Last uni class tomorrow! I am excited see more student projects reflecting our learning journeys in I4ED! My summative project is posted below. I needed some help to get the audio and slides together, but am challenging myself to do another one by myself this weekend, so I do not forget how!
I have come to really enjoy blog-land. I like reflecting on my experiences, reading about others' perspectives and engaging in discussion and debate over issues that come up. This may be my favourite tool to come out of class, and one I will incorporate into my teaching in many ways. I have really enjoyed reading my classmates' blogs over the past few months... I hope to stay connected and keep sharing experiences through student teaching and job - hunting!
Hope everyone has a fun and fulfilling student teaching placement!
Wednesday 6 March 2013
Monday 4 March 2013
Sunday 3 March 2013
The future and me and technology... and shout-outs!
As our class winds down, I have been reflecting on all I have learned and thinking about how my teaching will benefit from our Internet for Educators class. I spent some time reading classmates' blogs, and realize how much I have gained just from connecting with the students in this class! I hope we continue to share ideas, resources and stories as we enter our teaching careers! The connection / communication opportunities will ripple out from here as I explore the great resources students and educators generously share. The chances I have had to collaborate and to ask questions have helped me to acquire more confidence in using technology. Taking this class was a leap out of my comfort zone... as is well documented in this blog, I came late to this tech party! I have a low frustration threshold when it comes to things I can't reason with verbally... like computers and devices. Thanks to all my classmates who patiently answered my questions and helped me out... especially Lisa, Tyler, Kirsten and Jennifer. And our fearless leader, Mr. Mike Nantais...I am pretty sure I would not have joined this class if not for your encouragement and enthusiasm for all kinds of learning.
I learned about new educational tools in every class. I am much more aware of the amazing learning opportunities that technology creates, and I will use tools like Twitter, blogging, infographics, podcasts and video in my future classes. The most important thing that has changed has been my outlook. I am grateful for my new, improved perspective on technology. What I will really take with me from this class is a 21st century view of sharing. The sharing and co-creating of information and experiences has always been an important part of my teaching philosophy, but I now see possibilities in the future and go... WOW! My students are lucky to be learners in this generation.
I want my students to experience success, and it my responsibility as an educator to use all the tools in the shed to support their learning. This class has helped to "unlock the shed" for me! I am committed to this ongoing journey of learning about and infusing ICT into my teaching.
I learned about new educational tools in every class. I am much more aware of the amazing learning opportunities that technology creates, and I will use tools like Twitter, blogging, infographics, podcasts and video in my future classes. The most important thing that has changed has been my outlook. I am grateful for my new, improved perspective on technology. What I will really take with me from this class is a 21st century view of sharing. The sharing and co-creating of information and experiences has always been an important part of my teaching philosophy, but I now see possibilities in the future and go... WOW! My students are lucky to be learners in this generation.
I want my students to experience success, and it my responsibility as an educator to use all the tools in the shed to support their learning. This class has helped to "unlock the shed" for me! I am committed to this ongoing journey of learning about and infusing ICT into my teaching.
Saturday 2 March 2013
The Future is Happening!
Reading the NMC Horizon Report is an eye-opening look at the amazing ways technology is enhancing education and learning now, and a look ahead to possibilities for the future.
This is an exciting time in education. We have tools that can expand and and extend the learning experience for ourselves and for students. A few of my thoughts, ideas and realizations...
Smartphones/Tablets - These devices already have a strong presence in many schools. They allow students independent access to information and the ability to communicate and connect with others outside the classroom. A huge array of Apps allow for differentiation and offer some students specialized learning support. Before this class I was a little nervous about "dealing" with kids using phones in school all day, and fearing the distraction this might cause. Now, I have come to understand the many functions and benefits of phones and tablets. Students won't be distracted, and will use the tools for learning if they are guided and encouraged to do so... and that is my job.
Game-based Learning - This is an area I need to learn more about. I think that there are many benefits to games and often use cooperative and competitive games in my lessons. I agree that games can increase engagement and develop visual awareness, problem solving and strategy. I think I have an image of the "gamer" as being isolated, playing a game instead of interacting with real people. I realize that most games have a community of players, and need to work on accepting Mr. M. Nantais' wise words... "these (online connections) are real people, too!" As with everything, moderation and balance are key.
