C4K Summary for February

                                      
  Zion

My first C4K was Zion @ PT England School in Auckland, New England. I commented on a Space Art project he recently completed. It was a picture of Zion holding his poster of the solar system. He gave some brief facts about the solar system. In my comment, I wanted to let Zion know that I too, liked the solar system as a kid. I also told him about a little jingle ( mnemonic device) that I used to help me remember the planets  in order starting  from the closest to the sun.

Kidding with Kirstyn

For my second C4K, I was assigned Kirstyn. Kirstyn is in Mr. Avery’s sixth grade class at Dennett Elementary in Plympton, Massachusetts. I commented on Kirstyn’s post Family Blogging Month. Kirstyn was able to get her own blog by getting the most comments from family members and friends. She was so excited about the Family Blogging Month contest, she went home and started commenting. By the end of the month, she had 47 comments. She used an alliteration in the naming of her blog. She used an alliteration in naming her blog. Her blog name is Kidding with Kirstyn, where Krazy is Kool, which I totally loved.  


She also had a blog post Vote For My New Mascot. She is choosing a mascot for her blog and trying to choose between her two cats; KitKat and Skittles. I told her I would choose KitKat, because I like KitKat bars better than Skittle candies.

                                             Kento's Blog

For my third February C4K, I was assigned Kento. Kento is a fifth grader in Ms. Eppele's class. Ms. Eppele's class. I commented on Kento's post about sportsmanship. Kento posted that it is important to support each other, not to blame one another, and to have fun. In my post, I agreed with Kento and said it is most important to know you played your best and had fun; no matter if you win or lose.

                                                       

                                                   Sharon's Stupendous Blog

For my fourth February C4K, I was assigned Sharon. Sharon is in Mr. Sloan's year 6 class and from Tottenham, London. Her blog was terrifically filled with poems. She is a fantastic writer and she says her goal is to inspire others to write. I enjoyed reading through her passionate poems and look forward to reading more of her work. I commented on her most recent poem, "The World in a Nutshell" and how she sees the world beneath her eyes. It was an awesome poem filled with enriched vocabulary that engages the reader to feel what she is writing. It was very well written. 


My Reflection

Blogging is an excellent way for children of all ages (adults included) to be able to "travel" the world and meet children from other countries, states, cities, etc. It really gives a whole new meaning to "pen pals". I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and adventuring into the classrooms of these students and teachers. It is amazing to be able to "meet" such inspiring young people miles and miles away. I look forward to my future C4K assignments and what I can learn from them.

Project #6 This is my sentence

Blog Post Assignment # 5

Don’t Teach Your Kids This Stuff. Please? By Dr. Scott McLeod

Dr. Scott McLeod is an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Kentucky. He is the founding Director of the UCEA Center for the Advanced Study of Technology Leadership in Education (Castle). He is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading academic experts on K-12 school technology leadership issues. He is a co-creator of the video series, “Did You Know? (Shift Happens). Dr. McLeod has received many honors and in 2011 he was a Visiting Canterbury Fellow at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand and was recognized as a technology innovator by the Center for Digital Education. Dr. McLeod blogs regularly about technology leadership issues at Dangerously Irrelevant, Mind Dump, and Education Recoded and occasionally at The Huffington Post. 

In his post, Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff. Please?, he sarcastically blogs about the use of technology and social media. The “stuff” we shouldn’t teach our kid, when in reality this “stuff” should be taught to our kids if they are going to be successful in a world based on technology. I am going to admit, I am guilty of saying the exact words, “there's bad stuff out there... gotta keep your children safe”. As a parent, I do want to keep my children safe, but I know I can’t locked them up in a cage (even thought I would like to, sometimes). I want to encourage, and enhance their knowledge as much as I can. I want the best for my children and I want to help them excel, so they can be successful in life. So they too, can have a “leg up”. So, under proper supervision and direction, I have allowed my children to use the computers, social media, cell phones, etc. I am involved and aware of what they are using and what they are doing. I have talked to them and made them aware of certain risks. My oldest daughter, of course, is more aware than my younger children. My youngest two children do not access the computer by themselves. My husband and I are usually helping them, although it will not be long before they are doing it along; they catch on quick. Dr. McLeod says, “really 'cause I'm doing all of it with my kids”.  “With” is what makes the difference. Research studies and statics support this. Yes, there is “bad stuff” and “bad people” out there, but there is a lot of “good stuff" too.  If parents and teachers are educated on how to use all this “stuff”, as educational learning tools, it might not seem so scary. 

