ED636 - Fall 2006

My contribution to the Instructional Technology

2006-12-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

My Contribution to the Future of Technology

2006-11-29T22:53:00.000-08:00

Let's start this blog with the dreams I used to have about my contributions to the next century. I grew up loving Gundam. It started in Japan before I was born, and as a kid that is what I loved. That and Star Wars, of course. I even had a dream that continued up until some time in Middle School. I wanted to become a scientist and help create these giant war machines. I wanted to be a scientist that helped design and make them.

This dream never came to pass. I was not good at math. In fact, I horrible at math. I eventually figured out that I wasn't too good at technology either. I let the dream of creating Gundam die and I moved on to other dreams.

I no longer have any dreams of helping the technology of the future. I can have dreams, though, about helping those who will help technology in the future. Tom Petra just mentioned in another blog of mine that even if I don't care for technology I have to use it in class for the sake of my students. These are the kids that might, someday, create a Gundam for real, or perhaps a laser rifle. Perhaps they will invent better computers or flying cars or a flying wheel chair for my old age.

For this reason I would say my contribution to the future of technology is for me to teach my students as best as I can. I can teach them many of the basics of math that they will need to learn the harder stuff that will lead to space colonies. It's my job to get them started on their own dreams.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-11-29T15:20:00.000-08:00

Blog posting on your philosophy of instructional technology
Nov 22, 2006
Araceli Nelson

The way I see instructional technology in the future is a school that is always open to new ideas that can be done in a classroom. Teacher and student should be able to use a computer in every classroom and at home. Every teacher should have their own web page and blog, and work with moodle so they can post assignments, calendars, deadline, resources, etc. on the web. The blog would create a community interaction between students and teachers as well as students and students. Students should have their own web pages to post their work with the idea to create a digital portfolio in live text so they can have it forever. If students have their portfolio other students, teachers, and parents could see what they have done and how successful they are when it comes to technology.

I believe that teacher and student should make good use of all the different kinds of technologies that they use at home and be able to bring them to school. Some schools don’t accept students to bring to school the different technologies that they use at home. Teachers should give them some time in the classroom to work with the different technologies and come up with something interesting that they can share with other students. In some schools some students do not have money to buy all this fancy technology, or the school does not have it in the classroom.

My Future with Instructional Technology

2006-11-29T10:26:00.000-08:00

Of all the trends in Education, one is certain to continue into the future. Instructional Technology is destined to have a dominant and pervasive impact in future educational methods and materials. Currently, our world, our culture, and our lives are saturated with technological advances. We can be assured that these developments will spread into our classrooms and influence the way we teach.
Personally, I am already trying to be proactive in this evolution. This is evident in my enrollment in the Master in Education program at UOG. Although our cohort program is currently endangered, or already extinct, I will try to press on in one venue or another. The first step in the practice of a new technique is the education of that technique. I must acquaint myself with the concepts in instructional technology before I can use them. I can continue my professional development at an institution such as the University of Guam, or with seminars, conferences, online courses, or personally by reading educational publications.
Once I have familiarized myself the concepts, I can begin to implement them in my classroom. I will need to use the available resources and be an advocate in the acquirement of new materials. It is important that I seek ways to integrate Instructional Technology into my curriculum, not only to improve my instructional methods, but to present my students with current ideas and practices. They will certainly be using technology in the future and need to learn its attributes and possibilities as well.
Of course the development of technology or instructional technology will not stand still. It will continue to evolve and improve, so I will need to keep abreast of those advances.
Finally, I can promote the use of instructional technology to my peers, my school, and my community. One way to do this is to lead by example, and that is what I intend to do.

My contribution to the Instructional Technology

2006-11-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

My Contribution to Instructional Technology
Marcelle Diambra Odi
ED 636: Dr. Rivera

As an educator I’m aware of my role in training the young generation, the future of the world. The new curriculums set the tone and encourage educators to use the newest technologies to enhance learning, motivate learners and teachers, enhance learning, improve student achievement and to meet global challenges.
My main contribution will be to keep updating my knowledge about the use of technology and expose the students to it regularly to prepare them better to face the challenges of the workplace.
A wise man once said: “ the reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. All progress depends on the unreasonable man.”(George Bernard Shaw).Thanks to technologists I can already use instructional technology to support the curriculum.

Philosophy of Instructional Technology

2006-11-25T20:50:00.000-08:00

My philosophy is fairly simple, I think. The idea, for me, is to casually learn about what technology is available before choosing parts of that technology to incorporate into my teaching. There is so much available out there, and that will continue to grow. The first step, therefore, is to keep tabs on what exists.

There are many ways to keep tabs on what is available. One of the easist ways is to read articles in the newspaper, Time magazine, or the occasional technology related article that pops up on the Internet. Another way is to listen to kids, who often hear of certain technologies before I do. Just keeping my eyes and ears open is very important, because this way if I do see something that could be used I will know about it. Most of the technology that comes on the market is not for my class. Once in a while, though, some sort of technology may appear that I can use. If I don't watch for it I will miss it.

The second part of my philosophy involves making choices. While some technology may be great to add to my classroom, I can't always get what I want. The first thing I have to consider is its real value. Will I be able to use it more than once? Can I use it for many years to come, or will it quickly get outdated? Can I afford it (or rather, will the school finance it)? Will I be able to learn how to use it quickly, or will it give me more stress than I already have? If the answers to all of these questions are positive then the technology might be added to the classroom.

