#2 ILP "Participation" -- Technology Related Lecture (TED Talk)

1. Evidence of Learning: watched video: "Mae Jemison: Teach Arts and Sciences Together"

2. Description of Experience:

Mae Jemison spoke on her passion for the revitalization of the arts and sciences.  She tells the story of her broad educational desires growing up, eventually coming to a cross roads in her later years of college, when forced to choose either professional dance or medical school.  She later when on to become an astronaut.  She talks on how inventions, advancements, works of art, virtually all things are manifestations of creativity.  Therefore she argues that art and science are so crucial to our future, and a necessity in education.  She concludes her speech with the claim of "Arts and sciences are not separate!... Ideas have potential energy, but nothing will happen until we risk putting them into action."

3. Products/ Evidence:

Video can be found at https://www.ted.com/playlists/124/ken_robinson_10_talks_on_educ 

#1 ILP "Participation" - Technology-Related Lecture (Ted Talk)

1. Evidence: picture/activity log:
I watched the Ted Talk "Let's use video to re-invent education" by Salman Khan, presented in March, 2011, in Longbeach, California.

2. Description of learning experience:
For my first Independent Learning Project, I watched a TED (technology, entertainment, and design) Talk on the topic of Online Education, given by the creator of Kahn Academy, Salman Khan.  This was an incredibly interesting talk that addressed the success and advantage of video-based learning.  Salman began his talk by describing how he started Khan Academy (putting educational videos on youtube for his cousins).  From these videos, he received messages from students, parents, and teachers -- thanking him for his help and encouraging him to do more.  Thus, the Khan Academy, a not-for-profit was built, and today has thousands of videos spanning every subject and learning-level.  Salman Khan then spoke on the "next step" of his company, detailing successful "flipped-classrooms" and explaining his concept of knowledge maps (as of 2011, there were 90 available).  Paralleling his method to that of learning how to ride a bike, Salman Khan's knowledge maps allow for student practice and failure, but does not allow advancement in subject material until mastery is accomplished.  Traditional education allows for "swiss holes" in student learning, but by ensuring student understanding of basic concepts, the more complex teachings will be more effectively learned.  Teacher-specific tools have also been added to Khan academy, enabling instructors to keep tabs on each student, what level they are at, how they compare to the rest of the class, how long they spend on the material each day, et cetera.  In conclusion of his lecture, Salman Khan painted the picture of this "one world classroom" that Khan Academy is attempting to create.            


3. Product/ Evidence:

The TED Talk can be reached at this link:
https://www.ted.com/playlists/24/re_imagining_school

The Khan Academy website can be reached at this link:
https://www.khanacademy.org

Blog Post 10:

Power Point Interaction:

I thought I already knew powerpoint, but this week's assignment taught me things I never knew powerpoint could do!  The action buttons for example -- I never thought of creating a non-linear presentation, but with actions buttons a boring, familiar powerpoint can be turned into an interactive and fun presentation!  I certainly plan to utilize this method of powerpoint in my future teaching career.  It would be a good way to make practice quizzes for my students, for example.  I have nothing to change about this assignment.   

Data Collection Tools: 

For my future teaching career, I see the potential of using data collection tools and plan on using data collection in a multiplicity of ways.  For a high school Literature class for example, I could collect data on student opinions on required readings, test score data, end-of-year review data, even data from parents through email.  In more math and science based courses, data collection can be more student driven when assignments require them to obtain and analyze project data.

Technology-Related Skill:

...that I would like to learn next -- Tips for/ better  understanding of Cloud Computing/ Storage/ backup/ sharing.  Although this is a broad topic, I think I would really benefit from a deeper knowledge of The Cloud and the best ways to integrate it into my classroom/ teach my students its practicality and usefulness.  It's true I know some basics of "the cloud" concept, but I feel as if I'm still stuck in "save-to-hard-drive" mode.  Seeing the quick progression of digital work now being saved, shared, and stored in the cloud (and the weighty risk of not doing so, chancing loss of work if computer crashes) strongly prompts me to really learn the ins and out of this new, but already prominent, internet hallmark.  

Achieving my Educational Technology Goals:

Enhancing my teaching with purposeful and helpful technology will be a constant process throughout my future years of teaching -- largely due to the fact that technology is always changing and advancing.  In effort to stay up-to-date, I hope to collaborate with other teachers, continue tech/education research to keep my knowledge and ideas fresh, reach out to technology experts to understand their perspective, and ask my students about how they would like to see technology integrated into their education (if age appropriate).  And of course, I will keep my class textbook from EME 2040 for reference when I need it!  

