This week in Internet for Educators we had guess speakers Donald Girouard and Shannon Horne.They discussed education and distance learning. there were several interesting points I took out of the presentation that really stood out.
The one aspect that surprised me were the amount of teachers and students that use WBC in the Manitoba Education system. ( over 1000 teachers and 15,000 students). Donald mentioned several benefits to taking an online course if they are unable to go to school. Some examples were how it is more accessible, resolves time table issues, prepares students for lifelong learning, and teachers are still available for questioning. He also discussed that it brings more face to face interaction and engagement as most courses allow video feeds. All these benefits are what are engaging students to take online courses mainly because of the flexibility. I was always under the impression that if you took an online course you are completely on your own and you would not be able to talk to the teachers if you had any questions but I was completely wrong. The speakers expressed that for the best students success they need both face to face interaction blended with an online environment.
The other aspect they discussed was how good of a resource Web based courses can be for teachers, learners and schools. When you really look at it, as soon as you become a certified teacher you can sign up and then gain access to the various resources available. Lessons, units, ideas that you can modify to your liking, everything is done for you. They went on to say that over 50% of teachers use WBC as a professional learning resource.
In the possible scenario where you would be hired for a teaching position on a subject that you have never taught before. Having this resource available would allow an easy transition into the subject and help guide your lessons until your comfortable with the material.
Overall it was a great presentation, and I will definitely take a look into WBC as a teaching resource
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Friday, January 23, 2015
Tech Task 12- The Future??
After reading over the Horizon Report, I think the future is looking bright for technology being implemented into the classroom. In the article, there are several elements that develop a creative classroom. This is Infrastructure, Content and Curricula, Assessment, Learning Practice, Teaching Practices, Organization, Leadership and values, and connectedness. Many people know that technology is becoming prominent in several schools across North America. the article explains that there are three key trends that will accelerate technological adoption into the public school system. Policy is number one. If several school divisions get on board and create policies to ensure that technology should be in the school, then I believe that many other divisions and regions will follow suit. Leadership was number two. I believe leaders have already emerged in the school system who make it their every day work to convince administrations and communities that we are in the age of technology and that we should not be trying to fight against having it in the schools. A more simple solution would be to work with it. Practice is number three. Kid's and educators need practice to implement deeper learning and instilling it into each other. The more practice there is, the better we can understand technology and how it will benefit each and every one of us in the future.
In many cases, as smart boards and iPads are being brought into schools (my last placement all grade 12 students had iPads), teachers are becoming more expectant to understand technology and be adept to it. I myself am not technologically smart. I know that kids in this day and age are a hundred times smarter than me when it comes to tablets, computers, and whatever other type of technology you can find. I agreed with this article where teachers should definitely help guide the student on what they need to find, but with technology comes kids looking things up for themselves, or creating something in their own creative and unique way. The nice thing about technology is learning does not have to stop in the classroom, it can continue outside of the classroom as well and continue with topics that engage them and interest them.
The article also discusses how as technology becomes more acceptable (supposedly will be a mainstay in the next 3-5 years) that a hybrid model of learning can eventually be used that will benefit both teacher and student. The hybrid model is both the virtual and physical learning in a classroom. The article implies that this will create the bet opportunity and success for the student and engage them in a variety of ways. I agree with this. Technology does not have to be around for every single piece of information you teach to the students. But, I believe it should be there at the hands of the kids if they need it as it can be a very useful tool and one that can push them forward in their engagement with the topic.
The article touches on several positive aspects such as adaptive learning (the ability to change the environment in order to create an individualized design for a particular individual) and other positive aspects I have mentioned above, and I think that it is only a matter of time before technology is a staple in most educational systems. I have already experience it in my placements. There will always be the traditional people who think that the school system has worked for so many years why in the world would we change it now? The fact of the matter is, I feel like I was in that traditional school system. A school system where you had to regurgitate information and forget about it later. A school system that was not engaging or exciting. With technology, students enjoy it and use it every single day. It is something they are comfortable with. So why not implement it into the school system to get results? The future of technology is looking bright. It will be a useful tool for generations to come. The best thing about technology and the future are that the possibilities are absolutely endless.
