Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Final C4T
For my final C4T I chose to comment on Mrs. Frazier's Blog post regarding, Shelfari. She spoke of how it has taken off in her class and is slowly spreading to other first grade classes, via twitter. Intrigued, I looked into this site, and am glad I did. I LOVE reading! I read anything and everything, but am a sucker for Nicholas Sparks and Lurlene McDaniel. Typical I know, but I love them! Shelfari gives you the opportunity to save books to your "shelves", and share them with others to read. I believe reading is very important. For me, it is an opportunity to get in touch with my imagination, and creative side. Her students also are really enjoying this site, and sharing their shelves. This gives them the opportunity to showcase their interests, and connect with others that have similar interests. Basically another form of a PLN. I will certainly take advantage of this site in my future classroom and encourage my students to read any opportunity they get.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Blog Assignment 14
Teaching should be professionalized just as law and medicine are.
To help do so, some changes need to occur:
Mr. Klein gives us his ideas of how to professionalize teaching, along with some recommendations from Mr. Albert Shanker, in the article from USA today, Teaching our children can be a profession: Column.
He suggests that the first thing to change must be the training, and I agree. If we want our education to thrive and become better, we must change the way teachers are trained. This means offering more leadership training programs, and inviting new technology into the classrooms. To ensure that the teachers are well equipped and capable of bettering our education, there should be stricter recruiting. Just as law and medicine require, teachers need to be held at a higher standard. This means stricter GPA requirements for programs, and/or hiring from the top third of the graduating class. Mr. Shanker suggests creating a "National teacher examination" similar to the entry exams required for law and medicine. As well as having students complete 1-3 years of a supervised internship. I believe that all of these suggestions would enhance the quality of our teachers; therefore changing the quality of education, and hopefully how the profession is perceived.
To help do so, some changes need to occur:
- Better training for prospective teachers
- Better training programs
- Stricter recruiting approaches (Choosing from the top third of the class)
- Require a "National teacher examination"
- 1-3 years of supervised internship
- Better rewarding system for teachers
- Revisions to the tenure laws
- Reward based on merit rather than experience
Mr. Klein gives us his ideas of how to professionalize teaching, along with some recommendations from Mr. Albert Shanker, in the article from USA today, Teaching our children can be a profession: Column.
He suggests that the first thing to change must be the training, and I agree. If we want our education to thrive and become better, we must change the way teachers are trained. This means offering more leadership training programs, and inviting new technology into the classrooms. To ensure that the teachers are well equipped and capable of bettering our education, there should be stricter recruiting. Just as law and medicine require, teachers need to be held at a higher standard. This means stricter GPA requirements for programs, and/or hiring from the top third of the graduating class. Mr. Shanker suggests creating a "National teacher examination" similar to the entry exams required for law and medicine. As well as having students complete 1-3 years of a supervised internship. I believe that all of these suggestions would enhance the quality of our teachers; therefore changing the quality of education, and hopefully how the profession is perceived.
The next change mentioned was the rewarding system. An article provided on EdSource, tells about revising the laws for tenure being offered after 3 years instead of 2 in certain circumstances in the San Jose district. However, there is also an issue that new teachers doing just as well, if not better, as some tenured are not being rewarded the same. It is suggested that changes be made to reward teachers based on merit rather than experience. I agree this could be a good way to enhance our educators. Tenure is rewarded based upon teachers' performances after 16-18 months. This article suggests, during deliberation of granting tenure or not, allowing teachers another year to showcase their abilities. However, this would only be certain cases not all teachers would be granted the extension. I agree that rewards should be based upon merit, but I only agree with the extension if it is tried and proven useful first. For example, one man recommends trying the revisions in the San Jose district only, and seeing the outcome before making permanent changes. I believe this would be beneficial because if it does thrive then it can be brought to other districts, but if it fails no changes have to be made.
These articles and links were very informative and interesting. I hope that these changes can happen, and teaching can become professionalized. I believe it would be a great step towards bettering our education. ![Photo]()
C4K November
Racquelr's Blog
Racquelr is an 8th grade girl with a very different opinion of Taylor Swift than most girls her age, or at least so I thought. Her post I commented on was about her, and some fellow classmates, declaring independence from Taylor Swift. She gives many reasons for her position. Some that stuck out most to me include her views on Taylor Swift's song quality and the messages they send to girls. I have always been a Taylor Swift fan, as are many females I know, but as I read this other female student's interpretations, I became curious as to how I would comment effectively to make a connection with such a strong opposing opinion. I began to think of how I will handle this type of situation in my classroom, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and I firmly believe in voicing that opinion. I thought it could be a perfect opportunity for a class debate! Together, the class can brainstorm a topic to debate and then each student will choose his or her position. Once the positions are chosen they would begin research to prepare for the big debate. This could be group work or done individually. Racquelr's post was very descriptive, and she had the makings to begin an interesting debate. I hope to help my students have as much confidence in their opinions and knowledge as she exemplified in her post.