The iSchool Initiative By Travis Allen

The iSchool Initiative is truly impressive. I did not know all the capacities of the current iTouch. Can it be made a reality? Is it possible to get everyone on board ? Teachers and administrators are set in their ways and do not like change. Anytime there is change, there will be hurdles and struggles. There are always pros and cons to any idea. I think with the iSchool, pros outweigh the cons. It makes you wonder if iSchool should take the place of everything like handwriting, for example. Will future generations no longer need to write? That is probably another discussion in itself. However, the first step and probably the hardest is going to be getting teachers, administrator, and parents out of their comfort zone, and embracing mobile technology. It seems very inexpensive compared to what is spent on text and material that are not being used. 

While watching the video, it made me think about special needs education and the many possibilities it could open them. It seems everything around us is keeping pace with the rapidly growing world of technology; everything except our education system. I think iSchool is realistic and could be effective. Zeitgeist Young Mind's just goes to show how a difference can be made when you strive and pursue an idea. The students of today are already using mobile devices for everything else; it just makes sense to use mobile devices for school too.

Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir

Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir - 'LuxAurumque' is truly unbelievable! This is an excellent example how the internet can be used for a “good” thing. I was so amazed by this video that I had to go and watch more. The stats for the videos blew me away.

Stats for Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir 3 WaterNight

The stories and the amount of videos receive from people so many different countries are crazy! This just goes to show, you can do anything at anytime, anywhere, with access to the internet. The internet does have a bad reputation and I understand why. The internet is associated with so many negative things and most anytime we hear about the internet it is almost always bad. Where’s all the good stuff? Why don’t we hear about it? I think internet usage can be used for good or bad, it just depends on the individual and the purpose in which it is being used I think it is our responsibilities to show how the internet can be used in more positive ways.  Without the internet all these people could not have come together and this video would not have been made possible. What an interesting way to globally connect!

 Teaching in the 21st Century By Kevin Robert

How are teachers going to teach 21^st century kids? Since 1956, teachers have been teaching based on Bloom’s research. Bloom’s Taxonomy has change over the years. Today’s there is a Bloom’s Digital Taxonomy.Teachers know and teach based on the levels of Blooms taxonomy. The lowest level of Bloom’s Taxonomy is knowledge (recalling information). The higher levels being synthesis (creating something that did not exist before by integrating information), and evaluation (making judgments based on previous levels). Teachers may not be the main source of education anymore but kids still need teachers to teach them how to use these tools. Teachers are knowledge about the learning process still need to guide and give direction to students.

Digital Bloom

Some people may think of computers, phones, Twitter, YouTube, as entertainment for kids, and yes, they can be entertainment for kids. They also, get their attention and they are engage. So, if kids are engage by all these things, why shouldn’t we use it to teach them? In the video, Kevin explains the difference between entertainment and engagement. While entertainment being for enjoyment, short-lived, and an escape from problems; engagement is for learning, problem solving, and has long term results. You can definitely see the difference and see how it applies to the higher levels of Bloom’s taxonomy. Being a 21^st century teacher means creatively changing how you teach and what you use to teach. So how can you tell if you are a 21st century teacher? Check Yourself! Checklist provided by Simple K12

21 Signs You’re a 21st Century Teacher

1. You require your students to use a variety of sources for their research projects...and they cite blogs, podcasts, and interviews they've conducted via Skype.

2. Your students work on collaborative projects...with students in Australia.

3. You give weekly class updates to parents...via your blog.

4. Your students participate in class...by tweeting their questions and comments.

5. You ask your students to study and create reports on a controversial topic...and you grade their video submissions.

6. You prepare substitutes with detailed directions...via Podcasts.

7. You ask your students to do a character/historical person study...and they create mock social media profiles of their character.

8. Your students create a study guide...working together on a group wiki.

9. You share lesson plans with your teacher friends...from around the globe.

10. Your classroom budget is tight...but it doesn't matter because there are so many free resources on the web you can use.

11. You realize the importance of professional development...and you read blogs, join online communities, and tweet for self development.

