"Stay Positive" Those are powerful words that can achieve great things. Mr. McClung seems wise for a first year teacher. Here is another blog about culture he uses for his social studies class, McClung Culture Blog. He realizes the importance of putting the students' needs first. Getting to know your students is so important and he realized it the very first year. Some teachers never do. It is probably very easy to fall into that mentality of "I'm going to impress these teachers with what I know." I am going to remember the advice about the lesson plan, and not getting so hung up on it being perfect. Yes, giving an excellent lecture is important, but making sure the students understand what you are teaching and comprehend it is crucial.
McClung also points out that communication is key to building a good working relationship with other teachers, as well as students. I decided a long time ago that I want to be the kind of teacher who will be there for my students if they need someone to listen to their problems. McClung tells us to be realistic when it comes to the expectations of our students. As teachers, do not set the student up for disappointment and failure by setting the bar too high. There will be times they will fail, or not comprehend totally. We have to realize that each one learns at different rates and speeds. I feel his most message on this blog is to keep your classroom "all about the students" and I am all for that. We have to inspire and empower our students!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Wikipedia and Virgil Griffith
This was a very intelligent and gutsy move on the part of Cal Tech student, Virgil Griffith, who developed the WikiScanner tool. This allowed him to trace edits made by individuals and corporations to Wikipedia through their username or IP addresses. I have always been told by my professors here at South Alabama NOT to use Wikipedia as a source, and I do not. This must be why they have such disdain for it. Virtually anyone can make changes to the site to suit their needs or serve their purpose. There is definitely an argument for its validity, as well as its questionable credibility. The post regarding the Encyclopedia Britannica, and why their information is considered “credible” while Wikipedia’s is viewed as junk, raises an interesting question. How do we ascertain which sources are more credible and reliable? It is my opinion that there is bound to be some incorrect information printed in Encyclopedia Britannica. But Wikipedia would be subject to a greater misinformation rate due to the fact that basically everyone has a computer at their fingertips and can edit or add to the site on a whim.
Wikipedia calls itself "the free encyclopedia that anyone can edit," so one should expect “sketchy” information, and not assume it is ALL facts. Interestingly, it is perfectly legal to edit Wikipedia sites, but thanks to Virgil and his WikiScanner, the source of these changes can no longer be assured of the anonymity they have long enjoyed. Politicians are the majority when it comes to changes made to sites on Wikipedia. This is one reason I have never used this site as a source. And once I begin teaching I will not allow my students to use Wikipedia as a source either, not unless there are monumental changes between now and then. I must say, I was shocked to learn that even WalMart altered information about minimum wage on their site. Diebold, the voter machine company, changed details regarding the integrity of their voting machines, with one person deleting 15 paragraphs in November, 2005. Changes have also been notoriously made by actor turned politician, Al Franken, Fox News, as well as members of Congress! It was responsible of Virgil Griffith to check on the accuracy of edits belonging to the large pharmaceutical companies.
I believe government organizations such as the FBI and CIA should be prohibited from making edits. There are hopes that this tool will eventually improve Wikipedia since it will be much easier to find the trail of the editor. But someone determined to put a spin on their site or alter information can edit via a Wifi connection or web proxy that cannot be traced. Therefore, I feel is will be nearly impossible to rely on Wikipedia as a credible source of factual information.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Randy Pausch - Last Lecture
To know this man can walk out there and calmly tell the entire audience he is dying, displays a tremendous amount of courage and selflessness. He shows the CT scans of his liver and talks about his cancerous tumors as if it were no big deal. Randy Pausch is to be admired and I am in total awe of him. He takes the phrase “the power of positive thinking” to a whole new level. I love it when he drops to the floor and does the push ups to show he is presently healthy! He begins with his childhood dreams, how we can achieve our dreams and enable the dreams of others. I feel this is a critical concept to adapt in order for a teacher to connect with their students.
