After learning more about the GAME plan, I realized it is a new way to plan all together! I like to organization that comes with the GAME plan, and I also like how it makes you think of 'things that could go wrong' or anything else you may forget!
As I continue to build my GAME plans, I reflect on my past ideas and try to integrate new ideas. My original plan was to have my students respond to the class blog by Wednesday and two classmates by Sunday. I still want to have that as a goal, but I want to do more! My new plan is to add digital story-telling to my blog. I want to show students how the possibilities are endless! I feel if I slowly show them more and more tools, they will appreciate technology even more... and they will also see the positive side of technology with positive exposures. My hopes are my students will come back to school someday and show me something new that I did not know!
So far, my students have really hooked on to my new technology style of teaching. At first they were a little uneasy, but after they got to the computer lab and realized how much they could do... their attitudes turned around! I think the most important thing was that I took it slow (at first I talked about my whole blog goal which overwhelmed them... but then I realized I needed to go one step at a time). Once my students built the confidence in themselves to create their own and upload their own pictures, they discovered the joy in blogging!
I am also very, very excited to incorporate my unit plan that I developed throughout this class. My number one love in life is to be creative! I always wanted to incorporate that to my lessons. With the help of this course, I now created 3 lessons that use technology, lessons from my subject, current events, and creativity! I can't wait!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Week 7 GAME
As I view the NET-S and the NET-T, in a way I see the similarities and in a way I see the differences. In the NET-S, it looks more like the standards we would expect to see. It is what the students should be expected to know/do after the lesson is taught. For example, Digital Citizenship. After the teacher incorporates a lesson for this standard, students should be able to exhibit leadership, use technology appropriately, etc. Now with the NET-T, I feel it shows us how we should teach... how we should teach so our students learn what we expect them to learn. I feel this is more of the ethics behind what we want our students to learn. It also shows us how we need to act and demonstrate. We cannot teach our students one thing and act against what we are teaching.
This goes along with my GAME plan, because after creating my game plan, I would think of how to incorporate these. I am using digital citizenship with my blogging project. I want them to have a positive experience with technology and I want them to use and speak appropriately while using their blogs. In return, I also need to speak and use my blog and the class blog appropriately. It goes hand in hand!
This goes along with my GAME plan, because after creating my game plan, I would think of how to incorporate these. I am using digital citizenship with my blogging project. I want them to have a positive experience with technology and I want them to use and speak appropriately while using their blogs. In return, I also need to speak and use my blog and the class blog appropriately. It goes hand in hand!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Week 6 GAME
Throughout the GAME experience and chapter 12 in our book, I learned a lot! I really like how our book has each subject individually discussed with specific ideas and goals for us to learn and use. Through the Stories from Practice and the GAME lesson plan formats/examples, I feel my teaching has already improved.
I want to work towards standard 1 and I feel I am doing a great job. Standard one says to facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity. I think I am doing this through the creation of our class blog and individual blogs. My students are learning in a new way. Plus, they tell me it is fun! If you can combine fun and learning, you are doing your job!
This standard came easy for me, I believe, because I am a creative person and I always want to see creativity shine in others. I just never thought of using it towards technology in the classroom with science... but it is great so far!
I want to work towards standard 1 and I feel I am doing a great job. Standard one says to facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity. I think I am doing this through the creation of our class blog and individual blogs. My students are learning in a new way. Plus, they tell me it is fun! If you can combine fun and learning, you are doing your job!
This standard came easy for me, I believe, because I am a creative person and I always want to see creativity shine in others. I just never thought of using it towards technology in the classroom with science... but it is great so far!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Week 5 GAME
I am a Marine Biology teacher, therefore I read the chapter for Integrating Technology in the Science Classroom. I learned a lot! Some things I am already doing, which makes me feel good, and other things I learn to do, which makes me excited!
I like the stories from practice. The first one I read was incorporating technology into the labs. I don't know why, but I never thought to incorporate technology to the labs. (I have used them for many other things, though!) He also gave each person a specific job. I like this idea, too. I let my juniors and seniors pick their own lab partners, but I think it would be neat to have a project where students had a specific job to create one final lab.
As I look at my goals for integrating technology into my classroom I am pleased with my actions so far. My blogs are up and running, and my students are excited about them! It makes me smile when I get to school and a student runs up to me and says, "Ms. Shrift did you see my blog? It is really neat! Did you read it, did you read it?" And these are students I never saw excitement in before! (Plus they are 'cool' high school students.) Their research blogs were due October 5. That was the first assignment on their blog. Hopefully within the next 2 weeks I will have the weekly discussions started! That is my next goal.
