Tuesday, December 11, 2012

PT #2 Presentation Link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l26f4f-V4jc

https://www.dropbox.com/s/pdeiv5ujpsdt5rl/Smoking%20Lesson.notebook

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ywp6hce6u66cq18/Rubric%20for%20Story.xlsx

https://www.dropbox.com/s/b3y7jk01p0bmfqh/Learning%20Targets.docx

Templates utilized was the ActivBoard presentation linked above. Modifcations were made to the original in order to better fit my learning targets and long term learning goal.

Learning Targets
Long-term Learning Goal:
a.    Students design an age appropriate presentation in order to educate elementary and middle school students on tobacco awareness.
State Learning Standard


Know and apply the core concepts and principles of mathematics; social, physical, and life sciences; civics and history, including different cultures and participation in representative government; geography; arts; and health and fitness

Read with comprehension, write effectively,and communicate successfully in a variety of ways and settings and with a variety of audiences;

Think analytically, logically, and creatively, and to integrate technology literacy and fluency as well as different experiences and knowledge to form reasoned judgments and solve problems; and


 B. Grade Level:  

9


EALR:  Health

 3. Student analyzes and evaluates the impact of real life influences on health.



Component: 3.1: understands how family, culture, and environmental factors affect personal health.




4.2.1 Evaluates risks associated with certain occupational, residential and recreataional choices

EALR: Communication
1. The student uses listening and observation skills and strategies to
gain understanding.

Component 1.1: Uses listening and observation skills and strategies to focus attention and interpret information.

1.1.1 Applies a variety of listening strategies to accommodate the listening situation.

EALR: Writing
2. The student writes in a variety of forms for different audiences and purposes.

Component 2.1 Adaps writing for a variety of audiences.

2.1.1. Applies understanding of multiple and varied audiences to write effectively.



Learning Target for this Lesson:
1. Describe how smoking affects the body and health.
2. Understand why smoking can be addictive.
3. Name diseases caused by smoking.
4. State reasons why people may start smoking and why it may be difficult to quit.
-          In groups of 3-5 students, discuss and records various targets as information is presented (F)
-          Present a 1 minute scenario skit (F/V)
-          Begin developing an age appropriate presentation on Storybird to use as an educational tool for elementary students (S).

Rationale (why this learning target? – refer to standards and context):
C.     Students develop a more educated understanding of the negative mental and physical effects of tobacco use and how use impacts those around the individual. Long term learning goal will help develop and refine student capacity to effectively use time, planning management and public speaking and communication. Students will learn to successfully communicate refearing to the learning standard of communicating with a variety of audiences.  Learning  target is applicable to students and uses correct language.

Academic Language:
D.    Students will be tested on Tobcacco use specific language including diseases, definitions of secondhand smoke, different forms of tobacco, key components of who tobacco use affects and addiction specific language. Many of the important language terms will come up during anagrams.
-Emphysema, high cholesterol, pneumonia, ulcers, bowel disease, tooth decay, gum disease, thyroid diseae, osteoporosis, lung cancer.



FOR TEACHERS:

2. Design and Develop Digital Age Learning
Experiences and Assessments
Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic
learning experiences and assessment incorporating
contemporary tools and resources to maximize content
learning in context and to develop the knowledge,
skills, and attitudes identified in the NETS·S.
a. Design or adapt relevant learning experiences that
incorporate digital tools and resources to promote
student learning and creativity
b. Develop technology-enriched learning environments
that enable all students to pursue their individual
curiosities and become active participants in setting
their own educational goals, managing their own
learning, and assessing their own progress
c. Customize and personalize learning activities
to address students’ diverse learning styles,
working strategies, and abilities using digital tools
and resources
d. Provide students with multiple and varied formative
and summative assessments aligned with content
and technology standards and use resulting

I believe that this project exemplifies these standards for the teacher. By incorporating this interactive project, students become more aware of the impact technology has in the classroom. It provides students with the opportunity to customize the activities and make them personal. I believe that through this process, when it comes time to present to an elementary class, students will feel more ownership over the lesson created.

FOR STUDENTS:

1. Creativity and Innovation
Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct
knowledge, and develop innovative products and
processes using technology.
a. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas,
products, or processes
b. Create original works as a means of personal
or group expression
c. Use models and simulations to explore complex
systems and issues
d. Identify trends and forecast possibilities


 2. Communication and Collaboration
Students use digital media and environments to
communicate and work collaboratively, including
at a distance, to support individual learning and
contribute to the learning of others.
a. Interact, collaborate, and publish with peers,
experts, or others employing a variety of digital
environments and media
b. Communicate information and ideas effectively
to multiple audiences using a variety of media
and formats
c. Develop cultural understanding and global
awareness by engaging with learners of
other cultures
d. Contribute to project teams to produce original
works or solve problems

By creating a presentation that will be used for an elementary class, students are identifying with # 2 above. They are supporting the individual learning and education of the youth. Also, they are applying existing and learned knowledge into an effective form of communication to be presented.



