Sunday, September 26, 2010

Chapter 5 Reading Reflection

Three new things I've learned...
 1.  A software suite is software tools that are packaged and combined together for easier use. One of the most popular software suites is desktop publishing software, which is being packaged with graphic software. An example of this is Adobe's Creative Suite.
2. Test Generators and Rubric Generators software tools are available for teachers. These tools help generate test questions and answer keys for testing, ensuring that every test is original and also helps with proofreading.
3. Data collection and analysis tools are available to help teachers find class averages, assess where they need to be teaching and spending more time on concepts and ideas.
Two connections to my own teaching...
1. There are many software tools available for me to use when planning lessons, grading and creating tests. The Electronic Gradebook software will be a valuable resource for me as a teacher, helping me to stay organized and look at average grades.
2. As a future English teacher, reading software is available for my students as a supplemental tool. This software supports many levels of understand, from the students who need more help, to the students who are ready for more advanced reading.
One question I have..
1. Are these types of software readily available for most teachers as far as funding? Or does it depend on the school district?

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Where's The Beef?

Three things I have learned....
1. It is not enough for teachers to ask students to write a book report or research paper on a topic using different media, as this only shows the teacher that the student is proficient at collecting data and reporting back. Students need to be more involved and demonstrate understanding of existing facts and media, by instead creating a soundtrack which represents the emotional journey of the characters in the book.
2. A research based scoring guide has been developed to help teachers and students evaluate the importance of certain digital products. This system evaluates both content communication and craftsmanship of communication.
3. Students can easily become distracted by the media devices they are using to present information, straying from the topics and concepts they are supposed to be learning about. Students can easily present media projects with more flair than content or information.

Two things i can connect to my teaching...
1. I really like the idea of developing digital portfolios for the students. These portfolios can include important projects which can be assessed easily and show the student's progress in all areas. The digital portfolio can also be used towards a final project, showcasing the students strengths and building confidence.
2. I also like the idea of helping students using media projects to understand the information they are learning, not just repackaging it. I think digital devices can be an interesting way to allow students to better understand concepts and a good way to grab their attention with something less traditional.

One question I have..
1. Are schools and communities usually open to the idea of teachers using new technology and non traditional ways of teaching?

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Chapter 3 Reading Reflection

Three things I have learned....
1. Instructional software can be used for tutorials, drills and practice, simulation of systems to demonstrate models and concepts, instructional games and can help with problem solving.
2. Instructional games help students to learn while adding elements of fun to keep students interested and motivated.
3. Integrated Learning systems offer computer based instruction and summary reports of students progress.

Two connections to my teaching...
1. There are many software options available to teachers to enhance students learning.
2. I can use the software to help students stay focused while learning, add an element of fun while learning and track students progress.

One question I have...
1. These software options seem like great ways to enhance learning, but how many schools actually have the funding to use these programs?

Chapter 2 Reading Reflection

Three new things I learned in this chapter....
1.  I learned that there are two main theories for technology integration in the classroom, directed instruction and constructivist.
2. Directed instruction, or objectivism, is based on the behaviorist learning theory.  Constructivist has evolved from the cognitive learning theory.
3. I also learned that technology integration in the classroom is based on both the directed instruction model and the constructivist model.
Two connections I have made with my own teaching...
1. I like the idea of using the TIP model to help decide how and if the technology I want to integrate will be beneficial to the students.
2. I also like the idea of using the TIP model to think through the process of integrating technology into lesson plans and units.
One question I have about the material...
1. Are school districts normally supportive of teachers who take it upon themselves to find funding for technology for the classrooms?

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Chapter 1 Reading Reflection

Three new things that I learned in this chapter were...
1. That there is no single definition for educational technology, and that the definition has to be a working definition because technology changes so quickly and frequently. Educational technology is defined by the current equiptment used in the classrooms.
2. I also learned that a great way for teachers to demonstrate their skills is through an electronic portfolio, which showcases students progess through their work products.
3. I learned about the Digital Divide, which is when schools with a lower socioeconomic status do not have access to the technology, which creates a gap in learning for the students.
Two connections to my own teaching...
1. I have realized that the type of technology I have available for my students will coincide directly with the socioeconomic status of the area in which I teach.
2. I have also realized that I want to expose my students to as much technology as possible.

One question I have about the material is...
1. Are there outside programs available for teachers in areas with low socioeconomic status to obtain equiptment for teaching?