I like the stories from practice. The first one I read was incorporating technology into the labs. I don't know why, but I never thought to incorporate technology to the labs. (I have used them for many other things, though!) He also gave each person a specific job. I like this idea, too. I let my juniors and seniors pick their own lab partners, but I think it would be neat to have a project where students had a specific job to create one final lab.
As I look at my goals for integrating technology into my classroom I am pleased with my actions so far. My blogs are up and running, and my students are excited about them! It makes me smile when I get to school and a student runs up to me and says, "Ms. Shrift did you see my blog? It is really neat! Did you read it, did you read it?" And these are students I never saw excitement in before! (Plus they are 'cool' high school students.) Their research blogs were due October 5. That was the first assignment on their blog. Hopefully within the next 2 weeks I will have the weekly discussions started! That is my next goal.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Week 4 GAME plan
I feel very confident in my lesson for my students to continue their blogging experience, but I wanted to do more with the assessing. In the beginning, I wanted to assess my students on their ability to set up their blog, add pictures, design, and gadgets. Also, their first research blog is due October 5. I will be assessing that for information pre-determined by the project.
As I read through Chapter 6, I learned more about the assessment. I decided I want to first get feedback from my students on what they want to learn when it comes to blogging. I explain to them the possibilities are endless, but I want them to learn some of these possibilities! I also want to discuss the outcomes I want my students to accomplish, so they understand the 'point' to the lesson.
Finally, also while grading, I want to incorporate outcome feedback along with cognitive feedback. This will be an easy task for me to complete because I am planning to comment to each of their blog posts! I will not put their grade, due to privacy issues, but I can encourage my students by telling them if what they are doing is right or wrong, but also how to improve or a new strategy to try.
So far, the biggest challenge I have is students being absent on computer days. My students need my guidance to get started, and they won't come to school early or stay after to get additional help. I know this is 'not my fault' but I still want my students to have this positive experience! Hopefully I will find extra time in class, but we have been working to the bell lately.
As I read through Chapter 6, I learned more about the assessment. I decided I want to first get feedback from my students on what they want to learn when it comes to blogging. I explain to them the possibilities are endless, but I want them to learn some of these possibilities! I also want to discuss the outcomes I want my students to accomplish, so they understand the 'point' to the lesson.
Finally, also while grading, I want to incorporate outcome feedback along with cognitive feedback. This will be an easy task for me to complete because I am planning to comment to each of their blog posts! I will not put their grade, due to privacy issues, but I can encourage my students by telling them if what they are doing is right or wrong, but also how to improve or a new strategy to try.
So far, the biggest challenge I have is students being absent on computer days. My students need my guidance to get started, and they won't come to school early or stay after to get additional help. I know this is 'not my fault' but I still want my students to have this positive experience! Hopefully I will find extra time in class, but we have been working to the bell lately.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Keeping the Plan Going...
I must have not published this post when I thought I did... hopefully next week I will complete this part correctly!
My GAME plan is to promote and model digital citizenship and responsibility; and to engage in professional growth and leadership. As I thought of these goals more intently, I realize what exactly I need to do.
To make sure my students promote and model digital citizenship and responsibility, I spoke with them this week about blogging etiquette. I explained to them, while we are blogging, I expect the same language they are permitted to use in school to be used while blogging; and any language not permitted in school is not permitted on their blog.
Previous to this week, my students were not excited at all about the blog (well, maybe a couple students were excited), but now almost all are excited! I scheduled time in the computer lab for my students to get their blog set up and to begin research on submersibles. The comments last week were, 'This is going to be stupid', and the comments this week after exposure to blogging were, 'This is like a really cool facebook!' I was very excited!
Some of my students completed their research post and even added pictures! If you want to check out our blog you can go to MarineBiologyPeriod1.blogspot.com... they each posted to their own blog.
To teach responsibility, eventually my students will have to respond to my blog by Wednesday and other classmates by Sunday... but we did not get their yet!
Finally, to teach my students about professional growth and leadership, I am having my students complete this blog (discussed above). Students are going to be building their own submersible, but before they can build, they needed to complete research about how real submersibles worked in the past and how they work now.
Towards the end of the year, I also have a research project where students need to research their favorite marine animal! They seem to like that one best!
My GAME plan is to promote and model digital citizenship and responsibility; and to engage in professional growth and leadership. As I thought of these goals more intently, I realize what exactly I need to do.
To make sure my students promote and model digital citizenship and responsibility, I spoke with them this week about blogging etiquette. I explained to them, while we are blogging, I expect the same language they are permitted to use in school to be used while blogging; and any language not permitted in school is not permitted on their blog.
