Three things that WOWed me.
I like the idea of kids teaching
their teachers how to use technology. It is no wonder that kids with access to
computers have not advanced like they should because the teachers do not understand how to effectively use this tool. I believe computersare a wonderful tool and should be used in the classrooms; however, I
think many good teachers don't know how to use the technology
effectively. I have discovered many great sites to help students learn
and I have also seen many sites kids like to play on which are not very
educational. Wouldn't it be great to make fun games that actually teach
students - something I would like to do. This semester I listened to several podcasts and read several articles about teaching with technology and the importance of challenging the students whild fully engaging the students and at tne same time entertaining the students. Why shouldn't a teacher use this tool to their advantage.
I also liked the idea of giving clues in a podcast to listeners about your location and letting the listeners try to figure out your location. Great idea to use with school kids and involve geography and history.
I really like the digital storybook idea and imovie. I can see students using this for numerous projects. Instead of doing powerpoints, I think digital storybooks and imovies are an awesome idea. Also, like imovies for students to go back and review information. I would have loved to had several imovies of my math class this semester, the second time listening and watching and filling in my notes would have been so beneficial.
6 student's sites
NIki's site is pleasing to the eye and attractive. I like the digitial storybook content, I would change the buttons and keep them all consistently located in the lower right corner of the page. I would separate lessons and projects and place on two separate pages.
Kerri, I really liked the colors and good feeling I got when looking at your website. Your website does a good job at highlighting your teaching.
Danny's website was very professional looking. I really liked the layout on several of the pages. Some of the pages had a lot of text.
Chris, I liked the background of his lessons page; however, I would sort out the lessons and projects. I would add to the first page - looks unfinished and uninviting.
Kiley, I liked the colors of the site and layout. I would add pictures and eliminate some of the text. I liked how some of the pictures in the digital storybook looked like children's artwork.
Kayla, I really liked her site. She did an awesome highlighting herself for the teaching profession. I also liked her kid's page. I liked the colors and everything on the site worked. I didn't see this much.
My site - will always be a work in progress. I really am thankful that I had to do this project, but it was very time consuming. I want to change and add several things. For starters, I will add my resume. I also like having a page for students and a page for parents when I am teaching. A page for a schedule of events. I really liked how Danny set up a couple of his pages - they look professional. I want to have a site that has a look of professionalism but is still educational and fun for my studnets. I would love to add a spinning wheel for my students so they would check the site daily for assignments and schedules. Not sure, what the spinning wheel would be used for? - credits ? I like my orbit project page the best - I like the colors and it looks inviting for middle school students. However, I know, I will change and so will my website.
Thanks for all your help.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Tech Learning
I firmly believe for technology to really work, the teacher must be educated in content area along with technology skills. However, if the teacher is computer sauve, I believe technology can be very beneficial. Each studednt having access to a computer and a well thought out lesson plan is awesome. One example given was learning the pythagorean theroem than applying it using the graphics program. Some of these programs are amazing and having them right there at each student's fingertips is beneficial. This semester, I have had the opportunity to use some of these programs and they do help; however, teachers must still use assessment to check student's understanding. I also had the opportunity to intern in a middle school math classroom with an awesome teacher; however, technology was rarely used because the mentor teacher is not comfortable using it.Sound familiar?
Tech kids article
This makes perfect sense. My daughter helps me with different computer applications all the time. I show her things and she shows me different things. She catches on much more quicker than I; however, we both learn. Kids are much more sauvy at computers than many teachers that have not grown up using computers. I think it is only natural that kids help teachers learn technology because, if not, I don't think teachers that are not accostumed to integrating technology will integrate it into their classes - of course, not techs 390 students - we will certainly integrate technology.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Podcasts for week of April 16 - April 20
The TechTeacher Podcast
Episode 14
May 19, 2006
Digital storytelling
How to give the students a new voice. What is digital storytelling - still images combined with a narrated voice and sometimes music. Why should teachers use digital storytelling - Engages students - reaches and motivates students and another way to reach students and gives students a voice, students can reach a larger audience, students get accustomed to using the tools of the future.
A way to express your Point of view - goal - experience personal expression, want story to involve a question which is resolved at the end of the story, emotional content - evokes an emotion from the audience, economy - powerful but short - 2-3 minutes, pacing - art of storytelling, voice and images - a way students can be heard - most essential - picture is worth a thousand words with voice, sound track - music enhances storytelling, digital storytelling can cover a variety of curriculum standards. Ideas for digital storytelling - Personal accomplishment story, historical figure, reflection journal, etc..
Digital story telling will engage the students and give students more ways to tell their story. I liked the idea of using digital storytelling and it covers many curriculum standards I included it in my lesson plan for social studies.
Cool Cat Teacher
Episode # 15
March 30, 2007
Stop Cyberbullying Day
Story of pike and elephant - Elephant has been conditioned that if the rope is on the foot than that elephant has no hope of getting free. Pike - glass blocking minnows - scientist conditioning pike not to eat minnows and then when the scientist frees the pike, the pile starved to death because the pike wouldn't eat the minnows.
10% of students affected by cyberbullying - students learning to interact with global environment is extremely important. Students need to build confidence about themselves and should not be torn down on the internet. If people blog, use a social network, blogs should be user friendly. Students need to be taught about cyberbullying and the proper etiquette of social networking. All blogs can be tracked by an IP service.
Stop cyberbullying bit by bit - Teach students how to communicate properly on the internet. Vicki suggests joining Stop cyberbullying.com site., Educate yourself and others about cyberbullying. Wesley Fryer podcast on cyberbullying. There is a video on this site and she suggests showing it to your students. Students need to learn to communicate wisely on the internet because it is a great way to communicate globally with the world and others and no one should be a victim of cyberbullying on the internet.