Monday, December 10, 2012

#16 Reflection

The top 10 things that I have learned in technology in education are as follows:

1. There are many more effective and engaging presentation styles than Powerpoint Presentations
2. The most effective and efficient way of developing a lesson is to use lessons that have already been taught! Don't reinvent the wheel!
3. Technology is making some serious advances and the responsibility will fall on the teachers to keep up with the continuous changes of the culture.
4. There are many negative effects of excessive technology use including cyber-bullying and harmful digital footprints.
5. On the other hand, technologies such as podcasts, blogs, and video sharing software can be effective educational and social tools.
6. Technology is not always reliable but many of the pros outweigh the cons of use in the classroom.
7. Twitter can be used as a professional marketing tool.
8. Classroom instruction is moving towards being witnessed outside of the classroom while in class instruction will focus more on questions and student development as opposed to lecture.
9. In this digital age, students are being raised on technology and therefore are requiring teaching that reflects the pace of technology. As of now, there is a lag between educators and students as a result.
10. Be specific with your instructions to students, especially if it involves making PB and J's :)


Design and Develop Digital Age Learning
Experiences and Assessments
Teachers design, develop, and evaluate authentic
learning experiences and assessment incorporating
contemporary tools and resources to maximize content
learning in context and to develop the knowledge,
skills, and attitudes identified in the NETS·S.
a. Design or adapt relevant learning experiences that
incorporate digital tools and resources to promote
student learning and creativity
b. Develop technology-enriched learning environments
that enable all students to pursue their individual
curiosities and become active participants in setting
their own educational goals, managing their own
learning, and assessing their own progress
c. Customize and personalize learning activities
to address students’ diverse learning styles,
working strategies, and abilities using digital tools
and resources
d. Provide students with multiple and varied formative
and summative assessments aligned with content
and technology standards and us.

In my opinion, the instruction and refinement of this class focuses most specifically on this NET. The bulk of learning that I experienced during Tech in Ed directly emulates the capacity to design and develop digital age learning experiences for students. This is important for teachers to identify and develop because it directly correlates to our efficacy as teachers. Without grasping this concept, it will be difficult to effectively engage students who are, becoming more and more by the day, consumed with technology.



Blog Comment Links









Monday, December 3, 2012

#15 Skype Lesson

The lesson that I observed on education.skype was a technology integrated culture/health lesson observing the influence that culture has on health choices and behaviors. Using research, health experts, and a publicly available sharing site, the class will gain information on how culture affects health. Students can create projects assessing and comparing/contrasting various cultures to share and demonstrate an exercise, recipe or a relaxation technique utilized within those cultures. The lessons may also pertain to socially relevant issues on facilitating friendships or activities affecting health. 

 3. Research and Information Fluency 
Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, 
and use information.
a. Plan strategies to guide inquiry
b. Locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, 
and ethically use information from a variety of 
sources and media
c. Evaluate and select information sources and digital 
tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks
d. Process data and report results

4. Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, 
and Decision Making 
Students use critical thinking skills to plan and 
conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, 
and make informed decisions using appropriate 
digital tools and resources.
a. Identify and define authentic problems and 
significant questions for investigation
b. Plan and manage activities to develop a solution 
or complete a project
c. Collect and analyze data to identify solutions 
and/or make informed decisions
d. Use multiple processes and diverse perspectives 
to explore alternative solutions

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

#14 Future of Technology and Education

The most consistent theme established in regards to the future of technology education is the progressive merging of technology breakthroughs into the classroom. Interestingly, this is causing the culture of education to become a much more flexible and adaptive system allowing for constant changes and progressions in technology. Not only will these changes be affecting specific classrooms, but future technologies are theorized to have a significant effect on the school as whole. Curriculum will require changing, lessons will require revamping and significant portions of funding will be required for technology assets in order to stay on track with the progressions in technology. At Issaquah High School, the video editing lab was recently equipped with large flat screen Mac computers programmed with expensive video editing software. These 30 computers are a progressive shift away from the standard Dell computers previously used in Video Production. Issaquah has also implemented a new online Physical Education course where students rotate in 2 week iterations and the majority of communication and tracking is done online. This is a rather significant breakthrough especially in a Physical Education Course.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