Previous to this week, my students were not excited at all about the blog (well, maybe a couple students were excited), but now almost all are excited! I scheduled time in the computer lab for my students to get their blog set up and to begin research on submersibles. The comments last week were, 'This is going to be stupid', and the comments this week after exposure to blogging were, 'This is like a really cool facebook!' I was very excited!
Some of my students completed their research post and even added pictures! If you want to check out our blog you can go to MarineBiologyPeriod1.blogspot.com... they each posted to their own blog.
To teach responsibility, eventually my students will have to respond to my blog by Wednesday and other classmates by Sunday... but we did not get their yet!
Finally, to teach my students about professional growth and leadership, I am having my students complete this blog (discussed above). Students are going to be building their own submersible, but before they can build, they needed to complete research about how real submersibles worked in the past and how they work now.
Towards the end of the year, I also have a research project where students need to research their favorite marine animal! They seem to like that one best!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
The GAME Plan!
Hello Classmates! I am sorry I am posting late, but I was not used to having parts of the application due before Sunday. I know that is not an acceptable excuse, but I wanted to apologize.
Any way! I think the GAME plan is a great way for teachers to always keep fresh goals and ideas in mind, and then also remember to use the goals, extend the goals, and reflect on the goals. In our book Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use, I feel evaluating is the most important step. This is a step that I think most teachers forget to do.
GOALS:
4. Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility and focus on c. Promote and model digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related ot the use of technology and information. I chose this because I am working on having my students create their own blog and post on their classmates pages and the class page. With all of the technology out there that students abuse, I wanted to show them a positive way to use a technology tool. I want to show them how to not abuse this wonderful tool!
5. Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership and focus on c. Evaluate and reflect on current research and professional practice on a regular basis to make effective use of existing and emerging digital tools and resources in support of student learning. I plan to incorporate this into the blogs. My goal is to have a new blog post by each Sunday and have the students respond by Wednesday. In Marine Biology, there is A LOT of research and current events that occur! I want my students to be aware of all of these events and happenings, but to not strain them.
ACTION:
I briefly mentioned this above, but basically both standards are reflected in the blog project. I want my students to have a positive exposure to a great technology tool and I want it to be an enjoyable experience.
MONITOR:
I will monitor my students by checking their posts made to the class site, and to their classmates. If I see inappropriate language or usage, I will speak with the student the next day about his or her behavior.
EVALUATE:
I already made revisions to this project. At first, I realized that I was moving too fast and expecting too much. I realized that I needed to teach the students the basics before I can expect them to make their own blog, follow the class blog, respond to mine, and respond to two other classmates... I think it is very, very important for teachers to look at what they taught or how they taught it and if it needs adjustments for the next lesson or the next year when they teach the same lesson... they need to make the change!
Any way! I think the GAME plan is a great way for teachers to always keep fresh goals and ideas in mind, and then also remember to use the goals, extend the goals, and reflect on the goals. In our book Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use, I feel evaluating is the most important step. This is a step that I think most teachers forget to do.
GOALS:
4. Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility and focus on c. Promote and model digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related ot the use of technology and information. I chose this because I am working on having my students create their own blog and post on their classmates pages and the class page. With all of the technology out there that students abuse, I wanted to show them a positive way to use a technology tool. I want to show them how to not abuse this wonderful tool!
5. Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership and focus on c. Evaluate and reflect on current research and professional practice on a regular basis to make effective use of existing and emerging digital tools and resources in support of student learning. I plan to incorporate this into the blogs. My goal is to have a new blog post by each Sunday and have the students respond by Wednesday. In Marine Biology, there is A LOT of research and current events that occur! I want my students to be aware of all of these events and happenings, but to not strain them.
ACTION:
I briefly mentioned this above, but basically both standards are reflected in the blog project. I want my students to have a positive exposure to a great technology tool and I want it to be an enjoyable experience.
MONITOR:
I will monitor my students by checking their posts made to the class site, and to their classmates. If I see inappropriate language or usage, I will speak with the student the next day about his or her behavior.
EVALUATE:
I already made revisions to this project. At first, I realized that I was moving too fast and expecting too much. I realized that I needed to teach the students the basics before I can expect them to make their own blog, follow the class blog, respond to mine, and respond to two other classmates... I think it is very, very important for teachers to look at what they taught or how they taught it and if it needs adjustments for the next lesson or the next year when they teach the same lesson... they need to make the change!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Reflection
I am amazed at the amount of new information I learned throughout this course; and how much I can use in my classroom next year. I knew of a lot of the tools we studied, but I also learned of so many more tools that I did not know existed! I think my favorite part, is that they are all free!
When comparing week 1 to now, I realize my theories of learning and teaching are still the same! But when comparing my technology tools that I knew week 1 to now, I am very pleased with the amount of knowledge I gained!