Episode 14
May 19, 2006
Digital storytelling
How to give the students a new voice. What is digital storytelling - still images combined with a narrated voice and sometimes music. Why should teachers use digital storytelling - Engages students - reaches and motivates students and another way to reach students and gives students a voice, students can reach a larger audience, students get accustomed to using the tools of the future.
A way to express your Point of view - goal - experience personal expression, want story to involve a question which is resolved at the end of the story, emotional content - evokes an emotion from the audience, economy - powerful but short - 2-3 minutes, pacing - art of storytelling, voice and images - a way students can be heard - most essential - picture is worth a thousand words with voice, sound track - music enhances storytelling, digital storytelling can cover a variety of curriculum standards. Ideas for digital storytelling - Personal accomplishment story, historical figure, reflection journal, etc..
Digital story telling will engage the students and give students more ways to tell their story. I liked the idea of using digital storytelling and it covers many curriculum standards I included it in my lesson plan for social studies.
Cool Cat Teacher
Episode # 15
March 30, 2007
Stop Cyberbullying Day
Story of pike and elephant - Elephant has been conditioned that if the rope is on the foot than that elephant has no hope of getting free. Pike - glass blocking minnows - scientist conditioning pike not to eat minnows and then when the scientist frees the pike, the pile starved to death because the pike wouldn't eat the minnows.
10% of students affected by cyberbullying - students learning to interact with global environment is extremely important. Students need to build confidence about themselves and should not be torn down on the internet. If people blog, use a social network, blogs should be user friendly. Students need to be taught about cyberbullying and the proper etiquette of social networking. All blogs can be tracked by an IP service.
Stop cyberbullying bit by bit - Teach students how to communicate properly on the internet. Vicki suggests joining Stop cyberbullying.com site., Educate yourself and others about cyberbullying. Wesley Fryer podcast on cyberbullying. There is a video on this site and she suggests showing it to your students. Students need to learn to communicate wisely on the internet because it is a great way to communicate globally with the world and others and no one should be a victim of cyberbullying on the internet.
Moving At the Speed of Creativity
Episode #144
April 9, 2007
Free online videos for learning from Next Vista
Next Vista.org for learning - new site - video collections divided into three sections - lightbulbs - intro to different topics, global views for teenagers, seeing service - site to remind us that there are good people all around us.
Interview with Rushton Hurley, creator of Next Vista which is an online library for teachers and students and is free to help teachers and students - videos are 5 minutes or less - are readily available at the students fingertips - example - a short clip on fractions, a short clip on a specific subject - soliciting teachers that are passionate about a subject to make a short video to contribute.
U-tube is everything - Next Vista is not!! They follow 4 rules - 5 minutes or less, factually accurate, no copyright, appropriate for kids - these are submitted - They check resources before putting them on site. Do this so schools will permit this site into their schools. Free access - no log in required. He suggests making videos to help others and anyone can make a video but he checks the piece before putting it on the site. Non for profit organization.
Curriki.org free log in registration - site put together by teachers for other teachers and students. Similar site?
I really like sites put together by teachers for students and other teachers - these sites I have found very useful for school projects and lesson plans.I can't wait to check this one out!
Money Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for a Richer Life
Tips for protecting you Credit.
Episode #14, 1-16-07
How to improve your credit score?
How do you find out if you have good credit?
Information found on credit report - Amount of money you owe, how much is on your credit cards, if you pay on time, outstanding balances.
3 major credit reporting agencies - all three reports are complied into one and get a Fico scores 300 -850 , 700 and above is very good. Check with all agencies if something is not right because different companies use different agencies. - I learned something new - I didn't know there were three different agencies and that they compile all three reports for one score. I have only seen a Dun and Bradstreet report and they are interesting to look at the different information they compile about you.
Boost score by lowering credit card balances, keeping number of credit cards - 4 or less, mix of debt loans - better to have home, car, and credit card balances verses only four credit card balances.
Was advised to Check credit report before applying for a loan because sometimes information is not accurate.
Should check credit report one time a year.
The TechTeacher Podcast
April 15, 2007
Episode #160
Protect your Investment
Districts that are moving to one to one laptop to student should consider a durable case for students to carry and protect the investment.
Cases purchased to protect investment - student cases to protect the district laptops. Cases must be functional and fashionable - something the students will want to use - want students to protect the laptops - change in dimensions - something made to fit students hands and their needs. Wesley suggests The Higher Ground Shuttle - a laptop case that is rugged enough to protect the laptop, weather proof, multiple handles, can carry like backpack and can keep in case, extra padding, 5 colors, 4 sizes, and affordable. He suggests that districts should invest in good cases to protect their investment. I don't know - does District 489 buy cases for the laptops? This podcast made sense - I immediately went and checked out the case - they are cool, I would own one and I know my daughter would own one.
Episode #144
April 9, 2007
Free online videos for learning from Next Vista
Next Vista.org for learning - new site - video collections divided into three sections - lightbulbs - intro to different topics, global views for teenagers, seeing service - site to remind us that there are good people all around us.
Interview with Rushton Hurley, creator of Next Vista which is an online library for teachers and students and is free to help teachers and students - videos are 5 minutes or less - are readily available at the students fingertips - example - a short clip on fractions, a short clip on a specific subject - soliciting teachers that are passionate about a subject to make a short video to contribute.
