Blog Post 10

There is lot to be learned for Sir Ken Robinson, mainly that he believes there is an immediate need to change the way in which we educate. After viewing ”Bring on the Learning Revolution”. Mr. Robinson stresses the need for a educational revolution because no one way of doing any particular thing is correct and believing so only hinders us. He uses the idea that not landing a high paying job constitues wasting ones life. As an example he mentioned someone he'd encountered at a book signing who worked as a fire/rescue employee, he said he was told by his teacher at a young age that if he chose this as a career it would be a waste of his life. I believe the worst thing we as educators or even as mentors can do is to discourage a child from his or her dreams and aspirations. If we change our way of thinking now, engage in an educational revolution, and shift to a non traditional approach to teaching where a students individual qualities are assessed we will certainly be changing for the better.

Another thing I learned from Mr. Robinson was that many people only exist, they aren't actually living. I say this because of his mention of people who love what they do versus those who just put up with their profession. I would hate to live my entire life doing a job that I didn't truly enjoy or a job for which I did not have a true passion. I have always wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people and one of the most postitive ways to do that is to give them an educational experience they can carry with them for a lifetime and I honestly believe that in order to accomplish this we have to continuously change with the times, not adapt once the change has occured.

PBL #15

”Can I afford my wants and my needs?” is a week and a half long project based lesson in which students will become news reporters for a imaginary local news station. Their cover story is how gas prices affect children in their age group and ultimately how people decide to spend their money. They will need to research information thoroughly to report their findings through a group multi-media presentation as well as an individual essay. To begin, I would have a local newscaster explain to the class how reporters investigate in order to gain information related to a particular case. A local gas station owner or manager will be invited to be a guest speaker to help kick off the event, as well. Their presentations will include facts and information about gas, where it comes from, the prices, and how it affects people with the everyday economy.

Project 12: Smartboard Part A

Blog Post 9

”Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 1”

To hear how Mrs. Cassidy began integrating technology into her classroom with only 5 computers was truly amazing. Many times we let the lack of anything deter us from moving forward with a situation, but instead Mrs. Cassidy sought funding for additional computers and found multiple ways to bring technology into her classroom. Like many other 21st century educators, the key idea that Mrs. Cassidy wanted to convey was that technology is essential and that we cannot effectively teach this generation of students using dated techniques. Mrs. Cassidy stated that she began her webpage over a decade ago and her blog about 5 years ago. Since then she has worked for her students to express themselves through blogs because it provides them with an audience to which they may not otherwise have access. Being able to see how many page views they have is a way to keep the students engaged and encourages them to continue post to their blog. In closing we are reminded that is absolutely essential for teachers to be technologically literate. We are left with these closing thoughts from Mrs. Cassidy, even though some teachers prefer to do things the way they’ve always been done technology is not going away and we should all except the facts and adapt our teaching accordingly.

I think I will most definitely incorporate student blogs into my classroom curriculum, not only does it help to improve writing skills but it is also a fun way to use technology. At some point I'm sure that internet or computer access would be a problem for some students so for that particular group, I would allow classroom time to work on their blogs. I anticipate that some of the benefits would be improved writing skills and an increased opportunity to begin personal learning networks.

”Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 2”

In this video Mrs. Cassidy provides us with ways to incorporate technology into our classrooms and outside lives. Your personal interests should fuel the way in which technology is used in your classroom. She mentioned Flickr, Facebook, and blogging as good entry points. Dr. Strange and Mrs. Cassidy stressed the importance of twitter in expanding PLN's, but also warn not to give up quickly because it may seem like it isn't much help in the beginning. I used twitter daily for about 2 straight years and then I stopped abruptly. Since I have become and education major I see the benefits in using twitter and I would definitely recommend it to all future educators that I may encounter.

”Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 3”

In video 3 EDM310 students asked Mrs. Cassidy various questions related to integrating technology into the classroom. The questions ranged from how often she did certain things to how technology could be used for none core curriculum classes such as physical education. Another important concept discussed was plagiarism related to blogs and explained that it is considered collaboration when the information is used to help someone present that same information in a different way. I feel that this was a very important point to discuss because many people wonder how effective blogs can actually be when others can read someone's post and try to use it as their own. Mrs. Cassidy's explanation was very insightful and will help a lot of students in the future. Another important topic discussed was blog safety. She adviced students not to post their last name, pictures of themselves, or venture off into areas not previously approved. I found these videos to be very informative and I would definitely recommend them for future courses.

Post 8

As teachers, we have a responsibility to help our students learn to the best of our abilities. Often times, this includes introducing them to new tools that can make the learning process easier and more interesting and it seems nothing can accomplish this more than the use of technology. These tools help students become more self-sufficient and also help with communication skills though collaborations a student may have with others using the same resources. I have found many resources that valuable learning and communication tools but some stuck out more than others.

I really enjoyed the resources provided by Edmodo. The site is open to students as well as teachers and one of its main focuses is establishing a Personal Learning Network. It is a tool that allows teachers to communicate with their students outside of class while providing an environment where students are expected to work independently, collaborate with other students, and exchange information. Along with document sharing options students can view and upload videos and other important documents, for instance a group project. Last but not least, parents can be kept in loop about their child’s learning process and can communicate with the teacher if any questions arise.

Edmodo is one of many tools available to students and teachers but it is one that encompasses many useful things. I think more tools like this are needed to be an effective 21st Century teacher because it keeps the students engaged while also encouraging them to be independent.

PBL Project #14

What on Earth is a Mammal?

"What on earth is a Mammal" is a week long Project Based lesson plan best suitable for grades 3-5. This website will provide learning objectives, a daily calendar and a rubric for assessment. After a brief introduction to the material, students will be placed in groups of 3-4 where they will be introduced to iCurio, Google Docs and Discovery Ed as research and presentation tools. The objectives of this lesson include collaborative research, completing an assessment rubric, and effectively using Google Docs and the SMART board to present the information they’ve learned. The driving question is: What is a mammal?

C4T #2

C4T#2 Summary I was assigned Daniel Edwards' blog entitled “pedagogy first-technology”. In short, I feel that Mr. Edwards set out to expose some of the weaknesses that are prevelant in the field of education. One issue he mentioned that was of particular interest to me was how North American students rank considerably lower than other countires on an international level. He believes that teachers not wanting to accept that technology is a major part of the education process is in essence harmful to the students. He believes that now, more so than any other period in time, is an exciting time to be a teacher. We have more technological advances than ever before and with more opportunities than previous generations were afforded. His issue however, was whether or not teachers are taking full advantage of these opporunites because so many of them are reluctant to leave behind the way of teaching they were taught. Mr. Edwards spent a particular amount of time discussing "flipping the classroom". He speaks of the benefits associated with this concept and also the reservations that some teacher have with incorporating such concepts into their classrooms. I really enjoyed reading this blog, below is my response:

My name is Ty Walker and I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. This was a very thoughtful post! Technology is very important to the learning process and so is change. Even now, many teachers are hesitant to branch out from the traditional methods of teaching despite the fact that their students can potentially suffer. I agree with you about the general lack of concern about how poorly students test on a national level and I believe technology has a lot to do with that situation. Some school systems have already began to provide students as young as Kindergarten age with an iPad or mac book which is a step in the right direction. This can improve the learning process and provide students with better opportunities. Change is inevitable and in order to effectively compete with other nations, as far as education is concerned, every teacher should do their part to ensure that we are enhancing the learning process for our students.

Project #9 Book Review "Teaching Digital Natives" by Mark Prensky

Project #13- Lesson Plan

Ferris Wheel of Water – Lesson Plan

“The Ferris Wheel of Water” is a week and a half long project based lesson plan that will teach 5th grade students about the water cycle while providing them with hands on learning objectives. After a brief introduction to the material, students will be placed in groups of 4-5 (depending on class size) where they will be introduced to iCurio, Google Docs and Discovery Ed as research and presentation tools. The objectives of this lesson include collaborative research, completing an assessment rubric, and effectively using Google Docs and the SMART board to present the information they’ve learned. Dubai group’s driving question is: What are the components of the water cycle?

