Technology Article #1: SnapGenie by Myfamily.com
Share the stories behind photos with SnapGenie. SnapGenie helps you easily build and share narrated photo slideshows. It uses a simple, three-step process: 1) upload up to 50 photos per show, 2) use a phone to narrate the show, and 3) publish and share it! SnapGenie shows are easy to share and once created, always exist under your account. Best of all, it is totally FREE!
I think this program could easily be incorporated into a classroom in a variety of ways. For example, students could create their own slideshows with pictures they’ve taken. These shows could be part of a group or class project. The shows are easily emailed to the teacher to be used as a form of assessment.
Teachers can also use this as a tool to communicate with parents. Pictures could (and should) be taken of the various happenings in the classroom. Then, on a regular basis (weekly or monthly), the teacher could compile a slideshow and narrate it. It is then easily emailed to the parents as a visual narration of what their children are doing at school.
Technology Article #2: iMovie from Apple
iMovie is a video editing software application which allows Mac users to create and edit their own movies. It is free with the Apple operating system and is very easy to use. Despite this simplicity, it still includes "professional" editing options such as dropping clips on a timeline, cropping them, and adding transitions between clips. There are also support tutorials available from the Apple website. I also found these tutorials from the Iowa State University website helpful.
As far as integrating iMovie into a classroom, I could see it being used with older students (like grades 5-6) because fairly sound knowledge of computers and digital cameras are needed as a foundation. However, I can see it being very successful with the proper instruction. In fact, my student teaching classroom used iMovie to create their own movie, highlighting events from the entire year. Pictures and videos are easily collected throughout the year, providing students with a wealth of material to choose from. They could also use it in group or individual projects.
Teachers can also use iMovie. This would be a more practical approach for use in classes with younger children. They could create movies to extend specific topics, as a form of assessment and documentation, as memorabilia for them and the students, and as a way to help parents feel included in their child's learning. The possibilities are endless!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Publisher
Over the past several weeks, I have been working with Microsoft Publisher to create various documents such as a flyer, newsletter, and list of classroom rules. I am an old friend of Publisher, so I've rather enjoyed this process.
I like Publisher because it provides numerous templates for a variety of projects. These templates are easily manipulated, even for beginners. This would be useful in a classroom because it would allow students to create professional-looking documents with ease. It also makes the teacher look more computer-saavy when sending home notes, newsletters, calendars, etc. to parents.
I have also been filling out my Google Site a little more. It now includes items such as a class calendar, students of the week, and homework assignments. I can see this becoming a valuable tool to help open up communication between parents, teachers, and students.
The key to making this work would be to make sure that parents know that it is available. It is also important that the teacher keep it updated, otherwise it becomes pointless.
I like Publisher because it provides numerous templates for a variety of projects. These templates are easily manipulated, even for beginners. This would be useful in a classroom because it would allow students to create professional-looking documents with ease. It also makes the teacher look more computer-saavy when sending home notes, newsletters, calendars, etc. to parents.
I have also been filling out my Google Site a little more. It now includes items such as a class calendar, students of the week, and homework assignments. I can see this becoming a valuable tool to help open up communication between parents, teachers, and students.
The key to making this work would be to make sure that parents know that it is available. It is also important that the teacher keep it updated, otherwise it becomes pointless.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Kidspiration & Inspiration
Kidspiration
According to their website, Kidspiration is "the visual way to explore words, numbers and concepts." It was created for grades K-5. This program develops thinking, literacy, and numeracy skills through visual learning principles. In reading and writing, Kidspiration strengthens word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression. In math, it encourages students to build reasoning and problem solving skills.
Pros of using Kidspiration include:
* Developing strong thinking skills
* Strengthening reading and writing skills
* Building conceptual understanding in math
Components of Kidspiration
* Picture View-This component provides students with tools to map out concepts and create other visual representations. I like how it includes clip art, arrows, bubbles, etc. I think that the variety of images opens up additional options for creativity among the students. There is not just one right way to create something.
* Writing View-This component is closely connected with the Picture View. It allows for a written map/outline of a concept. There is also a function that allows students to place what they've written to be automatically transferred to a picture web. I also thought that the Word Guide function is helpful since it provides students with the definition of a word as well as synonyms.