U-tube is everything - Next Vista is not!! They follow 4 rules - 5 minutes or less, factually accurate, no copyright, appropriate for kids - these are submitted - They check resources before putting them on site. Do this so schools will permit this site into their schools. Free access - no log in required. He suggests making videos to help others and anyone can make a video but he checks the piece before putting it on the site. Non for profit organization.
Curriki.org free log in registration - site put together by teachers for other teachers and students. Similar site?
I really like sites put together by teachers for students and other teachers - these sites I have found very useful for school projects and lesson plans.I can't wait to check this one out!
Money Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for a Richer Life
Tips for protecting you Credit.
Episode #14, 1-16-07
How to improve your credit score?
How do you find out if you have good credit?
Information found on credit report - Amount of money you owe, how much is on your credit cards, if you pay on time, outstanding balances.
3 major credit reporting agencies - all three reports are complied into one and get a Fico scores 300 -850 , 700 and above is very good. Check with all agencies if something is not right because different companies use different agencies. - I learned something new - I didn't know there were three different agencies and that they compile all three reports for one score. I have only seen a Dun and Bradstreet report and they are interesting to look at the different information they compile about you.
Boost score by lowering credit card balances, keeping number of credit cards - 4 or less, mix of debt loans - better to have home, car, and credit card balances verses only four credit card balances.
Was advised to Check credit report before applying for a loan because sometimes information is not accurate.
Should check credit report one time a year.
The TechTeacher Podcast
April 15, 2007
Episode #160
Protect your Investment
Districts that are moving to one to one laptop to student should consider a durable case for students to carry and protect the investment.
Cases purchased to protect investment - student cases to protect the district laptops. Cases must be functional and fashionable - something the students will want to use - want students to protect the laptops - change in dimensions - something made to fit students hands and their needs. Wesley suggests The Higher Ground Shuttle - a laptop case that is rugged enough to protect the laptop, weather proof, multiple handles, can carry like backpack and can keep in case, extra padding, 5 colors, 4 sizes, and affordable. He suggests that districts should invest in good cases to protect their investment. I don't know - does District 489 buy cases for the laptops? This podcast made sense - I immediately went and checked out the case - they are cool, I would own one and I know my daughter would own one.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Readings for week April 16-April 20
These articles brought several good points and one several I might have to argue about. Yes, good technology and good teachers - What an awesome combination. I wish I would have been a student in school with this combination. I agree that software programs are much better and more beneficial today than even a year ago. I also really appreciate teacher sites - collaborative work of many teachers finding the best software to use for certain subjects - I have run across several of this sites lately - they are awesome. However, since when did we all become visual learners - what happened to multiple intelligence' ?????
I also think parents need to take an active role in controlling what sites kids go on and what they write on the web. I told my daughter the other day, it is O.K. to chat for a while but I get access to what you write and don't write anything you wouldn't want to be said about you. However, I still have a tough time, with the My Space thing and chat rooms. I am happy to hear someone is out there helping the young people. There is so much out there, how do you keep kids safe?????
I also think parents need to take an active role in controlling what sites kids go on and what they write on the web. I told my daughter the other day, it is O.K. to chat for a while but I get access to what you write and don't write anything you wouldn't want to be said about you. However, I still have a tough time, with the My Space thing and chat rooms. I am happy to hear someone is out there helping the young people. There is so much out there, how do you keep kids safe?????
Readings from Week April 9-13
Wow! I have mixed feelings. I think computers are a great tool and very beneficial especially with all the interactive educational sites. Example - a student can see how sin and cosine work together on a math site or how one variable will affect another variable or how one variable is dependent on another. A student can find answers and information so much quicker than the way research was done twenty years ago. A student can get help with homework instead of waiting until the next day. This is all great; however, students need to be taught how to find accurate information and how to weed through unworthy sites. Students need to use the computer for school work instead of chatting with friends and playing games. This is O.K. to a point, students will need self discipline, I guess just like anything else.
It is worrisome that teachers are not using more technology in the classrooms. This means, teachers need to change old teaching habits. However, I am struggling with dropping all textbooks for laptops. It is hard to keep all students on task and I sometimes think even harder when they have a laptop in front of them. I have seen college professors having to tell college students to close the computers. I have had teachers take points away from my teachings because not all students were on task when I have used laptops in my teachings, even if 19 out of 20 were on task. Not a good argument for not using computers, I think the kids greatly benefit from doing different activities on the computer. I don't have the answer, we are living in the 21st century. What if , people years ago said we don't need books, people can tell you the information? I personally think books should not be totally eliminated like at some schools but some could be eliminated. I also think students need to communicate verbally as well as written. I personally enjoy using a book occasionally for a change instead of staring at a computer screen.
It is worrisome that teachers are not using more technology in the classrooms. This means, teachers need to change old teaching habits. However, I am struggling with dropping all textbooks for laptops. It is hard to keep all students on task and I sometimes think even harder when they have a laptop in front of them. I have seen college professors having to tell college students to close the computers. I have had teachers take points away from my teachings because not all students were on task when I have used laptops in my teachings, even if 19 out of 20 were on task. Not a good argument for not using computers, I think the kids greatly benefit from doing different activities on the computer. I don't have the answer, we are living in the 21st century. What if , people years ago said we don't need books, people can tell you the information? I personally think books should not be totally eliminated like at some schools but some could be eliminated. I also think students need to communicate verbally as well as written. I personally enjoy using a book occasionally for a change instead of staring at a computer screen.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Readings for Week of April 2nd - 6th
Billions of dollars are being spent each year to prepare students and schools for technology demands and challenges. However, with all the advances, evidence suggests that schools are a long way from leveraging technology's potential. There are also large gaps between the advantaged and disadvantaged students in schools that have access to computers at home. Also with NCLB, many schools are using technology for testing purposes and drill practice and advocates for technology believe that a main focus should be put on helping students sift through all the data on the web and make sense of the noteworthy information. Advocates for technology want students tested for technology standards along with the math, language arts, science, and history advocates. However, from state assessments, how can anyone judge if the teachers are doing their job or if the students have the knowledge to succeed? State assessments can only infer that a student has mastered the tested knowledge - What about everything the student has mastered that is not being tested?
