One word: Amazing! This is the best way for me to convey the journey through Dr. Walls' 23 Things. The amount of content and the ability to self explore have placed this class in my top two favorite classes of all time. The information provided through this blog experience has both influenced me and educated me on how I may be most effective in reaching the students of today. In fact, I am already using some of the tools in tutoring my own daughter. Although upon initial glance, she was dismayed... she now has fun learning and expanding her horizons. Anytime you can make learning fun vs. tedious, students are sure to listen.
Throughout this journey, there have been several components that will be influential in my growth as an educator, such as Google Reader/Google Blog Search; Flickr, Mash-ups and Tag Maker; Zoho Writer; Pageflakes, My Stickies and Del.ic.ious. I really could continue on as there are so many components that are useful throughout this learning experience. Until this class, my thinking has remained creative, but conventional. Now I can actually provide my creativity with a technological playground to thrive, while providing experiences for students that are both engaging and informative.
I honestly have only one issue with this entire learning experience, and it really has nothing to do with the program. The issue instead, pertains to me. At the beginning of this journey, I accepted a new position with a university in Kentucky that made time management a challenge. For this reason, I got a bit behind in maintaining consistency in reflecting on ideas. Once I got started though... I simply could not stop. I would spend hours captivated by the various concepts and really drilling down through the information and resources provided. On the flip side, the only improvement I can think of is to actually make the experience longer. You know that you have a great product when students are asking for more work!
Going forward, I plan to continue using the tools mentioned above along with many others. In fact, I am currently working with Animoto to create Christmas gifts for those "hard to buy for" family members. Google Reader will be my main tool for staying abreast of new technologies and resources as I have registered to follow various Web 2.0 sites/blogs, including the Learning 2.1 Blog. For the first time, I truly feel empowered to reach students of all levels. The desire has always been there as I am very passionate about influencing new generations to be successful, and I want to empower them to make a difference in the lives of others. Now I feel that I have a tool box and collaborative professional pool to ensure successful delivery of ideas and concepts to future generations. Together, we will all make a positive difference in the lives of others!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Thing 23: Creative Commons
Thing 23: Creative Commons
I am relieved to know that I can now utilize components of other professionals works, to enhance the learning environment of students. There are so many great concepts that have been placed in motion and, as a teacher, they are beneficial in delivering instructional components. The challenge is that, when utilizing others works, the information does not always follow the exact components you are teaching to. Now you can tweak the content to positively impact the dissemination of information by noting the respective author(s) and maintaining the standards, just as Dr. Wall has performed with 23 Things. As an example of how references are notated, you can visit the bottom portion ,of the overview page, of Dr. Walls' 23 Things. A copy of the reference is provided below:
*Note: This project is loosely based upon the website 43Things (which allows you to set and track personal goals) and the Stephen Abram article titled 43 Things I (or You) might want to do this year (Information Outlook - Feb 2006).
I feel that this will be very influential in the creation of lessons and educational aids for classroom instruction. In order to both protect the integrity of the original work and provide a resource for other students, I will certainly utilize this tool when creating educational components that I wish to share. Additionally, I will utilize this with regards to personal videos, photo books, etc. to further protect the integrity of the document and the identity of the individuals featured. This is a great resource and I am excited to see how it will enhance my personal and professional development.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thing 22: Podcasts
Thing 22: Pod-casts
Wow... talk about sensory overload! There are so many pod-casts readily available that you can spend hours searching for useful feeds. As I began to search for useful sites, especially pertaining to mathematics, I found Pod-cast Alley and Learn out Loud to be the most helpful. Both of these websites were aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. I especially like the categories offered, paired with capabilities to refine searches to further narrow your options. From the two, I personally prefer Pod-cast Alley the most, and I will likely utilize this site in the future. The most influential component in favoring Pod-cast Alley is that you can view text overviews of the featured pod-cast sites, without having to actually access the site.