In many cases, as smart boards and iPads are being brought into schools (my last placement all grade 12 students had iPads), teachers are becoming more expectant to understand technology and be adept to it. I myself am not technologically smart. I know that kids in this day and age are a hundred times smarter than me when it comes to tablets, computers, and whatever other type of technology you can find. I agreed with this article where teachers should definitely help guide the student on what they need to find, but with technology comes kids looking things up for themselves, or creating something in their own creative and unique way. The nice thing about technology is learning does not have to stop in the classroom, it can continue outside of the classroom as well and continue with topics that engage them and interest them.
The article also discusses how as technology becomes more acceptable (supposedly will be a mainstay in the next 3-5 years) that a hybrid model of learning can eventually be used that will benefit both teacher and student. The hybrid model is both the virtual and physical learning in a classroom. The article implies that this will create the bet opportunity and success for the student and engage them in a variety of ways. I agree with this. Technology does not have to be around for every single piece of information you teach to the students. But, I believe it should be there at the hands of the kids if they need it as it can be a very useful tool and one that can push them forward in their engagement with the topic.
The article touches on several positive aspects such as adaptive learning (the ability to change the environment in order to create an individualized design for a particular individual) and other positive aspects I have mentioned above, and I think that it is only a matter of time before technology is a staple in most educational systems. I have already experience it in my placements. There will always be the traditional people who think that the school system has worked for so many years why in the world would we change it now? The fact of the matter is, I feel like I was in that traditional school system. A school system where you had to regurgitate information and forget about it later. A school system that was not engaging or exciting. With technology, students enjoy it and use it every single day. It is something they are comfortable with. So why not implement it into the school system to get results? The future of technology is looking bright. It will be a useful tool for generations to come. The best thing about technology and the future are that the possibilities are absolutely endless.
Tech Task 11- Show and Tell
Show and Tell! This used to be one of my favourite aspects of elementary school. For my web and mobile based app, I am choosing to use "Teaching Games For Understanding" or TGFU. This app is used only for Physical Education purposes but has been a resource I have been using for my entire student teaching experience. Teaching Games for Understanding is an app you can buy on iTunes, and it is a useful tool for showing the educator games that will not only be fun but help the student get better understanding of the movement.
I have been using this app since my first year of education and I have used it a lot. The three placements I have had have all been in the gymnasium teaching a wide range of grades from Kindergarten to Grade 12. This app provides tons of different games, gives you the age range you can use the game in for it to be successful, the equipment you need, problems you may encounter, rules of the game, safety, and variations and progressions. On this app you can also go on youtube to see more games they provide for you, a curriculum model, an area where you can put notes on the games and whether they were successful or not, and the ability to share the app with others. The one thing I really liked about TGFU is that you can submit your own game and possibly get it put on the app! How cool is that! I know I will continue to use this resource as it has helped me over the past two years tremendously. Here is the link to the app in the iTunes store, hopefully some of you other physical educators will find it useful!
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/tgfu-games-pe/id549014086?mt=8
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/tgfu-games-pe/id549014086?mt=8
Tech Task 10- Commenting on kid's blogs
For this choice tech task, I chose to write on another students blog. The class I chose was Mrs. Thompsons, an individual who attended Brandon University not long ago.The blog she had created was very neat and organized and easy to navigate through. I commented on a post where her grade 8 science students were learning about colours the eye can see. Here is my comment:
Hi there, my name is Stuart Durston and I am attending Brandon University. I am in my final semester of the Education Program and have been checking out some blogs. I recently stumbled upon Mrs. Thompsons classroom and found some excellent blogs being done! The site is extremely user friendly and it looks as though there are some great up and coming bloggers on this site! For a science class it looks like Mrs. Thompsons class is having a lot of fun. Getting to do hands on experiences with colours and exploring colours sure makes understanding how it works easier doesn't it?! This is an excellent website that I will definitely be visiting again! To all Mrs. Thompsons students, keep blogging! It's exciting, useful, and very interesting! Thank you!
After commenting I decided to skim through the blog. It definitely gave me some new ideas on how I could use the blog in my classroom. Not only is it beneficial for students to show off their work, but also lets the parents see what kind of work their child is doing in the class. There is no doubt I will be using blogger in my class!