#13 Word, Excel, Powerpoint and REFLECTION #12




Word
- alternating between landscape and portrait views for flyers or storybook presentations.
- utilizing the research or "look up" tool to refine or support my statements.
- user friendly toolbar navigation
- autoformatting can often be frustrating when building tables

Excel
- primarily use excell for strength and conditioning spreadsheet

example:
CYCLE 4
Core Lift 1RM 90% Wendler Percentages
Squat 342 308 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4
Bench 235 212 65% 80% 75% 40%
Shoulder Press 172 155 75% 85% 85% 50%
Deadlift 403 363 85% 90% 95% 60%
Core Lift
Squat Mon, 12 Nov Mon, 19 Nov Mon, 26 Nov Mon, 03 Dec
Set 1 200.00 215.00 230.00 125.00
Set 2 235.00 250.00 260.00 155.00
Set 3 265.00 280.00 295.00 185.00 -1.89% 0.00%
PR: Set 3 11 9 NA 367.04 360.08 #N/A
Bench Tue, 13 Nov Tue, 20 Nov Tue, 27 Nov Tue, 04 Dec
Set 1 135.00 170.00 160.00 85.00
Set 2 160.00 180.00 180.00 105.00
Set 3 180.00 190.00 200.00 125.00 0.00% 0.00%
PR: Set 3 8 NA 223.49 #N/A #N/A
Shoulder Press Thu, 15 Nov Thu, 22 Nov Thu, 29 Nov Thu, 06 Dec
Set 1 100.00 125.00 115.00 60.00
Set 2 115.00 130.00 130.00 75.00
Set 3 130.00 140.00 145.00 95.00 0.00% 0.00%
PR: Set 3 10 NA 173.38 #N/A #N/A
Deadlift Fri, 16 Nov Fri, 23 Nov Fri, 30 Nov Fri, 07 Dec
Set 1 235.00 290.00 270.00 145.00
Set 2 270.00 310.00 310.00 180.00
Set 3 310.00 325.00 345.00 220.00 0.00% 0.00%
PR: Set 3 15 NA 507.53 #N/A #N/A

Cells are formulated to adapt and change off of each other. Automatically calculates percentages of increase and improvement over various cycles.

Powerpoint
- primarily used for visual presentations
- pre designed slides are effective for building a quick and professional presentation
- animations are easily edited and applied to slideshow


- can be saved as PDF files



Project 1:
Create a Powerpoint Presentation
 Save as PDF
Create a free “FLIPSNACK” account
Upload PDF onto FLIPSNACK under “Make a Flipping Book”
Use free EMBED link to retrieve HTML for Link.
Access CLASS BLOG and click HTML and paste embedded link
Post Flipping Book to Blog 

Project 2:

Design a project where students must create an excel spreadsheet to document the expenditures for a hypothetical vacation trip. Students will be allotted 6,000$ each and must research and describe how funds will be spent during the vacation.




This should include:
- Gas/Airfare
- hotel
- food
- activities
- tours etc.

Project 3:

Conduct a survey among peers in regards to a specific interest of the students and have them use WORD to create a series of the various charts and graphs available in a word documents. Creating tables is an accurate way of recording results.

REFLECTION #12:
Excel spreadsheets have always been the most fascinating recording device to me. Also, it is the most difficult. Being able to successfully navigate Excel is a capacity that I am looking to further refine as I know that in the personal training, military and teaching worlds, documenting and recording strategies and assessments can prove beneficial to reviewing success. This brings me to the point of emphasis of programs being user friendly. In my experiences with Excel, it is not a very user friendly program, simply meaning that for the novice browser, Excel is difficult to function.


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Digital Citizenship

#12 Marzano and REFLECTION #11

http://www.edutopia.org/interactive-whiteboards-technology-success

This article discusses Dr. Marzano's sample tests and techniques for assessing technology incorporated into the classroom. An interesting quote of Dr. Marzano was that there are no "silver bullets" but that there are "silver BB's" suggesting that there are smaller components of effective technology use creating a more applicable educational experience for students. He also adds that too much technology can be a detrimental aspect to education. Balance is key, ensuring that there is a very concise focus on content and that the technology is not detracting from the lesson. Specifically this article shows the importance of incorporating the voting aspect provided through using an activeboard and I will look to incorporate this into my future classroom not only to provide students with a more engaging learning experience but also track the specific students that are comprehending the material as opposed to those who are not.