The report showed that in 2007 Kansas faired quit well against other states. Kansas endorses technology standards for students, teachers, and administrators. Kansas ratio of computers to students is less than the national average. Kansas averages about 2.5 instructional computers per student as opposed to the national average of 3 to 4. Kansas state technology report card showed that Kansas received an A- for access to technology, a B- for use of technology, a C for the capacity to use technology and an overall grade of B-. The average state score was a C+.
I agree that technology is not being utilized to its fullest advantage. Schools have come a long way over the last 10 years. Many students are taking virtual courses due to scheduling and work. This is good, but I don't believe virtual college is for everyone. Virtual courses are also promising for those students needing more challenging work. Podcasts, i-movies, etc... are all great ways for students to learn. There is so much available to a person anymore.
What about laptops replacing textbooks in Louisiana district? This document had a server error. However, many articles have been written on laptops replacing computers and there are many advocates for laptops replacing textbooks. Look at the college books that are offered on line at a lower price. Personally, I still like books, but I also like computers. I like to switch back and forth. I personally do not want to go strictly to laptops, maybe this is age? Like anything else, some people draw better, some people are great writers, some people need to be spoken to, some people are visual learners. I started thinking about this and it hit me, we have access to all of this on our laptops, educators and students just need to learn how to utilize it all. If books and schooling go strictly online I would be O.K. with this especially if classes had visual podcasts and teacher notes on the screen.
The report showed that in 2007 Kansas faired quit well against other states. Kansas endorses technology standards for students, teachers, and administrators. Kansas ratio of computers to students is less than the national average. Kansas averages about 2.5 instructional computers per student as opposed to the national average of 3 to 4. Kansas state technology report card showed that Kansas received an A- for access to technology, a B- for use of technology, a C for the capacity to use technology and an overall grade of B-. The average state score was a C+.
I agree that technology is not being utilized to its fullest advantage. Schools have come a long way over the last 10 years. Many students are taking virtual courses due to scheduling and work. This is good, but I don't believe virtual college is for everyone. Virtual courses are also promising for those students needing more challenging work. Podcasts, i-movies, etc... are all great ways for students to learn. There is so much available to a person anymore.
What about laptops replacing textbooks in Louisiana district? This document had a server error. However, many articles have been written on laptops replacing computers and there are many advocates for laptops replacing textbooks. Look at the college books that are offered on line at a lower price. Personally, I still like books, but I also like computers. I like to switch back and forth. I personally do not want to go strictly to laptops, maybe this is age? Like anything else, some people draw better, some people are great writers, some people need to be spoken to, some people are visual learners. I started thinking about this and it hit me, we have access to all of this on our laptops, educators and students just need to learn how to utilize it all. If books and schooling go strictly online I would be O.K. with this especially if classes had visual podcasts and teacher notes on the screen.
Podcasts for Week of April 2nd - 6th
Tech Chick Tips
Episode #22.5 Tech Chick Tips
March 30, 2007
The two women referenced Dan Schmidt's site - Kidcast awards - go to site Techchicktips.net - deadline for entering podcast on Dan's site is April 30th can go to intelligenic.com
Episode #20 Tech Chick Tips
February 27, 2007
Links for learning. ThinkQuest. org is a site for students from age 9 to 19 - collaborative educational site for kids - a place to post their projects.
Litesum-created by a 9th grader- searches wikipedia- does a search
Tuxpaint.org - drawing program for drawing for ages 3 to 12 - replacement for kids pix - free offer - basic brushes and stamps, etc... very easy, open source
Word.sc social dictionary - look up a word and put it right in the URL, program will pronounce the word for you and get a picture, site the word for you in the correct format -MLA, APA
They support extending your learning through collaboration. Post, blog, and share - how learning grows.
Kidcast
March 27, 2007
Episode 40
Time for Kidcast awards - two categories - Students - documentary(research findings, uncovering a concept), talk show (current events, teaching people through discussion, variety shows), drama (radio plays that teach, poetry) sound scene tour, where in the world?, Best in Show - recognizes the student podcast which exemplifies good podcast qualities (production quality, creativity, amount of learning obtained).
Second category is the teacher category for professional development or instructional materials.
Aiming contest at K -12 teachers and students, limitations - one podcast per category for each class. Can be enhanced podcast, video podcast, or regular podcast. Deadline is April 30th.
Dan would like to see many entries and intends to share these with listeners. Working on getting prizes for the winners. I thought this was a great idea and a way to get listeners to keep listening and a great way to promote podcasting. I personally can't wait till I get a chance to hear some of them.
Ewart Productions
Episode # 1
December 5, 2006
Wow!!!!!! Art historian, Christopher L.C.E. Witcombe gives a fact filled entertaining coverage of Leonardo da Vinci's painting of the Last Supper. This was a video podcast that was very well produced and informative of this art work. Witcombe did a great job! I learned that in this picture - 12 people couldn't possibly sit around this table but how he grouped the people into four clusters, one doesn't give a second thought to this small detail. It was better to group the people in clusters versus seating them in one straight line. I also got some great ideas for future podcasts, movies, or photos.