In my search, I decided to subscribe to TILT - Teachers Improving Learning Technology, Teacher 2.0 and Math Tutor. Each of these sites contribute varying components to aid in my personal development and instructional intelligence by exploring creative activities and Web 2.0 resources. Teacher 2.0 is actually an audio feed which allows teachers to continue about their normal routines, without having to be locked to a computer screen; the other sites have informative videos to coincide with topics.
I certainly feel that pod-casts are a great resource for today's classroom and I will likely join in the creation process. I feel that it is important initially to continue and explore the resources already available to further define how I may best contribute. No matter what level you consider as an educator, keep in mind that standards and styles vary by state and individual. Therefore, if you want a pod-cast that directly reflects the style of teaching you provide, you will likely need to create your own, so not confuse students. Keep in mind though that students need varying types of stimulation to be most effective, so maintain an open mind when incorporating different educational pod-casts, and technological resources, in the classroom. Here is a quick pod-cast of mathematic resources that I found to be helpful ("Math Fact Websites are Fun!"), maybe you will too!
Wow... talk about sensory overload! There are so many pod-casts readily available that you can spend hours searching for useful feeds. As I began to search for useful sites, especially pertaining to mathematics, I found Pod-cast Alley and Learn out Loud to be the most helpful. Both of these websites were aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. I especially like the categories offered, paired with capabilities to refine searches to further narrow your options. From the two, I personally prefer Pod-cast Alley the most, and I will likely utilize this site in the future. The most influential component in favoring Pod-cast Alley is that you can view text overviews of the featured pod-cast sites, without having to actually access the site.
In my search, I decided to subscribe to TILT - Teachers Improving Learning Technology, Teacher 2.0 and Math Tutor. Each of these sites contribute varying components to aid in my personal development and instructional intelligence by exploring creative activities and Web 2.0 resources. Teacher 2.0 is actually an audio feed which allows teachers to continue about their normal routines, without having to be locked to a computer screen; the other sites have informative videos to coincide with topics.
I certainly feel that pod-casts are a great resource for today's classroom and I will likely join in the creation process. I feel that it is important initially to continue and explore the resources already available to further define how I may best contribute. No matter what level you consider as an educator, keep in mind that standards and styles vary by state and individual. Therefore, if you want a pod-cast that directly reflects the style of teaching you provide, you will likely need to create your own, so not confuse students. Keep in mind though that students need varying types of stimulation to be most effective, so maintain an open mind when incorporating different educational pod-casts, and technological resources, in the classroom. Here is a quick pod-cast of mathematic resources that I found to be helpful ("Math Fact Websites are Fun!"), maybe you will too!
Thing 21: Animoto
Thing 21: Animoto
I love learning about various technologies and software programs, and I have now fallen in love with Animoto. Animoto allows you to create short 30 second videos for free, or you can pay to upgrade to unlimited full length videos as well. The program allows you to utilize personal or stock photos, in fact Animoto provides links to various websites to retrieve photos. Once your photos are selected, you then will select a song for the video from either their selections or simply upload your own song. Lastly, Animoto will professionally mix your photos and music to produce a great video!
I was very surprised at how easy it was to create a video. There are actually only three basic steps to producing the video. Additionally, you are able to easily edit your video as well. I would strongly encourage you check this out if you have not already as it will not only enhance your memories of events, it will serve as great gifts for those hard to buy for friends and family. Do not simply take my word for it... check out my video below, then take time to visit and play at Animoto yourself!
I love learning about various technologies and software programs, and I have now fallen in love with Animoto. Animoto allows you to create short 30 second videos for free, or you can pay to upgrade to unlimited full length videos as well. The program allows you to utilize personal or stock photos, in fact Animoto provides links to various websites to retrieve photos. Once your photos are selected, you then will select a song for the video from either their selections or simply upload your own song. Lastly, Animoto will professionally mix your photos and music to produce a great video!
I was very surprised at how easy it was to create a video. There are actually only three basic steps to producing the video. Additionally, you are able to easily edit your video as well. I would strongly encourage you check this out if you have not already as it will not only enhance your memories of events, it will serve as great gifts for those hard to buy for friends and family. Do not simply take my word for it... check out my video below, then take time to visit and play at Animoto yourself!