* Math View- This final "new" component provides several tools (color tiles, pattern blocks, base ten blocks, fraction tiles, and fraction boxes) in addition to an option for free workspace. I think this is a positive component because each of the tools found here are based upon actual manipulatives that can also be used in the classroom. It could provide opportunities for assessment, reinforcement, or even just a fun, educational activity. The students are not restricted to a worksheet, but rather have the opportunity to use what they've learned and be as creative as they want.
* The Activities- I found the activities in each subject to be age appropriate and fun. Even better, they each support the students' development in critical thinking skills, language & literacy skills, and problem solving skills. They are fun, visual ways to reinforce these skills.
Inspiration
According to their website, Inspiration is "the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn." Created for grades 6-12, it helps students plan, research, and complete projects. The students can create graphic organizers and expand topics into writing, which encourages learning in multiple modes. As a result, students gain a better understanding of concepts and demonstrate their knowledge.
Pros of using Inspiration include opportunities to:
* Plan and organize
* Research and evaluate
* Comprehend and communicate
Since this program was created for grades 6-12, I can't see it being applicable in an Early Childhood setting. However, when considered as an educational tool for older students, it would have its uses. The Diagram section, like the Picture View in Kidspiration, facilitates creating graphic organizers of concepts. This goes hand in hand with the Outline section which facilitates outlining information within a content area. The final major area of this program is the Template section. The subject templates found in this area help students with organization, research, and planning. This section is one area that I think can also be useful to teachers of any age group. The planning area provides templates for various types of lesson plans. While they may need to be adjusted for different classes. the basic structure provides a foundational starting point.
According to their website, Kidspiration is "the visual way to explore words, numbers and concepts." It was created for grades K-5. This program develops thinking, literacy, and numeracy skills through visual learning principles. In reading and writing, Kidspiration strengthens word recognition, vocabulary, comprehension and written expression. In math, it encourages students to build reasoning and problem solving skills.
Pros of using Kidspiration include:
* Developing strong thinking skills
* Strengthening reading and writing skills
* Building conceptual understanding in math
Components of Kidspiration
* Picture View-This component provides students with tools to map out concepts and create other visual representations. I like how it includes clip art, arrows, bubbles, etc. I think that the variety of images opens up additional options for creativity among the students. There is not just one right way to create something.
* Writing View-This component is closely connected with the Picture View. It allows for a written map/outline of a concept. There is also a function that allows students to place what they've written to be automatically transferred to a picture web. I also thought that the Word Guide function is helpful since it provides students with the definition of a word as well as synonyms.
* Math View- This final "new" component provides several tools (color tiles, pattern blocks, base ten blocks, fraction tiles, and fraction boxes) in addition to an option for free workspace. I think this is a positive component because each of the tools found here are based upon actual manipulatives that can also be used in the classroom. It could provide opportunities for assessment, reinforcement, or even just a fun, educational activity. The students are not restricted to a worksheet, but rather have the opportunity to use what they've learned and be as creative as they want.
* The Activities- I found the activities in each subject to be age appropriate and fun. Even better, they each support the students' development in critical thinking skills, language & literacy skills, and problem solving skills. They are fun, visual ways to reinforce these skills.
Inspiration
According to their website, Inspiration is "the essential tool to visualize, think, organize and learn." Created for grades 6-12, it helps students plan, research, and complete projects. The students can create graphic organizers and expand topics into writing, which encourages learning in multiple modes. As a result, students gain a better understanding of concepts and demonstrate their knowledge.
Pros of using Inspiration include opportunities to:
* Plan and organize
* Research and evaluate
* Comprehend and communicate
Since this program was created for grades 6-12, I can't see it being applicable in an Early Childhood setting. However, when considered as an educational tool for older students, it would have its uses. The Diagram section, like the Picture View in Kidspiration, facilitates creating graphic organizers of concepts. This goes hand in hand with the Outline section which facilitates outlining information within a content area. The final major area of this program is the Template section. The subject templates found in this area help students with organization, research, and planning. This section is one area that I think can also be useful to teachers of any age group. The planning area provides templates for various types of lesson plans. While they may need to be adjusted for different classes. the basic structure provides a foundational starting point.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Go Team!