REFLECTION #11:
Today in AVID, the owner of Blazing Bagels gave a presentation on how his business came to be. He described the early days of his very successful Bagel business and the importance of effectively networking between clients. Using technology, he coordinated the door to door business of bagel sales and calculated net profits and losses. After realizing he was losing money, he decided to target larger corporations and moved from building to building at specific times to sell his bagels. Leaving business cards, he has networked his business into on of the largest Bagel companies in the world, based solely out of a large warehouse in Redmond. It's amazing what technology can do for a business!


Tuesday, November 6, 2012

#11 Educational Blog and REFLECTION #10

http://www.internettime.com/2012/11/7434/comment-page-1/#comment-14741

This blog describes the disagreement between two experts in regards to training methods for job positions. The blogger witnessed an article discussing that all training should be done prior to the job. In disagreement, he argues that through the experience of the job, the individual will be trained on what is and what is not effective. My comment describes an agreement with the blog post as in my experiences, even the best laid plans go awry. As different people and situations are brought into the equation, the experience becomes drastically different and it would be difficult to be fully trained outside the realm with the dynamic differences between situations. This contributes because I indicated my experiences in the military as a credible source of the differences between training exercises and real life.

REFLECTION #10:

After viewing this blog, i realize the importance of digital footprint and the necessity of being professional with blog posts. Sadly, as with many social networking opportunities, conversations become out of hand and unprofessional. In the realm of education, people have very strong opinions and beliefs, but it is important to respect differences of opinion in classroom management. Simple searches could reveal past conversations that had gone poorly and it will reflect negatively on you as an educator. Post well and post smart!

#10 Blooms Taxonomy

http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/hrd/bloom.html

Technology incorporates an interesting mix of both cognitive and psychomotor skills. Not only does technology require a mental and deliberate cognitive response, the physical and manual requirement of browsing, blogging and manipulating technology increases the applicability of technology in the classroom. Bloom integrates these types of learning into a progressive approach for developing a more effective student. Interestingly, through integrating technology, students have the capacity to incorporate more aspects of learning increasing the efficiency of gathering information.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Technology Project Plan and REFLECTION #9


Audio recording and upload >>

This project will be a powerpoint flipsnack presentation developed by 10th grade health students that could potentially be used to educate elementary and middle school students about the dangers and addictive properties of tobacco use. I find that although we used flipsnack in class, it is a very effective interactive tool and would be more applicable to elementary and middle school students.

REFLECTION #9:

Through creating this recap of the project that I would like to present, i became aware of a program that could effectively be used for podcasting in the classroom. I believe that podcasting is a useful tool to engage students with learning and provide them an outlet that they can develop ownership of. Podcasts give students a specific audience that they can relate interests with and become more interactive with learning.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

FLIP YOUR CLASSROOM

Flip your classroom is a webinar blog by  a Chemistry and a  Chemistry/Technology educator who advocate for the use of online video posts to be watched at home, and review online instruction or conduct experiments in engaging activities in school. The basis of the argument suggests that direct instruction can be watched online at home in order that students then can have a more interactive experience in the classroom. This came about because the founders taught in Colorado and students were constantly missing class due to sports, weather and outside activities. As opposed to homework, students would watch an online lesson or instruction.

The first thing that came to mind is the issue of students who do not have access to technology in the home. The founders negate this problem by suggesting that schools become more accessible and allow students to use resources within the school, outside of the designated class time. Although they acknowledge that access is a legitimate concern, they suggest that "creativity and persistence" will help combat this problem.

This type of education is a very student driven schooling standard and requires teachers to transition from a teacher based philosophy to the more progressive student centered environment. The founders suggest that learning at home and working in class will help allow for students to adapt more efficiently to the different styles of learning.

I agree with many different aspects of this model but am realistic about the time and effort it will take to transition to this standard. It is a very progressive model of education but could make learning more effective for students in the technological age.

Monday, October 22, 2012

#9 Caught on Tape

This article discussed the practical application of using video capturing and editing technology in the classroom to create a more effective learning culture for the students. The argument that the author uses is by describing today's students as the "Age of Youtube" describing the student's familiarity with digital information.

I believe that the most important aspect of this article is discussed under the "Make it count" subtitle. In this section the author describes the exemplified precedence placed on capturing and sharing learning experiences. This factor helps instill sense of the importance of education within the students. Through suggesting that learning is a continuous process and that lessons should be recalled and documented in the schooling experience, students are reinforced and encouraged that their education is applicable.

