Final Reflection Blog Post

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Final Project

Comment for Teacher 4 Summary

     The first blog  post of Jason T. Bedell's that I commented on was on a fantastic tool called google calendar. Like me he had an obnoxiously enormous and amazing desk calendar. He then discovered that he should share his calendar with the world so SHAZAM! he made a google calendar. Google calendar is a fantastic tool that lets you either share your events with the world, keep them to yourself, or embed in a website. 
     The second post that I commented on was Jason T. Bedell's post on digital storytelling. Which I found awesome because using skills I learned in EDM 310 I actually did a digital story telling project for my World Literature class earlier this week. His introductory paragraph said...

"Teaching is an art that includes storytelling at its core. Stories are an essential part of our nature as humans. Stories are how we pass on our history, our culture, and our heritage. The brain does not remember isolated facts, but makes connections with other ideas, often in the context of stories."

     To me that sounded absolutely beautiful. Teaching as an art. An ART he says! No one ever thinks of it that way but he is right. Everyone tries to formulate education with methods and plans and workshops and "this is what you do if..." but art can't be planned so stringently as that. It is free flowing and creative and sometimes you just have to fly by the seat of your pants. Yes art does have outlines of sorts so some planning is involved but flexibility is the key.
     Digital storytelling is an excellent way for students to get their creative juices going we just need to make sure as educators we aren't invading their creative projests.

Comments for Kids Summary

Comment number eight was a video of the kid's problem solving chant.
"Identify the problem so you all understand,
Then you listen to each other, coz you've got to make a plan,
Then you do, you do it, you do it, do it, do it,
Then you check"

My comments said that I hope my students have the same enthusiasm and that the chant is a great device to aid in learning.

Comment number nine was on a blog post of a student named Bryant. He posted a blog about a article that I had actually read before. the article was about a four year old getting sued because she ran into an 87 year old woman who broke her hip and died four months later. He said that the child should not be held responsible because accidents happen. I agreed completely with him. Accidents happen all the time especially to the elderly  and the woman died four months later, not even in the same week as the incident. 


Comment number ten was a student named Jim's Kerpoof assignment and he chose to do a mnemonic device to help them remember the order of the planets.  It was actually a pretty cool looking creative project for him and also introduced me to a new tool.

Comment eleven was a girl named Delia's story prompt about a "High Sky Ride". I couldn't find out what kind of ride she was talking about. Perhaps a roller coaster of some kind ? I was impressed by her use of sensory devices in a child so young.

Final Report on PLN

My personal learning network is organized on Symbaloo so all of my bookmarks are easily accessible.It contains classroom tool sites such as Classroom 2.0 and Things for Teachers, and Smart Tech which are social networking type sites that contain help for those who want to use technology in the classroom as well as lesson plans for all subjects and grade levels. Youtube, which is a site where instructional videos can be found as well as my projects. The EDM 310 site contains all of the instructions for assignments and gives me ideas as to what my projects should look like. Google, Google, Docs, and Google Calendar are all great tools to search for information as well as keep yourself organized. Lord knows I would be incredibly lost without my EDM 310 checklist. Turn it in and Jstor are incredibly helpful to me as an English major. Jstor contains book and article sources for absolutely anything and everything you could possibly ever need.  Turnitin is where I can have everything I write, as well as assignments my future students write, and have it checked for originality which is another word for plagiarism. I have really enjoyed my PLN and it will continue to grow as I do.



http://www.symbaloo.com/mix/personallearningnetwo

Additional Assignment 5

     John Spencer is a lingual genius. Truly a man after my own heart. Metaphors are an absolutely essential part of the English language and by no means are they as complicated as people make them out to be. Metaphors engage your brain and make you think as opposed to just " saying what you think. Pencils are a fantastic thing both metaphorically and literally. They represent the temporary yet permanent state of life. Everyone needs flexibility in their lives. People who don't understand technology and the learning children experience using those tools think anything involving computer devices are all fun and games. Which is defiantly not the case. Behavior problems can be controlled by a no nonsense but not "mean" atmosphere. But as educators we all need to remember that whatever tools we introduce can change the atmosphere of the class.

Blog 13

      The Alabama Learning Exchange, or ALEX, it provides links for courses of study information, Alabama contact information for different subjects, lesson plans, training information, podcasts, and an area to contact colleagues. 

     Everything is organized by grade and subject matter so anything you can possibly be looking for is easily accessible. For example when you choose "Courses of Study" on the home page you are directed to a page with every course listed. I chose Language arts, because that is my major, and that took me to a page where I chose a grade level. I chose 12th grade, because that is my dream level, and it brought up a chart with all of the 12th grade language arts learning objectives and a link to all of the lesson plans.