I always said I wanted my classes to be hands-on, but after this course I learned a lot more about hands-on learning that I will immediately be changing for my next set of students. For basic note-taking, I have always used PowerPoints, but now I know how to make my PowerPoints more interactive and interesting. Also, once completed with notes, or a way for my students to organize their notes, they can use Webspitation or Kidspiration. Here, I can make webs and organizational charts for my students, or they can create their own way to organize! This will enhance my students learning because they will be taking the large amount of knowledge and organizing it in a way that it makes sense to them. They will have to categorize, incorporate, and explore the endless possibilities of the notes at hand and summarize the important pieces for clarification.
Another very useful tool I already used this year after learning it in this course is VoiceThread. I am so excited to incorporate this more and more in my class. I plan to use this for my pre-classes. I feel it is a great way to introduce new sections by including clips and real-life images. Also, I plan to surprise my students by making VoiceThreads that will teach them about current events, or interesting facts. This would enhance my students learning because even though we live only one hour from the beach, many students have not had the opportunity to travel there (or any other destinations). By using VoiceThread I can turn it into a virtual fieldtrip and have my students put a real-life image to what we are discussing in class.
In the future, I set my goals high as I hope to be considered a 'master of technology in education'. Goal 1: (My master goal) I want my co-teachers to come to me looking for technology ideas and ways to incorporate ideas in their class. I want my classroom to be completely hands-on with technology by using various tools. I understand this is not an idea that can change over-night, or even over one summer. Next year I plan to slowly incorporate more and more technology. As stated before, I am most excited to use VoiceThread and blogging... but that is just the start! Goal 2: I want to have a class blog set up that includes all information for my course. This would include notes, calendar of events, and any assignments and tests that are coming up in the future. With this goal I would also like to have a Marine Biology club or group of students that would like to manage the blog. They would be in charge of uploading pictures, VoiceThreads, or whatever else we learn! I think that would be great for my class. I plan to achieve my goals by slowly incorporating the tools next year and really focusing on my students to see which ones they enjoyed and did not enjoy. I also plan to start a blog next year, and to continue to add links and ideas to the blog. I hope that by the end of next school year I will have a good idea of all of the links for the next school year I plan to include!
When comparing week 1 to now, I realize my theories of learning and teaching are still the same! But when comparing my technology tools that I knew week 1 to now, I am very pleased with the amount of knowledge I gained!
I always said I wanted my classes to be hands-on, but after this course I learned a lot more about hands-on learning that I will immediately be changing for my next set of students. For basic note-taking, I have always used PowerPoints, but now I know how to make my PowerPoints more interactive and interesting. Also, once completed with notes, or a way for my students to organize their notes, they can use Webspitation or Kidspiration. Here, I can make webs and organizational charts for my students, or they can create their own way to organize! This will enhance my students learning because they will be taking the large amount of knowledge and organizing it in a way that it makes sense to them. They will have to categorize, incorporate, and explore the endless possibilities of the notes at hand and summarize the important pieces for clarification.
Another very useful tool I already used this year after learning it in this course is VoiceThread. I am so excited to incorporate this more and more in my class. I plan to use this for my pre-classes. I feel it is a great way to introduce new sections by including clips and real-life images. Also, I plan to surprise my students by making VoiceThreads that will teach them about current events, or interesting facts. This would enhance my students learning because even though we live only one hour from the beach, many students have not had the opportunity to travel there (or any other destinations). By using VoiceThread I can turn it into a virtual fieldtrip and have my students put a real-life image to what we are discussing in class.
In the future, I set my goals high as I hope to be considered a 'master of technology in education'. Goal 1: (My master goal) I want my co-teachers to come to me looking for technology ideas and ways to incorporate ideas in their class. I want my classroom to be completely hands-on with technology by using various tools. I understand this is not an idea that can change over-night, or even over one summer. Next year I plan to slowly incorporate more and more technology. As stated before, I am most excited to use VoiceThread and blogging... but that is just the start! Goal 2: I want to have a class blog set up that includes all information for my course. This would include notes, calendar of events, and any assignments and tests that are coming up in the future. With this goal I would also like to have a Marine Biology club or group of students that would like to manage the blog. They would be in charge of uploading pictures, VoiceThreads, or whatever else we learn! I think that would be great for my class. I plan to achieve my goals by slowly incorporating the tools next year and really focusing on my students to see which ones they enjoyed and did not enjoy. I also plan to start a blog next year, and to continue to add links and ideas to the blog. I hope that by the end of next school year I will have a good idea of all of the links for the next school year I plan to include!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Voicethread
I am sorry it is so late, but I was having technical difficulties... if a few people could please respond to my Voicethread I would greatly appreciate it!