Blog Post 9

1. The Flipped Classroom
The flipped classroom is a blended delivery model that essentially has students learn new material for homework and practice the material in the classroom (opposite from the traditional "learn new material in the classroom and practice at home" format of teaching).  The "learning-for-homework" is most frequently done through educational video casts called vodcasting.  As an example, a math teacher could pre-record a lecture on new material, assign it to the students to watch for homework, and then use class time to have students practice what they learned with the benefit of having the teacher available for additional explanation and any questions.  Chapter 10 of Teaching and Learning with Technology cleverly terms the teacher's role change from "sage on the stage" to "guide on the side."  I particularly love this method of teaching because of my natural learning style.  Often times in the traditional class, I am very lost, the new information is overwhelming, I'm so focused on writing down lecture notes that I don't have time to comprehend the information or ask questions, et cetera... which causes me to feel constantly behind in class and often forces me to teach myself the material after school and then attempt the assigned homework.  The flipped classroom appeals to me because  I can watch the recorded lecture at my own pace, rewind or re-watch if I need to, write down any questions, and have time to process it on my own before going to class.  If not wanting to pre-record lectures, websites like Kahn Academy (https://www.khanacademy.org) are great assets.

2.  Professional Development Web-Resource Review
I decided to review Discovery Education's Educational Professional Development website.  (http://www.discoveryeducation.com//what-we-offer/professional-development/explore/index.cfm)
This company partners with districts to identify goals, develop customized learning plans, collaboratively design professional learning plans, address teacher and administrator needs, provide certification opportunities for web-based learning experiences, and offer free digital academies in leadership, literature, math, and STEM subjects.

It comes at a cost though: One day of on-site professional development is $2,500, which includes a six hour session with an expert instructor.  For $600, a three session webinar is available for purchase.  However, Discovery Ed offers K-12 teacher classroom resources for free!  This aspect of the company I believe would be the most practical and useful for me as a new teacher.   The community blog and the student resources are also helpful tools to enhance my future teaching!  Overall, this website/ company seems to be very helpful to all those in the education realm, weather a elementary student, high school teacher, or district administrator.

3. Reflection of Information Dissemination Assignment
This power point assignment was actually quite fun!  Although I grew up using Windows, I was not familiar with the newest/ upgraded powerpoint software.  I learned that there are so many options to help create a great presentation.  One element I was unfamiliar with was the "button" function -- allowing the viewer to click through the slides or access whatever page the button is hyper-linked to.  It was also helpful for me to think about effective instructional techniques when using power point.  The tips Lauren gave about keeping it concise and not overloading the slides with information were extremely helpful!  I don't think I would change this assignment in any way.
(and unfortunately I don't have a screen shot of my assignment -- I created it on an FSU desktop computer since I have a Mac and don't have powerpoint)    

Blog Post 8

I believe electronic paper holds the biggest promise for future education.  Once it becomes more fully developed and sold at a more affordable price (currently around $100), I predict that this technology will be a great asset to the majority of classrooms and schools.  Not only will it drastically decrease the need for paper, but it is a much improved alternative to ebook readers/ tablets -- lighter, flexible, unbreakable, compact, and (soon to be) less expensive.  As long as this technology doesn't have a significantly adverse affect on handwriting, this tool has a very positive outlook for widespread usage in classrooms (especially if it adopts the "book-like" screen of some e-readers rather than a computer-like screen that can be distressing to the eyes).  

http://hechingerreport.org/kids-teaching-robots-is-this-the-future-of-education/

One future technology not mentioned in chapter 12 is the possibility of educational robots.  Described in the above hyperlink, a robot named "Betty" is designed to "learn" from students, enhancing the students' learning process while not being judgmental (as another human might be).  

    

The digital divide is the gap between people who have access to technology (and knowledge/ use) and those who do not.  This disparity is a major problem since modern advancements are increasingly tech/ computer-based -- meaning education, jobs, employment skills, et cetera will be more and more technologically based.  Therefore, those with little to no access to these technologies are at a significant disadvantage in the work force and education realm.  Luckily, I have have grown up with access to technology, knowledge of its use, and frequent practice of tech-skills.  My accessibility and knowledge of technology/ computers places me in the "digital native" category.  However, not all students in my future classroom will be "digital natives" as I am.  In effort to boost "internet-fluency" I will integrate computers and technology into my lessons, making sure to give practical tips to all students.     

