I never thought I would say this about ANY class, but I am very sorry this semester has ended. I have had the best instructors since enrolling at USA, and Mr. Tashbin is certainly no exception. When I enrolled in EDM 310, I expected a class that was a little tedious, mainly because it dealt with computers. I was told, by other students, that the class was all about how to use software, something I am fairly good at already. I geared up for a semester of boredom and repetition, learning how to create basic documents and spreadsheets. I am happy that I was wrong!
We have done so many fun and interesting things this semester. Here are my top three favorites...
1. Hands down, my favorite was creating and posting to my blog. Blogs enable us to throw our opinion out there for all to see. It enables viewers to comment, be they agree or disagree, on whatever you have opined on.
2. Next was the TECHNICAL side of pod casting. I will admit, I cringed when I saw my picture up on Dr. Strange's Blog. I did not enjoy hearing my voice on our podcast. I did, however, really enjoy the cutting and pasting of tracks.
3. I enjoyed learning about all of the "new" applications my computer is capable of. I never knew that there was so much "stuff" out there. Prior to this class, my computer was used only for typing papers, surfing the 'net, and e-mailing. Now, I know all about blogging, pod casts (listening and creating), and Twitter. Most importantly, I know if I like them or not.
It is sad this semester is over, because I am sure that there's a wealth of information about my computer (and it's uses) that I have not learned. However, I will not be afraid to try a new use when I hear about it.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Twitter, anyone?
I have to admit I am a staunch advocate of being "unplugged." I think that we, as a society, have become information junkies and I am failing to see the benefits of all that "stuff" we now know. The last straw for me was reading the article about thirsty plants twittering for water. If I need a reminder to water my plants, my life is too full and hectic and I need to do something about it. I don't care if my best friend's baby has finally fallen asleep, or if my brother in Kentucky is cutting his grass. However, some benefits of Twittering might be updates on a friend or family member who is critically ill. Instead of fielding many phone calls asking for updates, an hourly twitter might be in order...
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Podcasting - An Effective Tool for Educators?
Hola! This blog assignment was by far the most time consuming and least entertaining! I do not mean that to be an inflammatory statement, just my opinion. One could very well point out that it had to do with my choice of podcasts or the topic of the podcast. Having a degree in English Literature and obviously loving the written word is a double edged sword. A good novel will "grab" the reader within the first few sentences. A good podcast should do the same. Out of six podcasts, I found two that not only grabbed me, but held me in a vicelike grip. I will keep my subscription to those podcasts. In a nutshell, this is what I learned, or didn't learn as the case may be.
I first listened to the EdTech Talk podcast of February 2, 2009. On this podcast they had a guest who is working toward her PhD. and she apparently made a video that I will not take the time to look at this semester. It is about how to integrate new technology in the classroom. I choose this podcast for the topic, but was sorely disappointed in the delivery. What could have been a great podcast, packed full of useful information, was, at best, noise. As was MacBreak Weekly (episode aired February 3, 2009). I do not own a Mac, therefore this podcast was of no value to me. If I purchase a Mac, I am sure I will view this differently. It was all about the iPhone, which I do not own either. I also advocate being "unplugged" as much as possible in order to avoid overload. So, I obviously do not care if my phone can access the Internet. If I needed constant access to the Internet for my job, I would think the iPhone is a boon.
The next podcast I listened to was SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast, episode #3, dated February 1, 2009. I thought the information presented in this podcast was adequate, however, not very well presented. I then, very begrudgingly, moved on to Teachers Podcast Episode #39. This podcast replaced ConnectLearning, which I could not find. Again, what could have been a great podcast did not hold me. The subject addressed dealt with free resources for teachers and tips on converting video, art, language arts thus bringing it to the digital age. The first ten minutes were spent on extolling the virtues of a new sub-notebook computer that most teachers will not be able to purchase. This podcast also extolled the virtues of collaborative learning, which I myself find useful - sometimes. What is never pointed out during these podcasts are the opposing points of view. We don't live in a collaborative global village. The person who is best at their job or talent wins. Certain technology is kept secret until whomever created it can figure out how to profit from it. Period. If we lived in a collaborative society I would know all 12 herbs and spices in the Colonel's chicken recipe. So, needless to say, they lost me as well. I don't do well with the Kum-Ba-Ya approach. This lady's voice also drove me nuts. Kind of like nails on a chalkboard.