The article gives numerous suggestions for effective use of technology and video documents within the school. While it may require more work from the teacher to capture, edit and upload, I do believe that it would create a more efficient learning experience for the students.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

FLIPSNACK and REFLECTION #8





REFLECTION #8:
In the military, we constantly use Powerpoint to present information briefings, mission briefings or to conduct staff briefings. A common theme to most of these powerpoints emulates a "Death by Powerpoint" mentality, boring the observers to sleep. It's almost as if it is a tradition in the military! However, I believe that incorporating a flipsnack presentation will not only be more engaging but it also demonstrates a precedence placed on professionalism and effort into the work. I am very thankful that I have found this presentation style and look forward to utilizing it within the Army.

Monday, October 15, 2012

#8 Twitter and REFLECTION #7

After perusing through the Twitter feeds, I have come to various conclusions about the application of Twitter in the classroom. First, I become far too distracted when observing the various Twitter posts. This is partly due to my unfamiliarity with the program and also due to peers posts who have Twitter accounts. For this reason, if Twitter was to be used as an educational experience it would be necessary to have it strictly monitored and controlled to education related topics.  As far as a professional development tool, it seems that creating a professional portfolio would be more appropriate. I know that in my military career, Twitter accounts are disregarded as a credible source for information regarding promotional opportunities. In different professional settings, a Twitter account may be more appropriate for professional expression. As far as gaining ideas specific to education, it seems like a viable tool for referencing information and getting in touch with experienced educators.


REFLECTION #7

During my experience in the AVID classroom, i discussed having a Twitter account with the cooperating teacher. Interestingly, the teacher, having experience in the classroom for over 25 years had not one, but two twitter accounts. One was accessed for personal use while the other was utilized for professional purposes. I thought this was important because she uses the accounts often to find interesting new tips about technology in health and fitness courses to stay up to date with current trends. I believe that having two separate accounts is an effective way to better monitor the professionalism of specific accounts.

COMMENT LINKS

http://www.bethanylowesblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/reflection-2.html#comment-form

http://www.wright2whitney.blogspot.com/2012/09/week-3-digital-natives-digital.html#comment-form

http://www.sitzleralyssa.blogspot.com/2012/10/reflection-2.html#comment-form

http://sigridthoreson.blogspot.com/2012/09/promethean-activboard.html?showComment=1350350820476#c5980299277428485567

http://amdowns8.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-8.html?showComment=1350351014604#c3523651283343584552

http://angiegarza12.blogspot.com/2012/10/reflection-6.html?showComment=1350351341143#c8609136178941764030

http://heatherkristinsadventures.blogspot.com/2012/10/week-7-how-technology-can-help-with-math.html?showComment=1350351562702#c2966331819198077137

http://heatherkristinsadventures.blogspot.com/2012/10/in-avid-class-that-i-help-out-in-once.html?showComment=1350351888544#c8347253548338843962

http://tootsievasquez06.blogspot.com/2012/10/reflection-5.html?showComment=1350352080159#c2485590518208365441

Reflection 6


This reflection is in regards to the accessibility of different lesson plans that can be used for classroom discussions. For my presentation I used the Jeopardy template that could be applied in almost any subject specific classroom setting. The template was fully editable and surprisingly user friendly. I became more aware of how to implement sounds and movement into the presentation and feel much more comfortable with the ACTIVboard after presenting my lesson. Although my presentation did not have much relevance or applicability to any specific classroom, it was engaging and competitive allowing for a fun interactive experience for the class.  

Reflection 5


As of now I believe that the most important aspect of the Technology in Education class is the article discussing being more applicable to “today’s” learner. It is apparent that this article summarizes how important being technologically aware is to keeping the attention of the more fast paced technological learners today. Sadly, the more experienced teachers have not always been trained in the technological advances and hold fast to the prior methods of teaching doing a disservice to the new school culture. Allowing students to blog, post, comment, publish, interact and quickly navigate technology in order for a more effective learning experience. 

Reflection 4


This reflection is in regards to the photo book created online. While I do not see the extent of applicability for this program in a secondary P.E. class, I do see the application of the story program in a health class. Specifically, I could see this working very well during the tobacco awareness portion of the class where students are released to teach in elementary and middle schools on the health risks of using tobacco. I believe that this program would be a great way to link the gap between high school students and elementary students by presenting a creative photo story that would be both informative and engaging for the students being taught. The high school students would be required to design and publish the story for use in an elementary classroom as a guest speaker. 

