Sunday, July 26, 2009
Post #7
Each dimension requires a different procedure. To remember, I might create a flow chat and include some interesting images. Understanding would require me to present sound and perhaps a video. Applying would involve similar dynamics. The students could work together in groups while analyzing, and they would observe others’ information to evaluate. Then, the students could create a presentation about the lecture.
An issue related to educational technology that caught my interest is the reliability of internet sources. There is just so much false information out there, and how can we know what is real? Wikipedia.com is an example of a popular website that might not always be accurate, yet people often tend to use this as a “reliable” source.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Post #6
Wikipedia is a main source in the Web 2.0 generation. Overall, I enjoy using Wikipedia for basic things, such as finding information on nutrition, history, etc. Unfortunately, I do not trust Wikipedia enough to use it for major papers and essays. A lot of the information found on Wikipedia is proven to be false and unreliable. As a learning source, I would not trust Wikipedia, especially when a grade is at stake.
Using power point will greatly help me as a teacher. It allows me to give presentations in front of my classroom. With big images and bold text, giving presentations can be a breeze. Also, power point can help relay information to students over the internet, especially if they are not present in class.
Post #5
According to Chapter 3, distance learning could be a huge advantage when using the internet. If a child is not available for class for one reason or another, the internet can assist in the child’s learning, so that he/she does not fall too far behind. Even if the students are in class, the internet could be used for television programs and other internet based coursework.
Being a teacher is very exciting for me, but there are certain things that I am nervous about. Children (especially in elementary/middle school) can be rebellious, and they might decide to search something that is not considered appropriate for class. It would definitely be disappointing to have to deal with that, but I should prepare myself regardless!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Post #4
Encouraging students to use outlines, idea maps, and storyboards can benefit them in multiple ways. Chapter 7 states, “The organization and sophistication of the final project is a reflection of the planning that goes into it.” These planning tools will most likely be useful for my students throughout their entire educational career, so I would highly encourage my students to learn how to utilize these tools. In the work force, a student of mine might have to create a presentation for his/her boss. This is where organization will come in handy!
Learning how to use Inspiration has definitely opened up my eyes to new educational programs. MS Word is a standard program that is used every day, so when I saw Inspiration, a whole new world opened up! This program is the ultimate planning and organizing tool. My future students will definitely be learning how to use this program, because it is highly beneficial when creating new projects.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Post #3
On the website, http://kids.mongabay.com/elementary/ , the rain forest is described for kids. Big pictures are included, along with text to aid the picture. The text is close by and relative to the picture, which, according to chapter 6, help students retain information. Text styles are consistent, the colors are similar, the information is single spaced, and the website definitely focuses in on the audience.
During my sophomore year in high school, I was aiding for a 4th grade class. I helped the teacher, Ms. Wood, create a power point for her students that included multiple pictures of the civil war. She cited all of the pictures that she got off of Google and other websites. I believe she did this because she was planning on sharing this power point with other teachers, and it was used as a safety precaution. As a teacher, I would explain to my students how copyrighting works and when/why you should cite something. Copyrighting is something that everyone deals with, especially as an adult, so it doesn’t hurt to teach them too young!
Post #2
Chapter 9 has really mapped out the uses of MS Word thoroughly. Using tables to organize information is an example of how MS word is a handy tool. Creating lists that are bulleted and numbered allow a teacher to keep things organized. Teachers can create a newspaper and/or newsletters to update their students’ parents on the events coming in the near future.
I never really used MS Word for anything other than typing up essays and papers. Using Microsoft Word for making newsletters and quizzes is something that I never really thought about doing on this program until EME2040. As it turns out, I really enjoy being creative on MS Word and exploring new ways of making my document more extravagant.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Post #1
Since the invention of computers, the face of education has become more advanced and helpful than ever before. They assist in a problem-solving environment, as well as a constructivist learning environment. Unfortunately, technology can have its down falls when it comes to critical concerns. I agree that teachers and students must understand the ethical use of computers, as well as being cautious when seeing the effects of the digital divide. Learning should include both technology and old-fashioned classroom education.
In my classroom, I look forward to showing my students virtual field trips and other visual attributes that the computer has. The computer can be a great tool for visual learning and comprehension. As mentioned in Chapter 1, technology can simulate real world information, and I hope to learn how to bring about alternate worlds for my students to enjoy.
When I finally reach my goal of becoming an elementary school teacher, I hope that I can have my students enjoy the material, as well as fully understand it. I truly loved elementary school because I was lucky to have such influential teachers and mentors. Hopefully, I can live up to my expectations and have the same influence on my students as my teachers had on me.