12. You take your students on a field trip to the Great Wall of China...and never leave your classroom.

13. Your students share stories of their summer vacation...through an online photo repository.

14. You visit the Louvre with your students...and don't spend a dime.

15. You teach your students not to be bullies...or cyberbullies.

16. You make your students turn in their cell phones before class starts...because you plan on using them in class.

17. You require your students to summarize a recent chapter...and submit it to you via a text message.

18. You showcase your students' original work...to the world.

19. You have your morning coffee...while checking your RSS feed.

20. You are reading this.

21. You tweet this page, blog about it, "like" it, or email it to someone else...

ReadingRocket

Reading Rocket website has just about everything for everyone; parents, teachers, principals, librarians, speech pathologists, counselors, etc. It has games, lesson plans, classroom strategies, podcast, assessments, etc. Reading Rocket has everything under the “kitchen sink”. What a great resource!

Meet the Author Podcast was probably one of my favorite resources available on Reading Rocket website. It’s a great way to introduce different authors to children. They not only get to see the author but their personality and passion. It brings them to life for the children. I think the best part of it all, it’s free!

Projects 9a Timetoast Timelines

Blog Post Assignment # 4

Podcast 
What? and Why?

I keep hearing this word, Podcast. What is a Podcast?  After visiting, Judy Scharf Podcast Collection, I quickly learned a podcast is a type of digital media. A podcast can display images simultaneously with audio. It's like a mini radio show over the internet. Judy Scharf offers may useful tools that can be used to create a podcast. These tools will come in handy when I create my own. She also provides some terrific tips for allowing students to create their own podcast and making it a success. In order to get the most of the website, an account has to be created, but it is worth it. Judy Scharf Podcast Collection and Joe Dale’s The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom both provide excellent reasons to use podcasting in the classroom.  They both suggested using podcasting for students who cannot attend school. I thought this was an excellent way of communicating with students and parents. One particular thing I like about podcasting; it allows one to playback the video. So, if anything is missed the first time, it can be replayed to hear again and again. This is great for students who choose to tune the teacher out. Who knew IPods are not just for music? 100 Ways to Use Your iPod to Learn and Study Better, offers some excellent resources to enhance the use of an IPod; what a great way to promote learning outside of the classroom. On Langwitches blog, she documents everything. I was enlighten to see how reflection and feedback can give so much insight on what works and what does not work while podcasting. Reflection should always be apart of any activity (for both, teachers and students), so improvement can be made. I loved the ripple effect...

“Sharing what one is doing, sharing what one is learning along the way, will not only allow for reflection, but it also will create a ripple effect. A ripple effect that in turn will touch the lives and the future of others. I think that says just about everything.”

Create a Podcast for your cause

Blog Post Assignment # 3

Peer Editing

Peer editing should offer suggestions for improvement in a positive manner. The video gave some tips on how to peer edit. It is important to edit without hurting someone’s feelings or making them feel less confident about his/her writing. I think it is extremely beneficial to model peer editing prior to the assignment. Students do not need to jump right in and start “marking” the writing up. It suggested not only finding mistakes about another student’s work, but also point out things the student did well.  Peer editing teaches students how to give and receive constructive criticism (this is sometimes harder for adults than it is children). However, one thing I do not think the video takes into account, is an ESL student. Do you edit their work the same? What if the student is ESL? What if you know the student is trying real hard, and doing their absolute best? I had to think about this after reviewing my C4C. You certainly do not want a child to get insulted or frustrated, when they are trying their best. I think to reinforce the “stay positive” attitude; I would require each student with some type of peer editing checklist.On the checklist, I would include specific things for each student to check together such as punctuation and spelling. I would also have the student write down some positive things they liked about the writing; some ideas to make it better and explanation. I would encourage them to work together and talk about each thing being recorded on the checklist. I think the ultimate goal in peer editing is to produce confident writers who can express themselves through words and do it well.

Technology in Special Education

It is amazing how using technology in the classroom can open so many doors for special education students. Technology not only can enhance their learning abilities but build self-esteem, as well.  In the video, it shows a teacher using varies types of technology to instruct and communicate with her students. Without this technology, it would be very time consuming and frustrating for both the teacher and students to communicate and complete simple assignments. Each and every student needs to be able to have an opportunity to enhance his/her learning, increase productivity, communication skills, and promote creativity. Technology is a wonderful way for special education students to feel comfortable and experience success in the classroom. It is essential teachers understand the many types of technology available and incorporate it into their classrooms for all students.  