I did find two podcasts that I did like, and like very much. The first was KidCast, episode #59. It was about incorporating iPods in the classroom. Their style was direct, to the point and they actually talked about what they said they were going to talk about! This episode dealt with actively engaging students in the classroom while using technology. They pointed out that even if teachers do bring podcasting, smartboards or any technology into the classroom the students still remain passive. The question they asked and answered was how to change learning from a passive, static pursuit to an engaging, dynamic pursuit. I will keep my subscription to this podcast because it is so well done. I think I'd even listen to it if it was about the Mac!
As I mentioned earlier, I have an English Degree. That obviously means I love to read, write and enjoy anything that combines the two. I noticed a podcast entitled "Grammar Girl." I was unable to pass it up. So, I replaced the podcast about photography with the podcast about grammar. I will say that her style is very dry, which I find amusing (let's face it, grammar is not exactly a barrel of laughs). She has daily tips, which you can subscribe to, and has written a book entitled Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing. My birthday is coming up so please feel free to purchase this for me! Also, during this short podcast I learned something I can use in the real world. Let's face it, many people today do not know how to write, let alone speak, properly. As much as we say we advocate free expression, embrace different dialects, and accept slang, we don't. Before you begin to vehemently object to my opinion, ask yourself this question: How many newscasts do you see where the anchor says, "He don't care iffn they done caught him 'r not." I can't think of one.
I first listened to the EdTech Talk podcast of February 2, 2009. On this podcast they had a guest who is working toward her PhD. and she apparently made a video that I will not take the time to look at this semester. It is about how to integrate new technology in the classroom. I choose this podcast for the topic, but was sorely disappointed in the delivery. What could have been a great podcast, packed full of useful information, was, at best, noise. As was MacBreak Weekly (episode aired February 3, 2009). I do not own a Mac, therefore this podcast was of no value to me. If I purchase a Mac, I am sure I will view this differently. It was all about the iPhone, which I do not own either. I also advocate being "unplugged" as much as possible in order to avoid overload. So, I obviously do not care if my phone can access the Internet. If I needed constant access to the Internet for my job, I would think the iPhone is a boon.
The next podcast I listened to was SMARTBoard Lessons Podcast, episode #3, dated February 1, 2009. I thought the information presented in this podcast was adequate, however, not very well presented. I then, very begrudgingly, moved on to Teachers Podcast Episode #39. This podcast replaced ConnectLearning, which I could not find. Again, what could have been a great podcast did not hold me. The subject addressed dealt with free resources for teachers and tips on converting video, art, language arts thus bringing it to the digital age. The first ten minutes were spent on extolling the virtues of a new sub-notebook computer that most teachers will not be able to purchase. This podcast also extolled the virtues of collaborative learning, which I myself find useful - sometimes. What is never pointed out during these podcasts are the opposing points of view. We don't live in a collaborative global village. The person who is best at their job or talent wins. Certain technology is kept secret until whomever created it can figure out how to profit from it. Period. If we lived in a collaborative society I would know all 12 herbs and spices in the Colonel's chicken recipe. So, needless to say, they lost me as well. I don't do well with the Kum-Ba-Ya approach. This lady's voice also drove me nuts. Kind of like nails on a chalkboard.
I did find two podcasts that I did like, and like very much. The first was KidCast, episode #59. It was about incorporating iPods in the classroom. Their style was direct, to the point and they actually talked about what they said they were going to talk about! This episode dealt with actively engaging students in the classroom while using technology. They pointed out that even if teachers do bring podcasting, smartboards or any technology into the classroom the students still remain passive. The question they asked and answered was how to change learning from a passive, static pursuit to an engaging, dynamic pursuit. I will keep my subscription to this podcast because it is so well done. I think I'd even listen to it if it was about the Mac!