Personal Learning Environments - This aspect of technology is really interesting to me. Students can use tools to create a personal environment to suit their own learning style. They can explore and connect with people in their own areas of interest. I see this embracing this development as true constructivism... students taking ownership of their learning. As a teacher, my goal is to instill in students a love of learning for its own sake. Through technology, students have more independence and more opportunity for self-directed learning.
Augmented Reality - The Horizon report is looking down the road and seeing these developments becoming classroom norms. The blend of "real world and related media and data" is basically an extension of how we are already using technology to connect with other classrooms and cultures,experiences, and places around the world. This kind of technology will offer contextual experience. As we all strive to make learning relevant and make lessons come alive, I can imagine the virtual tours of the future! My students might be able to explore Ankor Wat, or watch an ancient Olympics, or experience the life of an astronaut. Exciting stuff!
Natural User Interface Developments in technology mean advances in how people interact with devices. As my 2 year old niece shows me when she tries to "slide" the screen on my not-smart-phone to "see the pictures", people have already adapted to different interactions with devices and want hands on access! A point I really liked in the report was about this technology was considering the possibilities for people with disabilities that affect speech or mobility. Imagine what gesture or voice based interface could mean for some people's ability to communicate and connect!
This is an exciting time in education. We have tools that can expand and and extend the learning experience for ourselves and for students. A few of my thoughts, ideas and realizations...
Smartphones/Tablets - These devices already have a strong presence in many schools. They allow students independent access to information and the ability to communicate and connect with others outside the classroom. A huge array of Apps allow for differentiation and offer some students specialized learning support. Before this class I was a little nervous about "dealing" with kids using phones in school all day, and fearing the distraction this might cause. Now, I have come to understand the many functions and benefits of phones and tablets. Students won't be distracted, and will use the tools for learning if they are guided and encouraged to do so... and that is my job.
Game-based Learning - This is an area I need to learn more about. I think that there are many benefits to games and often use cooperative and competitive games in my lessons. I agree that games can increase engagement and develop visual awareness, problem solving and strategy. I think I have an image of the "gamer" as being isolated, playing a game instead of interacting with real people. I realize that most games have a community of players, and need to work on accepting Mr. M. Nantais' wise words... "these (online connections) are real people, too!" As with everything, moderation and balance are key.
Personal Learning Environments - This aspect of technology is really interesting to me. Students can use tools to create a personal environment to suit their own learning style. They can explore and connect with people in their own areas of interest. I see this embracing this development as true constructivism... students taking ownership of their learning. As a teacher, my goal is to instill in students a love of learning for its own sake. Through technology, students have more independence and more opportunity for self-directed learning.
Augmented Reality - The Horizon report is looking down the road and seeing these developments becoming classroom norms. The blend of "real world and related media and data" is basically an extension of how we are already using technology to connect with other classrooms and cultures,experiences, and places around the world. This kind of technology will offer contextual experience. As we all strive to make learning relevant and make lessons come alive, I can imagine the virtual tours of the future! My students might be able to explore Ankor Wat, or watch an ancient Olympics, or experience the life of an astronaut. Exciting stuff!
Natural User Interface Developments in technology mean advances in how people interact with devices. As my 2 year old niece shows me when she tries to "slide" the screen on my not-smart-phone to "see the pictures", people have already adapted to different interactions with devices and want hands on access! A point I really liked in the report was about this technology was considering the possibilities for people with disabilities that affect speech or mobility. Imagine what gesture or voice based interface could mean for some people's ability to communicate and connect!
Wednesday 27 February 2013
Presenting... Awesome I4Ed Projects!