This past week was dedicated to finishing and fine tuning our group PowerPoint presentations. Having worked in another group to complete the gradelevel PowerPoint, this experience provided the opportunity to compare and contrast different group styles.
In my first group, I was probably the most saavy about digital cameras and PowerPoint. As a result, I became the unspoken leader of the group. As such, I gathered information and opinions from my fellow group members. Their ideas were vital to creating the final project. However, the responsibility of actually creating the PowerPoint and ading the finishing touches to make it flow landed largely on my shoulders.
In my next group, there were a lot more of my peers who were comfortable and confident working with PowerPoint, and some were much more "take charge" than I tend to be. Therefore, I was not the head leader of this group. Since we had to projects to complete, our group opted to take a divide and conquer approach to completing the assignment, so we split into two subgroups. I did become the unspoken leader of my subgroup. Each subgroup created their own activity and then we came back as a large group to put it all together and present it to the class.
Throughout my schooling, I have been placed into many different groups. Sometimes I take on the role of leader. At other times I am content to let others take that role. I like working in groups because it is easy to utilize individual's strengths to enhance the project. Many brains working together increase creativity, expand expectations, and encourages socialization.
There have also been groups that I did not enjoy working with. Most of the time this was a result of a lack of productivity among fellow group members. I felt like I was the one doing all of the work, but they were going to get all of the credit. I have also had experiences where a group member did not do their part and their lack of commitment reflected poorly on the entire group.
As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using groupwork in the classroom. Overall, I feel that the advantages outweight the disadvantages. But I believe that students must be taught how to work well in groups and not just be left to themselves. The teacher must be available as a facilitator as well as a resource. They must also be careful in how they group students in an effort ot avoid personality clashes and having too many (or too few) leaders in one group.
In my first group, I was probably the most saavy about digital cameras and PowerPoint. As a result, I became the unspoken leader of the group. As such, I gathered information and opinions from my fellow group members. Their ideas were vital to creating the final project. However, the responsibility of actually creating the PowerPoint and ading the finishing touches to make it flow landed largely on my shoulders.
In my next group, there were a lot more of my peers who were comfortable and confident working with PowerPoint, and some were much more "take charge" than I tend to be. Therefore, I was not the head leader of this group. Since we had to projects to complete, our group opted to take a divide and conquer approach to completing the assignment, so we split into two subgroups. I did become the unspoken leader of my subgroup. Each subgroup created their own activity and then we came back as a large group to put it all together and present it to the class.
Throughout my schooling, I have been placed into many different groups. Sometimes I take on the role of leader. At other times I am content to let others take that role. I like working in groups because it is easy to utilize individual's strengths to enhance the project. Many brains working together increase creativity, expand expectations, and encourages socialization.
There have also been groups that I did not enjoy working with. Most of the time this was a result of a lack of productivity among fellow group members. I felt like I was the one doing all of the work, but they were going to get all of the credit. I have also had experiences where a group member did not do their part and their lack of commitment reflected poorly on the entire group.
As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using groupwork in the classroom. Overall, I feel that the advantages outweight the disadvantages. But I believe that students must be taught how to work well in groups and not just be left to themselves. The teacher must be available as a facilitator as well as a resource. They must also be careful in how they group students in an effort ot avoid personality clashes and having too many (or too few) leaders in one group.
Friday, October 24, 2008
More PowerPoint Exploration
In class this week we spent more time exploring with PowerPoint. The assignment was to get in groups and choose two projects from our text to complete and present on. As my group began looking through the text to decide on our projects, I was astounded at all of the possibilities.
I have always considered PowerPoint to be a presentation tool. That is, a tool to assist in disclosing information using a presentation method. In my mind, PowerPoint was to be used as a visual aid. This assignment helped to shift that paradigm.
Many of the projects in this text were not brand new ideas to me. However, the idea of using PowerPoint to accomplish these tasks WAS a novel idea. My group chose to use PowerPoint in creating examples of acrostic poetry and a list of books never written.
