Blogging
A blog is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.
How can blogs be used in elementary classrooms?
One teacher leads a discussion about how to effectively use blogs in elementary classrooms. He feared that his students were just having a conversation with themselves electronically, he was seeking other ways to incorporate blogs into his classroom. There were many ideas; current events, having students develop expertise and personal interest, record math or science written explanations, learn how to comment on other students work, and also the teachers get the opportunity to experiment with blogs. I learned that blogs can be used for a number of things, they are a great alternative to using Microsoft word. When students have their own blog they can add work with pride to their personalized blog page.
What is the best way to address this issue: class webpage or blog?
Most people who responded suggested that the teacher have a class webpage and link student blogs to this. Apparently class web pages can look "unprofessional" and blogs have a specific format making them appear organized. I really liked the straight forward response, "Use a wiki if lots of teachers and lots of students need to post information. Use a blog if one teacher or one student needs to post information. Use Google Sites for individual teacher pages." I liked this response because it gives the classroom plenty of options and fulfills everyone's needs. I agree that teachers should have a class webpage and student blogs.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Journal #10 Is Internet Access a Basic Human Right?
Maxlow, J., & Bernasconi, N. (2010). Is Internet access a basic human right?. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3720092010/MarchAprilNo6/Point_Counterpoint_Is_Internet_Access_a_.htm
When I think of basic human rights, the right to access the internet sure is not one of them. This article presents two arguments, one presenting the view that the internet is a basic right and the other opposing this view. The individual that believes the internet is a basic right points out that the internet plays a key role in our "freedom of expression, democratic participation, and economic livelihood." She points out that in order to know whats going on in the world and to participate in a number on things the internet is essential. I can't agrue with her when she asks "try to imagine a college graduate in 2020 finding a decent job where Internet skills aren’t important", I cannot image this either, the internet is growing so fast I can't even image what 2020 holds. On the other hand, another individual argues that access to the internet is not a right. He argues that it can enhance intelligence, potential, lifestyle and all of the above, but it is not a right. He argues that, "basic human rights do not govern what an individual can receive". He suggests that the internet is a privilege, not a right. He feels that the internet can aid exercising human rights, but the internet itself is not a right.
Where do you stand on this issue?
I believe that access to the internet is not a basic human right. I think that it is a privilege and not a right. There is no doubt in my mind that the internet is a wonderful tool and enhances plenty aspects in life; although, it is not a "human right" to get to experience this. If the internet was a basic human right then would that mean there would be computers in all jail cells?
Could you incorporate this article in your classroom in some way?
I think it would be a great idea to have students (5th grade and older) read this article. You could prompt students to write a paper presenting their belief. This would first of all make them realize how lucky they are to have such great access to the internet and it would get them to think. This assignment would also introduce them to writing argumentative essays. This article is very interesting and I think our youth would take a great interest in it as well.
When I think of basic human rights, the right to access the internet sure is not one of them. This article presents two arguments, one presenting the view that the internet is a basic right and the other opposing this view. The individual that believes the internet is a basic right points out that the internet plays a key role in our "freedom of expression, democratic participation, and economic livelihood." She points out that in order to know whats going on in the world and to participate in a number on things the internet is essential. I can't agrue with her when she asks "try to imagine a college graduate in 2020 finding a decent job where Internet skills aren’t important", I cannot image this either, the internet is growing so fast I can't even image what 2020 holds. On the other hand, another individual argues that access to the internet is not a right. He argues that it can enhance intelligence, potential, lifestyle and all of the above, but it is not a right. He argues that, "basic human rights do not govern what an individual can receive". He suggests that the internet is a privilege, not a right. He feels that the internet can aid exercising human rights, but the internet itself is not a right.
Where do you stand on this issue?
I believe that access to the internet is not a basic human right. I think that it is a privilege and not a right. There is no doubt in my mind that the internet is a wonderful tool and enhances plenty aspects in life; although, it is not a "human right" to get to experience this. If the internet was a basic human right then would that mean there would be computers in all jail cells?
Could you incorporate this article in your classroom in some way?