How the iPad Workswith Academics for Autism?

Autism Awareness

Before watching the videos, I did not really think about the obstacles special needs students have to overcome. Both videos opened my eyes to how technology and apps could make learning and life so much easier for them.  It really shows how there is no limit to learning for special needs kids with today’s growing technology.  I love educational apps and my children use them all the time. The instant feedback children receive using education apps provide such encouragement and seem to keep them engaged. Apple.Education Apps.com has so many educational apps I could have spent all day looking through them.  



The Learn to Talk app is an innovative flash card application for toddlers on iPhone and iPod Touch. It uses both sight and sounds to teach your toddler basic vocabulary words and boost their language skills. The description states Learn to Talk is an application for toddlers but I think the app could be used for all ages. It is simple enough for non-vocal special needs students and could help with their language skills, so they could start talking and communicating. It seems simple but starting simple is better.  I think if you start off with something simple it increases the level of success. It can help boost self esteem. They feel a sense of accomplishment.  I’ve always looked at educational apps as great learning tools, but never knew their endless possibilities.

Gary Hayes Social Media Count

WOW! At this rate, how are we ever going to keep up?? It seems impossible with these statics growing in a matter of seconds.What does this mean for a professional career as a teacher? Teachers must learn to adapt and evolve with current and future technology; explore it, use it, and learn from it. It seems like you can learn anything from watching YouTube, so why do we need teachers? Let's just Google what we want to know! Right? Well, I do not think the internet can replace the guidance of a knowledge teacher. The guidance of a knowledge teacher can enhance the learning of students.Teachers are always going to be a part of learning, its just going to be a matter of how they do it; YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Skype, etc. Technology and Social Media is going to allow them to reach out to students across the world.  

A Vision of Students Today

Our world is not the same as 50 years ago, and it's not the same as five years ago. The video strikes up a legitimate question, why are we still teaching like we were 50 years ago? I think it is because so many people are scared of change. I can hear the answer; it worked then so why change it, right? This answer is just downright wrong. We are not driving the same cars, from 50 years ago. We are not using the same phones, from 50 years ago. Why, because we want bigger and better things. We like cars that get better gas mileage; cars with satellite radio and cars that can be started by the push of a button. We want smart phones. Why? We are multi-taskers and need to be able to talk, text, and surf the web at the same time. Our world is rapidly growing and ever changing. With this being said, one might ask the question; why is our education system and teachers still teaching the same old fashion way?  Kids are taught to pass the test, and make good grades. They need to graduation high school and go to college. They are being told they cannot get a job without a college education. What if this education has not prepared them for the real-world? They are left without a job and most of the time in debt. In today’s world, employers are searching for employees that have some experience, not just a piece of paper showing they were able to pass a test. Yes, this helps but if they have some experience; it is even better. Personally, in my previous job, I wanted someone that had some experience with computers. I did not have the time or the desire to teach basic computer skills.

 I needed to focus on training the key aspect of the job. The curriculum should focus on more real meaningful-life experiences and not just textbook facts.  This is why I am enjoying EDM310 (not to say it is not a lot of work), it is giving me the real world tools needed to teach effectively in a technology based and ever-changing world.  

C is for...

C4T Post #1

For my first C4T, I was assigned Michael Fawcett (teachernz), from New Zealand. He has a teacher blog, What Now? What Next? So What?  and he also has a blog for his class, Go Room 11Go! I went to his class blog and read some of the comments and he has had visitors from all around the world and many comments where he had inspired other teachers. Mr. Fawcett attended Educamp, a teacher driven conference, back in August, 2011 where he was able to meet some fellow educators face to face. He stated the camp was populated by eager teachers/learners who gave up their free time to be there. I thought, how wonderful that is; teachers willing to give up their free time to educate themselves so they can be more effective teachers. I think this is a wonderful way for teachers to see what works for others; to learn new concepts, connect, and like teachernz says, "collaborate" with others.

The second comment I left for Mr. Fawcett, on his post “Education Reset”. You can tell by reading his post about the education system, he is very passionate about teaching and frustrate with the current school system. He basically states we need a reboot. The questions he poses are great and definitely leave you asking your own questions. I basically agree with him and the others bloggers and left a comment telling him how some of the county schools in my district have broken away or trying to break away to create their own school system. I guess you kind of look at that as a reboot in a way. I really enjoyed reading his blog.