The following are several advantages to using PowerPoint to do these types of projects:
* Ability to incorporate animation
* Facilitates creating a class slideshow from individual projects
* Opportunity for collaborative group work
* Enhances computer literacy skills
* Provides source of documentation
As much as I enjoy working with PowerPoint, I still feel that other programs (such as Microsoft Publisher or even Word) are easier to manipulate with similar end results. But I am intrigued by using PowerPoint as more than just a visual aid in my classroom.
I have always considered PowerPoint to be a presentation tool. That is, a tool to assist in disclosing information using a presentation method. In my mind, PowerPoint was to be used as a visual aid. This assignment helped to shift that paradigm.
Many of the projects in this text were not brand new ideas to me. However, the idea of using PowerPoint to accomplish these tasks WAS a novel idea. My group chose to use PowerPoint in creating examples of acrostic poetry and a list of books never written.
The following are several advantages to using PowerPoint to do these types of projects:
* Ability to incorporate animation
* Facilitates creating a class slideshow from individual projects
* Opportunity for collaborative group work
* Enhances computer literacy skills
* Provides source of documentation
As much as I enjoy working with PowerPoint, I still feel that other programs (such as Microsoft Publisher or even Word) are easier to manipulate with similar end results. But I am intrigued by using PowerPoint as more than just a visual aid in my classroom.
Friday, October 17, 2008
More Digital Photography
This past week we delved a bit deeper into digital photography, so I'd like to elaborate on my relfection from last week. First, a quick recap. Digital cameras have simplified the art of photography and made it easily accessible & adaptable for all users, including teachers and students. There are many uses for digital cameras in the classroom, including:
1) Documenting classroom activities such as field trips, groupwork, experiments, etc.
2) Using photos to illustrate stories
3) Using photos in creating books
4) Displaying student work through digital means (i.e. class website, blog, newsletter)
5) Taking photos of specific curriculum concepts
Some of the advantages to using digital cameras in the classroom include involving all children, catering to their individual strengths & interests, and the development of pre-writing skills. The location & supervision of the computers, reaching & supporting the reticent learners, and ensuring equitable use by all children may present challenges at first but can all be overcome with careful planning, observation, and reflection. If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
There are many image editors available for digital photographers. I have always preferred Adobe Photoshop for its widerange of editing options. However, this week I had the opportunity to work more with Picasa. I like Picasa because of the ease of creating albums and web albums. These programs facilitate the ability to truly capture the moment. But it is important to remember that not all images can be "fixed" so it is important to do as much as possible during the actual picture taking.
The following websites provide some helpful hints about digital photography:
Digital Photography Help and Tips
Photography Tips, Tricks & Techniques
Digital Photography--Tips & Techniques
1) Documenting classroom activities such as field trips, groupwork, experiments, etc.
2) Using photos to illustrate stories
3) Using photos in creating books
4) Displaying student work through digital means (i.e. class website, blog, newsletter)
5) Taking photos of specific curriculum concepts
Some of the advantages to using digital cameras in the classroom include involving all children, catering to their individual strengths & interests, and the development of pre-writing skills. The location & supervision of the computers, reaching & supporting the reticent learners, and ensuring equitable use by all children may present challenges at first but can all be overcome with careful planning, observation, and reflection. If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
There are many image editors available for digital photographers. I have always preferred Adobe Photoshop for its widerange of editing options. However, this week I had the opportunity to work more with Picasa. I like Picasa because of the ease of creating albums and web albums. These programs facilitate the ability to truly capture the moment. But it is important to remember that not all images can be "fixed" so it is important to do as much as possible during the actual picture taking.
The following websites provide some helpful hints about digital photography:
Digital Photography Help and Tips
Photography Tips, Tricks & Techniques
Digital Photography--Tips & Techniques
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Digital Photography
Digital cameras have advanced the art of photography and made it simpler (and cheaper) than ever to take, edit, and reproduce pictures. So why not take advantage of such a marvelous tool in the classroom? The answer is that teachers SHOULD be open to using digital photography in their classrooms.
The possibilities for classroom use of digital cameras are seemingly endless. The article "100 Uses for Digital Cameras" lists a lot of really good ideas. These suggestions include uses for teachers (i.e. using photos for seating charts and to create "my turn cards") as well as for students (i.e. using photos to create an ABC book, to prompt creative writing, and to illustrate stories). Teachers can add their own ideas to this list--ideas that suite their unique situation.