     I think as an educator this will be a fantastic tool. Especially links to lesson plans of other educators. i know even as a "professional" I will need help.   This site is the closest thing to an EDM 310 help line that we will get. I am really excited about all the tools that we are learning exist out in the world. Its like an assurance that even after we graduate and begin our careers that there is always something to be learning and people to teach you.

 
 

Project 15

This is a short video I made on suicide prevention in Dillon's style. This video is the pinnacle of my EDM 310 career and I am extremely proud of it. My Teach someone video taught me how to do these kinds of videos and I took it an extra step. I hope everyone who views it enjoys it and feedback is always appreciated.

PLN Progress

I have finally figured out Twitter and am Following Dr. Strange and Jamie Lynn.  I have also discovered a site called classroom 2.0 which is a network for beginners in educational technology to find their footing and get support.http://www.classroom20.com/ Things for teachers is another extremely helpful site. It is a freshly graduated new history teacher in New Jersey. She has tips for student teaching and using Wikis and google docs in classroom among several other links and things. http://thingsforteachers.tumblr.com/page/2.

Project 15 report

I am going to do a informative/persuasive project on why to choose apple jacks over fruit loops. I have started compiling the nutritional information and I am going to do some taste trials with friends and family.I think this project will be different and fun to create.

Project 6 summary

     My project was a questionnaire on majors, why those majors were chosen, and why they chose the University of South Alabama.72% of the people questioned were majors in elementary education, 6% were social science/secondary, 6% were English/ secondary education, 6% were physical education, 6% were math and secondary education,and the remaining one was "other". Which is consistent with the people I have met at South. 

     56% of students were transfers.76% of those questioned chose the University of South Alabama because of the location. The next biggest reason was friends and family pressure with one third of the people questioned. Which to me is enlightening. I honestly do not think that is a valid reason and I find it kind of sad. Scholarships, programs, and athletics were at the bottom of the ranks.

     I find it interesting that only 39% of people have family in the education field and that 72% of people have changed their major, three people changed it three times. On a scale of on to ten on their experiences at south the responses were even across the board. Which tells me that people either like it or tolerate it at south.

   History, performing arts, and english are the top three subjects that students are the most passionate about

     This information tells me that some students are extremely apathetic and unhappy with the University of South Alabama. It disappoints me that some students are only here because they got pressured into coming here; which probably contributes to the unhappiness. I think choosing a school should be more centered around the programs and scholarships available.

     We have so many elementary education majors.  It seems like every education major is elementary education. There is a high demand and great flexibility in that field. I like kids I just like them in small amounts with more adults than just me in charge.I really enjoyed this project. I learned alot about my fellow students and I liked the google form and the graphs the summary it created. I think it will be a great assignment for my future students.
  

Blog Post 12

Read "How to Overcome Technology Integration Barriers" By Peter J. Dragula. . Write at least one paragraph reacting to his post. Be sure to add anything you feel was left out and/or state whether or not you disagree.

     We need to have technology in our classrooms because schools expect students expect to learn how to use computers and other technological tools. Also the job market requires computer skills so it is imperative that our students learn all they can. Also technology makes communication between parents and students a great deal easier.

     There are several barriers that impede technology being brought into the classroom. Some teachers are either scared or too lazy to learn how to use the tools available. It is a lot easier just to stick with what you know but I feel classes such as EDM 310 can solve that. But some educators don't have the emotional or financial support to get and use technological tools. But I feel with the right instruction, priorities, support, and starting out where you can by using the tools on hand big changes can be made.

     To integrate technology educators can either take baby steps. It all depends on what is available. If there is only minimum equipment educators can start with clip art and print outs and digital cameras and as technology becomes more available they can progress to smart-boards and classroom websites.

     Educators need to understand that they are not alone in the battle of the machines. Things can get frustrating and you may want to throw your computer, camera, smart board, and projector out the window. But step back, have a glass of wine (only if you are at home of course), and relax. Don't give up.

Teach Someone

C4K Summary

Kid number three was  JohnLee from New Zealand. He drew a awesome colorful picture of a pirate ship.

My fifth kid was Nathan. His blog were written in first person view from the American Revolution which I thought was awesome and incredibly creative.

My sixth comment for kids was a kid named Chase B from Iowa. His post was on typing properly. Typing too small is hard to read, and typing too big looks like you are being yelled at and its rude. Also typing in "text speak" is ridiculous. I meen doz dis luk lyk sumtin profesional n sumfin u wnt 2 luk @ all da tym? NO, it looks ridiculous. I cannot stand text speak. Honestly it looks stupid and takes just as long to type out.