Brennan's Blog
Brennan is in Mrs. Mena's class in California. His post was about his similarities and differences between him and his mother. He wrote that they both love being active and reading, but have differences in cleanliness and organization. I used to struggle with keeping things tidy and organized as well, even though my mother cleans 3 times a day. I told him something that helps me keep tidy now is picking up as I go. This can be used for my classroom as well. To ensure my students have a great learning environment, I must make sure to keep it clean and have everything organized throughout the year. One way I can make sure that happens is by doing an "inspection" at the end of every day. I can help my students learn to become more organized and tidy while ensuring I do the same. We can make a game out of it, having the cleanest stations receive a reward at the end of every day. Hopefully my tip helps Brennan and any other person that might have the same struggles.![]()
Sebastian G's Blog
Sebastian is a 5th grader at a school in California. His blog post I commented on was about his teacher, Mrs. Mena. The title, Best Teacher Ever: Mrs. Mena definitely caught my attention because it tells me he is excited about her class, and that is how I want my students to feel. He says she is the best teacher because she makes learning fun, always cracks jokes, celebrates hump day, plays games, and allows them to listen to music on Fridays. He also wrote aboutGo Noodle, a site for teachers, students,and parents. It's an educational site with numerous fun and interactive videos that can be used for "brain breaks" throughout the day. It is a wonderful resource to get the students up and moving, and excited about learning! The site includes links to Zumba videos, kids bop music videos, and much more. I hope to use all my new resources and things I've learned so far to become my future students', best teacher ever.
![Three]()
Racquelr is an 8th grade girl with a very different opinion of Taylor Swift than most girls her age, or at least so I thought. Her post I commented on was about her, and some fellow classmates, declaring independence from Taylor Swift. She gives many reasons for her position. Some that stuck out most to me include her views on Taylor Swift's song quality and the messages they send to girls. I have always been a Taylor Swift fan, as are many females I know, but as I read this other female student's interpretations, I became curious as to how I would comment effectively to make a connection with such a strong opposing opinion. I began to think of how I will handle this type of situation in my classroom, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and I firmly believe in voicing that opinion. I thought it could be a perfect opportunity for a class debate! Together, the class can brainstorm a topic to debate and then each student will choose his or her position. Once the positions are chosen they would begin research to prepare for the big debate. This could be group work or done individually. Racquelr's post was very descriptive, and she had the makings to begin an interesting debate. I hope to help my students have as much confidence in their opinions and knowledge as she exemplified in her post.
Brennan's Blog
Brennan is in Mrs. Mena's class in California. His post was about his similarities and differences between him and his mother. He wrote that they both love being active and reading, but have differences in cleanliness and organization. I used to struggle with keeping things tidy and organized as well, even though my mother cleans 3 times a day. I told him something that helps me keep tidy now is picking up as I go. This can be used for my classroom as well. To ensure my students have a great learning environment, I must make sure to keep it clean and have everything organized throughout the year. One way I can make sure that happens is by doing an "inspection" at the end of every day. I can help my students learn to become more organized and tidy while ensuring I do the same. We can make a game out of it, having the cleanest stations receive a reward at the end of every day. Hopefully my tip helps Brennan and any other person that might have the same struggles.
Sebastian is a 5th grader at a school in California. His blog post I commented on was about his teacher, Mrs. Mena. The title, Best Teacher Ever: Mrs. Mena definitely caught my attention because it tells me he is excited about her class, and that is how I want my students to feel. He says she is the best teacher because she makes learning fun, always cracks jokes, celebrates hump day, plays games, and allows them to listen to music on Fridays. He also wrote aboutGo Noodle, a site for teachers, students,and parents. It's an educational site with numerous fun and interactive videos that can be used for "brain breaks" throughout the day. It is a wonderful resource to get the students up and moving, and excited about learning! The site includes links to Zumba videos, kids bop music videos, and much more. I hope to use all my new resources and things I've learned so far to become my future students', best teacher ever.
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Blog Assignment 13
We've discussed the use of PBL and technology in typical education classroom settings, but what about special education classrooms? Some disabilities effect motor skills, making class discussions and/or group projects difficult. For this reason, technology is a major asset in special education classrooms.
Special Education teacher, Lace Cook, says her vision for her classroom is, "To teach them more about new technology that's coming out so that they can transfer those skills into their work experiences in the future, and continue using it." Imagine you are a teacher for children with special needs beginning to use technology for your class. What is your vision for your classroom,and how will you use technology, or PBL, to accommodate your students' needs and goals?
Here are the sources for you to use when answering these questions:
Technology in Special Education:Lace Cook
Integrating Technology in a Special Needs Classroom
Project Based Learning for Special Education and Inclusion
______________________________________________________________
Over the semester I have studied and learned many things about PBL and technology in the classroom. Although some students lack motor skills, they are still capable of actively participating in their education, thanks in major part to technology. The video,Technology in Special Education:Lace Cook, shows students communicating through their technology, and enhancing their education. For example, one student couldn't write easily so he fell behind. By using his computer and typing his work instead, he doubled his speed. My vision for my classroom is to give my students a voice not only in the classroom, but around the world.