So you can incorporate digital photography into the classroom, but what are the advantages of doing such? I agree with the following eight advantages suggested in the "Digital Snapshot" article:
1) Opportunities to involve ALL children
2) Caters to students' interests, strengths, and talents
3) Opportunities for parental involvement
4) Provides documentation
5) Develops pre-writing skills
6) Children use artistic sensibilities
7) Higher computer literacy skills
8) Student satisfaction
But no teaching method is without its challenges. The same article outlines problems these teachers encountered in their classroom including the location & supervision of the computers, reaching & supporting the reticent learners, and ensuring equitable use by all children.
Other challenges include the equipment itself. The "Top 10 Tips" article suggest ten tips that make using digital camers less of a hassle. They include:
1) Using a camera suited for your needs
2) Using a high-resolution file format
3) Having extra, charged batteries
4) Having enough memory cards
5) Turning off the camera before removing the memory card
6) Learning the camera's timing
7) Using the "continuous" mode for fast-action shots
8) Creating a digital workflow
-take picture
-transfer & organize photos
-edit photos
-print & share photos
9) "Fixing" photos isn't always an option, so plan ahead when taking pictures
10) Always make copies of the photos
I think that these tips are useful for teachers, students, parents, and anyone wanting to use digital cameras. I've unfortunately experienced much anxiety as a result of NOT following these tips. I'd prefer to pass these along to my students and co-workers so that they do not have to learn through experience.
Digital cameras are wonderful tools, when you know how to use them properly. As a teacher, I can give my students the chance to gain that knowledge in my classroom.
The possibilities for classroom use of digital cameras are seemingly endless. The article "100 Uses for Digital Cameras" lists a lot of really good ideas. These suggestions include uses for teachers (i.e. using photos for seating charts and to create "my turn cards") as well as for students (i.e. using photos to create an ABC book, to prompt creative writing, and to illustrate stories). Teachers can add their own ideas to this list--ideas that suite their unique situation.
So you can incorporate digital photography into the classroom, but what are the advantages of doing such? I agree with the following eight advantages suggested in the "Digital Snapshot" article:
1) Opportunities to involve ALL children
2) Caters to students' interests, strengths, and talents
3) Opportunities for parental involvement
4) Provides documentation
5) Develops pre-writing skills
6) Children use artistic sensibilities
7) Higher computer literacy skills
8) Student satisfaction
But no teaching method is without its challenges. The same article outlines problems these teachers encountered in their classroom including the location & supervision of the computers, reaching & supporting the reticent learners, and ensuring equitable use by all children.
Other challenges include the equipment itself. The "Top 10 Tips" article suggest ten tips that make using digital camers less of a hassle. They include:
1) Using a camera suited for your needs
2) Using a high-resolution file format
3) Having extra, charged batteries
4) Having enough memory cards
5) Turning off the camera before removing the memory card
6) Learning the camera's timing
7) Using the "continuous" mode for fast-action shots
8) Creating a digital workflow
-take picture
-transfer & organize photos
-edit photos
-print & share photos
9) "Fixing" photos isn't always an option, so plan ahead when taking pictures
10) Always make copies of the photos
I think that these tips are useful for teachers, students, parents, and anyone wanting to use digital cameras. I've unfortunately experienced much anxiety as a result of NOT following these tips. I'd prefer to pass these along to my students and co-workers so that they do not have to learn through experience.
Digital cameras are wonderful tools, when you know how to use them properly. As a teacher, I can give my students the chance to gain that knowledge in my classroom.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
PowerPoint Intro
This week I was re-introduced to the basics of PowerPoint. This amazing program provides the tools to create "slideshow" presentations that can be used for a variety of purposes. I have previously used PowerPoint extensively both as a student and as a teacher.
As a student, PowerPoint proved useful in countless group projects and oral presentations. It provides a visual for the rest of the class and allows for easy notetaking. However, one of the dangers of PowerPoint is the tendency to simply read the slides aloud, creating a dull lecture instead of an interactive presentation.