I was so impressed with all of the presentations in our Internet for Educators yesterday! I thought it was especially great to see how many different presentation tools and styles were used. I love that this class is multi-faceted... we consider how using the internet and technology can enhance our teaching, experiment with tricks and tools and have the opportunity to share the information in person and online. Real integrated learning! I think all of the presentations were a great example of this... taking a subject we all know a little about, extending our understanding and providing time for questions, opinion sharing and discussion. I learned from all of the presentations.. about the content, about the delivery tool and through class face to face interaction. Great work, all! The video made me consider a video for my summative project... it looked like this group had a lot of fun putting it together.
When I joined the class, I had fears that it would be a lot of independent work and exploration. I was concerned that my skill level would mean I would constantly be behind and my questions would be annoying to the tech savvy among us. I have a different view now. I can see how many tools enable communication and effective sharing. Even when I am struggling along on my own with something like infographics, or have a question about how the heck to get on my group's wiki, or wonder how my computer ate my blog post, I can use twitter to quickly connect and ask questions. It is easy to seek info and collaborate from a distance. The presentation day was the best of both worlds for me.. tech tools and in-person combined! I am really looking forward to seeing everyone's summative projects next week.
When I joined the class, I had fears that it would be a lot of independent work and exploration. I was concerned that my skill level would mean I would constantly be behind and my questions would be annoying to the tech savvy among us. I have a different view now. I can see how many tools enable communication and effective sharing. Even when I am struggling along on my own with something like infographics, or have a question about how the heck to get on my group's wiki, or wonder how my computer ate my blog post, I can use twitter to quickly connect and ask questions. It is easy to seek info and collaborate from a distance. The presentation day was the best of both worlds for me.. tech tools and in-person combined! I am really looking forward to seeing everyone's summative projects next week.
Tuesday 26 February 2013
An Important Interactive Learning Site
This is an interactive website that I came across last term. It is a multimedia learning experience about residential schools in Canada. It is extremely user friendly and provides an authentic look at this issue in a way that has much more impact than reading a few paragraphs in a textbook.
http://www.wherearethechildren.ca/en/
This site has a wealth of important information. Interactive activities for students including a virtual tour of a school, interactive maps and audio stories by residential school survivors. I also appreciate the links to teacher resources and support. As we move towards a culturally inclusive study of national and world history, the residential schools issue is a subject that needs and deserves respectful attention. Integrating indigenous content into curriculum is important in all content areas, most especially in my own teachable area of history. I think this site is an excellent starting point for learning, sharing and teaching.
http://www.wherearethechildren.ca/en/
This site has a wealth of important information. Interactive activities for students including a virtual tour of a school, interactive maps and audio stories by residential school survivors. I also appreciate the links to teacher resources and support. As we move towards a culturally inclusive study of national and world history, the residential schools issue is a subject that needs and deserves respectful attention. Integrating indigenous content into curriculum is important in all content areas, most especially in my own teachable area of history. I think this site is an excellent starting point for learning, sharing and teaching.
Sunday 24 February 2013
Podcasts
In the past, my experience with podcasts has been catching up on favorite CBC programs that I missed! I have been exploring some more podcasts specifically for history:
http://www.learnoutloud.com/Catalog/History/Speeches/Great-Speeches-in-History-Podcast/21306
http://www.todayincanadianhistory.ca/
http://www.cbc.ca/archives/teachers/
I enjoyed listening to some historical speeches on Saturday... a great way to emphasize "primary sources" in history. Some of these are actually archived speeches, and some are dramatic re-creations. I can imagine all would be more engaging in class than just reading the speech... after all, a speech is meant to be heard!
I believe that differentiation is really important, to address learning needs and to add variety to lessons. Using podcasts can be another way to appeal to less visual learners or reluctant readers. I will use podcasts in many subject areas. Short podcast interviews would also be great for presenting different points of view. I will continue to check out and build up my collection of interesting podcasts... even if it cuts into my "listening to CBC" time... I can always find and listen to "Q" later!
Thursday 21 February 2013
Videos I have loved... part uno...
Who doesn't love a relevant, related or funny video in any class? I think video is a great tool to engage students and enhance a lesson. It presents information in another way and appeals to most learners. I have mainly sourced videos from youtube in the past, but my horizons are expanding! I like how there are so many sites now that focus on educational videos, organized by content area. I have checked out a few of my fellow ed student's favorites and immediately started thinking about how I could incorporate some of the great short videos into my upcoming units.