Episode #22.5 Tech Chick Tips
March 30, 2007
The two women referenced Dan Schmidt's site - Kidcast awards - go to site Techchicktips.net - deadline for entering podcast on Dan's site is April 30th can go to intelligenic.com
Episode #20 Tech Chick Tips
February 27, 2007
Links for learning. ThinkQuest. org is a site for students from age 9 to 19 - collaborative educational site for kids - a place to post their projects.
Litesum-created by a 9th grader- searches wikipedia- does a search
Tuxpaint.org - drawing program for drawing for ages 3 to 12 - replacement for kids pix - free offer - basic brushes and stamps, etc... very easy, open source
Word.sc social dictionary - look up a word and put it right in the URL, program will pronounce the word for you and get a picture, site the word for you in the correct format -MLA, APA
They support extending your learning through collaboration. Post, blog, and share - how learning grows.
Kidcast
March 27, 2007
Episode 40
Time for Kidcast awards - two categories - Students - documentary(research findings, uncovering a concept), talk show (current events, teaching people through discussion, variety shows), drama (radio plays that teach, poetry) sound scene tour, where in the world?, Best in Show - recognizes the student podcast which exemplifies good podcast qualities (production quality, creativity, amount of learning obtained).
Second category is the teacher category for professional development or instructional materials.
Aiming contest at K -12 teachers and students, limitations - one podcast per category for each class. Can be enhanced podcast, video podcast, or regular podcast. Deadline is April 30th.
Dan would like to see many entries and intends to share these with listeners. Working on getting prizes for the winners. I thought this was a great idea and a way to get listeners to keep listening and a great way to promote podcasting. I personally can't wait till I get a chance to hear some of them.
Ewart Productions
Episode # 1
December 5, 2006
Wow!!!!!! Art historian, Christopher L.C.E. Witcombe gives a fact filled entertaining coverage of Leonardo da Vinci's painting of the Last Supper. This was a video podcast that was very well produced and informative of this art work. Witcombe did a great job! I learned that in this picture - 12 people couldn't possibly sit around this table but how he grouped the people into four clusters, one doesn't give a second thought to this small detail. It was better to group the people in clusters versus seating them in one straight line. I also got some great ideas for future podcasts, movies, or photos.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Articles read for March 11, 2007
$250 Million proposed to lure teachers to New Orleans schools. Relocation bonuses offered, $500 housing subsidies and incentives to lure educators and principals to New Orleans. This area is in dire need of educators, they are even offering to forgive school loans for returning instructors. I personally think this is a great idea for some people and young new teachers.
The other article U.S. born don't learn the language easily stated that kids are still having trouble with English as a second language even after seven years. Hispanic students have the highest drop out rate and 1 out of 10 Hispanic students make up 70% of ESL learners. I think it would be extremely tough to learn a second language if only your 1st language was used at home and you received no support from your family. It was noted that Hispanic parents need to help and make schooling a priority like Asian parents. I liked the comment "Cultural differences should not be allowed to become a justification for inaction."
Podcast postings for March 27-29
Kidcast with Dan Schmidt
Episode # 39 Photo Story and Jodix
March 23, 2007
Microsoft has a product called "photo story" which is a free download to help a person create exciting video stories by adding panning and zooming effects to a persons pictures, and allows a person to add titles and background music to a story. This product is similar to i-movie for Mac users. Jodix is a converter for Windows that converts videos to podcasts. I liked how Dan shares items for both PC and Mac users. His non bias toward platforms increases his listener base.
Kidcast with Dan Schmidt
Episode #26 Sound seeing tours
May 24, 2006
I liked this episode because it gave several good examples of a sound seeing tour. I liked the sound effects that were left in the background when the people were talking about where they were. One episode was in a cave and you could hear the creeping sounds and echoes. Another episode was at the New York City library - on the front steps you could hear all the car noise and hustle and bustle of the City. He talked about how to produce such a podcast. He stressed 1. effective planning, selecting a good location with a good story, 2. Sequence matters and who is going to say what and when. Ask yourself - What do you want the listener to learn and know.
Sound seeing tours make it interesting and exciting for someone else listening. This type of podcast reminded me of a good book on CD - something that will hold your interest for hours and make driving for long hours go by quickly.
The Tech Teacher
Love Your Laptop
March 21, 2007
I really liked this episode, I learned some good basics of how to care for a laptop. Brad Niessen gave some basic care tips - Don't use Windex on a screen. Overcharging a battery can shorten the life of a battery. Don't transport a laptop that is on. Never carry a laptop in your backpack and protect it with a good case. Clean out the computer every so often. He suggests once a year to defragment your hard drive. Scan for Spyware and protect against viruses. Be careful with food and drink and extreme temperatures. Most of this information I had heard before but it was a good refresher course. I always enjoy listening to his podcasts.
The other article U.S. born don't learn the language easily stated that kids are still having trouble with English as a second language even after seven years. Hispanic students have the highest drop out rate and 1 out of 10 Hispanic students make up 70% of ESL learners. I think it would be extremely tough to learn a second language if only your 1st language was used at home and you received no support from your family. It was noted that Hispanic parents need to help and make schooling a priority like Asian parents. I liked the comment "Cultural differences should not be allowed to become a justification for inaction."
Podcast postings for March 27-29
Kidcast with Dan Schmidt
Episode # 39 Photo Story and Jodix
March 23, 2007
Microsoft has a product called "photo story" which is a free download to help a person create exciting video stories by adding panning and zooming effects to a persons pictures, and allows a person to add titles and background music to a story. This product is similar to i-movie for Mac users. Jodix is a converter for Windows that converts videos to podcasts. I liked how Dan shares items for both PC and Mac users. His non bias toward platforms increases his listener base.