Post 7

In teaching Bloom's Taxonomy (hierarchal stages of remembering, understanding, applying, analyzing, evaluating, creating), Powerpoint will be a great tool.  To most effectively teach this concept, I will first broadly introduce the topic on the first slide, perhaps showing an illustration of the taxonomy.  I will then explain each level more in-depth, having each slide describe each level.  I will then briefly recap the new material and check the students' understanding with a simple self-check slide.

Adaptive technologies are of utmost importance!  It is impertinent that I, to the best of my ability, help students with disabilities learn at the same pace as my other students.  Adaptive technologies such as brail printing and computer text readers will help foster student learning.  I do not currently know of any specific student that is in need of adaptive technology.  One potential problem I predict is student-disability immersion.  Although these technologies will help increase student learning and productivity, it could result in isolating the disabled student from the rest of the class.  

The teacher website was surprisingly fun and incredibly easy! It was unfortunate that weebly does not have a "calendar" function in its setup, but besides that, I was very pleased with the user-friendly website.  I will absolutely use this tool when I become a teacher.  It is a great way to stay connected to both students and parents.  

 
http://teachernumber1.weebly.com

Post 6

1.  I chose to investigate my old high school's website (Lincoln High) and to my surprise, it has much improved since I was a student there!  The school colors are integrated nicely, yet the text is easy to read.  As you can see in the screen shot below, the main feature of the main page is the high quality volleyball photograph that creates a sense of joy and teamwork in the viewer.  In addition to looking good, the website has become very user friendly as well.  Main tabs and easily understandable icons are strategically located and do not overwhelm the viewer.

2.  I hope to implement helpful and meaningful technology into my future classroom preparation and instruction.  On a basic level, I see great value in having a class website and using Microsoft Office Suite.  More advanced technologies, such as a smart board, 3D printer, and other practical yet high-quality machines would be a great asset.

3. The web resource evaluation assignment was a great experience!  I especially am fond of the group members in my group, we work great as a team.  Things that could be improved include the BB instructions (unclear at times and not very reader friendly) and the group wiki site (PB works not very user friendly, very unclear, complicated design).

 

Post #5

WEB 2.0

I think using collaborative web 2.0 technologies and websites can be immensely useful in the classroom...when used strategically and with purpose.  This includes the use of blogs, social media, YouTube, Wikis, and other sophisticated, knowledge sharing/ information collaborating sites.  Personally, I think social media would be more of a distraction than helpful tool in classroom instruction.  For teacher professional development however, it may be quite useful.  Whichever Web 2.0 tools used however, the teacher and students must first have the required equipment available.  This means accessible computers with updated software, perhaps network sharing within the school or wifi, available printers, et cetera.  But it's important to remember safety concerns that naturally come with use of the internet (cyberbullying, cyberstalking, illicit content, inappropriate behavior), and implement solutions such as a teacher controlled twitter account, password protection, and website blockers (web 2.0 podcast).     

DIIGO REVIEW 

https://www.diigo.com/index

I investigated the website Diigo for potential instructional use.  I had never heard of it before, but once making an account and familiarizing myself with the site, it seems very beneficial, especially for teaching (the catch phrase is "your learning, Simplified").  It is an impressive, multi-facitated site that offers tools to bookmark, tag, highlight, sticky note, outline, collaborate with groups, archive web pages, and create a personal library.  

This site, in theory, seems to be extremely helpful for teachers and students.  Especially due to its easy usability, teachers can (almost) effortlessly compile helpful resources and students can work on group projects even when not meeting in person.  Its tracking and note capability would be ideal for an advanced research project as well.  The only subject that could have difficulty with diigo integration could possibly be math.  For all other subject areas though, Diigo would be a great benefit!

CONCEPT MAP

When creating the World War I concept map, I used Webspiration Pro for the first time (in addition to creating a digital concept map for the first time)!  Thankfully the program was easy to navigate and understand, and within minutes I was actually enjoying the process of complicating and arranging my map.  I learned specifically that the design and visual appeal are integral to concept mapping.  The way the ideas connect together must be appropriate to the subject and be easily understood by the audience.  When done effectively, I think concept maps can truly be a very helpful tool for students (to see when learning, but also to create themselves).  

Blog Post 3

Blog Post 3

In class today, we learned how to more effectively use search engines (primarily google), while also discussing credible and non-credible sources (and how to located credible sources efficiently).  We discovered different forms of google, such as google gravity and google sphere (see picture below).  While these google variations are visually entertaining, they seem to be an ineffective way to conduct efficient research.

