Technology Obsevered within a Classroom

Last fall I observed a fourth grade class and saw how computers and websites were being used to help the lesson flow smoothly. Not only did the instructor use interacting websites to help show the class planets within our solar system but she also had the class collect data about the sun and moon from some of these websites. She taught the class and showed the class how to research for information about certain planets so that when the students went to the school’s computer lab they were able to look up information and filter through the information found to do a project. I loved how excited the students were to learn more about the planets just because they could see vivid pictures and do it themselves after going over it in the classroom. All the students were thrilled to use the computers and some even found interacting websites, where they could play games. I think this was a great way to get the students interested in the solar system and a wonderful example of how technology can be used within a classroom.

Twitter and Book in Face

Book in Face... 'What is she talking about? After reading Jamie's blog post, "Twitter: Just another facebook, right?" I had many thoughts going through my head. I shared her skepticism with joining Twitter, and agreed with her analysis of communication in schools. In many schools today, children are mainly learning through books. I find this as a flaw. There should be more stress on communication skills and group work. These are the things that will stick with children. In all areas of life it is key to have good communication skills. Almost every avenue and career that people pursue will almost surely involve group work. Having the skills and confidence to talk to individuals and groups is a topic that seems to be left behind in some instances.

With the ever expanding technology that we deal with on a daily basis it is still important to have the ability to relay information confidently, clearly, and concisely, whether it be online or in person. The way you communicate can either create a positive or negative first impression. I'll take Twitter as an example. I had no intention of ever creating a Twitter account, but as you know it is a must for this class. I was used to seeing people brag about themselves, and post useless status updates on Facebook I thought Twitter would be the same. Following some people makes me think of this quote from Billy Madison, "Mr. Madison, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."

After actually spending some time on Twitter, and choosing some interesting people to follow I realize that Twitter can be a useful learning tool. It is a way to pick the minds of some very knowledgeable people. It can help you learn some new things to try in the classroom, and help you to inspire you to think outside of the box. I know I will be checking regularly to find any information that can be helpful to my students and I, and I urge you to give Twitter a chance and do the same. Step outside your comfort zone a bit, expand your horizons, and you'll be able to find and learn a plethora of new ideas. So get your faces out of those books and maybe you'll find a tweet that will be really neat!

Exploring

This is my first week ever using Twitter and blogging. I have been following people that interest me and also been following educational sites to help me understand how schools network with one another through twitter. I have not seen how twitter would be helpful in a classroom unless the students used to help with a group project and posting sites or by allowing students to quickly point out information that they found. As for blogging I have been looking at these sites and think that they have some great tools on them. Check them out if you’re looking for some ideas for teaching with technology.
• http://www.21stcenturyschoolteacher.com/
• http://davidwarlick.com/2cents/

I also found blogging to be very helpful for me to find out more information about things I am interested in teaching like English as a second language. I used this Wiki to find more about a subject area that I desire to know more about.
• http://movingforward.wikispaces.com/Education+Blogs+by+Discipline

This Wiki especially helped me find a blog site about ESL that really helped me answer questions about the field.
• http://www.esl-school.com/

Background in Technology

I have been fortunate enough to have received a decent background in technology, however I do think that I need to have a stronger one as technology is ever evolving. I have learned my technology background mostly from school and my parents. Throughout school I have learned and used Microsoft Office. My parents have taught me to use email, search engines, and higher tech type of phones. I only started to use Facebook and Skype when I went to college. I have never cared to use Twitter, MySpace, or blogging since I am a person who feels like I do not need to read about other people’s lives or let everyone know what is going on with my life. Hopefully throughout this class the usage of Twitter and blogging will help me discover a better understanding for what they are about and how they will assist me with networking and how best to incorporate them when I teach a class. I am interested in learning more about all types of technologies we are going to discuss in this class since it will help me in the future as I teach others. I am also curious to learn new things about technology and how technology is evolving. Overall my expectation for this class is to learn more about technology and how I can use it in my future classroom so my students have the ability to learn as much as they can.