My first Video Thread

Student + Technology = Engaged Learner

http://voicethread.com/share/2095364/

Social Networking to Enhance the Classroom Experience

This week we read and watched videos on utilizing social network sites in the classroom.  I am still concerned about bring in some sites due to liability and district policies.  I do, however, enjoy the idea of video threads in the classroom.  It is a great way to monitor student thinking and ideas.  It is a great collaborative tool for students and teachers to be involved in topic.  A video thread can be used for a group presentation by feeding ideas off each other and having a central place for those ideas to be recorded.  Overall, I am excited about implementing video threads into my classroom in the future.

This week's learning theory, constructionist, describes how students who build their knowledge through artifacts tend to retain their learning.  When students form a hypothesis about what learning is about to take place,it provides them a since of accountability in discovering and testing the different outcomes to prove or disprove their hypothesis. Technology plays a vital role in supporting this theory.  Through the enhancement of technology like spreadsheets and gaming systems, students engage in their learning to overcome challenges a traditional methods of teaching endure.

Responsibilty is Key in Education.

Responsibility…is the first word that comes to mind for behaviorist learning theory.   Responsibility is a behavior that children need to learn in order for them to succeed.  This practice should take place in the younger years so by the time they are in their mid-elementary years they will have mastered this skill.  There should be positive and negative reinenforcements to help build this skill.  Especially since responsibility is a lifelong skill.  Responsibility is a foundation for making a diligent student.   

If I had to summarize chapters eight and ten from the book Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works  by Robert J. Marzano in one word; the word would be responsibility.  The student is the one responsible for picking up content material through their effort on the course.  As an educator, the effort rubric on page 157 is an essential tool for holding students accountable for their learning.  If they do not meet the steps of this rubric, then it is impairs the learning that is taking place. Learning the material is a repetitive process that takes time.  The responsibility of the student to take advantage of homework and study time is crucial in learning the content in a reasonable manner.    

Experience with Blogs, Wikis, and Podcasts...oh my!

   With advances in technology, staying current is essential. This course has provided me with skills necessary to bring some of these advances into the classroom. I was able to experience blogging, wikis, and podcasting in this course. Two of these technologies I have or will put to use in my classroom this year.

   I tried blogging a month ago with my students and they loved it. They actually remember all the posts. I cannot wait until next year when I can start on this sooner in the school year. It promoted learning outside the classroom. This tool is helpful especially when combined with other tools like podcasting.

   I envision my students blogging and podcasting in the near future. My goal would be to have all students conducting research through a blog and stating their research through a podccast. All student want their voice to be heard and podcasting provides them a way to do so. I would like to continue my education with become an expert on these two tools so that I can trouble shoot a little better.

   Once I become an expert, then I can have the confidence and research to advocate for the use of these technologies in the classroom. I find that administrators are timid in using technology in the classroom. When a small, engaging workshop to demonstrate to school officials how technology provides engagement in the student's learning.

   In the next two years, I would like to see five to seven computers placed in my classroom. Whether I have to apply for a grant, I want to enhance 21st Century skills of my students. I want them leaving my class with no only content knowledge but with knowledge that will help them succeed in the world around them. I want them to be able to communicate and collaborate with not only their peers but with professionals that are in the world.