My seventh kid was Dylan. He has a great plan for healthier school lunches. Basically his school's only option for healthy lunch is some form of salad. I know first hand that after a few days of cold veggies for luch a cheeseburger is welcome. He said that fried items should be exchanged for grilled items which is a great idea. In addition he wants the candy replaced with fruits and veggies.

Blog 11

Little Kids... Big Potential

     It never ceases to amaze me how children can learn to use the tools i am learning to use. Some of them can even use it better than I can. They are learning so much and I feel like they don't know how impressive it is. I didn't realize that blogging can help them with spelling. It makes sense now that it is pointed out to me. When learning is presented in a fun way children enjoy it and therefore learn more. Technology teaches them so much; everything from rituals to manners to problem solving. Children's minds are so easy to mold and they are so easger to learn new things so starting learning to blog and use technology is a genius idea.

     There are a few roadblocks that might be hit. Some schools either won't be supportive or possibly not have the funding in order to bring the technology into the classroom.  

Summary C4T 3

     I commented on two of Mr. Joe Bower's blogs. The second and favortie one was on bringing the Socratic method back into the classroom. I am a huge fan of the Socratic method. I beleive that actively engaging students conversationally teaches them to think, express those thoughts, and breaks some people out of their shells. I have liked the memorize and vomit classes. Sure I can do well in them but the whole class period I am counting the minutes until I make my escape from the confines of my desk. By no means am I a shy and quiet person and if I get a thought and it is socially unacceptable to express that thought it eats away at my brain.
    My favorite quote from Joe Bower is "Reflecting upon one's beliefs can be a very productive use of time, and I can think of no better time to do so than when we have come to mindlessly accept something as a given truth. When questions are no longer answered because questions are no longer being asked - it is time to rethink what we are doing." Students, including myself, are to quick to accept whatever the teacher says as truth. Its a combination of fear and ignorance. If a student doubts what the teacher says is true more often than not they are too scared to voice that opinion because they are scared or ridicule or their precious grade declining.  
     The other post was "Here's all the boring shit you need to know..." catchy title don't you think? This post was about the super passionate teachers instructing classes on the "basics". These instructors seem to think that since the coursees are for non-majors in that field that the student does not need to know the cool and interesting things about said field. If I was a college professor I would consider making the basics interesting enough to attemp to convert students to that area.
     I hate how my "basic" science classes will probably never let me blow anything up. What fun is science without fire and explosions? No fun at all. Not saying that if they let me put fire to something I would abandon my English teacher career but it couldn't hurt for them to try. But instead I will take Geography and learn about atmospheric processes. Quite frankly I care absolutely nothing about clouds and whatnot. So I am hoping for an engaging class.

SmartBoard Instruction

Additional Assignment 3

Changing Education Paradigms

     I honestly do not believe in ADHD. Like Mr. Robinson I am not qualified to say for sure. I just think they have way too much structured time. Kids now don't ever get time to just go outside and play, nor do they really have any motivation to. After all they have video games and television. The most important thing that he mentioned, which is something I beat to death, is that great learning happens in groups and there is more than one way to go about teaching and learning. Not every student is the same and if they can get ideas from each other they can learn things that they don't understand in thelecture or get a different view.

     I can be an "outside the tradition" educator. I can use new technology and allow collaboration in the classroom to enhance the in class experience. I can teach every student that they matter and that they can do something better than their current social state. Most children think "I am born poor so I am stuck." That absolutely is not true.

     If I were to be in an RSA animation project I would most likely be the narrator or the idea generator. I am creative but my artistic abilities do not venture outside of the music world. I am very good at speaking clearly and with the proper inflections. 

Blog 10

                                                           An Open Letter to Educators

     I, like Morgan, cannot stand lecture, listen, and take notes classes. I am a Socratic learner. I need to be able to bounce ideas off instructors and students to fully learn. Granted I can memorize and "burp back" information very well. I am a flash card making fool, as I like to say. But I do not like to learn that way because I feel like nothing is retained.
     There is no way I would have dropped out of school like Dan Brown. Granted I find his annoyance validated, but dropping out did not solve anything. I think I'll follow his other videos and see how it has worked out for him. Like I have said a thousand times in past blogs I have considered just throwing the towel in on this college thing. But its not what I want for my life.