He remembers to mention everyone, thank everyone, praise everyone who has helped him achieve his goals. Here is a link, to 20 of Randy's great motivational quotes Be Life Savvy. He personalizes this lecture with the childhood photos and the list of his dreams. I like the way he talks about his dream of football and tells how he “learned more from this dream not coming true than any of the others.” The coach pushed him to do his best and surprisingly, to this day he feels most comfortable on a football field. Sometimes we have to push through the situations we like least in life to learn and grow as a person. This is something as teachers we can pass on to our future students. The old picture of encyclopedias on the bookshelf really brought back childhood memories for me as well. We can all learn something from him, and his message. Life is what you make of it and if you think positively you can accomplish amazing things.
His dream of wanting to be Captain Kirk from Star Trek, and the picture slide was really cute. Then I thought it was awesome that he actually met William Shatner when he came to MIT to check out his lab. Wanting to be a Disney Imagineer and the vacation pictures were so sweet. When he talks about being turned down for a job at Disney, he points out that the brick walls are there for a reason; to show how badly we want something. That is a motivating message for anyone to hear. Randy uses humor and fun stories to motivate everyone, especially his students.
Randy shoots straight when trying to get his message across to the audience. The story of the virtual reality of Disney’s Aladdin project was very impressive. He actually briefed the Secretary of Defense! Wow! So the Imagineer dream actually comes true for him with the help of his friend, Jon Snoddy, who gave him so much helpful advice. When he moved from the University of Virginia to Carnegie Mellon every member of his team except one went with him. This is a testament as to what kind of professor and person he was. Once he was at Carnegie, he produced 5 different projects every two weeks. He accomplished so much with the project, “Building Virtual Worlds”. I love how he always manages to throw a joke in that cracks up the entire crowd. He shares his memories of this lecture room from which he is giving his last. It is obvious that he cares about his students deeply.
He also reveals his love of life and his love of technology and all that a person can do with it. Randy Pausch shows such dignity when he tells his class “when you’ve had something for 10 years that you hold so precious, it is the toughest thing in the world to hand it over, so my advice is to find someone who is better than you.” How many professors at a prestigious school would be that open and down to earth? Not many. His statement that "the best gift an educator can give is to be self reflective" is so true and is something all teachers need to hear. When talking about lessons learned, Randy shows through family pictures that he gets his great attitude towards life and drive to help others from his parents. When he says have fun when teaching and that "he doesn’t know how to NOT have fun, that he’s dying and having fun", it gave me chill bumps. What a man. What a spirit.
We all need to remember to have fun when we teach. The comparison, “Are you a Tigger or an Eeyore?” is fabulous. It really makes you think. We should all try to be Tiggers. The first “head fake” was great, Randy reveals that his message is actually not about how to make your dreams come true, but how to lead your life.
The second "head fake" was even better. He says this talk wasn’t for his class but for his kids. It melted my heart. How we lead our lives is vital to our success as an individual. Randy Pausch was constantly thinking about others throughout his career and life, as well as his last lecture. When he had the cake brought out for his wife because it was also her birthday, it showed the selfless love he has for others. He is right, we do need to be honest, help others and live our lives to the fullest. This video has showm me things about my own life, how I want to be viewed by others and how I want to lead my life. This man was absolutely amazing.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Fisch Bowl
His blog is very to the point and interesting, to say the least. I agree with his list! All educators must have some technological background and be capable of using the technology they have learned in the classroom. This type of message may get the attention of those instructors who still don't believe it's important to become TL. They should be embarrassed because technology is right at our fingertips 24 hours a day! I was astounded to read that he used a computer in 1975. If administrators in the schools would get tough with these Tech Illiterate teachers they would get on board.
He just puts it right out there front and center. Especially in 5, 6 and 7 of his list, Fisch says if schools and universities can't produce technologically literate students for teaching, they need to find another job or at least be held accountable. Maybe this type of rhetoric is what it will take for everyone to snap to attention. Fisch is right when he states that too many teachers today feel it's okay to be technologically illiterate. He also points out that education does not solely revolve around technology, but is vital. I agree that technology is a tool that helps us to teach, learn and grow. It also assists us in communicating day to day with each other.
This quote says it all, "If a teacher today is not technologically literate - and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more - it's equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write." Educators must get it together and embrace this wave of technology, or get left totally behind.