Kidcast with Dan Schmidt
Episode #26 Sound seeing tours
May 24, 2006
I liked this episode because it gave several good examples of a sound seeing tour. I liked the sound effects that were left in the background when the people were talking about where they were. One episode was in a cave and you could hear the creeping sounds and echoes. Another episode was at the New York City library - on the front steps you could hear all the car noise and hustle and bustle of the City. He talked about how to produce such a podcast. He stressed 1. effective planning, selecting a good location with a good story, 2. Sequence matters and who is going to say what and when. Ask yourself - What do you want the listener to learn and know.
Sound seeing tours make it interesting and exciting for someone else listening. This type of podcast reminded me of a good book on CD - something that will hold your interest for hours and make driving for long hours go by quickly.
The Tech Teacher
Love Your Laptop
March 21, 2007
I really liked this episode, I learned some good basics of how to care for a laptop. Brad Niessen gave some basic care tips - Don't use Windex on a screen. Overcharging a battery can shorten the life of a battery. Don't transport a laptop that is on. Never carry a laptop in your backpack and protect it with a good case. Clean out the computer every so often. He suggests once a year to defragment your hard drive. Scan for Spyware and protect against viruses. Be careful with food and drink and extreme temperatures. Most of this information I had heard before but it was a good refresher course. I always enjoy listening to his podcasts.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Articles on Cyndi's site to read - March 27-29
I liked how the teacher incorporated rap music into history class - clever. Students actually read more and are more attentive to what they are reading because they want to be able to find good words to add to their songs. I will have to remember this because I can rap, I can't sing and it is fun. I have made and used a rap song for one of my teachings and I also like the idea of having the students composing their own rap.
Can video games help kids - I personally think games help students with knowledge skills and eye hand coordination - I think this is another reason kids are so quick on the computer today. Many games and sites are challenging and educationally. Others must think so also if they investing that kind of money for video games. A popular site right now for elementary and middle level students is Webkinz. It is an educational site that gives you points to so you can build and feed your animal. Also, it lets you interact with your friends if they are logged in at the same time. You can invite their pet over to see your virtual house and you can go to their virtual house.
I think putting presidential candidates on My Space is a good idea. This makes this information easy and readily accessible for many people wanting to familiarize themselves with the candidates. How convenient.
Real world problem solving and technology integration in schools. I agree that students need access to technology to use technology, but I also agree that students should not have free rein. It would be nice to see science in context but time and other factors considered this is not always possible, why not simulations, biomes, guest speakers, United Streaming, local museums, state attractions, etc... One other thought, students should be able to use their cell phone in an emergency or at lunch, but during class hours, I have to agree, no phones.
Enhancing education through technology. Wow! This is so true. How exciting school is it when students use technology to learn new things. Kids enjoy playing on the computer and searching for information, if only more teachers could understand the power of technology. I am amazed at how little technology actually is integrated into lessons. I agree, the more a person uses technology, the more capable and comfortable a person becomes with the new technology. However, when teachers are so busy, they need to find time to learn some new technology. Just like business people, dentists, doctors, any profession, a person must keep learning and challenging themselves to stay up on the latest to be the best in their profession. No one said it would be easy, but it is very rewarding, the more you learn about technology and how to really use it to your advantage.
Can video games help kids - I personally think games help students with knowledge skills and eye hand coordination - I think this is another reason kids are so quick on the computer today. Many games and sites are challenging and educationally. Others must think so also if they investing that kind of money for video games. A popular site right now for elementary and middle level students is Webkinz. It is an educational site that gives you points to so you can build and feed your animal. Also, it lets you interact with your friends if they are logged in at the same time. You can invite their pet over to see your virtual house and you can go to their virtual house.
I think putting presidential candidates on My Space is a good idea. This makes this information easy and readily accessible for many people wanting to familiarize themselves with the candidates. How convenient.
Real world problem solving and technology integration in schools. I agree that students need access to technology to use technology, but I also agree that students should not have free rein. It would be nice to see science in context but time and other factors considered this is not always possible, why not simulations, biomes, guest speakers, United Streaming, local museums, state attractions, etc... One other thought, students should be able to use their cell phone in an emergency or at lunch, but during class hours, I have to agree, no phones.
Enhancing education through technology. Wow! This is so true. How exciting school is it when students use technology to learn new things. Kids enjoy playing on the computer and searching for information, if only more teachers could understand the power of technology. I am amazed at how little technology actually is integrated into lessons. I agree, the more a person uses technology, the more capable and comfortable a person becomes with the new technology. However, when teachers are so busy, they need to find time to learn some new technology. Just like business people, dentists, doctors, any profession, a person must keep learning and challenging themselves to stay up on the latest to be the best in their profession. No one said it would be easy, but it is very rewarding, the more you learn about technology and how to really use it to your advantage.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Podcasts for week of March 6-13
Episode Title: Kidcast: Texas notes, Crowdabout
Episode: # 38
Date: 2-26-2007
I liked Dan Schmidt's new opening - he had high school students from Texas introduce him. He talked about podcasting and professional development and gave a few examples of how different content teachers were integrating podcasts into their classrooms and making them available for others to use.
I learned that he is writing his third book - "Strategies, Ideas, and Activities" - which is a book for implementing podcasting into the classroom. He noted how books are good and a good foundation but some of the information in the books is forever changing and being updated. I also never made the connection between him and Garage Band Mechanics until this episode.