Don't Let Them Take the Pencil's Home

     I liked the metaphorical pencil. In my brain I thought the pencil could be replaced with laptop, iPad, iPhone, etc. Anything a student does not have at home and they see in school or anywhere they immediatly think "Oh cool, what can I do with this?". That exploration and play often leads to learning. Just because the student is not using a tool in a structured maner does not mean it is mindless play. Often when I am comfronted with something new my immediate response is to mess around with it and see what I can do with the object and how it works.  

    A topic that keeps arising in these blog assignments is standardized testing nd test scores. The land of education is so caught up in test scores that students are no longer people. Instead they have been dehumanized into, as Mr. Johnson said, drill and kill test takers and score producers.  I, as a future educator, want to keep my students human. I want them to learn and not memorize and vomit. This, in part, is the reason I chose language arts. There is so much up for interpretation in literature and I want my students to know how to think and learn.

      Two Questions That Can Change Your Life

     What's my sentence?  What a crazy thought, putting myself in a sentence. A great thought though. My sentence is "I will teach children how to use their own minds to interpret literary works, also to unleash their own literary creative ablilities." I want my students to look back and say "Wow, she loved and cared for me. I learned so much from her."



Blog 9

What I've Learned This Year
Mr. McClung's blog was a self reflective and informative blog of the does and don't of a teacher. His first point was "how to read the audience". Teachers sometimes get so caught up in performance evaluations they forget that students are suppossed to learn and comprehend what is being taught. Lessons should be student centered. Be flexible was the next point. As an educator you need to have a little wiggle room. After all you are human and mistakes will be made. Communication and listening can not be stressed enough. Especially in a professional enviroment such as a school where you have you co-worker and student-teacher relationships to keep in good standing. After all 98% of daily friction is caused by the wrong tone of voice. Don't be afraid of technology. I thought this point was a little funny. I am terrified of messing things up where technology comes in. But I am trying to figure the big scary computer and its friends out. Never stop learning. Never, ever, ever stop learning. There is always new methods, information, and theories emerging and it is impossible to learn it all in your lifetime. I think that this point can never be stressed enough. I would like to think that I will be an awesome teacher and reach every student and all that jazz but I am a human. I will screw up. I don't want to, but I will sometimes. All I can do is do my best and correct my mistakes when they happen.

Short Movie Project

Instructional Timeline

Blog 8

This is How We Dream

We have gone from studying from books and in libraries with pencils and paper to our laptops and desktops. We look up everything we need to know from search engines. Instead of books we would much rather be taken right to what we are looking for. A big positive side of that is that the work can last forever instead of being lost in print and thrown away.

Collaboration is immensly important. Two or more minds are certainly better than one. Everyone has their own talents and experiences and to bring all of those together gives you some awesome works.

The constant update of information on the internet keeps us up to date on current events. I am not totally prepared to use multimedia but I will be. I am slowly but surely becoming aware with the systems and programs available in multimedia. I am bent on becoming as technologically literate as I can be. I might not be the best but I will try and that is all I can do.

Edm 310 for Dummies and Chipper

First of all the book should totally be written. I know I would buy it. jamie Lynn and the others involved did a great job. It was entertaining and it showed how we all feel at one point in time when we try to do our EDM 310 assignments.

I would love to be taught in EDM 310 but I think me teaching myself these things and following the instructions is making me a better student. I think I need the deadlines. If there were no deadlines in EDM 310 I know that I would keep saying "next week..." until the final. I liked how the Chipper video portrayed how a stubborn attitude can just mess up your whole life plan. She wanted to be taught, Dr. Strange refused, so she dropped out, and she went through some horrible jobs, plans and huge life setbacks. But in the end she learned her lesson and returned to school.

The videos were very entertaining and professional looking. I think a confessional kind of video would be cool. A "Well..... I decideded not to do my EDM 310 assignments and this is what happened". Maybe a solo video with really dark lighting.

Compare and Contrast of Smartboards

Michael Staton gave us two cons of smartboards. He basically said that smartboards are cool to have, but not necessarily better than whiteboards or projectors. He also pointed out they are just an excuse for administration to spend more money.

Bill Ferriter told us that the Smartboard is basically useless and they aren't any better than whiteboards. Which is true. I do not think that technology makes the teacher. Most schools, like Mr. Ferriter said, just buy the smartboard just for the sole purpose of being able to say "We have smartboards." Sure they look awesome and are cool to have but skill and passion makes the teacher not the technology.