He just puts it right out there front and center. Especially in 5, 6 and 7 of his list, Fisch says if schools and universities can't produce technologically literate students for teaching, they need to find another job or at least be held accountable. Maybe this type of rhetoric is what it will take for everyone to snap to attention. Fisch is right when he states that too many teachers today feel it's okay to be technologically illiterate. He also points out that education does not solely revolve around technology, but is vital. I agree that technology is a tool that helps us to teach, learn and grow. It also assists us in communicating day to day with each other.
This quote says it all, "If a teacher today is not technologically literate - and is unwilling to make the effort to learn more - it's equivalent to a teacher 30 years ago who didn't know how to read and write." Educators must get it together and embrace this wave of technology, or get left totally behind.
Monday, September 14, 2009
It's Not About the Technology
Kelly’s blog points out the critical fact that teachers can possess ALL of the latest technology tools, but ultimately require the basic individual drive to effectively teach their students. One of her first arguments on The Edurati Review website is titled, “Teachers Must Be Learners.” They must be willing to learn themselves, be up to date on the current trends, and understand what their students are doing and where they are coming from mentally. The second, “Learning and Teaching are not the Same Thing.” Teaching in the 21st century is more about teaching smarter than harder. Each student learns in a different manner. Educators must find ways to reach their students and hold their attention, not just go through the motions by lecturing and testing and thinking they have done the job. It is just as important to make sure the students are learning, as it is to teach the subject well.
Third, “Technology is Useless without Good Teaching.” An educator must be willing to USE the computers and other technological tools in a way that enhances the students’ learning experience. Also, more development on the administrative level is needed which incorporates curriculum and current technology. Fourth, “Be a 21st Century Teacher without the Technology.” I don’t agree with this one because I feel technology in the 21st century is crucial to inspiring and reaching the students, as well as teaching them. Computers and cell phones are a huge part of students’ everyday lives. By using these tools to teach they will have a better chance of capturing, AND keeping, their interest. Once a teacher has accomplished this task, half the battle is won, because this is the most difficult. It is much like laying the foundation with technology and building the rest with teaching skills.
A Vision of Students Today
The concept of hearing only the music and none of the students speaking, while holding up their notes, really held my attention. The majority of my instructors do actually know my name. Maybe that is because South is a smaller university. The environment for a college student of 2009 is far different than it was 10 years ago. Technology, and all that comes with it, can either help or hurt us as students. It all depends on how you choose to use it. If you sit in class and visit FaceBook or web browse the entire time, as I’ve seen many do, you won’t learn a thing. However, if you use some of the technology offered to your benefit, it can be a valuable tool. Not all instructors are “technologically literate”, and need to make an effort to get onboard. This YouTube video is very unique and inventive with one person speaking a word.
As a fellow student, I can relate to some of their messages. Such as, the astronomical cost of tuition and the debt I am incurring each semester; the increase in students reading and learning online versus the “ancient way,” (from a book, or a chalkboard). Also, my average class size is usually around 30 people, not 115.
I definitely agree with the guy about the expensive textbooks never used! Why is that? I average about 7 hours of sleep each night and do watch a good bit of television, I must say. But if I were a video producer, I would put more female students over the age of 30 in this video, with notes reading, “I work 40 hours a week, have a family AND complete my assignments.” There are more and more college students over the age of 30 now, some even over 40, like me. Just think about our presentations in class last week, so many of us are doing just that, working full time, taking care of a family and going to college.
As a fellow student, I can relate to some of their messages. Such as, the astronomical cost of tuition and the debt I am incurring each semester; the increase in students reading and learning online versus the “ancient way,” (from a book, or a chalkboard). Also, my average class size is usually around 30 people, not 115.