Hi there, my name is Stuart Durston and I am attending Brandon University. I am in my final semester of the Education Program and have been checking out some blogs. I recently stumbled upon Mrs. Thompsons classroom and found some excellent blogs being done! The site is extremely user friendly and it looks as though there are some great up and coming bloggers on this site! For a science class it looks like Mrs. Thompsons class is having a lot of fun. Getting to do hands on experiences with colours and exploring colours sure makes understanding how it works easier doesn't it?! This is an excellent website that I will definitely be visiting again! To all Mrs. Thompsons students, keep blogging! It's exciting, useful, and very interesting! Thank you!
After commenting I decided to skim through the blog. It definitely gave me some new ideas on how I could use the blog in my classroom. Not only is it beneficial for students to show off their work, but also lets the parents see what kind of work their child is doing in the class. There is no doubt I will be using blogger in my class!
Tech Task 9- Using Online Video in the Classroom
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVoqA-LKGb4
In terms of a video I would use in my class, I would use one that has to do with Physical Education. the subject area I have majored in. The video I chose was a video called Sports Science. Sports Science goes over challenges such as who can kick the hardest? A MMA Fighter or Football Punter? The video I chose was who is more accurate in hitting a target? A football quarter back or a professional archer? I would definitely use this type of video in a Physical Education setting where we are going over the proper mechanics for a throw, a kick, a jump shot, etc. Whichever sport unit we are participating in at the time would be the perfect time to use this video to show students the proper mechanics of the movement. How would I do this? I would set it up on a big screen before gym and talk about the movement we would be working on that day. The nice thing about sports science is it is not always comparisons between two type of athletes, sometimes it will have videos on who has better technique as well.
These types of videos have a lot to offer. It is a good source of differentiated learning in a visual and auditory sense. Setting it up on a wide projector in the gym while students hold the ball and mimic the technique could also be good for kinaesthetic learners as well. Videos like these give a perfect breakdown of how to throw/kick etc. with proper technique, the velocity you want to use, and the form that is the most beneficial to have.
If I were to get students to implement this type of video work into Physical Education, I can think of one app they could use that i have used several times in my students teaching experience. The App COACHES EYE is a great tool if you want students not only to perform the movement required, but also show off their knowledge on the subject and show an understanding. With coaches eye you can show a breakdown of proper and improper form, and whether or not you are doing the movement correctly. With the video you can make small tweaks to the individuals form and help them improve. It can be used over and over until performed properly. It can show the individuals levels of the body, their angle, and their force. It can also be played in slow motion, regular motion, and rewound and fast forwarded. For a final presentation, for example baseball, you could the student to explain how to do the throwing movement properly and improperly to show a comparison, and talk in the video to explain the breakdown. They could then share their video on youtube. I think sharing it on youtube would be a great idea because it not only informs younger athletes how to throw properly, but also becomes a good resource for other teachers to get ideas of how you could come up wit ha summative project instead of a test. I think it is a really cool idea. I have used Coaches Eye in the past and I will definitely be using it down the road as well.
In terms of a video I would use in my class, I would use one that has to do with Physical Education. the subject area I have majored in. The video I chose was a video called Sports Science. Sports Science goes over challenges such as who can kick the hardest? A MMA Fighter or Football Punter? The video I chose was who is more accurate in hitting a target? A football quarter back or a professional archer? I would definitely use this type of video in a Physical Education setting where we are going over the proper mechanics for a throw, a kick, a jump shot, etc. Whichever sport unit we are participating in at the time would be the perfect time to use this video to show students the proper mechanics of the movement. How would I do this? I would set it up on a big screen before gym and talk about the movement we would be working on that day. The nice thing about sports science is it is not always comparisons between two type of athletes, sometimes it will have videos on who has better technique as well.
These types of videos have a lot to offer. It is a good source of differentiated learning in a visual and auditory sense. Setting it up on a wide projector in the gym while students hold the ball and mimic the technique could also be good for kinaesthetic learners as well. Videos like these give a perfect breakdown of how to throw/kick etc. with proper technique, the velocity you want to use, and the form that is the most beneficial to have.