Assistive technology will provide this voice while motivating the students to learn, according to Integrating Technology in a Special Needs Classroom. I agree! Allowing the students to use technology gives them opportunity to explore, and exceed our expectations. Just as the students in the video did. Their voices can be heard around the world through a class website that would be set up showcasing their work and accomplishments thus far.![Quote,]()
Special Education teacher, Lace Cook, says her vision for her classroom is, "To teach them more about new technology that's coming out so that they can transfer those skills into their work experiences in the future, and continue using it." Imagine you are a teacher for children with special needs beginning to use technology for your class. What is your vision for your classroom,and how will you use technology, or PBL, to accommodate your students' needs and goals?
Here are the sources for you to use when answering these questions:
Technology in Special Education:Lace Cook
Integrating Technology in a Special Needs Classroom
Project Based Learning for Special Education and Inclusion
______________________________________________________________
Over the semester I have studied and learned many things about PBL and technology in the classroom. Although some students lack motor skills, they are still capable of actively participating in their education, thanks in major part to technology. The video,Technology in Special Education:Lace Cook, shows students communicating through their technology, and enhancing their education. For example, one student couldn't write easily so he fell behind. By using his computer and typing his work instead, he doubled his speed. My vision for my classroom is to give my students a voice not only in the classroom, but around the world.
Assistive technology will provide this voice while motivating the students to learn, according to Integrating Technology in a Special Needs Classroom. I agree! Allowing the students to use technology gives them opportunity to explore, and exceed our expectations. Just as the students in the video did. Their voices can be heard around the world through a class website that would be set up showcasing their work and accomplishments thus far.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
C4T #4
SpeEd Change
I had the pleasure of commenting Mr. Ira David Socol's blog post on Dyslexia, and offering variety in the classroom. It was one of the most wonderful posts I've read all semester. He talks of his research regarding effects on dyslexia, and how to help it overall. However, after research, he decides there is no general fix to this disability. Every person is different. Some people with dyslexia can see letters fine, but have problems with graphs. This person's needs probably won't match a person that sees words backwards' needs. Thus, the need for variety. This could mean one person prefers technology to read while another uses paper, or blue font instead of black. Giving options will not only address more students, but also gives them the power. Power to take control of their learning, and exceed expectations. The slideshare below is a presentation of his Toolbelt Theory. "Toolbelt Theory" suggests that we must teach our students how to analyze tasks, the task completion environment, their own skills and capabilities, an appropriate range of available tools...and let them begin to make their own decisions." (slide 2) The presentation goes on to explain how to prepare schools, students, and teachers. Technology is a major component of preparation, as it's importance in the classroom is continuing to rise. The last 15 slides are resources including a variety of technologies uses in the classroom.
I had the pleasure of commenting Mr. Ira David Socol's blog post on Dyslexia, and offering variety in the classroom. It was one of the most wonderful posts I've read all semester. He talks of his research regarding effects on dyslexia, and how to help it overall. However, after research, he decides there is no general fix to this disability. Every person is different. Some people with dyslexia can see letters fine, but have problems with graphs. This person's needs probably won't match a person that sees words backwards' needs. Thus, the need for variety. This could mean one person prefers technology to read while another uses paper, or blue font instead of black. Giving options will not only address more students, but also gives them the power. Power to take control of their learning, and exceed expectations. The slideshare below is a presentation of his Toolbelt Theory. "Toolbelt Theory" suggests that we must teach our students how to analyze tasks, the task completion environment, their own skills and capabilities, an appropriate range of available tools...and let them begin to make their own decisions." (slide 2) The presentation goes on to explain how to prepare schools, students, and teachers. Technology is a major component of preparation, as it's importance in the classroom is continuing to rise. The last 15 slides are resources including a variety of technologies uses in the classroom.
Project 12 Part B
Project: The 4 Seasons
Grade Level: Kindergarten
Standards: SC(K)9 Identify Seasons of the year. Describe seasonal changes in the weather.
Grade Level: Kindergarten
Standards: SC(K)9 Identify Seasons of the year. Describe seasonal changes in the weather.
Sunday, November 9, 2014
C4T3
Andrea Kerr's blog, For the Love of Teaching Math is a great resource for math teachers or even any teacher looking into making lessons more fun. She has a link on her blog to the site, Teachers Pay Teachers. This could be a wonderful PLN. It is a site that teachers all over buy and sell resources they have or need. It has various grades and subjects. I would definitely suggest looking into it! Her post I commented on was about her math lessons about integers, and how she made them fun. She turned a lesson into a game, this gave the students desire to learn the lessons so they could play the game. She provided videos for the games. I enjoyed her blog and will have to keep it for resources.