Thing 20
Thing 20: YouTube
YouTube offers a variety of informative videos that can easily be incorporated into the classroom. Whether you are in search of an inspirational clip that demonstrates the value of perseverance, an instructional clip that demonstrates the concept of variables and algebraic equations, or a comedic relief clip to offer a nice break for intense instruction, YouTube serves as a great resource. The videos are easy to search, however, due to the volume of videos it can be a bit labor intensive to locate appropriate videos. Since anyone can publish a video on this site, it is also imperative that you carefully screen the full content of prospective videos to ensure that they are age and content appropriate. In my search, I opted for a little comedic relief to help relieve stress within the math class. Take a moment to check out Ma & Pa Kettle Math.
Some of the features that I liked most were the capabilities of searching videos by category and the ability to tag videos for future reference. I also like that you can make notes about videos, as they may offer direct insight into the components of each video without having to wait for them to download and play. The download delays are perhaps my biggest complaint. Even though I have the fastest Internet speed offered by AT&T, I still experienced multiple delays in playing each video for the first time. I also did not like that some videos were inappropriate for younger audiences.
I do feel that YouTube could be a good resource for school libraries, especially when considering instructional videos and learning related television shows. However, I am not sure how well the site can be regulated to ensure that students are not exposed to all videos. Until appropriate blocks can be placed on content, I feel that YouTube may be a bit inappropriate for middle schools.
YouTube offers a variety of informative videos that can easily be incorporated into the classroom. Whether you are in search of an inspirational clip that demonstrates the value of perseverance, an instructional clip that demonstrates the concept of variables and algebraic equations, or a comedic relief clip to offer a nice break for intense instruction, YouTube serves as a great resource. The videos are easy to search, however, due to the volume of videos it can be a bit labor intensive to locate appropriate videos. Since anyone can publish a video on this site, it is also imperative that you carefully screen the full content of prospective videos to ensure that they are age and content appropriate. In my search, I opted for a little comedic relief to help relieve stress within the math class. Take a moment to check out Ma & Pa Kettle Math.
Some of the features that I liked most were the capabilities of searching videos by category and the ability to tag videos for future reference. I also like that you can make notes about videos, as they may offer direct insight into the components of each video without having to wait for them to download and play. The download delays are perhaps my biggest complaint. Even though I have the fastest Internet speed offered by AT&T, I still experienced multiple delays in playing each video for the first time. I also did not like that some videos were inappropriate for younger audiences.
I do feel that YouTube could be a good resource for school libraries, especially when considering instructional videos and learning related television shows. However, I am not sure how well the site can be regulated to ensure that students are not exposed to all videos. Until appropriate blocks can be placed on content, I feel that YouTube may be a bit inappropriate for middle schools.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thing 19
Thing 19: Other Social Networks
Prior to reviewing the various networking links mentioned in Thing 19, I had thought that the only prevalent social networks were MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube. I had no idea that there were so many social networking organizations/sites. Until now, I had opted to utilize LinkedIn as my networking site and I am a member of the National Assn of Catering Executives and Middle Tennessee Society of Human Resources groups.
Originally I had planned to only maintain my LinkedIn account. In reviewing various social networking sites I will now be expanding my horizons.. especially with regards to Classroom 2.0 as I feel it will be an excellent resource for me as I continue to transition into education. When looking for social sites, I want am interested in professional development resources that support forums for discussing best practices, and sites that foster open discussions about today's classroom environment. This is the reason that I have never been interested in maintaining MySpace and/or Facebook accounts, as I am not interested in sharing the personal aspects of my life for everyone on-line. Nor do I want to be consumed with monitoring the actions of others I am associated with on these sites.
I realize that I may seem a bit old fashioned or simply too overly cautious, but first impressions are very important to me. I want to ensure that prospective employers see me for my accomplishments, experiences and interests, not the size or content of my social network. Perhaps once I have established myself within a school, and witnessed the impact of social sites on other educators, I may alter my perspective as I do feel that maintaining a sense of community is important.
