goals and aspirations and desired to help them get there using tools, like blogging, videogames, podcasts, powerpoint, and so much more.
This article encouraged me as a future teacher to not just teach my students what the standards are, but to really teach them what they will need to know for "real life" and their careers; in doing this, use technology that my students are already learning with; technology that captures their imagination.
I agree with Marc Prensky when he was talking about how students feel their schooling is completely irrelevant with their lives and their future. I believe school would be so much more fun and interesting for our students if they saw that educators wanted to know their goals and aspirations and desired to help them get there using tools, like blogging, videogames, podcasts, powerpoint, and so much more.
This article encouraged me as a future teacher to not just teach my students what the standards are, but to really teach them what they will need to know for "real life" and their careers; in doing this, use technology that my students are already learning with; technology that captures their imagination.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
My Story
As long as I remember I've wanted to become a teacher. I want to influence my students' lives. The main reason that has pushed me into becoming a teacher is the fact that I struggled in Elementary. More specifically I struggled in math. I hated not understanding, being the last one to "get" concepts, and I hated feeling stupid. I don't want my students to have the same feelings and experiences that I went through. I want to help my students understand, and feel smart about themselves.
Ideally, I would love to teach 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade.
Ideally, I would love to teach 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade.
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