For my second post on Mrs. Kerr's blog, I commented on her favorite things. By favorite things she did not mean color or food, but instead resources for her classroom. The resource I found to be my favorite is her game, Fortune Teller. It is used to help with solving equations. This game reminds me of one I played as a child, and loved. One student acts as the "teller" holding the apparatus and manipulating it, while the other will choose the number and equation to workout. She created this game herself. It has been successful in not only her class, but, thanks to Teachers Pay Teachers, also other classrooms across the country!![List of instructions for the game]()
For my second post on Mrs. Kerr's blog, I commented on her favorite things. By favorite things she did not mean color or food, but instead resources for her classroom. The resource I found to be my favorite is her game, Fortune Teller. It is used to help with solving equations. This game reminds me of one I played as a child, and loved. One student acts as the "teller" holding the apparatus and manipulating it, while the other will choose the number and equation to workout. She created this game herself. It has been successful in not only her class, but, thanks to Teachers Pay Teachers, also other classrooms across the country!
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Project 14
We created a lesson plan for second grade English and Language Arts, for project 14. The project will include a partner and together they will create a Prezi presentation. In order to complete the project, the students must understand, and identify, specific components of a story including story type, characters, and main points. After completing the story Officer Buckle and Gloria, the groups will begin creating their Prezi. It must include a summary, pictures, and details about the characters.
Calendar
Lesson Plan
PBL Checklist
Rubric
Lesson Plan
PBL Checklist
Rubric
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Blog Assignment #11
The video Back to the Future, gives us a brief look into how technology, PLNs, and PBL enhanced his students' learning. Poverty is a major issue in some cities of our country, this takes a hindering on the education in those areas. The quality of education in these cities is much lower causing students to fall behind in various subjects and/or areas, and only getting worse from lack of addressing the issue. Getting students involved in their education, and motivated! In this video I have learned that there are going to be children from all walks of life in my classrooms, I must find a way to address the issue so they can have the quality education they deserve. In the video he develops a project for the class, with the students' help of course. In the end of the video he returns to the topic of a project the his students completed/presented. This project involved a can being crushed from an air pressure change.
Through their PLNs, built from their personal blogs, classes from other countries were able to watch, and gain interest in, the can crushing project. One class was so interested they wanted to conduct the experiment as well, but their teacher wasn't sure what to do. Mr. Crosby gave his students the opportunity to take the reigns and showcase what they learned by teaching the other class through a video lesson. This applied to many things the students needed such as review of the material, writing of speeches and practicing for articulation, showcasing complete understanding and application of pressure and its effects on certain objects. These students that were falling behind in below grade level knowledge, are now showcasing the application of what they are learning, and surpassing expectations. They communicate well with one another and the audience, and provide a new way to learn. The audience includes students and teachers from classrooms all over the world; they are reaching out to the world through education.
In the next video, Everything is a Remix, he opens with a very interesting picture that immediately drew me in, and that made me question how he was capturing his students' attention. I was not let down. He begins his year with an oil disk and a mirror and simply spins the disk. It does not sound like an attention grabber, until you realize it is almost 2 minutes later, and it is still spinning. This immediately raises questions, which is where he begins his learning process.
QUIVERS:
QUestions
Invesitgation/Inquiry
Video
Elaboration
Summary quiz
He uses this as a sort of pathway for his lessons. He goes into detail of what exactly each step entails and how the students research apply what they learn. By engaging students immediately he gives the students the control of what will go on the classroom and what/how they will learn. Starting the year with this is a great ice breaker for teacher and student. Establishing a comfortable and thrilling environment for the students early is important. This also can give the teacher a general idea of where the students are academically and what their interests might be, for future reference.
This video was one of my favorites so far! It showcased how important and useful PBL can be. The students in this video created a comic of their own super hero saving the day, using technology. This project immediately peaked the students' interests because they got to have fun and actually create a personalized super hero. They also wrote a narrative about being a good digital citizen and using the internet safely, which practiced their writing skills. This is a real world issue that students need to be aware of, especially since classrooms are using technology and the internet more and more in the classroom. Creating these super heroes and narratives seems like just a fun activity, but the students end up covering very important tips and rules for using the internet. Some tips students discussed were to keep personal information private, and stopping online gossip. The wonderful thing about PBL is the ability to apply academic lessons to real world experiences.
In the next video, Everything is a Remix, he opens with a very interesting picture that immediately drew me in, and that made me question how he was capturing his students' attention. I was not let down. He begins his year with an oil disk and a mirror and simply spins the disk. It does not sound like an attention grabber, until you realize it is almost 2 minutes later, and it is still spinning. This immediately raises questions, which is where he begins his learning process.
QUIVERS:
QUestions
Invesitgation/Inquiry
Video
Elaboration
Summary quiz
He uses this as a sort of pathway for his lessons. He goes into detail of what exactly each step entails and how the students research apply what they learn. By engaging students immediately he gives the students the control of what will go on the classroom and what/how they will learn. Starting the year with this is a great ice breaker for teacher and student. Establishing a comfortable and thrilling environment for the students early is important. This also can give the teacher a general idea of where the students are academically and what their interests might be, for future reference.
