1. How does this topic fit into what I have learned already in this course?
Ch. 9 and 10 were pretty logical in the sense that all the technology supported learning concepts followed the principles we have learned in Ed. Psych. For example, when students build models their primary motor cortex is activated and students gain a better understanding than just seeing it. Therefore, models like the Jasper Woodbury and mostly all the other presented models, it enable students to control information using multiple senses and hands on components. By physically measuring and then inputing the information for group or global data, they are gaining ownership in their work. The chapter described the importance of scaffolding, which is key for any cognitive lesson with or without technology incorporated. Also, the model that enabled students to receive immediate and direct feedback when typing answers relates to the idea of correcting misrepresentations.
This weeks readings also fit into last weeks ideas of building classroom environments. Essentially, by using technology, students experience all four of the main environments, especially the community environment if they are sharing information with a larger group of people on the web.
2. What am I still not clear on in this week's reading(s)?
Its not that I don't understand "Classtalk" but I just don't see when it would be used in an effective manner. Chapter 9 said that it was good for getting an estimate where students ideas fall, but that seems like a huge waste of time. Why would they even include this material with the Jasper Woodbury season if it overall ineffective? I would have like to known instead what the Jasper Woodbury model proposes to use for real assessment of student work, or who class discussions and started and facilitated during projects, or even how often. To me it seems like there would be a lot of individual group discussion, but not much whole class talk until the project had been completed.
3. Under what conditions would I apply this material to my own teaching/work?
Well, If I want to be a "good teacher", I would apply this technology based material every day I teach! It I wanted to be a realistic teacher, I would say that effectively planning a technology project for the given subject and implementing it maybe once every 3 weeks, once a month if they were long projects, would be ideal. That way it is still exciting and different, but it occurs often enough that students gain experience working with the program and building on prior knowledge and experiences with it. I could honestly see myself doing this a technology based project to bring the real world into the classroom once every unit. Technology is a really effective skill, as practical as real life correlation, and it is increasingly demanding every year!
I'm not sure that you would have to implement technology every day to be a really good teacher. As long as technology is incorporated into some of your curriculum and it is bringing the real world into the classroom, like you indicated, then you are a really good teacher already.
ReplyDeleteWell, If I want to be a "good teacher", I would apply this technology based material every day I teach! It I wanted to be a realistic teacher, I would say that effectively planning a technology project for the given subject and implementing it maybe once every 3 weeks, once a month if they were long projects, would be ideal. That way it is still exciting and different, but it occurs often enough that students gain experience working with the program and building on prior knowledge and experiences with it. I could honestly see myself doing this a technology based project to bring the real world into the classroom once every unit. Technology is a really effective skill, as practical as real life correlation, and it is increasingly demanding every year!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on that, students might not be stay on task if you allow them in computer environment all the time. So scheduling technology sessions a few times a semester will still give students the excitement as well as saves the teacher the time in going to technology class and returning to class especially these days when teachers are expected to cover vast topics.
Hey Kerry! I agree that being able to utilize technology is an effective skill and applicable as a real life correlation. Kind of like this class - I almost see it as a 2 for 1 - you get content, but also get the tech. I think it is important for kids to get comfortable with the technology and some may not have that opportunity at home, so incorporating it in to class is a great way to give them that exposure. You don't necessarily need to do it with every lesson, but it should be used when appropriate.
ReplyDeleteHey Keri! I am getting ready to have my third graders put together their first power point next week, and I thought I would share a little bit about it. I know it seems like a young age to start this, but my kids are so excited and I feel they are ready. Our weekly reading story is about "What animals think" and the kids are choosing one animal to research. It is great to be able to connect subjects together in this way. Obviously with young children I have to limit the websites they go to get info, because we can't have them just browsing the web, but they brainstorm many questions they wanted to know about their animal and are first finding the answers. I think this is wonderful because they are using technology to teach themselves. Next, we are taking what they learned and putting it into a very simple and basic powerpoint. I think it is amazing that 9-10 year olds are ready for these things. I don't think I made a power point until high school. We will see how it goes! Wish me luck:)
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