I think it would be a great idea to have students (5th grade and older) read this article. You could prompt students to write a paper presenting their belief. This would first of all make them realize how lucky they are to have such great access to the internet and it would get them to think. This assignment would also introduce them to writing argumentative essays. This article is very interesting and I think our youth would take a great interest in it as well.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
NETS PowerPoint (NETS-T, II, III)
I created a PowerPoint presentation to demonstrate how presentation software can enhance learning. This PowerPoint also demonstrates the transfer of knowledge to new technologies. I used this presentation software to present ISTE's NETS for Students. I researched the NETS for grades pre-kindergarten to second and came up with lessons that could fulfill these performance indicators. In creating this Powerpoint I used custom animation, transitions, hyperlinks, graphics, and photos in order to make my slide show visually pleasing.
Journal #9 Web 2.0. Today's Technologies, Tomorrow's Learning
Groff, J., & Haas, J. (2008). Web 2.0 today's technologies, tomorrow's learning. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(2), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3620082009/SeptemberOctoberNo2/L_L_September_October_2008.htm
This article is about how "social networks, simulations, and digital gaming are bridging the gap between traditional scholastic culture and today's learners". Since much of most children's time is consumed by playing interactive games or spent social networks, researchers at MIT's Education Arcade are trying to find technology that are both educational and captivating. I like how they are looking at video games as potential beneficial resources and aren't ruling them out completely. The idea of using the Network tool Ning, sounds very intriguing. It is a resource that allows you to create a private network for your classroom where you can communicate holistically and individually with your students. Ning would be a great way for students to utilize their computer skills and experience a type of social network with their peers.
If MIT's Eduction Arcade came up with a free educational video game would you use it in your classroom?
I definitely would do so. Children already immerse themselves in meaningless computer games, why not get them involved in one that can teach them something. It might be a little extra work for the teacher to research and set up, but in the end it will hopefully pay off.
How can you get started with using technology in your classroom?
First you could explore the net for fun and interactive games and sites that are classroom friendly. Maybe ask a colleague how he/she uses technology in their class and borrow ideas. If you are really lost in the world of technology, take a tech class and apply what you learn in your classroom!
This article is about how "social networks, simulations, and digital gaming are bridging the gap between traditional scholastic culture and today's learners". Since much of most children's time is consumed by playing interactive games or spent social networks, researchers at MIT's Education Arcade are trying to find technology that are both educational and captivating. I like how they are looking at video games as potential beneficial resources and aren't ruling them out completely. The idea of using the Network tool Ning, sounds very intriguing. It is a resource that allows you to create a private network for your classroom where you can communicate holistically and individually with your students. Ning would be a great way for students to utilize their computer skills and experience a type of social network with their peers.
If MIT's Eduction Arcade came up with a free educational video game would you use it in your classroom?
I definitely would do so. Children already immerse themselves in meaningless computer games, why not get them involved in one that can teach them something. It might be a little extra work for the teacher to research and set up, but in the end it will hopefully pay off.
How can you get started with using technology in your classroom?
First you could explore the net for fun and interactive games and sites that are classroom friendly. Maybe ask a colleague how he/she uses technology in their class and borrow ideas. If you are really lost in the world of technology, take a tech class and apply what you learn in your classroom!
Journal #8 Tapping the Wealth of Social Networks for Professional Development
Greenhow, C. (2009). Tapping the wealth of social networks for professional development. Learning & Leading with Technology, 8(36), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3620082009/JuneJulyNo8/L_L_June_July_2009.htm
This article offers some great insight on social networking. I liked how they associate facebook with learning. Often times individuals post photos they have taken, artwork, poems, or just express their emotions through text via status updates. Their peers, friends, and/or family may "like" or comment on these posts; this article suggests that the feedback from others motivates people to improve or continue their interaction. The author suggests that this social network is creating social learning opportunities. I think this is absolutely true and is a great way for students to keep their self esteem at a healthy level. I also liked what was said about twitter, if used correctly twitter can be a great tool to get questions answered and communicate with multiple people. New social networks are often times perceived as a waste of time, but this article proves otherwise and I appreciate the authors insight.
How could you use twitter in the classroom?
Similar to what Dr. Heil has set up for Education 422; teachers can set us a class page on twitter. This will allow students to ask the teacher and their peers questions on homework or class assignments. I think this would be great because students can get their questions answered from home in a timely manner and not have to wait for a response from their teacher.
Is it okay for teachers to add students on social networks like Facebook?
I would say no. Teachers need to keep a professional relationship with students and keep their social lives private.