This video was one of my favorites so far! It showcased how important and useful PBL can be. The students in this video created a comic of their own super hero saving the day, using technology. This project immediately peaked the students' interests because they got to have fun and actually create a personalized super hero. They also wrote a narrative about being a good digital citizen and using the internet safely, which practiced their writing skills. This is a real world issue that students need to be aware of, especially since classrooms are using technology and the internet more and more in the classroom. Creating these super heroes and narratives seems like just a fun activity, but the students end up covering very important tips and rules for using the internet. Some tips students discussed were to keep personal information private, and stopping online gossip. The wonderful thing about PBL is the ability to apply academic lessons to real world experiences.
Blog assignment #10
What can we learn from Mrs. Cassidy?
Little Kids...Big Potential
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 1
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 2
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 3
![Game screen of a black night sky covered with UFOs and aliens. With the quote Learning: The ultimate game where you never run out of levels.]( "Source:")
It is a pleasure seeing such wonderful educators, and being able to learn from them! Mrs. Cassidy is an inspiration for anyone wanting to take advantage of technology in the classroom, as she basically taught herself. I hope to be as motivated to learn as she and her students are, knowing it is an ongoing process. There are always going to be some struggles with change. One problem I might encounter will be access to resources. Not all people come from the same background and opportunities. This means that not all students will be capable of having technology accessible at home and school. One way this could be addressed is having the county fund some of these learning tools for those students and they are responsible for damages or losses. The district could have ability to authorize only certain apps and sites keeping the product as secure as possible. One thing I look forward to using that Mrs. Cassidy takes advantage of is blogging. The students are so excited about their blogs and sharing their work with the world, and not just for recognition, but because they hope to learn more! I notice myself getting more excited about what I am learning so, and I hope to pass that along to my students. One goal of mine is to help get my students as excited about learning as her students are. The recognition and comments they receive, from all over the world, help instill confidence and pride in their work; while also enabling them to continue learning.
Little Kids...Big Potential
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 1
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 2
-Interview with Mrs. Cassidy part 3
Thursday, October 23, 2014
C4k October Summary
Cylie's Blog
Cylie is in Mrs. Ripp's 7th grade class. Her blog post concerned her, and her peers', abilities to make decisions about school. She explains her opinions on the start time for school, and offers a later time they could start. When I was her age I remember it being very difficult to wake up, but as I got older it got easier. I explained to her that over time it will get easier to wake up. She also made a comment regarding making their own schedules. I told her, as something to look forward to, college students choose their own schedules. I enjoy seeing the many ideas and solutions students come up with, at any age. She did a great job considering both sides, but in the end made her decision.![Book cover of If You Had To Choose, What Would You Do? Teacher staring at boy student resting his head on his arm, at his desk.]( "Source:")
Ruby's Blog
Ruby is in Mrs. Essenburg's class. I commented on her All About Me post. She told readers about her family, friends, hobbies, and much more. For my response I told her what we had in common; siblings, likes, and pets. We both have a brother, like swimming, and have a dog. However she also can play guitar, which I think is very cool. I think all children should have something they are very passionate about and enjoy. She was very descriptive in her post, and left nothing out.
Sateki's Blog
Sateki is a year 6 student at PT England school in NZ. His most recent post was about the argo. Sateki states, "The Argo is called an amphibian because it half boat & half car so it can go on land and water." His post was very descriptive, and he included his own story. The story is about some kids that go mud riding on an argo. His blog was very good with descriptions and organization; it's interesting to see what goes on in other countries especially in a different point of view.
Cylie is in Mrs. Ripp's 7th grade class. Her blog post concerned her, and her peers', abilities to make decisions about school. She explains her opinions on the start time for school, and offers a later time they could start. When I was her age I remember it being very difficult to wake up, but as I got older it got easier. I explained to her that over time it will get easier to wake up. She also made a comment regarding making their own schedules. I told her, as something to look forward to, college students choose their own schedules. I enjoy seeing the many ideas and solutions students come up with, at any age. She did a great job considering both sides, but in the end made her decision.
Ruby's Blog
Ruby is in Mrs. Essenburg's class. I commented on her All About Me post. She told readers about her family, friends, hobbies, and much more. For my response I told her what we had in common; siblings, likes, and pets. We both have a brother, like swimming, and have a dog. However she also can play guitar, which I think is very cool. I think all children should have something they are very passionate about and enjoy. She was very descriptive in her post, and left nothing out.
Sateki's Blog
Sateki is a year 6 student at PT England school in NZ. His most recent post was about the argo. Sateki states, "The Argo is called an amphibian because it half boat & half car so it can go on land and water." His post was very descriptive, and he included his own story. The story is about some kids that go mud riding on an argo. His blog was very good with descriptions and organization; it's interesting to see what goes on in other countries especially in a different point of view.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Blog Assignment #9
What Can Teachers and Students Teach Us About Project Based Learning?