Reflection 3


This week the class watched a video of a 10-12 year old boy presenting a lecture on his interests in designing an APPs (Application) using advanced code. I believe that this would be a very interactive and engaging activity to implement into the schools. This would require a significant amount of funding from the school for the necessary equipment and programs as well as the 99$ fee for the publishing of the APP but students would be exposed to a practical application of code and technology in the classroom. The young man displayed a demeanor of maturity that surpassed his age, spoke well and seemed properly prepared for the lecture. I believe that some of these qualities can be attributed to the advanced learning required of him from the developing of the application. 

Reflection 2


This week, the class was more exposed to the importance and applicability of the ACTIVboard. When I was in high school, the distribution of the ACTIVboard became very prominent within the public school system. I recall the teachers having to go through an in depth training class in order to become more familiar with the board. I feel that these types of classes are very important prior to using the board in front of a class because teachers need to feel comfortable with the technology to be more effective in teaching. However, often teachers had to revert back to the white board or document reader due to confusion with the board. I believe that implementing a refresher course frequently would help negate the issues of confusion with the board. 

Reflection 1


The first point of discussion is in regards to the lack of reliability of technology within the classroom. In previous job experiences, I worked with video production and editing software, as well as analog and digital audio equipment and am fully aware of the frequent issues that arise when working with technology. Whether it is user error or technological error, it seems that technology has a tendency not to work. In a classroom setting, I believe that this can be detrimental to the pace of the lesson and efficacy of the teaching. While the positives of using technology in the classroom heavily outweigh the negatives, the reliability of technology needs to be taken into consideration. 

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

#7 Blogs for Educators

The blog that I observed was from a 5th grade class at Mukilteo Elementary Schools. The first thing that I noticed on the blog was that the learning target was boldly established. This is important because it helps focus the student, teacher and parent on the objective of the lesson. Then, if parents are able to assist their student on their assignment, they have a general grasp of the overall expectation. Directly under the learning target are the assigned homework tasks and links to the photocopied page. This allows students to print off assignments in the case that they have lost their book. I think by giving students a more accessible resource for their homework will help increase the likelihood that homework is completed in a timely manner.

Another thing that I liked from this blog was the linked tools that were not directly specific to the learning target. This allows students to interact with the website at a later date for further assistance on other homework. Also, the teacher added four separate interactive and fun activities to help reinforce the learning target. This blog seems like it would be a great resource for the 5th grade students.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Animoto Project

Make a video of your own at Animoto.

#6 Generation IM

Generation IM was an article describing the application of technology within the classroom and how it relates to the students capacity for learning. The article begins by describing the cultural occurence of a very technology oriented society where homes are often engrossed in various different forms of technology. I know that with my family and even within the Army, technology is a large factor in our day to day operations.

One thing that I learned from the article is I did not realize how many students before the age of 6 are exposed to computers. It is interesting to realize that statistically over two hours of those children's day is spent behind a computer screen. Although these are very formative years for a student, I do believe this computer exposure is excessive. Another aspect were the seven suggestions located at the end of the article describing different ways that a teacher can incorporate technology into their education. One way that had never crossed my mind was to use Google maps to indicate journeys and voyages of our history. This would be a very effective tool in a Social Studies or geography class analyzing cultural and topographical characteristics of different areas.

This information could be utilized in a science class in many different ways. If I became a science teacher, I would try to incorporate the virtual media sharing website YOUTUBE and have my students videotape their experiments, trying a variety of experiments and edit them together into a sequence, uploading to YOUTUBE for sharing in class. This would be a fun and interactive way to have students engaged with technology while enjoying creating videos regarding science experiments.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Assignment 2

The link to the unedited project that I will be using can be located here:
http://exchange.smarttech.com/details.html?id=806ef19a-f06f-4143-8828-1f8462070e50

In my lesson I will be using a variety of features.

- The Jeopardy squares on the "GAME BOARD" slide are linked to a separate slide that contains each question.

- Once the question has been answered, an "Infinity" blue tile will cover the box to suggest that it has been answered.

- When revealing the answers to specific questions, a sound clip is used as the answer unveiled.

- A score board slide could be utilized to tally the responses between the two teams of students using clickers.

NETS


3. Technology productivity tools
      Students use technology tools to enhance learning, increase
         productivity, and promote creativity.
      Students use productivity tools to collaborate in constructing
        technology-enhanced models, prepare publications, and produce other
creative works.


5. Technology research tools
      Students use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information
        from a variety of sources.
      Students use technology tools to process data and report results.
Students evaluate and select new information resources and
        technological innovations based on the appropriateness for specific
tasks.

This activity meets the standard because a variety of information can be presented and students receive a formative and potentially summative assessment on the information provided. It relates to a well known Television game show helping better relate to the students and helping establish a standard of procedures for the interactive activity.