Pros are

• They are great for demonstrations
• Colorful
• Acommodate different learning styles
• All ages respond
• Distance Learning
• Maximize limited computer access
• Attractive
• Interactive
• Kids like them
• Teach large groups computer skills
• Teach editing

Show how to use internet

http://www.waukeshaschools.com/WIT/smartBoard/benefits.htm

http://rmtc.fsdb.k12.fl.us/tutorials/whiteboards.html

Additional Assignment 2

In my opinion what Mr. Mitra did was the perfect example of the class motto of "I don't know let's find out." He put the computers out for those who had no idea how to use them and they figured it out. Such as when he had the students make themselves understandable to the speech to type tool. Also people that aren't motivated can learn but they may or may not learn as much as a motivated student. Because generally if you don't care and put effort into learning then not alot of learning will take place. I do believe that if a learner wants to learn and is motivated to learn they can. There is nothing that can't be accomplished if you want to learn or do something, whether it be children or adults.

For a student to teach themselves they need the tools. Such as a computer, or books, or just another person. A person or a group of people to bounce ideas off of is a tremendous help to me. Because I am not just trying to absorb information but I also get to see what other people think and if I don't grasp something I can ask someone else and get their take on the subject.

There are three basic types of motivation. Fear motivation is the classic "Do this or else...." Intrinsic motivation is just "I want to clean my room because I'll feel good about doing what I need to do." There is also incentive motivation which is "If you clean your room I'll give you twenty dollars." Fear motivation stops working once the threats aren't followed through or the fearful gets away from fear source. Intrinsic is the best one because it comes from within, and incentive motivation requires the incentive to get bigger over time or it stops working. And for a student to be motivated to learn one of these three methods needs to be used. Obviously the fear and incentive should be avoided but sometimes it needs to be done.

I teach myself when I have no one else around to instruct me how to do something but I learn best by watching and repetition. Whether it be a new recipe or EDM 310. But I would much rather have a teacher present to show me how to do something because I'm usually not confident that I have the right idea or methods.

The biggest thing I took away is that I don't want to be a teacher that is too good to teach somewhere that needs me. Sure everyone's dream is to teach at their alma mater or a nice school with all the best but honestly those places don't need me. I think all aspiring teachers should teach where they are needed. Maybe not for their whole career if that isn't where their heart is but the experience can change your life.

Blog 7

The Last Lecture

I had watched his abridged "Last Lecture" on Oprah and I've seen the interveiw with his wife after his death and its still hard to believe that he is dead. I hope that if I ever find out that I am terminal that I can be that positive and influential.
When you are a kid it is so easy to dream and say "When I grow up..." Its the holding on to that attitude that is the kicker. Honestly I let go of whatever dreams I had as a kid so long ago that I don't even remember what they were. How sad is that? All I remember is saying that I wanted to marry someone rich. Which I'm sure that that does not count as a dream. Its totally true that the ones who care about you are the ones who push you. Because if they push you then they believe in you. You have to learn to appreciate the people who are constantly on your case. I wish I would have realized that five years ago.
"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, we just have to learn to play the hand"-Randy Pausch. This quote from him really spoke to me. We spend so much time being bummed about a bad situation or a "flesh brick wall" that we hit that we forget that we can live through it. We just need to learn to pick ourselves up and put in some effort. If Randy Pausch can be positve and educate even through his 3-6 months left to live then by God I can live with not having everything I want. If you want something bad enough nothing can stop you.
"So my next piece of advice is, you just have to decide if you're a Tigger or an Eeyore. I think I'm clear where I stand on the great Tigger/Eeyore debate. Never lose the childlike wonder. It's just too important. It's what drives us."-Randy Pausch. I would like to think that I am hands down a Tigger. But as I mention pretty much every blog I get frustrated. I get discouraged. I wonder "what the hell am I doing?". This happens about 3 times a week. Then my Tigger jumps in with "Hello? Just bounce you got this" I wish my Tigger was permanent. Because we all know, the wonderful thing about Tiggers are Tiggers are a wonderful thing. Their tops are made out of rubber and their bottoms are made out of springs. Bouncy bouncy fun fun fun fun fun (believe it or not that was purely memory from my three year old little brother's toy).
This was hands down my favorite assignment. Seems like it was just in time and I really needed to hear him again.

C4T 2 Summary

Mrs. Carrillo's blog post that I commented on first was her fifty five minute classroom time structure. It was outlined as 5 min - Warm Up Activity
15 min - Instruction Part
15 min - Instruction Part 2- Different format as part one. Venn Diagrams etc.
10 min - Group Work.
10 min - Independent Practice

I thought that was an excellent idea. It keeps the students engaged and prevents restlessness. The students of our generation as mentioned in this class before, myself included, have very short attention spans and in order to reach the student you have to keep their attention. An engaged student is a successful student.