All throughout my years of schooling I have been given projects. From presenting powerpoints to creating a mousetrap racecar, I was sure there was not much I had not done. Then, I enrolled in EDM310. So far in this class I have made a blog, movies, and much more. Not only have some of the projects been different, but the ways they were given to me and the lessons they have taught me differ as well.
There are two types of projects, meaningful ones and borderline busywork. To be considered a meaningful project, it must meet two criteria: it must be personally meaningful for the students and it must fulfill an educational purpose. According to, ASCD, seven essentials help makeup a good meaningful project.
1) A need to know- Introduce a project with a video, guest speaker, or lively discussion about its topic. Give the students a reason to want to do this project rather than just having to for a grade.
2) A driving question- This question gives the project purpose challenge the students. Have them help in coming up with the question by brainstorming on the topic as a class.
3) Student voice and choice- Giving the students the opportunity to decide how they want to complete the project or what they want to use gives them a voice. Teachers can give some limited options as to help the students not get overwhelmed, but in the end the students will decide how to carryout the project.
4) 21st century skills- Projects should always help enhance 21st century skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, and the use of technology.
5) Inquiry and innovation- Have the students trail their own questions with more questions. Causing them to go deeper into the topic than had originally planned.
6) Feedback and revision- Have the students revise one another's work in the team throughout the project. Allow them to use their team rubrics to decide, giving them control with your guidance or assistance.
7) A publicly presented product- Giving the project more meaning than just a grade, has the students care more about the quality. A real audience will drive them to surpass expectations.
These are the things we want for our students to learn. Real world skills and quality work to enhance their futures.
In the video, Project Based Learning for Teachers, we are given a presentation on the importance of technology and its resourcefulness in the classroom. Using technology for PBL opens many more doors for children's research. When they know how to use technology correctly and resourcefully they can ask questions and find the answers and much more.
What motivates students today?, is a video of many students telling us what motivates them. Most of the motivations include their dreams. For instance, one student said their dream to be an accountant motivates them to do well in school. Another student said compliments motivate them. In EDM310 we are assigned classmates' blogs to comment on. The first step we are supposed to complete is complimenting the student on the blog. We should keep this in mind while teaching, because it is always good to have at least one positive note or comment about a student's work. This is very useful information for a teacher because it tell us exactly what we need to do to help our students be excited for school and learning.
Ten Sites Supporting Digital Classroom Collaboration in Project Based Learning
This site is full of resources for teachers and students using PBL. Some resources listed include Google Docs, Skype, and Quick Screen Share. These are all useful resources provide by technology that allows students and teachers to work collaboratively and resourcefully.
New Ketchup Cap This site showcases two high school students that used project based learning to solve their issue with watery ketchup caps. The teacher explains how he gets his students to create a topic. I especially enjoyed that he gave the students the opportunity to choose their own topics, starting with "It really bugs me when..." gets the minds flowing on how to fix it. Teaching the students how to resolve relevant issues using project based learning helps give them the tools for their futures.
All throughout my years of schooling I have been given projects. From presenting powerpoints to creating a mousetrap racecar, I was sure there was not much I had not done. Then, I enrolled in EDM310. So far in this class I have made a blog, movies, and much more. Not only have some of the projects been different, but the ways they were given to me and the lessons they have taught me differ as well.
There are two types of projects, meaningful ones and borderline busywork. To be considered a meaningful project, it must meet two criteria: it must be personally meaningful for the students and it must fulfill an educational purpose. According to, ASCD, seven essentials help makeup a good meaningful project.
1) A need to know- Introduce a project with a video, guest speaker, or lively discussion about its topic. Give the students a reason to want to do this project rather than just having to for a grade.
2) A driving question- This question gives the project purpose challenge the students. Have them help in coming up with the question by brainstorming on the topic as a class.
3) Student voice and choice- Giving the students the opportunity to decide how they want to complete the project or what they want to use gives them a voice. Teachers can give some limited options as to help the students not get overwhelmed, but in the end the students will decide how to carryout the project.
4) 21st century skills- Projects should always help enhance 21st century skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, and the use of technology.
5) Inquiry and innovation- Have the students trail their own questions with more questions. Causing them to go deeper into the topic than had originally planned.
6) Feedback and revision- Have the students revise one another's work in the team throughout the project. Allow them to use their team rubrics to decide, giving them control with your guidance or assistance.
7) A publicly presented product- Giving the project more meaning than just a grade, has the students care more about the quality. A real audience will drive them to surpass expectations.
These are the things we want for our students to learn. Real world skills and quality work to enhance their futures.
In the video, Project Based Learning for Teachers, we are given a presentation on the importance of technology and its resourcefulness in the classroom. Using technology for PBL opens many more doors for children's research. When they know how to use technology correctly and resourcefully they can ask questions and find the answers and much more.