Another interesting idea he had was for educators to enlist the talents of local radio personalities to talk to their students. This would give the students a chance to see how these people developed their radio personalities and might help the students develop their own personalities for their podcasts. By inviting people like radio broadcasters, public speakers,etc.. speak to school kids - this is just another way to help students become more effective communicators and speakers.
He often mentions - ali.apple.com for a site to check out. Also, Dan mentioned crowdabout.us - a site to check for integrating audio and visual comments to your podcasts.
Episode Title: The TechTeascher
Episode: # 24
Date: 10-09-2006
Integrating MP3 Players into the classroom - These devices are easier to use when editing content, storing, and sharing versus traditional tape recorders. There are many uses for these devices. I liked the idea - give kids the latest tech devices and learning turns into fun.
Kids find learning engaging and memorable when using MP3's. Use these devices to record fluency and reading ability of students. Allow the students to take home devices and a book and practice reading. Record notes for students who are sick. Students could record their thoughts and then type up their paper later worrying about grammar, etc... Teachers could record strategies and activities for take home work. He had numerous ideas and uses for integrating MP3 players into the classroom. These and other ideas can be found on his website niessen@cox.net
Episode Title: Teaching with Technology
Episode: # 1 - Educational technology
Date: 10-04-2006
Tina Coffey turned her school newsletter into a Blog because many people, especially teachers multi-task. So she suggested listening while completing some other project. My thought - I have always enjoyed listening to talk shows - people calling in to hosts - two way communication while driving or listening to books on CD - very comparable to podcasts. We also use blogs in numerous classes and it is nice to read other students comments about the same material, because others often point out things you might have missed or look at somethings differently.
Tina made a podcast informing the teachers at her school about the blog site. Tina's Blog letter - a new type of news letter. It is a Blog to keep people informed versus sending out a newsletter. Blogging - a two way form of communication. She talked about how a person could respond to anything written on the blog and other people could possibly benefit from other's comments. She gave several Ideas - Be honest, don't use kids names, visit any time, stay with topic at hand.
She also suggested in her blog letter to make a computer lab seating chart for your class - by assigning computers to students to use from here on out, students learn to take ownership of their work area.
Technology is content versus technology - Teachers when asking for tech help should ask how can I integrate technology into my classroom, instead of will you teach power point, or this program. Example - I'm teaching a lesson on Famous figures, How can I integrate technology into this lesson?
Episode: # 38
Date: 2-26-2007
I liked Dan Schmidt's new opening - he had high school students from Texas introduce him. He talked about podcasting and professional development and gave a few examples of how different content teachers were integrating podcasts into their classrooms and making them available for others to use.
I learned that he is writing his third book - "Strategies, Ideas, and Activities" - which is a book for implementing podcasting into the classroom. He noted how books are good and a good foundation but some of the information in the books is forever changing and being updated. I also never made the connection between him and Garage Band Mechanics until this episode.
Another interesting idea he had was for educators to enlist the talents of local radio personalities to talk to their students. This would give the students a chance to see how these people developed their radio personalities and might help the students develop their own personalities for their podcasts. By inviting people like radio broadcasters, public speakers,etc.. speak to school kids - this is just another way to help students become more effective communicators and speakers.
He often mentions - ali.apple.com for a site to check out. Also, Dan mentioned crowdabout.us - a site to check for integrating audio and visual comments to your podcasts.
Episode Title: The TechTeascher
Episode: # 24
Date: 10-09-2006
Integrating MP3 Players into the classroom - These devices are easier to use when editing content, storing, and sharing versus traditional tape recorders. There are many uses for these devices. I liked the idea - give kids the latest tech devices and learning turns into fun.
Kids find learning engaging and memorable when using MP3's. Use these devices to record fluency and reading ability of students. Allow the students to take home devices and a book and practice reading. Record notes for students who are sick. Students could record their thoughts and then type up their paper later worrying about grammar, etc... Teachers could record strategies and activities for take home work. He had numerous ideas and uses for integrating MP3 players into the classroom. These and other ideas can be found on his website niessen@cox.net
Episode Title: Teaching with Technology
Episode: # 1 - Educational technology
Date: 10-04-2006
Tina Coffey turned her school newsletter into a Blog because many people, especially teachers multi-task. So she suggested listening while completing some other project. My thought - I have always enjoyed listening to talk shows - people calling in to hosts - two way communication while driving or listening to books on CD - very comparable to podcasts. We also use blogs in numerous classes and it is nice to read other students comments about the same material, because others often point out things you might have missed or look at somethings differently.
Tina made a podcast informing the teachers at her school about the blog site. Tina's Blog letter - a new type of news letter. It is a Blog to keep people informed versus sending out a newsletter. Blogging - a two way form of communication. She talked about how a person could respond to anything written on the blog and other people could possibly benefit from other's comments. She gave several Ideas - Be honest, don't use kids names, visit any time, stay with topic at hand.
She also suggested in her blog letter to make a computer lab seating chart for your class - by assigning computers to students to use from here on out, students learn to take ownership of their work area.
Technology is content versus technology - Teachers when asking for tech help should ask how can I integrate technology into my classroom, instead of will you teach power point, or this program. Example - I'm teaching a lesson on Famous figures, How can I integrate technology into this lesson?
Ted Talks Sir Ken Robinson
Out of Our Minds: Learning to be creative
What a question, What will our world look like in 2065? I never really thought about it. I wake up in the morning and am constantly on the move and I personally don't take the time to stop and ponder. Now, that I think about how things have changed since I have been in grade school, WOW! I liked his point about valuing the creativity in people and educating the whole child. We have a tendency to educate only the mind and only on one side.