If I were to get students to implement this type of video work into Physical Education, I can think of one app they could use that i have used several times in my students teaching experience. The App COACHES EYE is a great tool if you want students not only to perform the movement required, but also show off their knowledge on the subject and show an understanding. With coaches eye you can show a breakdown of proper and improper form, and whether or not you are doing the movement correctly. With the video you can make small tweaks to the individuals form and help them improve. It can be used over and over until performed properly. It can show the individuals levels of the body, their angle, and their force. It can also be played in slow motion, regular motion, and rewound and fast forwarded. For a final presentation, for example baseball, you could the student to explain how to do the throwing movement properly and improperly to show a comparison, and talk in the video to explain the breakdown. They could then share their video on youtube. I think sharing it on youtube would be a great idea because it not only informs younger athletes how to throw properly, but also becomes a good resource for other teachers to get ideas of how you could come up wit ha summative project instead of a test. I think it is a really cool idea. I have used Coaches Eye in the past and I will definitely be using it down the road as well.
Tech Task 8- Podcasts
To find a podcast I wanted, I simply downloaded the app to my mobile device Podcasts) on iTunes. The first podcast I came across was a one called " Bring your own Technology to school". This Podcast was done by a groups called ABC Splash Education. Most of the Podcast was done by Kalia Colston interviewing an individual who strongly believes in student bringing their own devices to school (BYOD). The individual being interviewed was Jason Arutza, a director of ICT in Sydney, and wanting to bring a BYOD into his school.
Bring your own Technology- the emphasis is on the normalization on student owned devices and the choice going to the families on what is appropriate to bring to school
At his school, they first allowed only Grade 11 and 12 students to bring their own technology into the schools. In 2012, the school started "bring your own iPad." He believes that bringing their own technology is all based on trust.
The proportion of schools that are involved in BYOD are several and he explains that it is rapidly growing. He explained 5 years ago, people were saying the pro- technology individuals were crazy to start doing this in schools. Now there are many schools implementing it into their schools and many that are transitioning into this concept. It is still early, but he believes there will be in a huge jump in 2015.
BYOD gets the student to actually bring a device they want to use in school, not a random mandated device that he may not know how to use. With BYOD learning is not only being done in the school, but also outside the school.
Jason strongly believes mobile phones can be used in school as long as three rules are followed. Proper classroom management, common courtesy, and common sense. They can be used for taking pictures of notes, videoing a class, etc.
To get technology policies rolling in schools, the community must get involved, and the communication has to be very clear and frequent.
These were the main points of the Podcast. It really interested me to hear someone talk about technology and the need for it in school. I remember when I was in high school, any type of technology was forbidden. If it was found, it would be taken away in class and you would get it back at the end of the day. To here that there is finally a change happening in the eduction system and that people are getting on board with technology is great to hear. You can use any podcast in your classroom because of the endless archives and variety of podcasts there are out there. Just search up Fitness levels in Canadian education system if you are teaching gym and there is bound to be something that will show up. The nice thing about podcasts as well is that most of there podcasts are recent and up to date.
Students could easily create their own podcast. An example lesson could be- A Health Unit in Physical Education. Each pair of students must create their own podcast on a certain aspect of health. It could range from "when do you know you are ready to have sex?" to " Why is smoking bad for you?" Giving the students this freedom and choice will help their creative side come out and engage them. Giving them the freedom to make their very own podcast would be exciting for them.
Tech Task 7- Infographics
An infographic is a visual chart, diagram, web that can be used to share information, data, or findings. I think infographics could be a very useful tool in the classroom as there are various types of them you could use. Using these charts, diagrams, or visuals is not only a neat way for yourself or your students to show off the information they have found, but it also gets the student to think about how they want to present their data or information, and bring out the creativity in each student in their own unique way.
For the info graphic design, i chose to use the site Piktochart. It is a website that is very easy to use. You can either choose from their hundreds of designs and plug your information into it, or create your own unique infographic. This is one example I took from the site that I believe would be excellent in the gymnasium. It is colourful, to the point, and eye catching :
For the info graphic design, i chose to use the site Piktochart. It is a website that is very easy to use. You can either choose from their hundreds of designs and plug your information into it, or create your own unique infographic. This is one example I took from the site that I believe would be excellent in the gymnasium. It is colourful, to the point, and eye catching :
https://magic.piktochart.com
I also just created my own inforgraphic design. It is not the greatest, but for my first one I am pretty proud of it! I stuck to my physical education background and did a design on healthy lifestyle practices! Enjoy!