I used this video in my first placement. I like that it was created by a student. The kids in my class loved it...
Othello in 3 minutes....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iP2qQT6MuBQ&list=PLE690512369819D69
You may not believe this, but this computer-phobe also had students create videos in this class... just short moviemaker skits about issues in Othello set in modern day Canada. I gave the students scenarios to base their skits on before we read the play. The students really enjoyed creating and watching each other's work. Once we started reading the play, they liked figuring out which issue their own video story was based on. We did a comparison exercise of "same issue... different setting". Video really helped me to engage this group who told me before we started that they "hated" Shakespeare.
I used this video in my first placement. I like that it was created by a student. The kids in my class loved it...
Othello in 3 minutes....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iP2qQT6MuBQ&list=PLE690512369819D69
You may not believe this, but this computer-phobe also had students create videos in this class... just short moviemaker skits about issues in Othello set in modern day Canada. I gave the students scenarios to base their skits on before we read the play. The students really enjoyed creating and watching each other's work. Once we started reading the play, they liked figuring out which issue their own video story was based on. We did a comparison exercise of "same issue... different setting". Video really helped me to engage this group who told me before we started that they "hated" Shakespeare.
WBC... and pedagogy!
Today our class had a visit from Donald Gitouard and Sophia Palahicky, who explained the resources available as web based courses in Manitoba. They explained how these courses expand opportunities for students. I had already considered some students that these courses could benefit, like those in small schools where courses are not offered because of numbers, or for students with frequent / long absences for a variety of reasons. I was interested in Donald's comment that he felt this kind of course would have suited his personal learning style. I think this bears consideration... not all students like face to face interactions, and may contribute more to web based conversations. We will see more and more students who use computers / devices as primary tools in their learning. While it seems strange to me to consider a class where most of the content is presented on the web instead of being co-constructed by students and a teacher, this way of learning is more familiar to today's student. I was happy to hear both presenters say that the teacher as facilitator, explainer and supporter is still a vital role in this process. The blended approach is ideal... getting info and assignments from the web course AND having a person to guide them and offer clarification and extension opportunities. The teacher remains connected to each student taking the course, through web based and conventional communication.
I can also see how the modules in web based courses would be useful resources. As beginning teachers, it is impossible for us to be familiar with every single curriculum in MB. Looking at these courses could provide a starting point for teachers new to a subject area or grade level. The 46 courses available on the Blackboard platform are easy to access, with clear, curriculum based outcomes.
The last point I would like to comment on is the emphasis Sophia put on pedagogy. The delivery tool does not make or break the learning experience, for teacher or student. There can be boring, bad
face-to-face classes with live teachers, too! It is important to understand, develop and live out our personal philosophies about education. This will be the main source of our success... whether we use i pads or crayons as the tools to enhance and support learning and understanding.
I can also see how the modules in web based courses would be useful resources. As beginning teachers, it is impossible for us to be familiar with every single curriculum in MB. Looking at these courses could provide a starting point for teachers new to a subject area or grade level. The 46 courses available on the Blackboard platform are easy to access, with clear, curriculum based outcomes.
The last point I would like to comment on is the emphasis Sophia put on pedagogy. The delivery tool does not make or break the learning experience, for teacher or student. There can be boring, bad
face-to-face classes with live teachers, too! It is important to understand, develop and live out our personal philosophies about education. This will be the main source of our success... whether we use i pads or crayons as the tools to enhance and support learning and understanding.