As I mentioned earlier, I have an English Degree. That obviously means I love to read, write and enjoy anything that combines the two. I noticed a podcast entitled "Grammar Girl." I was unable to pass it up. So, I replaced the podcast about photography with the podcast about grammar. I will say that her style is very dry, which I find amusing (let's face it, grammar is not exactly a barrel of laughs). She has daily tips, which you can subscribe to, and has written a book entitled Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing. My birthday is coming up so please feel free to purchase this for me! Also, during this short podcast I learned something I can use in the real world. Let's face it, many people today do not know how to write, let alone speak, properly. As much as we say we advocate free expression, embrace different dialects, and accept slang, we don't. Before you begin to vehemently object to my opinion, ask yourself this question: How many newscasts do you see where the anchor says, "He don't care iffn they done caught him 'r not." I can't think of one.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Bogs, Blogs Everywhere...Teacher Blogs Here and Abroad
Our assignment was to search and locate teacher blogs, both in the US and overseas. Well, did I find a few really cool blogs for you....
The first is http://www.anotefromtheteacher.blogspot.com/
It has book reviews, tips for parents on how to get your child to listen (better) and how to ascertain whether or not your child comprehends - without even asking a single question. I thought this site was a great one for both parents and kids.
The second site was http://www.dancingwithfrogs.com/
This site is by a teacher in Melbourne, Australia. She teaches in what we would call a Middle or Intermediate School and has four boys. Since I have four kids and want to be a teacher, I was immediately drawn to her. Her site is more of a way for her students, parents and friends to keep up with what is going on in her life. I found this site to be very, very, very entertaining. I will continue to follow this blog as I think she and I are very much alike. She enjoys life and makes the most of what she has!
The first is http://www.anotefromtheteacher.blogspot.com/
It has book reviews, tips for parents on how to get your child to listen (better) and how to ascertain whether or not your child comprehends - without even asking a single question. I thought this site was a great one for both parents and kids.
The second site was http://www.dancingwithfrogs.com/This site is by a teacher in Melbourne, Australia. She teaches in what we would call a Middle or Intermediate School and has four boys. Since I have four kids and want to be a teacher, I was immediately drawn to her. Her site is more of a way for her students, parents and friends to keep up with what is going on in her life. I found this site to be very, very, very entertaining. I will continue to follow this blog as I think she and I are very much alike. She enjoys life and makes the most of what she has!
The third blog is by Ms. Chung. She just started this site last week as a way for her to keep in touch with her students. She seems to be wanting to make this site a way for her to not only let her students know what she thinks about things, but for an appropriate way for her to keep in touch with her former students. Her site is: http://misschung.teacherlingo.com/
This is Ken. He created the last site I found and he is very entertaining. He loves to write, tell stories and give his opinion. He is a RETIRED teacher in England. His site is http://www.grumpyoldken.com/ . On his site he not only has links to his publications, but insight and thoughts on life in general. I found this site to be absolutely, positively hilarious. I was laughing so hard I had tears running down my face. I have to admit, I really like it when people reach the age where they just tell it like it is! However, you have to like that sarcastic kind of British humor. Obviously...I do!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Computers: Changing the Way We Think?
Are computers changing the way we think? Have we megabit off more than we can chew? Does technology today alter the very structure of our brains? To the point where behavior and personality are manifested differently? Possible, though not for the reasons stated in the article "Are Sites Such as Google Changing the Way We Think?" At least that is MY opinion.
While it is true that information is presented in bits and pieces, which one would assume would be easier to assimilate, we have become a culture that knows a little about a lot, instead of a culture that knows a lot about a few specific things. This will, in time, work to our disadvantage. Now, that I've irked you, calm down. That's not to say that nobody knows anything. There will always be those who excel in whatever they choose to do. It's just that there is so much out there to learn, and our brains only have the capacity to store a little bit of it. Unless you read Dianetics, your just like the rest of us. Able to learn and retain a finite amount of information. Not to mention that anyone can post anything anywhere and it is up to YOU to figure out what is accurate and what isn't. As a teaching tool, technology is a boon. But I ask you to ponder this: What happens if the technology crashes for a prolonged period of time? Do you think you'll even be able to get a cheeseburger? No. You won't.