What motivates students today?, is a video of many students telling us what motivates them. Most of the motivations include their dreams. For instance, one student said their dream to be an accountant motivates them to do well in school. Another student said compliments motivate them. In EDM310 we are assigned classmates' blogs to comment on. The first step we are supposed to complete is complimenting the student on the blog. We should keep this in mind while teaching, because it is always good to have at least one positive note or comment about a student's work. This is very useful information for a teacher because it tell us exactly what we need to do to help our students be excited for school and learning.
Ten Sites Supporting Digital Classroom Collaboration in Project Based Learning
This site is full of resources for teachers and students using PBL. Some resources listed include Google Docs, Skype, and Quick Screen Share. These are all useful resources provide by technology that allows students and teachers to work collaboratively and resourcefully.
New Ketchup Cap This site showcases two high school students that used project based learning to solve their issue with watery ketchup caps. The teacher explains how he gets his students to create a topic. I especially enjoyed that he gave the students the opportunity to choose their own topics, starting with "It really bugs me when..." gets the minds flowing on how to fix it. Teaching the students how to resolve relevant issues using project based learning helps give them the tools for their futures.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Implications and Teaching Opportunities for Camera Use in Teaching and Learning.
My iPhone could be considered my best friend at times, as bad as that may be. I definitely help make up some of this data and percentages. I got my first phone at 13, and it had a camera. i remember it being such a big deal because camera phones were brand new. This was 8 years ago though, so now things are different.
Almost every phone has a camera now and there are many ways to upload or send pictures or videos directly from it. This can definitely be used in classrooms now. Students can video things from their phones and upload them directly to youtube, blogger, etc. Same goes for pictures. This generation uses their phones for various social media posts generally consisting of videos or pictures and a caption or description. That is one less things teachers have to teach about technology in the classes, because most already know.
Some activities that can use smart phones for learning puporses include:
Taking pictures/videos to upload and talk about on blogger.
ChaCha allows students to ask a question using their messaging and the answer is sent back as a response.
For physical education students could use their apps to track calorie intake/loss and download other apps for more specific goals.
Scanning QR codes for audio, and videos.
Almost every phone has a camera now and there are many ways to upload or send pictures or videos directly from it. This can definitely be used in classrooms now. Students can video things from their phones and upload them directly to youtube, blogger, etc. Same goes for pictures. This generation uses their phones for various social media posts generally consisting of videos or pictures and a caption or description. That is one less things teachers have to teach about technology in the classes, because most already know.
Some activities that can use smart phones for learning puporses include:
Taking pictures/videos to upload and talk about on blogger.
ChaCha allows students to ask a question using their messaging and the answer is sent back as a response.
For physical education students could use their apps to track calorie intake/loss and download other apps for more specific goals.
Scanning QR codes for audio, and videos.
C4T2 Summary
Erin Klein's Blog
Mrs. Erin Klein's blog is one every educator should look into! She not only discusses importance of technology in the classroom, but also the importance of the classroom environment itself. As I read through her posts, I found myself enjoying taking notes more and more.
For my first post, I commented on her post regarding redesigning her classroom, Educational Design. The pictures of her classroom are amazing, it looks like such welcoming environment that students would love. She has such a positive energy and outlook for the class and her students. After seeing her post I will definitely look into making my classroom similar, or at least using some of her ideas. One I really enjoyed was that there were no desks, only tables. I also really like that she got the students' opinions and perspectives. The students should have an input, and if it gets them excited about coming to school and learning, then I am all for it!
For my second post, I commented on her post regarding the Brainfeed app, Feed Your Brain. This post was all about a newly released, top rated, educational app for ages 7+. Brainfeed was created by Mark Hoffman, originally for his kids when they used his iPad. He wanted to ensure they were getting the most out of the device instead of just "watching mindless programming". The device gives you the opportunity to have a secure, ad free educational and entertaining video program. It is said to work like Pandora, in that when you type a subject related topics also come up. I think this will be a very useful app as a teacher. I will be able to ensure the students aren't getting into any trouble with content, and it is educational.
Mrs. Erin Klein's blog is one every educator should look into! She not only discusses importance of technology in the classroom, but also the importance of the classroom environment itself. As I read through her posts, I found myself enjoying taking notes more and more.
For my first post, I commented on her post regarding redesigning her classroom, Educational Design. The pictures of her classroom are amazing, it looks like such welcoming environment that students would love. She has such a positive energy and outlook for the class and her students. After seeing her post I will definitely look into making my classroom similar, or at least using some of her ideas. One I really enjoyed was that there were no desks, only tables. I also really like that she got the students' opinions and perspectives. The students should have an input, and if it gets them excited about coming to school and learning, then I am all for it!