Tuesday 19 February 2013
An Inspiring Edu-blogger
For the past few weeks have been checking out tweets and blogs by Larry Ferlazzo... wow, what a source of experience, ideas and resources!
http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2013/02/19
http://www.classroom20.com/profiles/blogs
Larry Ferlazzo is senior years educator in California. He teaches English, Social Studies and EAL... my faves! I am not sure when he has time to teach, as he is a prolific info sharer via his blogs and on Twitter as well as the author of many articles and several books on education. He organizes useful links on all kinds of content areas, education and ICT issues into lists, simplifying access to information. I especially like reading his posts reflecting on his vast experience as a community organizer and educator... lots of inspiring ideas and honest reflection on how to help students succeed.
http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2013/02/19
http://www.classroom20.com/profiles/blogs
Larry Ferlazzo is senior years educator in California. He teaches English, Social Studies and EAL... my faves! I am not sure when he has time to teach, as he is a prolific info sharer via his blogs and on Twitter as well as the author of many articles and several books on education. He organizes useful links on all kinds of content areas, education and ICT issues into lists, simplifying access to information. I especially like reading his posts reflecting on his vast experience as a community organizer and educator... lots of inspiring ideas and honest reflection on how to help students succeed.
I tried visual.ly!
This is a visual.ly inforgraphic comparing my Twitter use to my friend Lisa's... I am obviously far behind her! This example shows the impact of graphically illustrating a comparison. This infographic representation is a far cry from a comparison chart or conventional notes. Teachers and students could use it in class to contrast / compare anything, in any content area. There are many inforgraphic sites, with different styles and adaptations. I plan to explore more!
Friday 15 February 2013
Digital Tip-toe
When I entered the Faculty of Education, awareness of "my digital footprint" dramatically increased! The stories of people losing jobs, or not being hired in the first place because of a questionable presence online hit home. Security settings on social media? Change my name on Facebook? Why the heck would anyone want to look me up, anyway? Oh, wait... they might want to hire me! I googled my first and last name, and just found some geneology connections and an article in the "Souris Plaindealer" about me... quite wholesome, no? However, there are some other "Kelsey Penners" out there... yikes! Could an employer mistake me for them? I am going to get a tech savvy friend to google me more intensively and get their impression, as I know there must be lots of ways to get info that I am not aware of!
I also realize that I do not have a strong "positive presence" on the internet. Much of this is due to my lack of use of tech resources and communication in the past. I understand the benefit of people being able to see my work and connect with my website / portfolio etc. I will learn more about this avenue for sharing (again... get ready for my questions, tech-savvies!) and try to create a digital presence that reflects my professional goals.
I also realize that I do not have a strong "positive presence" on the internet. Much of this is due to my lack of use of tech resources and communication in the past. I understand the benefit of people being able to see my work and connect with my website / portfolio etc. I will learn more about this avenue for sharing (again... get ready for my questions, tech-savvies!) and try to create a digital presence that reflects my professional goals.
Wednesday 13 February 2013
I heart Infographics!
http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2013/02/11/three-infographics-about-valentines-day-including-one-perfect-for-english-language-learners/#.URlufsCGE9w.twitter
I came across this infographic via twitter... timely, and good for a visual to use in my EAL class on Valentine's Eve! I think my EAL learners will like how these graphics have text information in managable bits, with picture support. I have been checking out some other infographics and people's discussions about them. I agree that infographics could be a great tool for all students to show their understanding in a new, visually appealing way. Infographics can also provide another mode for presenting information to students that is more engaging than conventional notes. I plan to experiment soon... my early efforts might not be as fancy as this example!
Happy Valentine's Day, all... celebrate love!
I came across this infographic via twitter... timely, and good for a visual to use in my EAL class on Valentine's Eve! I think my EAL learners will like how these graphics have text information in managable bits, with picture support. I have been checking out some other infographics and people's discussions about them. I agree that infographics could be a great tool for all students to show their understanding in a new, visually appealing way. Infographics can also provide another mode for presenting information to students that is more engaging than conventional notes. I plan to experiment soon... my early efforts might not be as fancy as this example!
Happy Valentine's Day, all... celebrate love!
Monday 11 February 2013
Tweet, tweet, twitter, twitter!
It has been a few weeks since I signed up for Twitter. At first I found it a bit overwhelming... there seemed to be a lot to keep up with, and I could not imagine posting tweets as often as active users. I am starting to find my way with it. I must say, I like the great sharing I see happening! I have explored many great links that I likely never would have found on my own. My favorite "check-in" is with the #I4Ed group, of course... and a close second is astronaut Chris Hadfield's pictures and tweets from space! I also like how conversations start and educators can comment on each others' ideas. I see great potential for staying connected with others and sharing info and resources via Twitter. I like it!