As a teacher, I have used PowerPoint both as a lecture tool and a student-based learning tool. In lectures, just as in group presentations, the PowerPoint provides a fun, easy-to-read visual aid. The same danger of reading the slides is present though. This can be overcome with practice. One of the best PowerPoint presentations I created for the classroom was a Jeopardy gameboard that incorporated links within the project. The students enjoyed using this familiar game for reviews.
I also encouraged my students to use PowerPoint presentations for some of their asignments. The largest, most successful one was when each of them created a presentation to accompany their science fair projects. This familiarized them with the fundamentals of PowerPoint, gave them a tool to use in presenting their projects, and was fun for them to do. I did find it necessary to establish clear rubrics and expectations of the presentations so that the kids would challenge themselves instead of sliding by with minimal effort.
I think PowerPoint is a wonderful tool to use in schools. However, teachers should be careful that it does not become a crutch to stand on as anything gets mundane after repeated use.
As a student, PowerPoint proved useful in countless group projects and oral presentations. It provides a visual for the rest of the class and allows for easy notetaking. However, one of the dangers of PowerPoint is the tendency to simply read the slides aloud, creating a dull lecture instead of an interactive presentation.
As a teacher, I have used PowerPoint both as a lecture tool and a student-based learning tool. In lectures, just as in group presentations, the PowerPoint provides a fun, easy-to-read visual aid. The same danger of reading the slides is present though. This can be overcome with practice. One of the best PowerPoint presentations I created for the classroom was a Jeopardy gameboard that incorporated links within the project. The students enjoyed using this familiar game for reviews.
I also encouraged my students to use PowerPoint presentations for some of their asignments. The largest, most successful one was when each of them created a presentation to accompany their science fair projects. This familiarized them with the fundamentals of PowerPoint, gave them a tool to use in presenting their projects, and was fun for them to do. I did find it necessary to establish clear rubrics and expectations of the presentations so that the kids would challenge themselves instead of sliding by with minimal effort.
I think PowerPoint is a wonderful tool to use in schools. However, teachers should be careful that it does not become a crutch to stand on as anything gets mundane after repeated use.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Internet Safety Tips
The Internet is a wonderful tool that has changed the world. It has given the average person access to resources that were untouchable just a few years ago. All with the click of a button. It has encouraged a more global society, as communication is now a breeze. For example, while I was doing an internship in Taiwan, I used Skype (an Internet-based software) to call home frequently. This method was less expensive and, overall, easier than worrying about phone cards. Email, social networks (such as Facebook), and instant messaging also facilitate communication.
Yes, the Internet has become a valuable tool to access resources, facilitate worldwide communication, share information, etc. However, along with these assets, the Internet also allows for the spread of incorrect information, computer viruses, pornography, and other in appropriate materials for certain audiences--such as children. As both a consumer and a teacher, this gives me cause to use extreme caution and teach my students to do likewise.
Because of the risks involved with using the Internet in education, it is important that students and teachers alike are trained on using it safely. This includes evaluating websites used as well as the personal safety of the users.
Just because something is found on the Internet, doesn't make it true. Anyone can post or publish something online and call it fact. So, how do we know what to believe? This is why it is necessary to evaluate the sites we use. The following questions can be used to evaluate a site:
- What type of domain does the URL contain?
- Who is the author of the page?
- What credentials does the author have on the subject?
- What seems to be the overall purpose for the site?
- Is there a current, "updated" date on the page?
- Does the information appear biased?
- Are there additional, working links about the topic on the page?
It is also important for parents, teachers, and students to be aware of certain Internet safety tips to protect themselves (and their computers) from harm. The FBI Kids website provides the following tips for kids when using the Internet:
- Remember never to give out personal information such as your name, home address, school name, or telephone number in a chat room or on bulletin boards. Also, never send a picture of yourself to someone you chat with on the computer without your parent's permission.
- Never write to someone who has made you feel uncomfortable or scared.
- Do not meet someone or have them visit you without the permission of your parents.
Tell your parents right away if you read anything on the Internet that makes you feel uncomfortable. - Remember that people online may not be who they say they are. Someone who says that "she" is a "12-year-old girl" could really be an older man.
The fact that there are people and things on the Internet that are inappropriate does not lessen this tool's uses. Consciously being cautious will go a long way in protecting yourself and others.
