Reflective Post-EME2040

So far this has been my second completed education course at Fort Southwestern state college. All in all, I have attempted three courses one of which I withdrew because it was a mini- term in the summer semester And I was sure I was not giving course my all. I would have to say that throughout this course I have learned many new technologies that I have always been curious about. Before starting this course I thought that I knew a lot about computers, technology, new social media, and how the World Wide Web worked. I was surprised see there were so many new concepts that I was unaware of. The opportunities to work with fellow classmates even virtually presented additional challenges and rewards.

 There were times that I felt I could do the project better alone, and there were times that I was thankful to have collaborated effort of my peers. I would have to say that I hope there's a way for me to save all of the information that was presented to me through this course other than my delicious account. I found the information links tools and additional resources to be an immense database of knowledge available.

 After these assignments are turned in I hope to go back through all of the modules and save every link presented to me through my delicious account for further research. And a lot of classes that I have taken online my biggest concern/critique is that the information disappears from canvas after the next term. My blog, web quest, instructional strategy wiki, two reports, and wiki space are all linked. However, I decided that I would add my favorite portion of this course as my technical visual element.

Link to my Eportfolio

Chapter 11: Engaging students in performance assessment and reflective learning. 

Notable concepts: 

1.     Clickers

2.     Democratic schools and classrooms

3.     Interactive Assessment via the Internet

 1.    Clickers are a system of remote control used by students to put their answers and replys on tests quizzes. The clickers are physical and control devices that work a lot like poll everywhere I introduced in my previous blog. Student responses are displayed real-time using a number system which can be graphed and shows statistical data for the class. One major difference to the poll everywhere system using cell phone responses to quiz test is that this technology allows for compilation of historical data per clicker as each student is assigned a particular number which allows the data to be viewed at a later time.
 2.    By allowing the students to be involved in decision-making concepts, schedules, and ideas the Democratic school/classroom used in the middle to high school range, in my opinion, offers a taste of what responsibility and citizenship will entail in the future. Although many schools offer a student Government Association which can set certain ideas and be in control of fundraising, dance themes, or vending machine options, this concept allows a direct sense of control and an opportunity for the students to see how decision-making will affect their daily lives. This inclusive style helps foster the teaching and learning atmosphere in the classroom and encourages a greater respect for their educator as they feel a sense of equality. Increased participation has been a result in my daughter's classroom based on this concept.
 
3.    I was introduced to the idea of interactive assessment via the Internet while looking for a study guide on my introduction to oceanography course final. I found a website called “Quizlet”, which offered flashcards, step-by-step learning guide, to interactive games, and a definitions/speller application. From what I could gather the creator of this particular “Quizlet” needed or wanted a way to review for her midterm and final for the same introduction to Oceanography course, possibly by the same instructor, at the same school. After looking at the creator's profile and seeing that she had set up several of these quizlets for other courses, I decided to register and find out just how difficult the process would be to set it up for myself. The majority of time in the set up would be typing. Luckily, I use a speech recognition software and should be able to set up a quizlet for the classroom in very little time.

Bruff, D. ( 2014) Vanderbilt University Center for teaching Classroom Response Systems (“Clickers”) http://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/clickers/

kcazayoux (2014, May) via Quizlet accessed on August 7,2014  http://quizlet.com/42681109/6th-science-final-exam-review-flash-cards/

Maloy, R. W. (2011). Transforming learning with new technologies. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon. Chapter 10. (242-273)

Chapter 10:  Promoting Success for all Students through Technology

 Notable concepts: 

1. Interactive whiteboards. 

2. Speech recognition software.

3. Interactive electronic storybooks.

1.     Throughout my observations and introductory studies into the education field I have run into many experiences using interactive whiteboards/smart boards. I found the integration of visual, tactile, and auditory instruction to be a universal teaching method for all students. One personal experience that I had in my observations was being able to use a smart board for the first time. I was surprised that it was a little more complicated than I originally thought in reference to how to switch from one function to another and the steps that are needed. Luckily, I was able to pick it up rather quickly. I have included a PDF on the usage for a beginner here.