Saturday 9 February 2013
Be in the world...
Clarence Fisher shared his thoughts and experience about ICT via skype. He is an educator in Snow Lake, a small community that is about to grow! Through ICT, his students have had a growth opportunities, as well. He told us about his class connecting with classes in L.A., Peru and Singapore. This small community has access to "global perspectives and connection"... how amazing! As an avid traveller and person interested in sharing culture, this aspect of ICT is so fantastic to me. I see so many possibilities for expanding horizons...learning about and experiencing different places and people. As Clarence said, this generation is on the front lines of globalization. Sharing and collaborating with students in other places offers great possibilities for developing an online network. Helping kids connect to their own networks will prepare them for the future. These connections will also encourage understanding and respect for different traditions and lifestyles.
I think this is important for everyone, not just students in small towns! I am seeing more and more clearly the possibilities for enhancing personal communication through ICT.
Confession time: I think some of my resistance to tech communication has been that at times, it seems to come at the expense of actual face to face communication. As a latecomer to communicating this way (I think I was the only person in Southeast Asia without a cell phone in 2009!), I found phone behaviour annoying for a long time. I would get irritated when in a social group, several people would be texting on their phones. "Choose the real people...there are people to communicate with right here!" was my battle cry (I still say this sometimes). Or when people would wander the halls at Uni, glued to their phones, not making eye contact (I have stepped in their paths to see if they would bump into me so I could get mad). Or sitting in a room full of people with hardly any talking, seeing only the tops of heads bent over screens. A talker by nature, I am becoming more open to the different ways of connecting. I have started conversations based on a topic discovered on twitter! It is cool to see opinions while things are in process! I can see the benefit of a quick text instead of a long, yappy phone conversation! Communication is communication, and one type can compliment another. All kinds are important. So, if I ever got in your way while you were texting and walking, I apologise... I now accept that you were busy communicating!
I think this is important for everyone, not just students in small towns! I am seeing more and more clearly the possibilities for enhancing personal communication through ICT.
Confession time: I think some of my resistance to tech communication has been that at times, it seems to come at the expense of actual face to face communication. As a latecomer to communicating this way (I think I was the only person in Southeast Asia without a cell phone in 2009!), I found phone behaviour annoying for a long time. I would get irritated when in a social group, several people would be texting on their phones. "Choose the real people...there are people to communicate with right here!" was my battle cry (I still say this sometimes). Or when people would wander the halls at Uni, glued to their phones, not making eye contact (I have stepped in their paths to see if they would bump into me so I could get mad). Or sitting in a room full of people with hardly any talking, seeing only the tops of heads bent over screens. A talker by nature, I am becoming more open to the different ways of connecting. I have started conversations based on a topic discovered on twitter! It is cool to see opinions while things are in process! I can see the benefit of a quick text instead of a long, yappy phone conversation! Communication is communication, and one type can compliment another. All kinds are important. So, if I ever got in your way while you were texting and walking, I apologise... I now accept that you were busy communicating!
Sunday 3 February 2013
Hate the message, NOT the medium...
Our class had the opportunity to discuss important issues regarding ICT in schools with John Finch. I would like to comment on a topic we discussed: cyber-bullying.
I was surprised by John's data about the prevalence of cyber-bullying. In Manitoba, only a very small percentage of students identify as having been cyber-bullied. Is it possible that cyber-bullying is not as serious or widespread a problem as the media would have us believe? Several high-profile incidents that have ended tragically have led to calls for banning or limiting the use of social media in schools. I think schools should not take sweeping action against legitimate learning tools, but look carefully at the deeper problem. I personally know several students who have been intimidated and slandered online. As teachers, we must impress upon students the seriousness of cyber-bullying. I am concerned that some people think "kids will be kids" and equate this bullying with school yard name calling of the past. The effects of cyber-bullying are different. Hurtful words, images and messages can be spread widely and quickly. The permanent nature of posting online is devastating to young victims. While it is the message that is so damaging, the medium in this case makes it easier to bully. It is important for educators to incorporate social responsibility into the teaching of ICT. This generation of students use social media as a primary communication tool. We need to teach them skills to help them develop into responsible students and citizens.