My second comment was on "What Makes a Good Dentist?". Ms. Carrillo states that even after all of the warnings and instruction she received on flossing and the dangers of not doing so so still does not floss everynight. Even though she knows the consequences. Which raises the question "is the dentist a bad dentist?" No. So if a educator does all they can to teach a student a concept and the student doesn't succeed according to a standardized test they shouldn't be considered a bad teacher.

I agreed completly. I also suggested that even the brightest students have horrible test anxiety so even though they know the information, they doubt themselves. There are also the apathetic students who could care less about learning. Even though the educator does all they can to reach everyone, it is impossible to do so. A standardized test should not determine a teacher's skill. I beleive the only true way to determine that is observation.

Timetoast1

C4K Summary 1

My kid was Ricky W. He is thirteen years old who likes PE and hates math. His manifesto outlined a plan to get more rest, wake up in time for breakfast, and study more in order in succeed. Ricky seems to be a nice interesting kid and he has a good understanding of what needs to be done to make it in school. I commented and agreed that math is my least favorite subject and his manifesto outlined a very good basic plan. I also found it funny that his photo was a McDonald's logo and I work at a McDonald's.

Blog 6

The Networked Student

I really enjoyed the way it was presented. It wasn't your typical "watch someone talk" video and I thought that was pretty cool. The idea of a networked student seems intimidating yet exciting. I kind of fear that they'll know too much I guess. And that is a terrible terrible thought. I guess what I mean is I fear an arrogant know it all student. But those are inevitable in my experience. But a self motivated information seeking student will be amazing. I have a great passion for learning and reading and I love to see that quality in other people.

I agree that teachers will always be needed. There always needs to be someone there to show students how to use and discerne the information they find. In addition there are always guidelines and regulations that need to be followed in order to do a project correctly.

7th Grader's Personal Learning Enviroment

Her learning enviroment is so much more condensed than mine. Mine consists of four notebooks, four books, and my desktop that has my papers and online assignments. Whereas all of hers is paperless. In addition if I lose or spill something on my stuff it is either lost of damaged. But hers can be accessed on any computer. She seems really mature and savvy. Not your average twelve year old. I really like all the organization and knowledge she has.

The Machine is Changing

I liked the origin of the word whatever and how he uses clips from tv shows. The South Park "whatever whatever i do what I want" is actually an impression that is heard alot in my circle of friends. My generation does have really short attention span. We sit on Youtube watching mindless amusing clips such as "Charlie bit My Finger". Honestly I watched that and thought "Where are the parents?". They let their child hurt another one of their children because they thought it was funny and that other people would find it funny. Its really not. That toddler was screaming and obviously it really hurt. Youtube being used as a confessional is pretty cool. Sometimes people can't talk to other people about things they are feeling so they talk to "themselves" and they know someone will watch and put their input. Which will be a comfort to some. Also it can be a huge medium for others to see your ideas. The Free hugs video is a favorite of mine. Funny thing is I went to Bayfest last night and there was a guy with a shirt that said "free hugs" and I hugged him. We need to go back to whatever as in "By Whatever means neessary".

Project 8

Blog 5

Eagle's Nest Radio

Well today I learned from third graders where the saying "All roads lead to Rome" came from and the sometimes they filled the colluseum with water to simulate naval battles. These kids are so good at the podcasts. Its hard to believe that they are the same age as my little sister. They are so articulate and confident. I can learn alot from these young ones.

Benefits of Pocasting in the Classroom

A huge benefit with podcasting that I saw is the recoding of lectures and the ability of playback. Some students learn better by hearing rather than reading and notetaking. Also they can get their lessons if they are out sick for an extended period of time. This is a tool I intend to use. in high school I had a friend with gastrointestinal problems who only made it in a few days and ended up with a 30 in the class because he missed so many lectures. I don't want that to happen to any student of mine. I also really liked how it can engage the students and make the learning fun for them as they can act out projects.

Education Podcasting Network

I love the organization of this site. From grade specific to subject matter everything is very neat and consise. There is no "digging" to find what you need. The idea of having one site with so much information on anything you need to know if very exciting. In addition to finding information you need you canget a creative jolt to solve any "teacher's block".

Blog 4

Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff Please

This article is written by by Mr. Scott McLeod, who is an associate professor of education administration at Iowa State University and also co-creator of the faculous Did You Know video. In this post he satirically comments on the many web dangers and other bad things that may happen. He says not to teach children technology because they'll only use it for Facebook and porn. I do agree that some students can get hurt or cheat or anything else but in my opinion the benefits of technology outweigh the risks. With proper supervision and instruction students can achieve and learn alot.