You will learn about snorkeling in Xel*Ha, Mexico!
Here it is: voicethread.com/share/1195991/
Have a great weekend!
You will learn about snorkeling in Xel*Ha, Mexico!
Here it is: voicethread.com/share/1195991/
Have a great weekend!
Friday, May 28, 2010
App 5
I feel in this day and age, 'Cooperative Learning' has been brought to a whole new level! How exciting! I am so glad I decided on my Master's in Technology, because now that I see all the endless possibilities that are available to me (and for free), I am so excited to begin next year!
This week, we focused on VoiceThread... which is outstanding. After viewing the sites and videos directed to VoiceThread, the possibilities truly sound endless. In the video I saw young students putting their artwork and other pictures that were interesting to them, on the site, and adding their own voice! This is extremely interactive and it is on their level with their thoughts. It allows the student to connect their prior knowledge to their existing (possibly new) knowledge.
We can also use other multimedia projects as cooperative learning. I like how Ms. Ortiz organized her classroom into groups and had specific goals and tasks for each day, leading up to the final project (movie). She gave guided, direct instruction, in a way that promoted group discussion and learning. "The class works in small groups of three or four to create short movies focused on curricular topics. She creates a chart like the one shown in Figure 7.2 as an advance organizer to guide students in the process and assigns each student two or three of the responsibilities" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). She gives them the freedom to choose what/how they will create their movie, but she also is there for any help and guidance.
This type of project sounds wonderful to me. What do you think? I think it truly promotes higher-level thinking and uses cooperative learning to a full extent!
Resources:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
This week, we focused on VoiceThread... which is outstanding. After viewing the sites and videos directed to VoiceThread, the possibilities truly sound endless. In the video I saw young students putting their artwork and other pictures that were interesting to them, on the site, and adding their own voice! This is extremely interactive and it is on their level with their thoughts. It allows the student to connect their prior knowledge to their existing (possibly new) knowledge.
We can also use other multimedia projects as cooperative learning. I like how Ms. Ortiz organized her classroom into groups and had specific goals and tasks for each day, leading up to the final project (movie). She gave guided, direct instruction, in a way that promoted group discussion and learning. "The class works in small groups of three or four to create short movies focused on curricular topics. She creates a chart like the one shown in Figure 7.2 as an advance organizer to guide students in the process and assigns each student two or three of the responsibilities" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). She gives them the freedom to choose what/how they will create their movie, but she also is there for any help and guidance.
This type of project sounds wonderful to me. What do you think? I think it truly promotes higher-level thinking and uses cooperative learning to a full extent!
Resources:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
App 4
Many times, if not all times, teachers relate 'testing hypotheses'to science classes only. Honestly, I never thought to have this approach to other classes as well. I like this idea. I feel it would start as a great conversation piece. If I ask students what they think about the subject or idea being discussed, before I even teach, I am opening their brains to have them use their prior knowledge to make an educated guess.
The two tasks I wish to focus on are:
"5. Experimental inquiry often happens naturally when students observe a phenomenon, make an informed hypothesis about why or how that event hapeened, and set up an experiment to test their prediction.
6. Finally, when students are involved in decision making, they define criteria and apply weight to the various criteria to decide which choice makes the most sense" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).
Also, I feel these relate most to our other findings this week:
-Construcionist: I can relate the tasks by giving hands-on learning assignments and activities. By having the students give predictions, once the assignment is complete, they can view their results and then figure out what happened. By giving them the freedom to experiment for themselves, I feel they would learn more compared to me giving them clear-cut directions. By assigning group projects, they also have the opportunity to learn from each other and share ideas for the best possible solution.
-Project-Based learning: Next year I plan to incorporate more technology assignments. By doing this, I will give my students the opportunity to take their information and design it in a way that it makes sense to them. Especially in my class, we do a lot of dissection labs, but sometimes I feel that is not enough. I want my students to be able to take their notes and put them in action! Any other ideas for how my students can put their notes in action (so I know they understand the content)? I feel they would learn more throught project-based learning. Edutopia had a great video on this! I wish I could have learned that way, or had a teacher that taught that way... does anyone agree?
http://pblchecklist.4teachers.org/ Here is a checklist for project-based learning... it was pretty neat!
Reference:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
The two tasks I wish to focus on are:
"5. Experimental inquiry often happens naturally when students observe a phenomenon, make an informed hypothesis about why or how that event hapeened, and set up an experiment to test their prediction.
6. Finally, when students are involved in decision making, they define criteria and apply weight to the various criteria to decide which choice makes the most sense" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).