For my second post, I commented on her post regarding the Brainfeed app, Feed Your Brain. This post was all about a newly released, top rated, educational app for ages 7+. Brainfeed was created by Mark Hoffman, originally for his kids when they used his iPad. He wanted to ensure they were getting the most out of the device instead of just "watching mindless programming". The device gives you the opportunity to have a secure, ad free educational and entertaining video program. It is said to work like Pandora, in that when you type a subject related topics also come up. I think this will be a very useful app as a teacher. I will be able to ensure the students aren't getting into any trouble with content, and it is educational.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Blog Assignment #8
Teaching and Learning From Randy Pausch
Randy Pausch was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University. The video is titled, "The Last Lecture" and it discusses achieving childhood dreams. This lecture was given, only a month after doctors told him that he had three-to-six months to live following a recurrence of pancreatic cancer. Dr. Pausch decided to take the news and give it purpose, he took it as time to reflect and help others while he still could. The video was inspiring and very helpful.
In the beginning, Dr. Randy Pausch says "Always have something to bring to the table." I believe, as educators, it is our job to bring resources, knowledge, and activities into the classroom that inspire the children to learn. It is important to remember fundamentals when beginning to teach or learn. His story of Coach Graham shows the importance of fundamentals first or the fancy stuff won't work. In education, we must start small. Letters, numbers, sounds building up to words, math, and syllables so on and so forth. In order to make words for conversation or communication, we must first now the sounds and letters that make it up. Always begin with fundamentals in the classroom. "Brick walls are meant to show dedication" this quote means to never give up! There may be trials along the way, but they are meant to help show determination and practice dedication. Brick walls show up all throughout the lessons, we must keep going. He then gives the tip of the "head-fake" this means to make lessons that have the children think they are doing one thing, ex: playing football, but really they are learning team work and sportmanship, etc. He then discusses the importance of delivery of your message. He tells a story about two men with the same answer, yet they were very different messages. When a question is asked, be sure to listen directly to the person and be positive with the answer, even if you've been asked many questions already. Also ask questions in return, and make sure they are well spoken and direct questions. Teachers can learn from students at any time, that helps to show the students are learning and being able to apply their knowledge in some ways you can't yet. Continuing on about lessons and assignments, he says to give them freedom to come up with many answers instead of limiting it to one. He mentions project based learning and the use of it in the classroom being very beneficial and rewarding. By giving students the freedom to create or help make something they truly care about, we give them more opportunity to surprise us and surpass expectations. His final point is lessons learned. Going over lessons learned in the classroom gives us the opportunity to reflect on ourselves and what we have learned. Reflection allows for corrections. There are many things we might overlook or think we did right, but once we go back we see it wasn't. That allows us to change it and make it better. Reflection in the classroom helps ensure we continue to strive for the bettering and continuance of education. Some of the lessons he hoped to cover in this were to practice humility, never stop learning, give thanks, practice loyalty, and HELP OTHERS. I hope to use these lessons in my future classroom.
Randy Pausch was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University. The video is titled, "The Last Lecture" and it discusses achieving childhood dreams. This lecture was given, only a month after doctors told him that he had three-to-six months to live following a recurrence of pancreatic cancer. Dr. Pausch decided to take the news and give it purpose, he took it as time to reflect and help others while he still could. The video was inspiring and very helpful.
In the beginning, Dr. Randy Pausch says "Always have something to bring to the table." I believe, as educators, it is our job to bring resources, knowledge, and activities into the classroom that inspire the children to learn. It is important to remember fundamentals when beginning to teach or learn. His story of Coach Graham shows the importance of fundamentals first or the fancy stuff won't work. In education, we must start small. Letters, numbers, sounds building up to words, math, and syllables so on and so forth. In order to make words for conversation or communication, we must first now the sounds and letters that make it up. Always begin with fundamentals in the classroom. "Brick walls are meant to show dedication" this quote means to never give up! There may be trials along the way, but they are meant to help show determination and practice dedication. Brick walls show up all throughout the lessons, we must keep going. He then gives the tip of the "head-fake" this means to make lessons that have the children think they are doing one thing, ex: playing football, but really they are learning team work and sportmanship, etc. He then discusses the importance of delivery of your message. He tells a story about two men with the same answer, yet they were very different messages. When a question is asked, be sure to listen directly to the person and be positive with the answer, even if you've been asked many questions already. Also ask questions in return, and make sure they are well spoken and direct questions. Teachers can learn from students at any time, that helps to show the students are learning and being able to apply their knowledge in some ways you can't yet. Continuing on about lessons and assignments, he says to give them freedom to come up with many answers instead of limiting it to one. He mentions project based learning and the use of it in the classroom being very beneficial and rewarding. By giving students the freedom to create or help make something they truly care about, we give them more opportunity to surprise us and surpass expectations. His final point is lessons learned. Going over lessons learned in the classroom gives us the opportunity to reflect on ourselves and what we have learned. Reflection allows for corrections. There are many things we might overlook or think we did right, but once we go back we see it wasn't. That allows us to change it and make it better. Reflection in the classroom helps ensure we continue to strive for the bettering and continuance of education. Some of the lessons he hoped to cover in this were to practice humility, never stop learning, give thanks, practice loyalty, and HELP OTHERS. I hope to use these lessons in my future classroom.
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