I definitely agree with the guy about the expensive textbooks never used! Why is that? I average about 7 hours of sleep each night and do watch a good bit of television, I must say. But if I were a video producer, I would put more female students over the age of 30 in this video, with notes reading, “I work 40 hours a week, have a family AND complete my assignments.” There are more and more college students over the age of 30 now, some even over 40, like me. Just think about our presentations in class last week, so many of us are doing just that, working full time, taking care of a family and going to college.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Plagiarism and Copyright
Plagiarism involves borrowing, buying or stealing a paper. If you hire someone to do your paper for you, or copy a large amount of text and do not cite the source, you are committing plagiarism. Always give credit when using someone else’s words. If you are unsure, give the credit anyway! Even information you gather by interviewing or having a conversation with someone should be cited as a source. And of course the obvious ones to credit are articles in a newspaper, magazine, book, or on the internet. Things that do not need to be cited are your own personal experiences, artwork, digital photos, video/audio. When paraphrasing, be careful not to plagiarize. Read the text, and then put it into your own words.
Also, list the author’s name in the same sentence with the quote. The website at Indiana University gave information about how to recognize acceptable and unacceptable paraphrases. It also lists strategies for avoiding plagiarism. The site at Bates College lists some things we rarely quote; such as illustrations, graphs or tables. They also give a wealth of information regarding how to cite and bibliography. This is a great cite to visit when preparing a college paper. Some of the copyright regulations listed on this site are topics about copyright, tips to search copyright records, law and policy, publications and how to record a document. You could spend a lot of time researching this website.
Also, list the author’s name in the same sentence with the quote. The website at Indiana University gave information about how to recognize acceptable and unacceptable paraphrases. It also lists strategies for avoiding plagiarism. The site at Bates College lists some things we rarely quote; such as illustrations, graphs or tables. They also give a wealth of information regarding how to cite and bibliography. This is a great cite to visit when preparing a college paper. Some of the copyright regulations listed on this site are topics about copyright, tips to search copyright records, law and policy, publications and how to record a document. You could spend a lot of time researching this website.
Alternative Web Browsing Tools
It is important for everyone to have access to the World Wide Web, just as we do. Unless you have someone in your family with a disability, it is probably not something you actively think about. However, the adaptive hardware and software could certainly help the blind and possibly the deaf when they are browsing the internet. I have always felt that the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was vitally important to Americans with disabilities. This act ensures they will be not be forgotten as we move through this technological age.
The Americans’ With Disabilities Act of 1990 stops people from discriminating against those with disabilities. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires suppliers of telecommunications products make their products easily available. Some of the tools used for alternative web browsing include; Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (WCAG), gives access primarily to disabled users. XML Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (XAG), explains how to include features in XML applications that promote accessibility. There is also Screen Magnification Software available for those who do not see well or have a learning disability. It can enlarge parts or the entire computer screen, and read text content aloud. Screen Reader Software is for the totally blind. JAWS and Window Eyes can read all parts of the screen by using speech commands. Via Voice and Dragon Naturally Speaking are voice recognition software that where a user enters commands by speaking into a microphone. Typical users of this application are people who are quadriplegic, have cerebral palsy and other injuries to the hand.
Portable Data Assistants (PDA’s) are alternative web browsers. They include a keyboard (Refreshable Braille Display) which uses Braille for the blind. I think this is absolutely awesome. I had no idea this even existed until I took this course. The article regarding WC3 Web Accessibility Initiative was very informative. It uses different approaches for people with hearing, vision, physical or cognitive impairments. (Such as the Braille keyboard!) This article assists web designers and users too. Section 1 has a list of browsers that specifically pertains to people with disabilities. What a great concept! Just opening our laptop and typing away is second nature to us. We don’t even stop to think that it may not be that easy for others.
The Americans’ With Disabilities Act of 1990 stops people from discriminating against those with disabilities. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires suppliers of telecommunications products make their products easily available. Some of the tools used for alternative web browsing include; Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (WCAG), gives access primarily to disabled users. XML Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 (XAG), explains how to include features in XML applications that promote accessibility. There is also Screen Magnification Software available for those who do not see well or have a learning disability. It can enlarge parts or the entire computer screen, and read text content aloud. Screen Reader Software is for the totally blind. JAWS and Window Eyes can read all parts of the screen by using speech commands. Via Voice and Dragon Naturally Speaking are voice recognition software that where a user enters commands by speaking into a microphone. Typical users of this application are people who are quadriplegic, have cerebral palsy and other injuries to the hand.
