Last Reflection

I found this last project a blast to do, actually the whole class was really fun. With feedback, I know my video needs a few tweeks. Once they are done, I will use this in my classroom. This really opened my eyes to the possibility of how effective a video can be.
Before this class, I didnt realize how easy, yet useful all of this technology was. I really look foward to using it all the time. I have even decided to organize all of my pictures in a video format to make them more entertaining.

Final Video Project

Final Video Project

Reflection # 5

Chapter 11 deals with technology and cultural diversity.  I found this chapter very interesting. Just talk a walk around Angelo State and look at all of the diversity. I can only imagine what a classroom in a bigger city must look like. I think teachers have to responsibility to take the time and understand different cultures. In order to educate someone you first must understand their learning styles. Different cultures may believe or see things differently; and could be a road block in the learning process.

Chapter 12 discusses professional leadership and growth. This is another major factor for educators. I especially liked the way the book discussed getting familiar with your surroundings and fellow teachers at a new school. This seems like a great way to ask for help and get it. In addition, I thought action research was a great concept. How will you know if something is going to work if you don’t research it? This seems like a great investigation tool for everyone.

Reflection # 4

The article I chose was “How Does Technology Influence Student Learning.” I found this article to be an overwhelming factor in decided technology is a good thing. The first thing I found interesting was what English and Social Studies teachers observed. They observed after only one multimedia project students had a change, for the better, in their skills. I find this amazing considering, it was only one project. In addition, the fact they considered it significant spoke volumes.

Secondly, was the discussion on higher-thinking. This is something that will greatly benefit students throughout life.  Technology aides in the development of real life situations then it must be implemented in every classroom to aide students. This is especially true for the hands on learner. They may be able to learn faster by watching a video.

Third, were the articles overwhelming statistics. The statistics listed, were in multiple areas of learning.  These facts further the need and usefulness of technology.  The numbers just don’t lie, and in addition make me as a future teacher hopeful.

Reflection # 3

Chapter 8 deals with the hardware aspect of technology. I feel like this is a subject most people don’t pay enough attention to. I myself am also guilty of this.  Often I don’t pay enough attention to how something works; I am often focused on how it will work for me. Then I find myself, after a purchase questioning the quality.

Technology is a must for teachers. With budget cuts and money tight, we must realize the importance of quality products. When we do the proper research and buy useful, quality products they last longer. Just like in Chapter 8, teachers must test hardware. They must make sure it is good, and going to work for them. They have to utilize new products with current products in the classroom. Nothing could be worse than buying great technology and not being able to use it.

I especially liked the establishing criteria for review. The steps provided a checklist for when I teach to insure I am investing in the right hardware for my students and for me.

SchoolTube - Scientific Method

SchoolTube - Scientific Method