Tech Task 6- Your PLN and the Connected Student
Creating this PLN was interesting. It definitely makes you think of how you as a teacher will end up using technology in the classroom (whether your going to use it a little or a lot), and also how and what the student in this day and age uses technology for. I myself have mentioned several times I am not very well armed with technological skills or knowledge, but I can begin to prepare myself for a 21st century student. the only problem I think I could run into with students in terms of using a device in the classroom is the lack of attention and trust. Technology may tempt students to go on their social media sites and slowly get away from the tasks you want them to perform. With that comes the trust you need to build with your students. If you have trust in your students to use the vast technology that is available to them, then it can be a great asset to the classroom. As I said before, most teenagers knowledge for technology is miles ahead of myself. The only thing I can do is prepare myself as best I can, and LEARN from them. The more reps and experience I get with the various sites and devices students use ( along with some help from my students), the more and more prepared I can become.
Internet For Educators- Week 3
Week three is complete! There has been some fantastic classes with the some great speakers, and it is starting to get overwhelming! As John Evans said in his presentation this week, "Information Overload!"With the vast array of resources and sites out there, they are definitely useful, but hard to keep track of which site does what.
The one site I thought was a great idea was the website AutoMotivator. I have played around with this site a little bit and I think it would be a great asset to a classroom. You could use this site for almost any grade and any subject. Some ideas to use it for is to get the class to make one for the beginning of school (How does it feel to be back?). You could also make an end of the year motivator, or a graduation motivator, etc. The versatility of this site is amazing.
Scoopit was a really cool resource given to us as well. This site give both teacher and students the opportunity to research something cool (something that you are interested in), "scoop it up", and add/ comment on your new found content, and publish it to your social networking sites if you wish. This not only lets you show off your perspectives, but also shares it with others and can be a useful resource for both parties.
With all the information on technology being thrown around I hope I can keep up with each site and use it in some way down the road.
The one site I thought was a great idea was the website AutoMotivator. I have played around with this site a little bit and I think it would be a great asset to a classroom. You could use this site for almost any grade and any subject. Some ideas to use it for is to get the class to make one for the beginning of school (How does it feel to be back?). You could also make an end of the year motivator, or a graduation motivator, etc. The versatility of this site is amazing.
Scoopit was a really cool resource given to us as well. This site give both teacher and students the opportunity to research something cool (something that you are interested in), "scoop it up", and add/ comment on your new found content, and publish it to your social networking sites if you wish. This not only lets you show off your perspectives, but also shares it with others and can be a useful resource for both parties.
With all the information on technology being thrown around I hope I can keep up with each site and use it in some way down the road.
Monday, January 19, 2015
Tech Task 5- My Digital Footprint/ Digital Identity
Taking a look at my digital footprint, my footprint is not very big considering we are in the age of technological advances and breakthroughs. One needs to be very knowledgeable to keep up with this generation. I have a pretty standard footprint. I first started using my dad's phone that was the size of a brick. I then moved onto the computer when I became older joining Facebook and Twitter. I then started an Instagram profile. I then started using iPhone's and began texting and using apps. Pretty normal for every person in our generation. Of course taking this class has shown me several different websites/ apps/ resources I can use for my profession, but socially and technologically, I do not see myself making my footprint much bigger than it is right now. As I said previously, I am not very technologically saavy, and there is a reason I have not made my footprint much bigger than it is so far. Technology scares me a bit. I have a hard time understanding technology as it is, so straying away from my Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Texting, and Apps I feel would make me vulnerable to hackers and individuals who set out every day to ruin peoples lives. I understand that the sites I use now have excellent protection, but there are always ways to get around the security. I have never believed in putting to much of your information out there. I am absolutely fine with the sites I have and I believe it is important to have these sites to use. They are simple to understand and set up, I can keep in touch with my family and friends, and communicate with them.
As for my digital identity, I believe that I am the same person online as I am on a daily basis. I understand that many individuals do have a dual personality when on social media such as keyboard warriors etc, but I tend to remain who I am. I definitely agree that some people are different online. There are people in my family who I can think of who are a part of digital dualism. It all depends on the person, their intentions/ why they are using the technology.
In a school, I would definitely want my students to understand that their digital footprint and identity are extremely important. I would need students to understand that once their digital footprint and identity is online, it stays there. They would also need to understand the risks, benefits, consequences, advantages of being online and creating their identity. Teaching them ways to protect their identity and find the sites they would seek to be the most beneficial. the easiest ways to teach a class how to do this, is hands on experience and ample amounts of opportunity to practice it. Being there as their teacher and giving them step by step ways to protect and create their identity is crucial. Therefore, I need to become more knowledgeable in terms of technology in order to help my future classroom become skilled, knowledgeable and efficient when creating their footprint.