Portable Data Assistants (PDA’s) are alternative web browsers. They include a keyboard (Refreshable Braille Display) which uses Braille for the blind. I think this is absolutely awesome. I had no idea this even existed until I took this course. The article regarding WC3 Web Accessibility Initiative was very informative. It uses different approaches for people with hearing, vision, physical or cognitive impairments. (Such as the Braille keyboard!) This article assists web designers and users too. Section 1 has a list of browsers that specifically pertains to people with disabilities. What a great concept! Just opening our laptop and typing away is second nature to us. We don’t even stop to think that it may not be that easy for others.
Practical Principals Podcast
Melinda Miller is a principal in a Missouri elementary school. Scott Elias is an assistant principal at a high school in Colorado. Together they record the Practical Principals podcast, and use them in their administrative roles to enhance learning in their schools. They discussed the Apple Distinguished Educator events and what the educators and administrators learn there. Scott was recently accepted into the program, and gives the audience some insight. They learn the latest about different Apple applications, and implementing them into videos and podcasts. Each person learns from one another at these national events. The overall theme for the most recent one was “branding” and how it can be used in education, and the classroom.
This Apple program even has an impressive video and audio training site. It has actually trained people who have won Grammys! It teaches the educators how to collaborate with one another by using podcasts and Twitter, to name a few. They are able to communicate through networking and share with each other. Each person brings a unique perspective to the table, and they are able to become more informed about the latest technologies in poscasting. Surprisingly, Melinda and Scott have never even met! They just do their podcast together once a month. Pretty neat!
This Apple program even has an impressive video and audio training site. It has actually trained people who have won Grammys! It teaches the educators how to collaborate with one another by using podcasts and Twitter, to name a few. They are able to communicate through networking and share with each other. Each person brings a unique perspective to the table, and they are able to become more informed about the latest technologies in poscasting. Surprisingly, Melinda and Scott have never even met! They just do their podcast together once a month. Pretty neat!
Video Podcast - Technology Literate Teacher
I listened and watched the Technology Literate Teacher video podcast. This is definitely a great way to show us how to prepare for our video podcast in Professor Averitt’s class. It also helps us to know what to do, and what to avoid. The podcast was interesting, but I thought the speakers could have put a little more personality into it. Donna spoke in a somewhat monotone manner, and very, very, slowly. Also, the only person who looked into the camera was Dr. Strange. The others basically just stared at the microphone on the table. Eye contact is a key component when communicating with an audience. Some of the students looked down at the table a lot while others were talking.
I am sure it is much more difficult than it looks. When I do mine with my group, I will try to look into the camera, and speak in a way that will attract, and hold, the viewer’s attention. It is also important for everyone to join in the conversation. There were only a couple of people who spoke the majority of the time during the podcast. Kitty seemed to be more confident when speaking, and this may be due to the fact that she is a graduate student and has more experience. Also, it would be a good idea to record it in a room or setting that relates to the topic, or make sure the room has some color, etc. Overall, I enjoyed it, but felt it could use some improvement. More eye contact, facial expressions, and engaging speakers, could make a video podcast a success.
I am sure it is much more difficult than it looks. When I do mine with my group, I will try to look into the camera, and speak in a way that will attract, and hold, the viewer’s attention. It is also important for everyone to join in the conversation. There were only a couple of people who spoke the majority of the time during the podcast. Kitty seemed to be more confident when speaking, and this may be due to the fact that she is a graduate student and has more experience. Also, it would be a good idea to record it in a room or setting that relates to the topic, or make sure the room has some color, etc. Overall, I enjoyed it, but felt it could use some improvement. More eye contact, facial expressions, and engaging speakers, could make a video podcast a success.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Podcasts
The first one, SmartBoard Lessons, starts out with Ben Hazzard and Joan Badger using some inappropriate conversation about alcohol, in my opinion. This is not a good approach to use. But later in the podcast they talk about their "Year End Ideas", specifically, how to use iPods, iPhones, and Goggle Documents to help students create different projects. They also tell students how to sign up for Twitter and send tweets. The KidCast podcast was a bit different. Dan Schmit uses a very calm and "teacher like" voice to talk about video podcasting. He points out that they can require a lot of time if you make it too complicated. He helps students envision themselves as the teacher and tells them how to guide their students while doing their research, which I think is a great idea.