Interactive white boards can improve learning because it better relates to students and seems more applicable to them and their culture. Today's students are products of technology and have become very accustomed to operating with technology in their everyday lives. For this reason, they can more efficiently adapt and experience the full capacity of the ActivBoard. It is an exciting and interactive tool that reaches students of all learning styles and far surpasses traditional methods of presenting information in a classroom setting.



#5 Promethean Board

The link that I found to be most helpful for researching the Promethean Board is located here:
http://www.prometheanworld.com/en-us/education/products/interactive-displays/activboard-300-pro

One of the most interesting things that I researched in regards to the ActivBoard was the steadfast reference to relating to as many learning styles as possible within the classroom. Through this dynamic experience of visual, aural, kinesthetic and even logical interaction, the ActivBoard is a great tool for reaching students on their level. As typical students today are products of technology, this very advanced and developed technological tool is very applicable to students. It helps grab the attention of very distractible minds and keeps students focused on the lesson while allowing them to engage and interact with the material.

Question: How reliable is the technology and programming of the ActivBoard? Too often it seems that technical difficulties can ruin a lesson. What happens if entire units and segments revolve around the use of the ActivBoard and then the programming encounters an error or is corrupt?

#4 What I Have Learned

This week I was made aware of the various capacities and applications that the SMART Board has to offer. The most important thing that I learned was how to navigate the open sharing website with various different lesson plans that can be adopted into classrooms, created by other teachers. At first, I imagined that putting together a presentation on the SMART Board would be a very daunting task, but after learning that many lessons are publicly accessible to teachers, it seems much more manageable to simply share and adapt these lessons to particular classrooms.

I believe this resource is a very important tool for teachers and it helps support the them of "not reinventing the wheel" encouraging teachers to pull resources from other classrooms. Although I am pursuing a health and fitness education degree, I know that I will share this resource with my fellow teachers and potentially look to implement some interesting and interactive Physical Education presentations into the templates.

Monday, September 10, 2012

Demographics write-up

Mount Si High School
Snoqualmie Valley School District


Classroom Demographics

This section takes into consideration the students, parental support and overall availability of technology. According to the Washington State Report Card, Mount Si High School (MSHS) is made up of almost 90% White students, 4% Hispanic, 3% Asian and 1% Black followed by less than 1% of American Indian, Pacific Islander, and Two or more races. Only 13% of the student population utilizes free or reduced price meals indicating a majority middle class white socio-economic status. Technology is readily available as each classroom is outfitted with a SmartBoard and multiple computers available for student use. The school has 4 separate computer labs, utilizes reader boards and takes advantage of a multi-media broadcast television network to publicize current events. Students have access to an online grading system allowing constant assessment of progress.

School Demographics

This section analyzes the location, population as well as the service and support for the school. MSHS is located in Snoqualmie, WA, approximately forty five minutes east of Seattle. It is the only High School available for students living in North Bend, Snoqualmie, Fall City and Preston. For this reason, in October 2011, MSHS is home to over 1500 students. The gender population is approximately 50/50. Special education students make up 8% of the student population. The majority of the service and support throughout the school is provided through the funds raised and allocated by the Associated Student Body (ASB) program. This an encompassing program that regulates the publicity, operation and efficiency of the clubs, athletics, and fine arts programs in the school.

Community Demographics

The community of the Snoqualmie plays a large role in the support of students, technology, volunteer teams and financial support. Each program within the high school has a booster program, operated by adult volunteers that monitor the allocation of funds and fundraising opportunities. Due to the proximity of relatively smaller towns, the community support within the school mimics a small town atmosphere placing precedence on high school athletics, education and student well being. With this in mind, generous donations are awarded to the school each year for operating costs. Also, various program auctions, car washes and athletic events raise a considerable amount of money that supports the high school. The school PTSA works hand in hand with the ASB allowing for an efficient coordination between parent volunteers and the student population.

Tech Standards

The technology standards for the grade levels at MSHS are consistent throughout each level. It has been required that each classroom become equipped with a SmartBoard to allow for more efficient display and teacher convenience in the classroom setting. Each student has access to computers and printing devices to help negate the issue of students who lack access to computers at home. The video production crew, operated by students under the supervision of qualified professional video production managers, strives to keep the students updated with weekly reviews and publicity of upcoming events. This is made possible not only with the SmartBoards in each classroom but also T.V's located in the common areas throughout the school.