This article offers some great insight on social networking. I liked how they associate facebook with learning. Often times individuals post photos they have taken, artwork, poems, or just express their emotions through text via status updates. Their peers, friends, and/or family may "like" or comment on these posts; this article suggests that the feedback from others motivates people to improve or continue their interaction. The author suggests that this social network is creating social learning opportunities. I think this is absolutely true and is a great way for students to keep their self esteem at a healthy level. I also liked what was said about twitter, if used correctly twitter can be a great tool to get questions answered and communicate with multiple people. New social networks are often times perceived as a waste of time, but this article proves otherwise and I appreciate the authors insight.
How could you use twitter in the classroom?
Similar to what Dr. Heil has set up for Education 422; teachers can set us a class page on twitter. This will allow students to ask the teacher and their peers questions on homework or class assignments. I think this would be great because students can get their questions answered from home in a timely manner and not have to wait for a response from their teacher.
Is it okay for teachers to add students on social networks like Facebook?
I would say no. Teachers need to keep a professional relationship with students and keep their social lives private.
Journal #6 A New Concept of Digital Citizenship for the Digital Age
Greenhow, C. (2010). A New concept of citizenship for the digital age. Learning & Leading with Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25564&DirectListComboInd=D
In "A New Concept of Digital Citizenship for the Digital Age" the author discusses what exactly digital citizenship entails. ISTE and the Partnership for 21st Century Skills in the United States have formulated definitions of six important 21st-century competencies: technological fluency, innovation, communication and collaboration, research and information fluency, problem solving, and digital citizenship. The question is how to meet this standard for digital citizenship. It is defined as the ability to practice and advocate online behavior that demonstrates legal, ethical, safe, and responsible uses of information and communication technologies. Individuals have attempted to research ways in which are useful to and safe in fulfilling the digital citzenship standard, for example; safe ways to blog and use social websites. There is still plenty of research that needs to be done in finding out which activities best satisfy digital citizenship.
How can I as a teacher improve digital citizenship early on?
Teachers can introduce students starting in kindergarten or first grade to computers; they can do this by teaching them correct terms and parts of the computer. After students know the different parts of the computer they can start exploring it first hand. Students can then use tools like, Microsoft, PowerPoint, Excel, and the internet to practice their new computer skills.
At what age would you recommend students to start having their own blog, facebook, etc.
I would say that the earlier the better for an education blog; as soon as the student has the skills to do so. As for facebook, I would say that after students are aware of cyber predators, cyber bullying, and the dangers of the internet. It is very important for students to know that the internet is not always safe, after they know this they can make better decisions when browsing the net.
In "A New Concept of Digital Citizenship for the Digital Age" the author discusses what exactly digital citizenship entails. ISTE and the Partnership for 21st Century Skills in the United States have formulated definitions of six important 21st-century competencies: technological fluency, innovation, communication and collaboration, research and information fluency, problem solving, and digital citizenship. The question is how to meet this standard for digital citizenship. It is defined as the ability to practice and advocate online behavior that demonstrates legal, ethical, safe, and responsible uses of information and communication technologies. Individuals have attempted to research ways in which are useful to and safe in fulfilling the digital citzenship standard, for example; safe ways to blog and use social websites. There is still plenty of research that needs to be done in finding out which activities best satisfy digital citizenship.
How can I as a teacher improve digital citizenship early on?
Teachers can introduce students starting in kindergarten or first grade to computers; they can do this by teaching them correct terms and parts of the computer. After students know the different parts of the computer they can start exploring it first hand. Students can then use tools like, Microsoft, PowerPoint, Excel, and the internet to practice their new computer skills.
At what age would you recommend students to start having their own blog, facebook, etc.
I would say that the earlier the better for an education blog; as soon as the student has the skills to do so. As for facebook, I would say that after students are aware of cyber predators, cyber bullying, and the dangers of the internet. It is very important for students to know that the internet is not always safe, after they know this they can make better decisions when browsing the net.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
NETS PowerPoint Rubric (NETS-T II, III)
My class and I created this rubric using a website called rCampus. Collaboratively we constructed specific guidelines to check for when grading our PowerPoint Presentations. This program is easy to use because the rubric is already created, all you have to do is customize a rubric. From this website I was able to print as many copies as I would like with room for comment. The tool rCampus made it easy for me to collaborate with my peers and at the same time analyze their work effectively.
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