Also, I feel these relate most to our other findings this week:
-Construcionist: I can relate the tasks by giving hands-on learning assignments and activities. By having the students give predictions, once the assignment is complete, they can view their results and then figure out what happened. By giving them the freedom to experiment for themselves, I feel they would learn more compared to me giving them clear-cut directions. By assigning group projects, they also have the opportunity to learn from each other and share ideas for the best possible solution.
-Project-Based learning: Next year I plan to incorporate more technology assignments. By doing this, I will give my students the opportunity to take their information and design it in a way that it makes sense to them. Especially in my class, we do a lot of dissection labs, but sometimes I feel that is not enough. I want my students to be able to take their notes and put them in action! Any other ideas for how my students can put their notes in action (so I know they understand the content)? I feel they would learn more throught project-based learning. Edutopia had a great video on this! I wish I could have learned that way, or had a teacher that taught that way... does anyone agree?
http://pblchecklist.4teachers.org/ Here is a checklist for project-based learning... it was pretty neat!
Reference:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Week 3 Application 6711
This year, my school decided upon the Learning Focused program for the teachers to learn throughout our professional development hours. This program taught me a lot about concept maps and essential questions, which is what we are learning throughout the chapters in our book. At first, many teachers did not like the idea; especially the teachers that have been teaching for years and are now asked to change their way to delivering instruction. For me, it was not a big deal. For me, it was learning something new! The essential questions give the notes and readings meaning, and something to look for. It also involves higher-level thinking. Under the generalizations on page 74 of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works stated, "Higher-level" questions and advance organizers produce deeper learning than "lower-level" questions and advance organizers." It was neat to see the same terms I was learning throughout my professional development, to also be in my readings for this course.
Does anyone presently use essential questions? I post mine on the board and add to them each day until the chapter is complete. It is also a great way for a review!
I also learned about KUD and KWL charts. (KUD is Know Understand and Do.) These are a great tool for all students, especially ESL or special education students.
I mentioned in my discussion that next year I want to incorporate more of the concept maps from the links we discovered in this class. Many of the charts provided with my professional development were boring charts. If I use the Webspiration and create a personal web for the lesson or chapter, I feel it will connect to my students on a greater level. Then, I can make the same chart with blanks for my students to fill out.
I think a great project, especially for Marine Biology, would be to have the students create their own web with the levels of the ocean and animals we study. Does anyone have any other ideas?
As far as summarizing and note taking, I do not know if that is a skill I should stress or not. Correct me if I am wrong, but my students will be going to college within the next 1-2 years and professors now have PowerPoints the students can print and take to class as notes. (That is how my classes were.) I feel it is an important thing to learn, but if they have not learned it by now, should I stress it? With my PowerPoints I started writing "Do not write:" and "Please write:" to differientiate discussion from note-taking.
Any ideas or comments?
I am very exicted to explore the virtual field trips! I feel this will add to my multiple modes of instruction. My students love when we watch Blue Planet (a set of DVDs) about different marine animals. Normally, I give a simple worksheet or ask them to write 15 interesting facts, but making a concept map would be more engaging! After my seniors leave (for graduation) I may explore a few virtual field trips and make a concept map towards the end of the year. It seems more relaxing, but also very educational. Stimpson commented in her discussion, "If my students cannot see the animals for themselves at our real field trip, then I will take them on one that they can at least see their favorite animal through the computer" (2006). She also provided a great link that I will use in my classroom. I am very excited for next school year to incorporate all of my new technology knowledge!
References:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Stimpson, R. (2010, May 17). Technology and cognitive tools. Message posted to EDUC 6671 discussion board, Week 3.
Does anyone presently use essential questions? I post mine on the board and add to them each day until the chapter is complete. It is also a great way for a review!
I also learned about KUD and KWL charts. (KUD is Know Understand and Do.) These are a great tool for all students, especially ESL or special education students.
I mentioned in my discussion that next year I want to incorporate more of the concept maps from the links we discovered in this class. Many of the charts provided with my professional development were boring charts. If I use the Webspiration and create a personal web for the lesson or chapter, I feel it will connect to my students on a greater level. Then, I can make the same chart with blanks for my students to fill out.
I think a great project, especially for Marine Biology, would be to have the students create their own web with the levels of the ocean and animals we study. Does anyone have any other ideas?
As far as summarizing and note taking, I do not know if that is a skill I should stress or not. Correct me if I am wrong, but my students will be going to college within the next 1-2 years and professors now have PowerPoints the students can print and take to class as notes. (That is how my classes were.) I feel it is an important thing to learn, but if they have not learned it by now, should I stress it? With my PowerPoints I started writing "Do not write:" and "Please write:" to differientiate discussion from note-taking.
Any ideas or comments?