I pledge to do my part in keeping my students safe while they are using the Internet. This entails training them in Internet Safety, evaluating the websites I use as part of my instruction, and monitoring the students' use of the Internet.
Monday, September 22, 2008
UEN=Amazing Resources!!!
I am honestly amazed at how much information is available via the UEN site. There are different lesson plans, articles, games, virtual field trips, and so much more! It is also all based around the core curriculum, which makes life that much easier. This is an excellent source for resources.
One of these resources is the Pioneer Library, and what an amazing source this is. This database provides more reliable sources. It is also safe and appropriate for student use. There are many options for my students to explore. Another cool resource provided is EMedia. Videos can be an excellent tool to help engage students. The different interactives, movies, and games are other ways to involve students in their own learning. It also provides me with a way to use different learning techniques. All of this helps make learning fun, yet developmentally appropriate.
I feel like a teacher (especially a beginning teacher) can never have access to too many resources. The UEN website is definitely a must-have resource! It supplies exciting, colorful, developmentally appropriate, fun, and FREE activities for teachers and students alike.
One of these resources is the Pioneer Library, and what an amazing source this is. This database provides more reliable sources. It is also safe and appropriate for student use. There are many options for my students to explore. Another cool resource provided is EMedia. Videos can be an excellent tool to help engage students. The different interactives, movies, and games are other ways to involve students in their own learning. It also provides me with a way to use different learning techniques. All of this helps make learning fun, yet developmentally appropriate.
I feel like a teacher (especially a beginning teacher) can never have access to too many resources. The UEN website is definitely a must-have resource! It supplies exciting, colorful, developmentally appropriate, fun, and FREE activities for teachers and students alike.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Microsoft Office Tools ROCK!
As a student in today's society, it is now necessary to have at least a basic understanding of two Microsoft Office programs: Word and Excel. But these programs also have potential uses for me as a future teacher.
Word is, of course, a word processor most commonly used to create documents such as reports and papers. Within my classroom, it could be used by both my students and myself. My students could of course use word to prepare homework assignments and written reports. However, they could also use it in more creative fashions, such as creating their own books or a classroom newspaper. As the teacher, I could use Word as a tool in creating classwork as well as letters/reminders to be sent home.
Word would enable me to do all of this. However, I also feel that it may not be the easiest nor the most efficient tool to use in all instances. It is not always the easiest tool to manipulate when attempting more creative projects. I have found programs such as Photoshop and Microsoft Publisher easier to use for these types of projects. But if these programs are not available, Microsoft Word works just fine.
Excel creates spreadsheets which help collect, organize, store, and display sets of data. During my student teaching in Hawaii, I found this an amazing tool for creating my gradebooks. I was able to create one workbook with several spreadsheets for each subject I taught. The students' scores were all organized, and I set up formulas in helping me to determine their final grades. For my students, Excel is a great way to integrate technology into the curriculum. For example, they could use data collected in science and/or math to create a spreadsheet. From these spreadsheets, graphs and charts are easy to create and add something special to reports or projects.
The biggest downside to Excel is just figuring out all that it has to offer. The basics are easy enough to understand, but when creating formulas, charts, links to other worksheets, etc., it isn't always easy to just sit down and do. For a beginner, it takes a lot of fiddling and tweaking. But that is a small price to pay for such wonderful results!
Word is, of course, a word processor most commonly used to create documents such as reports and papers. Within my classroom, it could be used by both my students and myself. My students could of course use word to prepare homework assignments and written reports. However, they could also use it in more creative fashions, such as creating their own books or a classroom newspaper. As the teacher, I could use Word as a tool in creating classwork as well as letters/reminders to be sent home.
Word would enable me to do all of this. However, I also feel that it may not be the easiest nor the most efficient tool to use in all instances. It is not always the easiest tool to manipulate when attempting more creative projects. I have found programs such as Photoshop and Microsoft Publisher easier to use for these types of projects. But if these programs are not available, Microsoft Word works just fine.