I distinctly remembering wanting to go into the arts, and my mother refused. What will you do with a graphic design degree? That was 25 years ago.
Keeping creativity alive, it is o-kay to be wrong. Mistakes are what make great things. Kids aren't afraid to make mistakes. I liked his thought - you will never come up with anything great if you are not prepared to wrong or afraid to be wrong. Creativity - looking at things differently.
What a question, What will our world look like in 2065? I never really thought about it. I wake up in the morning and am constantly on the move and I personally don't take the time to stop and ponder. Now, that I think about how things have changed since I have been in grade school, WOW! I liked his point about valuing the creativity in people and educating the whole child. We have a tendency to educate only the mind and only on one side.
I distinctly remembering wanting to go into the arts, and my mother refused. What will you do with a graphic design degree? That was 25 years ago.
Keeping creativity alive, it is o-kay to be wrong. Mistakes are what make great things. Kids aren't afraid to make mistakes. I liked his thought - you will never come up with anything great if you are not prepared to wrong or afraid to be wrong. Creativity - looking at things differently.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Podcasts for the week of February 20-27
Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: Ideas for International Study Students Adopting Interactive Podcasting
Episode #: 127
Date: 2-08-07
Interviews with two teachers share how they can use interactive technology at the TCEA conference. Colleges that participate in international studies could use a classroom on their campus to communicate with their fellow classmates back home. She wants to see AT&T take an active role in helping students achieve this.
Stef Paramoure interviewed Wesley Fryer. He talked how excited and motivated kids are about using what is out there and recreating what is out there it to make it their own. Kids are synthesizing ideas and thinking outside the box. He said it is important to formulate ideas for inspiring students to be creative, productive, and constructive. Question came up - What about the administrators that think this is dangerous - He stated that the best advocates are the students themselves - empowering students and letting them be the resources to help others see what is possible and show these adults what can be accomplished. Wesley spoke highly about digital storytelling - kids creating and showing the results of their work.
Episode Title: WoW What’s on the Web
Episode: # 22
Date: 8-30-2006
Free software for the classroom. www.freeserifsotware
Page plus SE - publishing program - similar to desktop publishing - making flyers and forms, etc..
Photo plus 6.0 - similar to photo shop elements
Web plus 6.0
Draw plus 4.0 - graphic drawings with a wizard
3 D plus - animation capabilities
Required to register and then they will send you a code.
KidCast
Episode Title: Learning and Teaching with Podcasting
Episode # 2
Date: 10-06-05
Check out - The Speaking of History - perspective of a social studies teacher. Science at NASA - scientific exploration.
This was Dan Schmidt’s 2nd podcast and I found it very informative. I wanted to see if his podcasts have changed any over the year and a half since he started; however, they are relatively the same.
Friday, February 16, 2007
i movie thought
I know I mentioned families around the world - still a thought. How about places in the United States - geographical interesting places and features - alligators in Florida, Mona Loa Volcano in Hawaii and the lava flow that closed the road several years ago, The road to Hana - seven water falls on Maui, Sitka, Alaska - salmon and halibut fishing in the Pacific, The four corners - the one place that you can be in four states at one time, Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde,etc.... The Big Picture of unique features in different parts of our country.
The podcast, do something with a book.
The podcast, do something with a book.
Tecs 390 Podcasts
Moving at the Speed of Creativity
Episode Title: Ideas for Reinventing Education As School 2.0
Episode #: 123
Date: 2-07-07
Wesley Fryer talks about how schools need to add more projects to the curriculum, more hands on activities, digital story telling, etc… and get away form the written test assessment. What do kids really retain if they read form a book, take notes, then answer multiple choice questions? These same students should be asked these questions three months later. Do you think they really retain all that information? How much do they retain? The assessment should be given three months later. He feels that if students do more projects, apprenticeships with people that are passionate about their work or a subject, that the students will retain so much more for longer. I also liked his thought on people that have a hard time accepting change - have stopped learning? He thanked everyone at his conference in
The Tech Teacher Podcast
Episode Title: A safety Net for your School
Episode: # 32
Date: 2-04-07
This episode made me very thankful for Odus and Jack at the helpdesk over the last year and half. They helped me with technical problems in several different classrooms on campus. Also, how much we rely on technology as teachers is tremendous. Classes are so much more fun and interesting when you can pull real examples into the classroom, show buildings, and places, check out different companies, etc… Brad Niessen was promoting a web-based help desk application for managing the IT workload. There is an annual fee but allows unlimited users in a district or hospital or business to use the support. He suggested this program for colleges, business, and hospitals who do not have an in-house tech support. He also noted how much we rely on technology today and how the best plans can fall apart when there is a hiccup in the software or a mysterious crash.
RobinR@Review.com
The
Bene
Episode: # 2, # 4
Date: 1-22-07
I wanted to listen to something totally different, so I did. I chose this sight for the fun and I really liked it. The vocabulary word today started with Bene - Benny is a good boy, he has a good name and he is unusually, he spells his name differently, Bene. Benny is never mean or cruel, and the song continues singing about words that start with bene and mentioning things that Bene does as the words definitions. Benefactor, Beneficiaries, and Benediction. It was Clever and upbeat - great sight for increasing vocabulary. This is sort of what I thought about for a podcast before I ever heard this one. After listening to several of these short vocab lessons - I noticed that each contains a short moral - and some contain more vocab words than others - often times I listen to them several times to catch the words I missed the first time. Abstemious verses gluttonous, Industrious verses lethargic, etc…
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