For high school students, I would like to integrate technology software/ applications such as video conferencing, advanced search engines, academic portals, and weblogs.  In teaching and utilizing these softwares, my students will learn the importance of academic honesty, how to respect copyright, and many other necessary skills when dealing with online information.  

In the newsletter assignment, through trial and error, I discovered aesthetic ways of giving academic information aimed at parents.  I appreciated this assignment because of its practical nature.  If I become a teacher one day, creating a newsletter is certainly something I'll have to do.  The design aspect of this project was surprisingly more difficult than I would have expected. 

Blog Post 2

Throughout grade school, middle school, and high school I used MS Word.  All seven schools that I’ve been to had PC computers, therefore making our use of Word frequent (as opposed to Mac Pages).  

My most direct use of Word in elementary and middle school was when my class visited the computer lab and when I had a typing class (2^nd grade; 8^th grade).  In high school, my use of Word became much more frequent.  All of my teachers used Word in some way, whether in making tests, teaching through computer projection, creating worksheets, etc.  As a future teacher, I hope to take advantage of online lesson planning communities (such as “Think, Educate, Share” and “Share my Lesson”), especially in my first years of teaching.  Prior to reading chapter one, I had no idea that there were thousands of standards-correlated lesson plans available online in every content area for every grade level.       

  

In high school, my teachers always included a "sources" page in their lessons and we as students were always required to include a "works cited" page to comply with copyright/ fair use.  Plagiarism was (and still is) a big deal.  When I am a teacher, I will make sure my students will be equally cautious to avoid plagiarism by teaching them the basics of copyright, fair use, how to give credit, etc.  Use of Twitter can be a great teaching asset as it creates quick communication, requires some level of creativity, and is fun and engaging for students.   

Blog Post #1

1.  Computers are an important part of the educational experience because this "information age" relies heavily on technology, and without proficient knowledge in computer skills,  students will be unprepared and at a disadvantage in the social, and especially work, realm.  Knowledge of (at least basic) computer functions/ applications is essential.  Although necessity, there are some concerns and challenges to address.  Such issues include lack of financing, insufficient time to integrate technology into class time, and surrounding cultural bias.  Although all three concerns are legitimate, I believe the "negative, against-technology, cultural bias" perspective is very much a minority view.  I believe most educators are embracing technology's integration in society and see the mastering of computer skills as important objectives for their students.  I view funding and practical, in-class-application as the bigger issues to solve.        

2. In my classroom, I would especially want to implement practical computer skills in assignments -- such as Word, Powerpoint, and especially Excel.  I would also want to teach my students how to operate the basics of both Mac and PC.  I would also love to include quick, practical, everyday life technology tips -- such as online bill pay, etc.  In EME 2040, an overview of Windows, Excel, and many other applications will help me implement these idea into my future classroom!  I currently have no knowledge of Excel, so I am especially interested in learning that program.

3. A digital native is someone who has grown up with a prevalent presence of technology around them, while a digital immigrant is someone who has had to adapt to the increasing use of technology.  I believe "digital native" is an accurate term to describes most of today's youth.  (Although there will always be an exception with rural/ impoverished communities having no prevalent access to technology, therefore not being "native.")  Luckily, my past teachers have had just as an extensive (if not more) knowledge of computers as I, leading their classrooms to be technology-infused.  Once I begin to teach, although I'm sure there will be differences in how I and my students use technology, I predict that there will be even less of a immigrant-native gap than there is today.     

My Twitter username:

@hleighgillespie

Blog Post 0

Prior experiences using technology:
Although I grew up using a PC, for the past few years I have transitioned to a Mac.  I have used powerpoint and word multiple times.  As far as social media goes, I rarely go on facebook, and I do not have a Twitter, Tumbler, Instagram, or anything else (besides Pinterest).  My job requires much use of technology -- I am a Production Assistant at Celebration Baptist Church, and extensively use Final Cut Pro and various camera equipment.    

What I hope to learn in class: 
I very much hope to learn the basics of Excel (especially because for many jobs, knowledge of Excel is a necessity).  I also hope to learn how technology can be properly integrated with teaching.

What I learned from the learning style test: 
My results from the learning style test indicated that I am a highly (9) reflective, partially intuitive (3) and visual (5), and mostly (7) global learner.  The reflective "diagnosis" makes complete sense to me in that reflective learners must have time to sit and independently think about the material to fully understand it.  The description of intuitive learners "preferring possibilities and relationships" over facts also fits my learning preference.  The score of "5" on visual learning quite surprised me; I expected a higher number.  Finally, the higher global score of "7" makes much sense to me, seeing that I understand foreign information much better once I understand the "big picture."