The iSchool Initiative

A big worry on my mind about this is what if it malfunctions and all students work is lost? I know its very unlikely and rare but it can happen. Aside from that I really like the compact and multifunctionality of it.I also really like the idea of all the applications, such as the graphing calculator, calendar, Chemical Touch, U.S Constitiution, and many other things. Also the cost is much much lower than our traditonal route. Books being able to be loaded into the iTouch will gratly reduce the load students have to carry around.

Lost Generation

I really do hope that in thirty years I won't be divorced and a workaholic. I believe that family is the most imporatant thing in my life. Happiness is a choice. I choose to get up at 7am four days a week and get dressed and go to school. It would be alot easier to withdraw from school and go from part time to full time at McDonald's, but that isn't a life or a career I want for myself. I'm not passionate about cheeseburgers, I am passionate about English and I choose to work and study and pass so i can have my passion for a career and not to choose the easy way out. I am not lost.

I really enjoyed the video though. I liked how the words were arranged so backwords there was a really optimistic message. The message of "this is what they say but they are wrong" was awesome.

Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir

WOW !!! That was amazing!!!! The vasrious uses of the internet never cease to amaze me. The way it sounded you would thing this was very rehearsed but they've never met! This shows us networking in its finest form.

Additional Assignment 1

I had no idea that google squared or wolframalpha existed until today and I think they are pretty cool gadgets. I really like how you don't have to sift through a lot of links to get the information you need like in regular google. I think google squared and wolfram alpha in education will help students find what they need to know in a fraction of the time. I also like the pictures and maps included in various seraches that you do.
Your comments didn't alter my thinking too much on Did You Know but it did reinforce how small we are in comparison to other places in the world such as India and China. In addition I learned that statistics are never a hundred percent accurate because several sources will have several different numbers. I learned to always check my statistical facts because again, they aren't a hundred percent. But I'm not so sure as when I use statistics what number to use for accuracy.
The stable boy grabbing his iPad and using it without problem is indeed magical. It is amazing how the six year old illiterate poor boy canhave no problem with it. makes me want to try it myself.

Google Presentation 1

Blog 3

A Vision of Students Today

        The video captures a some of my college experiences such as the lack of time and sleep, the expenses, and having to deal with problems that aren't "mine". My average class size is about thirty and almost all of my instructors know my name. Although them knowing who I am may have more to do with my participation than anything. I do believe that the job I have when I graduate does not currently exist. I have noticed that in several of the videos I have watched in EDM 310 reinforces that. I do feel the need to grab the students and shake them and say "WAKE UP!" that said they facebook in class, do other things than pay attention, or just don't go. Classes here at South cost $681 for a three credit hour class. I believe if you pay for a class then you need to go, take notes, ask questions, participate in discussion, and do your readings. Some things that you have to read may not be relevant to your life and that is horrible, but relevance won't let you pass. There defiantly are not enough hours in the day. Between classes, work, homework, and trying to keep my house clean and my husband happy there are some days when I have to say to  myself "What am I doing? This is too hard!". And the answer is always immediate. I do this so I can do what I love to do and not what I have to do to survive. I knew before I decided to go back to school that it wasn't going to be easy, but it will be worth it. 

          I think the students in the video focused more on the negatives of college life. I would add more positives like "This will be worth it", or "I wanted this". Because that is what should keep them motivated. Anything is better than working at McDonald's or any other entry level job. Believe me, that is my current place of employment. You can move up to management but is that really where you would rather be in five years? Or would you rather be what you want to be?

It's Not About the Technology

            I definitely agree that technology is a cool thing to have but only the mindset and feelings of the teacher is more important. Teachers no doubt need to also be learners. Theory and methods are constantly changing and educators need to maintain an open mind and learn the new methods. Not only do you have to be open to learning but you have to seek them out. Nothing worth learning or having ever just falls in your lap. 

        My favorite statement in the blog was “I don’t know why these kids don’t get it. I’ve taught it a hundred times.” Albert Einstein once said "The definition of stupidity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." If the way you are teaching a student is not helping them learn then obviously you need to change your methods. Having the best technology in the world does not make you a better teacher. It just makes you a more technological teacher. At the same time you have to be willing to adapt to new things.  
       Being a great educator doesn't require the use of smartboards or any other snazzy technology. Although its nice to have. The more important thing is students learning, students being able to solve problems, and also thinking for themselves.

                                     Is It Okay To Be A Technologically Illiterate Teacher?
       This post was the polar opposite of the above blogger. I'm not sure how much I agree. Yes you need to be literate to a point but you shouldn't lose your job over it. But you definitely should try to adapt. Like I said before teachers must also be willing to learn and adapt to new things with an open mind. These new things I am learning in EDM 310 can be overwhelming. For example going in and changing to html code in the wordle post frustrated me to no end. But I did it.