Prior to reviewing the various networking links mentioned in Thing 19, I had thought that the only prevalent social networks were MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube. I had no idea that there were so many social networking organizations/sites. Until now, I had opted to utilize LinkedIn as my networking site and I am a member of the National Assn of Catering Executives and Middle Tennessee Society of Human Resources groups.
Originally I had planned to only maintain my LinkedIn account. In reviewing various social networking sites I will now be expanding my horizons.. especially with regards to Classroom 2.0 as I feel it will be an excellent resource for me as I continue to transition into education. When looking for social sites, I want am interested in professional development resources that support forums for discussing best practices, and sites that foster open discussions about today's classroom environment. This is the reason that I have never been interested in maintaining MySpace and/or Facebook accounts, as I am not interested in sharing the personal aspects of my life for everyone on-line. Nor do I want to be consumed with monitoring the actions of others I am associated with on these sites.
I realize that I may seem a bit old fashioned or simply too overly cautious, but first impressions are very important to me. I want to ensure that prospective employers see me for my accomplishments, experiences and interests, not the size or content of my social network. Perhaps once I have established myself within a school, and witnessed the impact of social sites on other educators, I may alter my perspective as I do feel that maintaining a sense of community is important.
Thing 18
Thing 18: Social Networking
The challenge presented was to take some time to review MySpace and Facebook in an effort to gain an understanding of their application within education. Due to the popularity of Facebook with some of my friends, I decided to create a profile under Rawls. Personally, I was a little uncomfortable in partaking in this exercise as I really do not have any interest in utilizing either site. I am a private person to begin with, but I certainly do not want to be judged on the actions of others that I may be connected to. I did spend time exploring both to gain a better understanding of how each are currently being utilized as I feel that it is important to stay abreast of technological advances to best relate to students and other educators, especially since social networking is becoming increasingly popular in today's business community.
In reviewing both sites, I can quickly tell why Facebook has been described as a more mature site, due to its professional/uniform layout. MySpace operates in more of an HTML format with a wide variety of customization options; although the individual profiles are more captivating, it makes navigation a little more challenging due to the inconsistencies in the layout. Both sites offer a wide variety of options and customizations, but I feel that Facebook offered a more cohesive product overall.
I can certainly see Facebook as being a good site for maintaining a school page as it would allow parents an opportunity to stay abreast of school activities and to connect with other parents. Additionally, students/alumni are able to maintain contact with friends of the past. With regards to the classroom, the only use I could envision for social sites would be to reach out to other professional for best practices or to elaborate on resources within a computer or business class.
The challenge presented was to take some time to review MySpace and Facebook in an effort to gain an understanding of their application within education. Due to the popularity of Facebook with some of my friends, I decided to create a profile under Rawls. Personally, I was a little uncomfortable in partaking in this exercise as I really do not have any interest in utilizing either site. I am a private person to begin with, but I certainly do not want to be judged on the actions of others that I may be connected to. I did spend time exploring both to gain a better understanding of how each are currently being utilized as I feel that it is important to stay abreast of technological advances to best relate to students and other educators, especially since social networking is becoming increasingly popular in today's business community.
In reviewing both sites, I can quickly tell why Facebook has been described as a more mature site, due to its professional/uniform layout. MySpace operates in more of an HTML format with a wide variety of customization options; although the individual profiles are more captivating, it makes navigation a little more challenging due to the inconsistencies in the layout. Both sites offer a wide variety of options and customizations, but I feel that Facebook offered a more cohesive product overall.
I can certainly see Facebook as being a good site for maintaining a school page as it would allow parents an opportunity to stay abreast of school activities and to connect with other parents. Additionally, students/alumni are able to maintain contact with friends of the past. With regards to the classroom, the only use I could envision for social sites would be to reach out to other professional for best practices or to elaborate on resources within a computer or business class.
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