I was surprised by John's data about the prevalence of cyber-bullying. In Manitoba, only a very small percentage of students identify as having been cyber-bullied. Is it possible that cyber-bullying is not as serious or widespread a problem as the media would have us believe? Several high-profile incidents that have ended tragically have led to calls for banning or limiting the use of social media in schools. I think schools should not take sweeping action against legitimate learning tools, but look carefully at the deeper problem. I personally know several students who have been intimidated and slandered online. As teachers, we must impress upon students the seriousness of cyber-bullying. I am concerned that some people think "kids will be kids" and equate this bullying with school yard name calling of the past. The effects of cyber-bullying are different. Hurtful words, images and messages can be spread widely and quickly. The permanent nature of posting online is devastating to young victims. While it is the message that is so damaging, the medium in this case makes it easier to bully. It is important for educators to incorporate social responsibility into the teaching of ICT. This generation of students use social media as a primary communication tool. We need to teach them skills to help them develop into responsible students and citizens.
Thursday 24 January 2013
Connecting with Dr. Couros
Another class.. another interesting talk by an extremely "connected" person! This ability to bring people into the class from a distance is so great. I went to a PD with Devon Caldwell about Smartboard and other technologies. Her class is skyping regularly with other classes around the continent, and beyond... and now I'm in the mix! Her kids were talking to a vet about making dog biscuits... I immediately thought about the possibilities of skyping in local and other experts on a host of topics in my classrooms.
Dr. Couros emphasized the dramatic shift in how we get information, with smart phones now out-numbering "dumb" phones for the first time. Overlooking the insult to my poor little phone, it really hit home how the expectations for speed in communication and access to information are changing. As I start to utilise these new communication tools like Twitter, right now it feels like I have to spend so much time checking things in different places that I can't keep up! I know I will become more adept with practise, but it was funny to see the shock on my friend's face today when I said I hadn't checked Twitter yet.. it was noon, after all! I have to watch that You-tube "Twitter" video to sort out what I'm looking at...
I really liked the connections Dr. Couros made to two areas I am passionate about... communication and creative expression. There are so many ways to encourage both, using technology. Technology allows more opportunities for differentiated instruction and reaching students through different mediums. His comments on activism and mobilisation also struck me. In the past two years we have seen political movements and events get started, grow and move into the global consciousness, all through social media.
In all, more inspiration for me to learn and practise and try and grow...!
Dr. Couros emphasized the dramatic shift in how we get information, with smart phones now out-numbering "dumb" phones for the first time. Overlooking the insult to my poor little phone, it really hit home how the expectations for speed in communication and access to information are changing. As I start to utilise these new communication tools like Twitter, right now it feels like I have to spend so much time checking things in different places that I can't keep up! I know I will become more adept with practise, but it was funny to see the shock on my friend's face today when I said I hadn't checked Twitter yet.. it was noon, after all! I have to watch that You-tube "Twitter" video to sort out what I'm looking at...
I really liked the connections Dr. Couros made to two areas I am passionate about... communication and creative expression. There are so many ways to encourage both, using technology. Technology allows more opportunities for differentiated instruction and reaching students through different mediums. His comments on activism and mobilisation also struck me. In the past two years we have seen political movements and events get started, grow and move into the global consciousness, all through social media.
In all, more inspiration for me to learn and practise and try and grow...!
Part deux.. Student PLN
PLN Drawings... what the heck?!
Tuesday 15 January 2013
Sharing with Dean Shareski
Today our class had a skype presentation by Dean Shareski, who has a lot of experience in teaching and ICT and currently works for Discovery Education Canada in the area of curriculum based media. I really liked all that he had to share about the changing face of education and opportunities to engage students. He used several videos to illustrate his points, demonstrating the power of media to engage... I loved those penguins! I completely agree with his thoughts on the power of teaching through stories, and using ICT tools and the internet to create and share experiences. A quote that struck me was "the learning culture is participatory". While I have always made efforts to address the learning needs of my students through planning a variety of activities in my lessons, I can see a whole new avenue of collaborative opportunities opening up... for my students and for me. Co-construction of knowledge and experience is a vital component of teaching to me, and I want to facilitate sharing in my classroom and beyond.