As for my digital identity, I believe that I am the same person online as I am on a daily basis. I understand that many individuals do have a dual personality when on social media such as keyboard warriors etc, but I tend to remain who I am. I definitely agree that some people are different online. There are people in my family who I can think of who are a part of digital dualism. It all depends on the person, their intentions/ why they are using the technology.
In a school, I would definitely want my students to understand that their digital footprint and identity are extremely important. I would need students to understand that once their digital footprint and identity is online, it stays there. They would also need to understand the risks, benefits, consequences, advantages of being online and creating their identity. Teaching them ways to protect their identity and find the sites they would seek to be the most beneficial. the easiest ways to teach a class how to do this, is hands on experience and ample amounts of opportunity to practice it. Being there as their teacher and giving them step by step ways to protect and create their identity is crucial. Therefore, I need to become more knowledgeable in terms of technology in order to help my future classroom become skilled, knowledgeable and efficient when creating their footprint.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Internet for Educator's- Week 2
This week in Internet for Educators was full of information, almost to much to take in! We talked about things such as using social media in the classroom, digital identity, dualism, and technological determinism, and the new generation of students and how important it is they become efficient and skilled in using technology in their generation.
The one term that fascinated me the most was Digital Identity. I had never thought of this term. Am I the same person in every day life as I am on social media? Before I went into the faculty of education, I was on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram almost every single day. I can say I am guilty of posting some funny but inappropriate pictures, tweets, and statuses. It did not bother me at the time because it usually got some laughs, likes, and favourites which made it all worth it. As I am emerging the end of my schooling and preparing myself to become a teacher, I have realized that making sure each one of my social media sites I use must be filtered accordingly. I am well aware that many of my students will without a doubt try to add me on social media, and I do not want to ruin my teaching career or lose respect from any students over a night out with my friends. So to answer the question of my digital identity, I believe I am the same person online. I have the same humour, personality, and talk the same way, just perhaps a bit more confidently and without thinking about some of the consequences.
I also read the slide show on Digital Habitus. There were some excellent points in the presentation that made me think of what my Digital Habitus was. Habitus is defined as " the process through which every day activities and life shape and order our values and expectations. They are the habits we acquire, and how we conduct our behaviour." The point that stood out to me was "our fearsome fascination with cellphones, video games, and gravitation towards social media. I can attest to this as when I really think about the reality of the situation, I am addicted to my cellphone, as are millions of other people in this world. I remember Mike talking about forgetting his cellphone at his house and feeling lost without it. I feel the same way. I wonder who texted me? I just posted a status how many likes do I have? The game is on and I am without my score app! Great! I know we have all been in that situation and I do believe that phones and devices have taken over us. I believe we gravitate towards social media to feel a sense of belonging or community, to check up on people, to "creep", etc. When thinking about this concept I have looked at various videos and articles saying " Just put down your phone, you are missing what is right in front of you. I realize that social media and technology can affect you, your loved ones, and even make your miss out on life. Cyber bullying ( just don't go on the computer!), hacking, and trolling can all be downsides. I remember being a kid playing outside, looking at what was right in front of me and not worrying about anyone else or where my phone was. I tend to miss those days. While technology does have its down side, it also has positives as well. Interacting with friends, uses for education ( which I had never thought of), quick access to several facts, etc. Technology can affect us in may ways, we just have to decide how we use it.
The one term that fascinated me the most was Digital Identity. I had never thought of this term. Am I the same person in every day life as I am on social media? Before I went into the faculty of education, I was on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram almost every single day. I can say I am guilty of posting some funny but inappropriate pictures, tweets, and statuses. It did not bother me at the time because it usually got some laughs, likes, and favourites which made it all worth it. As I am emerging the end of my schooling and preparing myself to become a teacher, I have realized that making sure each one of my social media sites I use must be filtered accordingly. I am well aware that many of my students will without a doubt try to add me on social media, and I do not want to ruin my teaching career or lose respect from any students over a night out with my friends. So to answer the question of my digital identity, I believe I am the same person online. I have the same humour, personality, and talk the same way, just perhaps a bit more confidently and without thinking about some of the consequences.