I think that what the Internet and excessive technology does, in general, is drain our physical bodies. It is difficult to stare at a computer screen for a prolonged period of time. It strains the eyes, that has been proven scientifically (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eyestrain/DS01084 - 24k). And have you heard about positive ions? Sound good to you? Well, it isn't. NEGATIVE ions are good for you. Don't believe me? Check this out...http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/negative-ions-create-positive-vibes%20-%20117k%20-.
Having said all of that, I am absolutely, positively excited about the GDrive from Google. The mere thought of being able to look at all of my "stuff" without lugging around my laptop or those little stick thingys (which I do not own) makes me weak at the knees!! So, while I do advocate being "unplugged" on a regular basis, I want to get to my documents when I want them and I don't want to wait. Sound hypocritical? It is, I freely admit it. Hmmm, I think I'm going to go Google "hypocrite" and see what I get...
While it is true that information is presented in bits and pieces, which one would assume would be easier to assimilate, we have become a culture that knows a little about a lot, instead of a culture that knows a lot about a few specific things. This will, in time, work to our disadvantage. Now, that I've irked you, calm down. That's not to say that nobody knows anything. There will always be those who excel in whatever they choose to do. It's just that there is so much out there to learn, and our brains only have the capacity to store a little bit of it. Unless you read Dianetics, your just like the rest of us. Able to learn and retain a finite amount of information. Not to mention that anyone can post anything anywhere and it is up to YOU to figure out what is accurate and what isn't. As a teaching tool, technology is a boon. But I ask you to ponder this: What happens if the technology crashes for a prolonged period of time? Do you think you'll even be able to get a cheeseburger? No. You won't.
I think that what the Internet and excessive technology does, in general, is drain our physical bodies. It is difficult to stare at a computer screen for a prolonged period of time. It strains the eyes, that has been proven scientifically (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eyestrain/DS01084 - 24k). And have you heard about positive ions? Sound good to you? Well, it isn't. NEGATIVE ions are good for you. Don't believe me? Check this out...http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/negative-ions-create-positive-vibes%20-%20117k%20-.
Having said all of that, I am absolutely, positively excited about the GDrive from Google. The mere thought of being able to look at all of my "stuff" without lugging around my laptop or those little stick thingys (which I do not own) makes me weak at the knees!! So, while I do advocate being "unplugged" on a regular basis, I want to get to my documents when I want them and I don't want to wait. Sound hypocritical? It is, I freely admit it. Hmmm, I think I'm going to go Google "hypocrite" and see what I get...
Monday, January 26, 2009
ACCESS: Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators and Students Statewide
ACCESS is an amazing teaching tool. Imagine a school where resources are limited, thus inhibiting educators from being able to offer AP courses, or even courses that are considered higher level learning such as physics, trigonometry and calculus! Imagine a school not being able to offer an advanced diploma (which, by the way, is required by state law). Now imagine with a wave or wand, or more accurately a click of a button, technology that will make all of that disappear! Where kids in any school, anywhere, will no longer be thwarted by limited resources! That is what ACCESS is all about!!
In short, this is what ACCESS is: School "A" has the resources to hold a physics class; school "B" does not. School "A" teaches the class and while it is being taught, students in school "B" are watching it on a large screen in their classroom (videoconferencing) Not only is it being videoconferenced, it is a two way video/audio conference. The students and teachers from both schools can interact. Viola! Now students that were unable to take and complete this course are able to do just that.
Add to that, Internet based instruction as well! Highly qualified "E-Teachers" will post class material, quizzes, tests, hold "real-time" review sessions, and hold review sessions that can be accessed at any time.
All sites participating in this amazing program receive funds for equipment, professional development (i.e. training and such), technical support, IVC equipment, tablet computers, funds for miscellaneous items such as travel, materials, etc. and much more.
ACCESS is the answer so many schools have been looking for. With technology used in this way, all students will have the opportunity to excel! To learn more about ACCESS, go to http://www.accessdl.state.al.us/showaccess.php?lnk=aboutaccess.com
In short, this is what ACCESS is: School "A" has the resources to hold a physics class; school "B" does not. School "A" teaches the class and while it is being taught, students in school "B" are watching it on a large screen in their classroom (videoconferencing) Not only is it being videoconferenced, it is a two way video/audio conference. The students and teachers from both schools can interact. Viola! Now students that were unable to take and complete this course are able to do just that.