1. Basic operations and concepts
      Students demonstrate a sound understanding of the nature and
         operation of technology systems.
      Students are proficient in the use of technology.
2. Social, ethical, and human issues
      Students understand the ethical, cultural, and societal issues related
        to technology.
      Students practice responsible use of technology systems, information,
         and software.
      Students develop positive attitudes toward technology uses that
         support lifelong learning, collaboration, personal pursuits, and
         productivity.
3. Technology productivity tools
      Students use technology tools to enhance learning, increase
         productivity, and promote creativity.
      Students use productivity tools to collaborate in constructing
        technology-enhanced models, prepare publications, and produce other
creative works.



4. Technology communications tools
      Students use telecommunications to collaborate, publish, and interact
        with peers, experts, and other audiences.
      Students use a variety of media and formats to communicate
         information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences.
5. Technology research tools
      Students use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information
        from a variety of sources.
      Students use technology tools to process data and report results.
Students evaluate and select new information resources and
        technological innovations based on the appropriateness for specific
tasks.
6. Technology problem-solving and decision-making tools
      Students use technology resources for solving problems and making
         informed decisions.
      Students employ technology in the development of strategies for solving
         problems in the real world.



#3 Marc Prensky Article Analysis

Marc Prensky's article is a very progressive look at the importance of technology in the classroom and the educational gap created between teachers and students due to technology awareness. The two groups are described as the Digital Natives (students) and the Digital Immigrants (teachers). Digital Natives have been raised in an era of technological influence and have become accustomed to learning and receiving information at a quicker and more ecstatic pace than the Digital Immigrants. This presents a problem as the teachers present information to students in a logical, methodical pace that mimics their prior educational experience. This trend tends to result in boredom and lack of motivation within students causing a cycle that reduces the effectiveness of the educational system. While the "old school" model of a step by step approach to learning was efficient for the Digital Immigrants, Digital Natives require an expedited form of education in order to maintain interest.

I agree with the majority of Marc's arguments within the article, although I couldn't help but notice the lack of viable solutions to this predicament. There seems to be a disregard for basis information and logic within the solutions provided. For example, Marc suggests that curriculum needs to be revamped to include many more subjects that revolve more around technology. While this seems like a good idea, adding to the subject load currently on students could be detrimental and may task out the students in too many directions. Also, while students may be accustomed to technology, they may not be interested in pursuing a career revolving around technology. He also suggested that politics and social issues were not in current curriculum but I believe those facets are incorporated in a lot of Social Studies, History, and Current Issues courses found in High Schools.

On the other hand, Marc identifies very important problems with the gap between students and teachers. Digital Immigrants need to make the effort to become more applicable to the students and continue to strive to teach on their level. While this may take a large revamp in methodology, it seems very necessary in order to become a more effective instructor. I believe that a more technologically savvy staff could ignite a spark of excitement within schools that allows for a fun and efficient learning experience.


Monday, September 3, 2012

#2 Sir Ken Robinson

After watching Mr. Robinson's speech in regards to the current status of the education system, I believe that he brings up many valid points regarding the somewhat complacent state of education. The analogy of the fast food model was an accurate depiction describing the overly standardized expectations of the very linear educational track followed by students throughout their schooling career. This streamlined approach, although efficient, does not always effectively challenge and push students to their individual potentials, and could also leave some children overlooked. I believe by incorporating more technology into education, students will be exposed to a more dynamic curriculum allowing for individual growth that is monitored by the educator. It will develop more creativity, excitement and interest within the students and allow them to experience their education more fully as opposed to just completing courses and moving on to further grades or study.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

#1 ABOUT ME

I was born and raised in the Snoqualmie Valley and graduated from Mount Si High School. After graduation, I joined the U.S. Army and serve as an Airborne soldier on non-deployable status while I pursue a degree and career as an officer, studying Health and Fitness at Northwest University. After commissioning as an officer, I plan on branching Infantry and pursuing a career in the military. In high school, I worked as a Lifeguard, Swim Instructor and Water Aerobics coach for three years at Si View Metro Parks in North Bend. I am a Level 1 CrossFit  coach at Sasquatch CrossFit in Redmond, WA.. I enjoy hiking, fishing, hunting, kayaking and anything and everything that has to do with the outdoors.

In regards to technology, I feel relatively comfortable navigating and adapting to new technologies. I prefer using a "hands on" learning approach when introduced to new programming and find that I can be very flexible with new and progressive methods. I do no feel threatened by the use of technology in a classroom and look forward to refining the skills necessary to efficiently utilize technology as a tool in education. The only aspect that makes me nervous with technology is the potential of having to compete against a program for student attention, knowing that at different ages this can be a very difficult task.