I also read the slide show on Digital Habitus. There were some excellent points in the presentation that made me think of what my Digital Habitus was. Habitus is defined as " the process through which every day activities and life shape and order our values and expectations. They are the habits we acquire, and how we conduct our behaviour." The point that stood out to me was "our fearsome fascination with cellphones, video games, and gravitation towards social media. I can attest to this as when I really think about the reality of the situation, I am addicted to my cellphone, as are millions of other people in this world. I remember Mike talking about forgetting his cellphone at his house and feeling lost without it. I feel the same way. I wonder who texted me? I just posted a status how many likes do I have? The game is on and I am without my score app! Great! I know we have all been in that situation and I do believe that phones and devices have taken over us. I believe we gravitate towards social media to feel a sense of belonging or community, to check up on people, to "creep", etc. When thinking about this concept I have looked at various videos and articles saying " Just put down your phone, you are missing what is right in front of you. I realize that social media and technology can affect you, your loved ones, and even make your miss out on life. Cyber bullying ( just don't go on the computer!), hacking, and trolling can all be downsides. I remember being a kid playing outside, looking at what was right in front of me and not worrying about anyone else or where my phone was. I tend to miss those days. While technology does have its down side, it also has positives as well. Interacting with friends, uses for education ( which I had never thought of), quick access to several facts, etc. Technology can affect us in may ways, we just have to decide how we use it.
Tech Task 4- Edublogger
I have recently added an edublogger called The Physical Educator http://www.thephysicaleducator.com/blog/. It contains many different types of resources that come from real people. Some of the blog components include:
How I teach - shows different phys ed teachers from different places and gives their personal information such as : name, where your from, where you teach etc. It then gets into resources they use, what their classroom looks like, best teaching advice every received, etc. I think that this aspect of the blog is not only interesting, but also extremely beneficial. By seeing different teachers using different methods of teaching, you can broaden your horizon on the way you teach. Of course you want to be your own unique teacher, but borrowing a few different techniques or projects you could do in physical education can be beneficial.
The blog also talks about tips and how to use twitter in phys ed which is an interesting concept considering we just talked about how Twitter can have an educational purpose in schools. It can be used for organization, team teaching, posting upcoming events or exciting topics regarding your subject area, and the list goes on and on.
The blog also talks about real physical educators telling real stories.They all tell stories of experiences they have had, both good and bad, and how they handled the situation. The great thing about it is it is real life and could happen to anyone.
I am extremely happy to have found this blog and I will be using it for future reference in my upcoming teaching career.
Monday, January 12, 2015
Tech Task 3- Twitter
I first started using Twitter a few years ago and have been using it since. I find that Twitter is an excellent way to connect with friends, follow people or subjects you are interested in, and can be a very educational environment. One example of a Twitter link I follow is @wowfacts. This link is both entertaining and educational as it usually tweets every day, and gives you interesting facts that you most likely had no idea about. Twitter would also be a good tool in the school environment as you could create a twitter group that students could follow. Every day, you could update your tweets relating to many aspects. New upcoming changes in your classroom, reminders for homework assignments, etc. It is an excellent space to interact with your students as most of your students will most likely have Twitter. I find the only downfall of Twitter is that individuals can follow you without your permission. Of course you can block them, but in terms of your social life and an educational Twitter account, sometimes individuals you do not want on your educational or personal Twitter account may show up. Being sure that you monitor this on a regular basis will be crucial for its success. Overall, I really like Twitter. Of course like every other site it has its negatives and positives, but it is a very useful site.
Tech Task 2- Digital Curation and Organization
Importance of curation as a skill as we and our students need in today's online world.
The importance of curation and developing that skill online is extremely important for both the student and the teachers. Not only does it make life easier for both parties, but also lets individuals be more creative in choosing which type of organizational method they would like to use. In reality, we are in a technological era, and we want to teach kids not only knowledge and information they need to know, but also life skills that they will be using for the rest of their lives. The more we dive in to different methods of organization as teachers, and further our knowledge in this area, the more we can show our students. Showing them different ways of organizing whether it be folders, portfolios, charts, etc, we can enable them to create their own way of curating their information whether it be professionally or personally.
What I do to organize myself online?