Dan Schmit also advises to keep the "vodcasts" relatively short, because once students post them onto YouTube they will be compressed. He gives further instructions on how to download in order to post it. The approach used by David Warlick in Connect Learning, Episode 90, is interesting. He is at a conference with 9,000 librarians! I feel it is important to include our libraries while teaching students about the latest technology. Letting the audience give their own ideas keeps it from being boring. Since I will be teaching history, I love the idea of using podcasts for a lesson on the American Revolution. The idea of students conducting a school interview through a podcast with the principal and teachers is a terrific idea also.
Asking them to state "Why does someone want to come to your library when they have a mouse in their hand", definitely gets the librarian thinking. One audience member suggested having a weekly radio program, informing the students about a project a particular teacher may be conducting, and reminding them that related material is in their library! This would also be a way of letting kids know what is new in the library as well. The EdTech Talk podcast discusses VoiceThread technology and how to use it with libraries and in the classrooms. I think this is so important because we cannot allow our libraries to be left behind with all of this technology flooding our lives.
One story that touched my heart is of the teacher describing the importance of VoiceThread when used by children who live in poverty. She tells how one boy was able to use his own voice, and it actually empowered him and gave him confidence, without the pressure of the basic curriculum tests and writing of a paper. That's why I want to use these technologies, to help educate and empower children who have the deck stacked against them. The MacBreak Weekly podcast covers everything for Macintosh. These guys really do sound like DJs!! This one was my least favorite because I don't use a Mac and some of the terms they used were foreign to me. It also seemed geared toward selling Apple products more than teaching anything. This Week in Photography podcast was more educational and interesting. They discuss the different brands of cameras and ask listeners which one they prefer. This podcast talks about the most mexapixels you actually need and the different features cameras have. They use the approach that a person can use their camera as a tool in life to learn and teach. Great concept!
Dan Schmit also advises to keep the "vodcasts" relatively short, because once students post them onto YouTube they will be compressed. He gives further instructions on how to download in order to post it. The approach used by David Warlick in Connect Learning, Episode 90, is interesting. He is at a conference with 9,000 librarians! I feel it is important to include our libraries while teaching students about the latest technology. Letting the audience give their own ideas keeps it from being boring. Since I will be teaching history, I love the idea of using podcasts for a lesson on the American Revolution. The idea of students conducting a school interview through a podcast with the principal and teachers is a terrific idea also.
Asking them to state "Why does someone want to come to your library when they have a mouse in their hand", definitely gets the librarian thinking. One audience member suggested having a weekly radio program, informing the students about a project a particular teacher may be conducting, and reminding them that related material is in their library! This would also be a way of letting kids know what is new in the library as well. The EdTech Talk podcast discusses VoiceThread technology and how to use it with libraries and in the classrooms. I think this is so important because we cannot allow our libraries to be left behind with all of this technology flooding our lives.
One story that touched my heart is of the teacher describing the importance of VoiceThread when used by children who live in poverty. She tells how one boy was able to use his own voice, and it actually empowered him and gave him confidence, without the pressure of the basic curriculum tests and writing of a paper. That's why I want to use these technologies, to help educate and empower children who have the deck stacked against them. The MacBreak Weekly podcast covers everything for Macintosh. These guys really do sound like DJs!! This one was my least favorite because I don't use a Mac and some of the terms they used were foreign to me. It also seemed geared toward selling Apple products more than teaching anything. This Week in Photography podcast was more educational and interesting. They discuss the different brands of cameras and ask listeners which one they prefer. This podcast talks about the most mexapixels you actually need and the different features cameras have. They use the approach that a person can use their camera as a tool in life to learn and teach. Great concept!
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