2.     I currently use speech recognition software "Dragon NaturallySpeaking" on a daily basis throughout my collegiate studies. I first came across this revolutionary software working at a law firm in Massachusetts where I was required to dictate and type/transcribe immensely long policy documents and corporate regulations on newly changing consumer protection legislation in reference to real estate. I have never been an adept typists, however the use of this technology allows me keep up the pace with my colleagues and become the office manager. In reference to education speech Recognition software can be Used for learners with physical disabilities, English as a second language, or students with mental impairments.

3.      In reference to interactive electronic storybooks i.e. Leap Pad and Leap Frog etc.  These engaging devices can offer both visual and auditory assistance for the emerging reader the inclusiveness also gives the student a means of control over their story to which they feel as though they're contributing in some form or involvement the progression and the end result. These devices also offer proven successful learning strategies such as highlighting, visual cues, definitions for unfamiliar words, and sound effects.

This video from One of my favorite speakers (Sir Ken Robinson) on Educational philosophy and reformation integrates many of the topics I've mentioned above. 

Smart Technologies (2006) Quick Reference accessed via Web August 6, 2014 https://help.med.unc.edu/training/presentations/smartboard-sympodium-documentation/smartboard-basics.pdf

Robinson, K. (2013, May 10) How to escape education's death valley via Youtube.com Acessed August 6, 2014 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wX78iKhInsc 

Maloy, R. W. (2011). Transforming learning with new technologies. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon. Chapter 10. (242-273)

Chapter 3: Transforming Leaning with Unique, Powerful Technology

 Chapter 3: Transforming Learning with Unique, Powerful Technology
As a mother of three I am regularly trying to limit the amount of time my children spend with electronic devices and computers, why on the other hand as a teacher would you want to encourage the use of such technology?
It is specifically important for modern teachers to understand the importance of integrating effective technology in the classroom.  Not doing so will hinder our ability to engage and instruct a technologically advanced generation.
NETS-S
National Educational Technology Standards- for Students

How digital technology positively affects teachers and students behavior or attitude?
1. unique
2. powerful
3. transformative

ITCP- information technology and creative practices.

Digital Citizenship- understanding the rights and responsibilities teachers and students need to develop the attitude and skills in order to effectively use technology creatively and appropriately.

Digital Literacy- a multi-dimensional concept using a combination of technical, cognitive, and social skills.

Intro to Technology for Educators Chapter 1 Reflection:

 Concept one – tablets/ iPads these small however powerful devices using touchscreen technology and multiple applications available through Wi-Fi networks can help provide an interactive and engaging atmosphere for students and teachers. My biggest concern and one of the areas that I would like to learn more about through this class is safety on such devices, and how to maintain appropriate content.
 Concept two – teacher made blogs, websites, and wikis. Although I am somewhat familiar with blogs and websites and have visited Wikipedia many times, I have only come across a few wiki type pages that were very theme specific. (i.e.: game of thrones, Harry Potter, etc.) I am not at all familiar with how teacher based wikis work or how to implement and use these in the classroom learning environment.
 Concept three – podcasts/vodcasts. I have watched or listened to many of these types of digital media files. I have always found them to be engaging and able to increase my comprehension on a topic, even for strictly entertainment purposes. However, again I am not at all familiar with how to create them, link them, or effectively Integrate them into an educational atmosphere.

      Although this first chapter contains a few new concepts, I have heard of or used the majority of the technologies mentioned. I am most interested in the above listed concepts as there is a great amount of knowledge, ease of use, and comfortable functionality I look forward to learning  more about in this class.

Fantastic Video about the importance of incorporating Technology into our classrooms
Ken Robinson's most inspiring TED Talk

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