To organize myself online, I tend to focus more on my professional background. To keep my professional goals, aspirations, and resume organized, I use my E: Portfolio that I made in the ICT class. Using this easy to edit portfolio I can constantly keep my personal and professional information updated. For more personal organization, I put all of my school work, reminders, daily agendas, etc, all into portfolios on my computer. The days of writing down lists for everything is gone as using technology is a more effective, efficient, and space saving method of organization.
What types of organizational technology my students will use?
I would use a variety of organizational technologies and resources such as Weebly. The students could create their own professional website and categorize how they want to be organized. Themes on the website could be About Me, Assignments, Weekly Thoughts, etc. This could get kids organized in terms of handing in assignments on one website instead of losing the homework I have handed out for them. They could use their own creativity to develop their website, add other additions to it, and I could also get them to add things if I see fit. The great thing about the website is you could add assignments, daily quizzes, reading material, test reviews, etc. Everything the student would basically need is the website. Getting the kids to create their own professional porfolio could set them up later on when they need it in their careers. At least getting them thinking critically about their professional profiles would be interesting to see. Also, seeing their creativeness and how they would develop and evolve their site.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Internet For Educators Week 1
This week the Internet for Educators class had two fantastic speakers. Dean Shareski was our first virtual speaker and brought several interesting concepts to our class. How is learning different in 2014? Why is learning different in 2014? These two questions were simple, but extremely difficult to answer. Through my teaching experiences so far, a few of the cooperating teachers I have had have been from a different era of teaching. They would concentrate more on sports and skill development. It was interesting to experience, but I would personally take a different approach. Educating students on being active, and giving them the knowledge on how to live a healthy lifestyle is going to be my goal as a teacher. It is not so much perfecting a sport or activity, but giving them the tools to use to become a healthy individual. I believe that the philosophy of teaching is beginning to change and why? I think it is because of the new generation of teachers that are rising.
Dean talked about the three things that need to change in order for the children of our generation to be successful.
Content, Assessment, and Community.
I agree with each of these ideas. A new way of conveying the content to our students is crucial. Teaching kids how to read and write will not teach them literacy. Teachers have to come up with different ideas and ways of getting that student to show they are competent and understand the material. Assessment needs to be more about conversation and understanding of the students rather than a spreadsheet of numbers that the teacher randomly came up with. Community is extremely important as well. Students should not only learn from their teacher, but learn from their peers as well.
There are still some teachers out there that follow an "older style" of teaching. However, I want to be one of the teachers that changes the way students learn and changes that frame of mind. It's not about teaching kids "what" to learn, but teaching them " how to learn".
Jon Finch was another guest speaker this week. I knew Jon as he had worked for the Mountain View School Division and I went to the high school in Dauphin. The one important tidbit of information that I thought was the most beneficial was when he talked about copyrighting music, pictures and movies. I had no idea that there could be big trouble for teachers who had been given no prior knowledge. Being given the Copyright book by Jon will give me good idea of the do's and don'ts when it comes to these three resources. It is a resource I can use for the rest of my teaching career.
The first week was exciting, and I can not wait to see what is in store for the next week!
Dean talked about the three things that need to change in order for the children of our generation to be successful.
Content, Assessment, and Community.
I agree with each of these ideas. A new way of conveying the content to our students is crucial. Teaching kids how to read and write will not teach them literacy. Teachers have to come up with different ideas and ways of getting that student to show they are competent and understand the material. Assessment needs to be more about conversation and understanding of the students rather than a spreadsheet of numbers that the teacher randomly came up with. Community is extremely important as well. Students should not only learn from their teacher, but learn from their peers as well.
There are still some teachers out there that follow an "older style" of teaching. However, I want to be one of the teachers that changes the way students learn and changes that frame of mind. It's not about teaching kids "what" to learn, but teaching them " how to learn".
Jon Finch was another guest speaker this week. I knew Jon as he had worked for the Mountain View School Division and I went to the high school in Dauphin. The one important tidbit of information that I thought was the most beneficial was when he talked about copyrighting music, pictures and movies. I had no idea that there could be big trouble for teachers who had been given no prior knowledge. Being given the Copyright book by Jon will give me good idea of the do's and don'ts when it comes to these three resources. It is a resource I can use for the rest of my teaching career.
The first week was exciting, and I can not wait to see what is in store for the next week!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)