I am very exicted to explore the virtual field trips! I feel this will add to my multiple modes of instruction. My students love when we watch Blue Planet (a set of DVDs) about different marine animals. Normally, I give a simple worksheet or ask them to write 15 interesting facts, but making a concept map would be more engaging! After my seniors leave (for graduation) I may explore a few virtual field trips and make a concept map towards the end of the year. It seems more relaxing, but also very educational. Stimpson commented in her discussion, "If my students cannot see the animals for themselves at our real field trip, then I will take them on one that they can at least see their favorite animal through the computer" (2006). She also provided a great link that I will use in my classroom. I am very excited for next school year to incorporate all of my new technology knowledge!
References:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Stimpson, R. (2010, May 17). Technology and cognitive tools. Message posted to EDUC 6671 discussion board, Week 3.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Week 2 Application
Reinforcing Effort:
Reinforcing Effort directly correlates to the behaviorist theory. Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski stress to teach students to put forth effort for high achievement (2007). I believe if you are teaching one behavior to reinforce another, you are using the behaviorist theory. You are reinforcing a good behavior (effort). A way in which we can teach effort by using technology is to use an Effort Rubric. There is an example of an Effort Rubric on page 157 in Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. I really like this chart. It takes into account all of the various areas students are responsible for when it comes to school and being responsible. Maybe my students could rate themselves once a month and we can also make a semi-journal to keep track of our efforts. This would be typed and saved on the computer, of course. What do you guys think of that? We could even set goals to focus on our weaknesses!
With this chart, as they show on the next few pages, we can take class summaries and turn them into a data chart. With this type of activity we are incorporating english, math, and responsibility.
http://www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts.com/ here is a link to a lot of different charts. They are printable paper charts, but there are a few cool ones. I did want to stay with technology, but maybe use the paper charts for monthly class progressions.
Homework and Practice:
The book states, "Having students practice a skill or concept enhances their ability to reach the expected level of proficiency" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Encouraging homework and practice is using the behavioristic theory. Once again, we are shaping our students' way of doing things, which relates to their behavior.
Using spreadsheets, as suggested in the book, is a great way for students to keep track of their grades, homework handed in, and possibly attendance. With the charts, teachers can also show how to quickly calculate for averages, percentages, etc. Once again, this is including math!
What I noticed with my high school students is that they love to have technology projects/assignments. Many of my students know the basics, but surprisingly I still need to teach the basics to a few students. I feel in class we need to teach the basics, but then for homework let our students explore with the various options and colors, making their project their own! Creativity is also a very important thing to teach. All of the data charts did not hold my attention because I am not much of a 'math person' but I really did like the battle graph game! This would be perfect when learning points on a graph, but games such as these can be used in every class! Did anyone use games like this before? I used jeopardy many times. But this would be a great test review assignment for our students. They should create a review game with questions, answers, and links. Then, instead of playing a game as an entire class, they can get in small groups and play their games!
There are so many ways to incorporate technology in our world today. I am so excited I am finally learning about the possibilities and how I can make them happen!
Reference:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Reinforcing Effort directly correlates to the behaviorist theory. Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski stress to teach students to put forth effort for high achievement (2007). I believe if you are teaching one behavior to reinforce another, you are using the behaviorist theory. You are reinforcing a good behavior (effort). A way in which we can teach effort by using technology is to use an Effort Rubric. There is an example of an Effort Rubric on page 157 in Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. I really like this chart. It takes into account all of the various areas students are responsible for when it comes to school and being responsible. Maybe my students could rate themselves once a month and we can also make a semi-journal to keep track of our efforts. This would be typed and saved on the computer, of course. What do you guys think of that? We could even set goals to focus on our weaknesses!
With this chart, as they show on the next few pages, we can take class summaries and turn them into a data chart. With this type of activity we are incorporating english, math, and responsibility.
http://www.freeprintablebehaviorcharts.com/ here is a link to a lot of different charts. They are printable paper charts, but there are a few cool ones. I did want to stay with technology, but maybe use the paper charts for monthly class progressions.
Homework and Practice:
The book states, "Having students practice a skill or concept enhances their ability to reach the expected level of proficiency" (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Encouraging homework and practice is using the behavioristic theory. Once again, we are shaping our students' way of doing things, which relates to their behavior.
Using spreadsheets, as suggested in the book, is a great way for students to keep track of their grades, homework handed in, and possibly attendance. With the charts, teachers can also show how to quickly calculate for averages, percentages, etc. Once again, this is including math!