One last thing that I appreciated was Dean's message of the "myth of easy!" As a person who has little experience with ICT, it was nice to hear someone say "this stuff can be tricky to figure out! Start slow... but start!" I have had lots of experience with being told that computer stuff is easy... and feeling like an idiot when I get lost! I am happy to report that I have completed a few "tech tasks" for class with no major disasters thus far! My confidence is growing, and once again I want to say thanks to everyone for being great friends and tutors in and out of class!
One last thing that I appreciated was Dean's message of the "myth of easy!" As a person who has little experience with ICT, it was nice to hear someone say "this stuff can be tricky to figure out! Start slow... but start!" I have had lots of experience with being told that computer stuff is easy... and feeling like an idiot when I get lost! I am happy to report that I have completed a few "tech tasks" for class with no major disasters thus far! My confidence is growing, and once again I want to say thanks to everyone for being great friends and tutors in and out of class!
Sunday 13 January 2013
John Evans Presentation, PLN development and iphone "rules"....
I enjoyed the presentation by John Evans in class on Thursday, January 10th. He is so passionate about the use of technology as a tool for keeping teachers connected and sharing information. I definately agree that the ability to share ideas and work in collaboration with others will enhance the teaching and learning experience. It is especially great to think of the opportunities for teachers working in schools where they may be the only teacher in their subject area. I think of how interesting it was to observe different classroom styles and approaches and ideas in my student teaching placements. With a PLN, I can have access to ideas, conversations and support that increase my options, and inspire me to create engaging lessons. In turn, I can share my ideas, contribute to the pool of creativity and get feedback. I believe that the heart of teaching is communicating. Having a PLN is an important way to exchange information and feel connected with others committed to supporting students on our learning journey.
I was introduced to the Maple network, which will be valuable for connecting with other Manitoba teachers. I like how the network is specifically geared to education and ICT. As for many busy people with limited time, having a place to go where I know the information will be relevant to the curriculum I work with will be valuable.
One point that made me think was a the brief conversation about having "rules" for students / children regarding the use of iphones. I personally feel that part of the job of teaching ICT Literacy is to encourage the appropriate use of technology. Along with the benefits and access to information that an iphone can provide, there is potential for distraction and misuse in the classroom (and elsewhere!). Learning about safety and etiquette are an important part of the deal. I feel that having expectations for responsible use and reinforcing these expectations is part of the job of teachers and parents. These safety and etiquette skills can and should be taught as part of ICT Literacy. Just as young people need some help to learn to self regulate other behaviour like watching TV and drinking Coke, they may also need some direction in their choices in this area. There are appropriate times and places for all kinds of communication... online, reading, listening and face to face discussion and interaction. I want to guide students to enhance ALL of their communication skills.
Thursday 10 January 2013
Well, here we go... down the rabbit hole! My first blog post ever! I was (am) nervous about taking the Internet for Educators class, as my technology skills leave a lot to be desired. I have been guilty of rationalizing my reluctance to use computer technology, and just plain avoiding it. However, after a stern talking-to with myself, I realized that I need to challenge this fear of mine. As a teacher, I want to encourage my students to try things that scare them and to embrace change and new experiences. I had best follow my own advice!
I realize that I am in a lucky position to have supportive people around me in this class who will encourage me and show me the way when I wander. I will do my best to keep my sighs and swears quiet...
I will take advantage of this opportunity to expand my knowledge and ability in this venue of communication and connection. I am excited to learn about more tools to better understand and serve my future students!
I realize that I am in a lucky position to have supportive people around me in this class who will encourage me and show me the way when I wander. I will do my best to keep my sighs and swears quiet...
I will take advantage of this opportunity to expand my knowledge and ability in this venue of communication and connection. I am excited to learn about more tools to better understand and serve my future students!
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