       I'm really on the fence about this blog. On one hand I see where he is coming from and everyone should have a basic understanding. On the other hand I don't think that it makes you a bad teacher. Karl said "Technology is the underpinning of just about everything we do today - and especially so in relation to how we communicate with each other. And isn't communication one of the essential ideas that runs through all of our disciplines?". This statement is very true. Communication is one of the utmost important things in our society. Without communication what do we have? Our means of communications are evolving so we need to learn how to use them. 

The Social Media Count

         The changes at such an astounding rate reinforce the fact that as educators we need to be open to adaptations and changes in technology and methods.  We also need to be aware of what changes are occurring in the world of technology so we know what we need to know.

Blog 2

"Did You Know?"

First of all let me say WOW. That video was crazy awesome and information filled. I think my brain may have detonated trying to absorb all of it. I can't believe that China will soon be the number one English speaking country in the world. That is so strange to me. How does that even work? India has more honors students than America even has students? I thought America was a pretty awesome place but this video opens my eyes to us being just a small blip on the map compared to everyone else. The progression of technology is so amazing. One in eight of the couples that got married last year met online. My parents probably never imagined when they were my age that they would marry someone they met online but my dad married my step mother who he met on eharmony.com in 2006. The video raised a very good question. Who and how did we get the answers that we look on Google from? Honestly I have no idea. I Google EVERYTHING. How did people entertain themselves before texting and social networking websites? Did they read? Were they more active? Is that why obesity is so common now? The progression of technology in my lifetime was enormous but I didn't even notice. But you can bet i have my eyes on it now. I don't want to be left in the land of the technologically illiterate and obsolete. 

Mr. Winkle Wakes

  This satiric video of Rip Van Winkle running around in modern times being scared of the technology in the business office and the hospital shows the progression of technology in the world except in the classroom of which stays exactly the same. The business office has printers, fax machines, and skype conversations  and the hospital contains ventilators, x-ray machines, and lasers whereas the school still has its teacher that lectures while the students take notes. In the back of the classroom sits a dilapidated and dusty computer. Perhaps the teacher attempted to start being more technologically literate but she gave up and when back to what she knew. I think the classroom needs to updated but not completely changed. I do like the idea of actively engaging students in the classroom but I think the methods can be updated with power points and smart boards.  

The Importance of Creativity 

From a young age we are programmed to be intelligent rather than creative. My parents for example constantly told us "turn off that music and study your chemistry" or "you don't need to take dance". They always said that there is no money in the arts. And quite frankly I have an awesome voice but I don't sing. Instead I study and read. The piece of paper that I'll receive in a few years that says I'm educated is more important in our society than being a "starving artist".

 But I think we need to encourage and support the arts. What if   Luwig Van Beethoven would have been told to work on his math? Then who would have written Fur Elise? Behind every great artist, musician, and composer has to be someone supporting them. We need to let children know that its ok to make mistakes and ask questions. After all the only stupid question is the one that is never asked. I really enjoyed this video. it was the longest but it pulled me right in.

Harness Your Students'  Digital Smarts

I really like how she uses technology to teach students. Her students are thinkers which makes it so they are self motivated and empowers them as people. Her students are so young yet they are so technologically literate. They make me feel so far behind. the students aren't creatively lassoed in which is very exciting to see. I loved how she said that she isn't only teaching them but they are teaching her. I think that teachers can learn a lot from   their students of they allow themselves to.

Wordle 1

Blog 1

Hello there!!! My name is Sharon Michelle Dice-Barrow and I am twenty-one years old. I have lived all over the Unites States because my amazing dad is in the Coast Guard. I am married to my husband Aaron of two years. We have three kittens named Snarf, Ewok, and Athena and my brother Steve sleeps on our futon in our one bedroom apartment. Sounds fun eh? I graduated from Alma Bryant High in 2007 and started my education at Judson College with a major in biology. I left there after a year and took two years off, which was a very stupid idea if I do say so myself. I found my brain again and came to south this fall and changed my major to english and secondary education. I absolutly LOVE literature and composition. I like to open my mind and just get into the stories, to try to put my mind in what and why the authors' wrote what they wrote. I want to channel my passion for books into my students. I was going to major in elementary education until I realized that I want my students to be able to read, write, know how to count, and be potty trained by the time they get to my class. I also love to cook. I make AMAZING peanut butter cookies, homemade pasta, and alfredo.