Excel creates spreadsheets which help collect, organize, store, and display sets of data. During my student teaching in Hawaii, I found this an amazing tool for creating my gradebooks. I was able to create one workbook with several spreadsheets for each subject I taught. The students' scores were all organized, and I set up formulas in helping me to determine their final grades. For my students, Excel is a great way to integrate technology into the curriculum. For example, they could use data collected in science and/or math to create a spreadsheet. From these spreadsheets, graphs and charts are easy to create and add something special to reports or projects.
The biggest downside to Excel is just figuring out all that it has to offer. The basics are easy enough to understand, but when creating formulas, charts, links to other worksheets, etc., it isn't always easy to just sit down and do. For a beginner, it takes a lot of fiddling and tweaking. But that is a small price to pay for such wonderful results!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Blogmania
The ever increasing popularity of the Internet is constantly bringing about new forms of Internet-based technology. For example, blogs. Blogs can serve many different purposes such as personal journal, a method of updating people on your life, a place to record thoughts & opinions, etc.
I have incorporated all of these different purposes into my personal blog (Kokayz's Kooky Khronicles). I started this particular blog shortly before I left for an internship in Taiwan. I viewed it as a way for my family and friends to follow along on my many adventures. I was able to post pictures and document my experiences in one convenient location! Being abroad made it difficult for my family and friends to keep directly in touch (though Skype helped with that problem), so they loved being able to know what I was up to.
But could such technology be incorporated into my classroom? The answer is a resounding YES!!! I actually implemented a blogging activity within one of my classrooms in Taiwan. I had each of the students write a letter to my sister Annie (who was their same age). The letter introduced themselves, asked some questions, and was a great way for them to practice some of the English skills I'd been reviewing with them. Next, we posted the letters on a blog and I sent the link to my sister. She then responded to them. The kids loved being able to communicate with someone their age who was half a world away. I think this idea could be used to establish "pen pals" in a similar method.
"What did you do in school today?" "Nothing." How often is that conversation held between parents and children? In my house, it happened frequently. If parents really want to know what their kids are doing in school, a class blog would be a great way keep them updated. It would also allow for them to get to know me better. Plus, it would open another channel of communication between parents and the teacher. Announcements, calendars, schedules, news, pictures. A blog could have it all!
Web technologies tend to come and go, but, for now, blogging is one that is extremely popular, easy to use, and can be incorporated into a classroom setting. How cool is that!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
The Craziness that is my Life
Uhm, yeah. Believe it or not I really did make it back from Taiwan in one piece and with little difficulty. Not that you would know that, cuz once I got back I dropped off the face of the blogging world. Not that I didn’t think about it. But at first so much was happening and so many adjustments were being made, that I didn’t have time. Then I felt like I had to try and write down everything I’d been doing and that was overwhelming. So I stopped. And now I’m starting up, again.
My life since Taiwan can be summed up in two words: insanely crazy. I was back in Hawaii for a whirlwind visit frantically trying to wrap up everything with the School of Education. I managed it and still managed to make a few more last minute memories too. Unfortunately, I couldn’t stay there forever. And oh how I’m missing it now!
But back to Utah I came. Between family vacations and job hunting, I got busy fast. I quickly found myself working two jobs in an effort to replenish my depleted bank account. I started the summer off working at Just 4 Kids Adventures (a daycare) and added on my old job at MyFamily.com (or I suppose I should use the proper name, The Generations Network, since it changed quite a while ago). Averaging 50 hours a week, I wasn’t sure I was going to have much else going on in my life.
I was wrong. You see, one of my good buddies from Hawaii graduated and moved to Provo and I was lucky enough to keep in touch with him. Jason and I hung out a lot, and that provided me with a much needed source of stress relief. And I started to notice something else too. I was smiling, a lot. And the smiles kept coming! Yeah, we started dating the first part of August and have a great time keeping each other happy.
The coming of fall brought about a few changes. I quit my job at the daycare and started back up at school. Crazy, eh? I am now a student at Utah Valley University in an effort to get my early childhood certificate. All so that I can teach Preschool and/or Kindergarten. Well that and the fact that I was so not ready to begin “real life.” I’m a student for life!
Phew! I think that covers most of the highlights. I’ll do my best to dust off my keyboard and camera so that y’all, for whatever sadistic reasons of your own, can keep up with the craziness that is my life!
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