Blog Post 7

After watching ” Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture.” I couldn't help but feel inspired about how I can help perpetuate a child's dreams and aspirations. Dr. Pausch was an excellent professor who stressed the importance of creativity among his students and was very passionate in all that he taught. Amongst other things, Dr. Pausch wanted his students to understand the importance of respecting others, being honest, and bringing their own experiences to different situations.

This lecture made me realize the importance of engaging students in a fun way. So often as teachers we stick to a straight and narrow road, focused only on meeting required standards and learning objectives, not realizing that sometimes we may be disengaging the students. When students actually have fun with learning they are more likely to retain and master the information that is presented.

A main focus of the lecture was Entertainment Technology Center which was in use at Carnegie Mellon University. It required teamwork and out of the box thinkers to get it up and running but it is a wonderful addition to the University. In short, the program provides information about the fundamentals of Project Based Learning. Dr. Pausch also stated that self and peer editing are very important steps in project based learning. There are many things to be learned from Dr. Pausch about teaching and learning. First, a teacher should be innovative and willing to work on teams in order to achieve certain goals. Second, we should recognize the importance of valuing a student's unique set of knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes. Third, we shouldn't be afraid to be criticized or offer constructive criticism. Last but certainly not least, we as teachers should make learning fun!

C4K Summary- February

C4K #1 ”Super Bowl XXVII” by Madison posted January 31, 2014

My first C4K for the month of February was a reply to Madison's blog post. Madison is a student in Mrs. Geldes class and seemed to be very excited about the upcoming festivities. She discussed bets people make, snacks eaten while watching the game and asked readers who they thought would win. Below is my reply:

Hello Madison! My name is Ty Walker and I am a student in Dr. Strange's EDM310 class at the University of South Alabama. This was a very informative post. Yes, I have heard of the Super Bowl and although I'm not a huge football fan I often watch the game with my parents. I don't like guacamole but I do eat cheese and jalapenos while watching the game. Do you like cheese and jalapeno peppers?

C4k #2 e books by Robert posted January 22,2014

For my second C4K post I was assigned to Robert's blog which was all about e books. The readers are introduced to what e book are and some of the benefits. Below is my reply:

Hello Robert! My name is Ty Walker and I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. I think this was a great topic because some people may not have known about e books before your post. I liked paper back books a lot when I was your age, but now my favorite way to read is using apple iBooks. I hope you continue to enjoy reading, knowledge is power

c4k #3”This I believe” by KW7ERA February 5, 2014

My third C4K assignment can't be described as anything less than an ode to football. There are vivid descriptions of the type of contact players have with each other and a description of several different plays that are popular within the sport. The blogger is also a football player and expressed his dreams of one day playing in the NFL. Below is my reply:

My name is Ty Walker and I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. I really enjoyed your post! Even though I am not a fan, football does seem to be an exciting sport. Also, it is refreshing to encounter a young person who is thinking of taking a passion to the next level. You are already aspiring to play football in college and potentially in the NFL, those are wonderful goals. I wish you the best of luck, because with hard work and determination anything is possible.

C4k #4 ”Color Poem” by Allysa D. posted February 3 2014 This post was very deep and I must admit I was not expecting to read such an intense poem as a part of a C4K assignment. In the post Allysa discusses odd behavior exhibited by her father as well as how they make her feel. In the end she reveals that he has a drug problem. Below is my reply:

My name is Ty Walker and I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. This was an excellent post. Your poem was very powerful and it amazes me that you shared such a sensitive topic with your peers. You may not have realized it at the time, but this poem may help someone who is in a similar situation. I can tell from your poem that the situations weighs heavily on you, but it may be best to stop worrying and just hope for the best. I admire your bravery and wish you the best of luck with coming to terms with your situation.