What I noticed with my high school students is that they love to have technology projects/assignments. Many of my students know the basics, but surprisingly I still need to teach the basics to a few students. I feel in class we need to teach the basics, but then for homework let our students explore with the various options and colors, making their project their own! Creativity is also a very important thing to teach. All of the data charts did not hold my attention because I am not much of a 'math person' but I really did like the battle graph game! This would be perfect when learning points on a graph, but games such as these can be used in every class! Did anyone use games like this before? I used jeopardy many times. But this would be a great test review assignment for our students. They should create a review game with questions, answers, and links. Then, instead of playing a game as an entire class, they can get in small groups and play their games!
There are so many ways to incorporate technology in our world today. I am so excited I am finally learning about the possibilities and how I can make them happen!
Reference:
Pitler, P., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Virginia: ASCD.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Reflection
Throughout this course, I learned so much about ways to integrate technology into my classroom. I always doubted myself when it came to technology skills, but now I realize it is not as hard as I thought. It takes some time to learn all the possibilities through the different sites, but now I understand I have to start somewhere. I now have an understanding of many sites that I did not even knew existed!
I plan to keep the sites I started in this course and continue to learn more and more about them. The possibilities seem endless! Once I understand more about what can be done, I will feel very confident to use these sites in my classroom!
Within the next two years, I wish to have a class website where all of my assignments and notes for the chapters are posted, plus I want to have my students blogging successfully. This summer I plan to have my website up and running for my class. Next year, I plan to have my students blogging throughout class discussions and reviews. I am going to include it in my lesson planning.
Thank you for this class Dr. Woods. I really learned a lot and it was all very interesting!
I plan to keep the sites I started in this course and continue to learn more and more about them. The possibilities seem endless! Once I understand more about what can be done, I will feel very confident to use these sites in my classroom!
Within the next two years, I wish to have a class website where all of my assignments and notes for the chapters are posted, plus I want to have my students blogging successfully. This summer I plan to have my website up and running for my class. Next year, I plan to have my students blogging throughout class discussions and reviews. I am going to include it in my lesson planning.
Thank you for this class Dr. Woods. I really learned a lot and it was all very interesting!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Website Reactions
Hello Everyone!
I think the website was great! It was very user friendly and I believe the information is accurate. I was very impressed with the overview and the chart they created to show all of the information that goes into what we have to teach. With the skills going around the outside, we have to keep in mind the 21st century skills! For teachers that have been teaching for many years, this may be hard to let go of previous plans, and update them to new (technology) plans. I really do not disagree with any of the points made. Honestly, I did not even know there was a website like this! For my students, I have to keep the advances in mind... especially since I teach high school (and the job search is in their near future). As a contemporary teacher, I need to keep my ideas fresh and keep looking for new ideas to try in my class!
Best of Luck everyone!
I think the website was great! It was very user friendly and I believe the information is accurate. I was very impressed with the overview and the chart they created to show all of the information that goes into what we have to teach. With the skills going around the outside, we have to keep in mind the 21st century skills! For teachers that have been teaching for many years, this may be hard to let go of previous plans, and update them to new (technology) plans. I really do not disagree with any of the points made. Honestly, I did not even know there was a website like this! For my students, I have to keep the advances in mind... especially since I teach high school (and the job search is in their near future). As a contemporary teacher, I need to keep my ideas fresh and keep looking for new ideas to try in my class!
Best of Luck everyone!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Blogging at school!
In my high school I TAM teach with Marine Biology teachers for Juniors and Seniors. One of my teachers I work with actually used blogging at the beginning of the year! He used edublogs. Each class had their own section to respond to. He would post an initial post, and have the students respond for practice. Once they were familiar with this process, each student did their own assignment. Each student was assigned a section from the chapter to do research on. They had to give facts about their section, include pictures, and answer the section review questions. Once they were completed we used our projector to show everyone their postings! It was a really neat project.
Now that I am in charge of a blogging project, I was thinking of having my students pick a marine animal and do research on the animal. There will be a set of instructions for the research, but they will be able to include any type of additional facts and pictures of their choice! This will be a good 'end of the year' project to give them the option to pick their favorite animal we previously studied, or to teach us about one we did not!
Now that I am in charge of a blogging project, I was thinking of having my students pick a marine animal and do research on the animal. There will be a set of instructions for the research, but they will be able to include any type of additional facts and pictures of their choice! This will be a good 'end of the year' project to give them the option to pick their favorite animal we previously studied, or to teach us about one we did not!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
To Walden Classmates
Hello Classmates! This is my first blog, does anyone else have experience with blogging? I chose Blogger because I found this site to be the most user-friendly. I do believe edu.blogs would also be very beneficial once I become more familiar with the blogging world. This would be a great way to have our students post discussions about chapters and respond to others thoughts. It also saves paper! What are your thoughts on blogging?
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