Add to that, Internet based instruction as well! Highly qualified "E-Teachers" will post class material, quizzes, tests, hold "real-time" review sessions, and hold review sessions that can be accessed at any time.
All sites participating in this amazing program receive funds for equipment, professional development (i.e. training and such), technical support, IVC equipment, tablet computers, funds for miscellaneous items such as travel, materials, etc. and much more.
ACCESS is the answer so many schools have been looking for. With technology used in this way, all students will have the opportunity to excel! To learn more about ACCESS, go to http://www.accessdl.state.al.us/showaccess.php?lnk=aboutaccess.com
Thursday, January 22, 2009
ALEX - Alabama Learning Exchange
Hi Everyone! I just finished browsing the ALEX website and I am very excited. ALEX is an easy to navigate website for not only teachers, but parents, students and administrators as well. When you click on the link provided below, it will take you to the ALEX website. There, you will find eight different headings from which to choose. They are: Courses of Study, Web Links, Lesson Plans, Search, Personal Workspace, Professional Learning, Distance Learning, and Help.
In Courses of Study, you will find lesson plans by grade and subject area. In Web Links, you can find links related to subject area that provide lesson plans, links to teacher forums, content for specific courses, activities/problems (math and science) and more. In Lesson Plans, you can create your own lesson plans (see Personal Workspace), find lesson plans by author, title, school, subject, or all or specific grade levels. In Search, you can do just that. You can enter any combination of words related to the subject you are looking for and the database will be searched, results will be displayed. In Personal Workspace, you will find instructions to create your own personal workspace. Remember to write down your username and password!! In Professional Learning, you will find links to help with grant writing and available grants, links to help ELL's (English Language Learners), the latest on Alabama Leadership Development and more. In Distance Learning, you will learn about ACCESS. ACCESS is Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators & Students Statewide. If your school has limited course offerings, ACCESS might be for you! In Help, you will get just that. It is packed with how-to's and FAQ's about ALEX.
I can't wait to use this database and went ahead and signed in to create my own personal workspace. I think that ALEX will help not only when I am a teacher, but also on my road to BECOMING a teacher!
http://alex.state.al.us
In Courses of Study, you will find lesson plans by grade and subject area. In Web Links, you can find links related to subject area that provide lesson plans, links to teacher forums, content for specific courses, activities/problems (math and science) and more. In Lesson Plans, you can create your own lesson plans (see Personal Workspace), find lesson plans by author, title, school, subject, or all or specific grade levels. In Search, you can do just that. You can enter any combination of words related to the subject you are looking for and the database will be searched, results will be displayed. In Personal Workspace, you will find instructions to create your own personal workspace. Remember to write down your username and password!! In Professional Learning, you will find links to help with grant writing and available grants, links to help ELL's (English Language Learners), the latest on Alabama Leadership Development and more. In Distance Learning, you will learn about ACCESS. ACCESS is Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators & Students Statewide. If your school has limited course offerings, ACCESS might be for you! In Help, you will get just that. It is packed with how-to's and FAQ's about ALEX.
I can't wait to use this database and went ahead and signed in to create my own personal workspace. I think that ALEX will help not only when I am a teacher, but also on my road to BECOMING a teacher!
http://alex.state.al.us
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
I matriculated from...
As I stated in my personal information, I currently hold two degrees. If you would like to visit the school websites, click on the links below.
Interior Design, The Interior Design Institute, Louisville, KY http://www.louisvilletech.com
English Literature, The Univcrsity of Louisville, Louisville, KY
http://www.louisville.edu
Interior Design, The Interior Design Institute, Louisville, KY http://www.louisvilletech.com
English Literature, The Univcrsity of Louisville, Louisville, KY
http://www.louisville.edu
Welcome To My EDM 310 Blog!
Hi everyone, welcome to my EDM 310 Blog! I am so excited that I created this blog - it wasn't even that hard! Yahoo! See you in class!
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