Overall I think that new technology is only as good as those who use it. I am not very good with new technology, and so for me to incorporate new stuff into my classroom is pretty rare. It has to be cheap, easy to understand, and incredibly useful.

Philosophy of Instructional Technology

2006-11-22T05:59:00.000-08:00

My philosophy of instructional technology embraces a theme that was prevalent throughout the text: teachers should use the methods and materials that best meet the needs of the students and the teacher. I do not believe that technology should be used for the sake of using technology. As teachers, however, we must be willing to try new things and keep informed on the latest techniques and resources of different media formats.
Each lesson a teacher presents should have objectives that follow a pre-planned curriculum. In meeting those objectives, the teacher has a selection of tools, including the traditional textbook, pencil, chalkboard, and such. If the objectives can be met more effectively with the use of educational technology, then that should be used. As teachers, we would be remiss not to see that instructional technology can add a new degree of motivation in the students, especially if it enables them to a hands-on approach to learning. A lesson’s objectives can be accomplished more effectively with active participants.
The President started the recent trend in education when he vowed to “leave no child behind.” This statement could lead to any number of digressions, but nevertheless, it is the current mantra in schools. The flexibility and depth that instructional technology brings to the classroom can help teachers to meet the special needs of his/her students. Teachers should also keep in mind that they are preparing students for their role in the future workplace. Therefore, technology in education cannot only meet the needs of the teacher and student, but the community as well.
It is difficult for people to change, and understandable if teachers are reluctant to change their methods. However, we would be ignorant not to see the opportunities that instructional technology has to offer. If it can meet the needs of the students and teacher, then it should be used. The first step, however, is to get educators up to speed on what educational technology is available, and trained on how to use it.

My IT philosophy

2006-11-21T16:38:00.000-08:00

My IT philosophy

2006-11-21T16:16:00.000-08:00

Marcelle Diambra Odi
My philosophy of instructional technology
ED 636 Dr Rivera

At this stage of my training I’m somewhat hesitant to speak about my philosophy of instructional technology. I know I have to do something to allow the train to continue to roll but I still have to identify my role.
I see myself as in a domino effect tablet. If I refuse to fall for instructional technology we won’t have any domino effect.
I identified my gap and like Arlene said it I’m taking the first step. I have to understand technology, know where to find the information in connections with my curricular and how to use it to dare introducing it in my classroom. It will take some time but I’ll learn to adapt to the 21st century classrooms.
Carl Rogers once said: ”The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn……and change”. I consider myself educated then . I’ll thrive to improve my knowledge about technology.

My Contribution to Instructional Technology for the 21st Century

2006-11-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

How do I see my role as an educational technologist in this century? A conservative response would be to say that I will just continue to do my best and use as much technology as I can in the classroom and then I would have fulfilled my role as an instructional technologist.

But who wants to be conservative? As part of the master’s degree pilot program between UOG and SJS, all members of this cohort should contribute proactively in the development of instructional technology for the 21^st century. We could be technology leaders in the school for starters. Passion can be very contagious. We could move on and be instructional technology leaders for Guam. We could speak on Guam’s behalf to different technology specialists and see how we stand nationally. And why stop at the national level? Why not go international and see how the United States stands in comparison to the rest of the world with respect to instructional technology. And so on and so forth…..

But like the old Chinese adage says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.” It is alright to be conservative as long as I am consistent and I have a clear vision of what and how I wish to see myself ten or twenty years from now as an instructional technologist. I can begin small and start with using technology in the classroom. I can build up from there and start collaborating with my SJS colleagues on how together, we could become technology leaders. There might be forks in the road of my technological journey but it is a journey that I am excited about. And now for my first step….

My Philosophy on Instructional Technology

2006-11-17T06:07:00.000-08:00

Kanban is going to be my one-word descriptor for what I believe instructional technology should be. I said this as much in one my chapter reflections for this class.

Kanban is a Japanese word which means learning or utilizing something when one actually needs it. As opposed to learning something just for learning’s sake and not actually using it, I believe it is more important to learn how to do something because it is appropriate to learn it at a particular point in time. Learning it therefore will make more sense and will, in all probability, engender the long-term usage of the technology.

The spirit of kanban is based on getting something from a “warehouse” only when it is needed. Therefore, as instructional technologists, we must have our own “warehouses” where we keep tricks and treats of all sorts related to educational technology. This implies that we must be eager seekers of technology also but at the same time, possess a keen, discerning eye on what needs to be kept in that warehouse, and what needs to be taken out and used in the classroom.

Kanban. Banzai!

CONTRIBUTIONS TO INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

2006-11-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

Image Source: http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/s/a/saw23/STS407/images/HIGH-TECH-BLUE-2_09.jpg

MY CONTRIBUTIONS TO INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY IN THE 21st CENTURY

My contribution to Instructional Technology in the 21st Century would certainly begin with myself, in my teaching, and in my advocacy.

First, I need to finish this Master's Degree in Instructional Technology. By so doing, I strongly affirm my commitment to ensuring the effort to integrate technology in teaching.

Second, I will consistently utilize the appropriate technological tools that will enhance my teaching and my student's learning. I will persistently search for current updates of technology that are relevant to my teaching and make effort to apply them. Hence, I will be able to influence and encourage my students to using their technological know how as their learning tools. Hopefully, I will pass onto them a learning habit that will be used in the future. Therefore, I have trained active technology integrators in them.

Third, I will advocate for technology integration in teaching. I should set the example of making effective use of technology. I will support the my schools vision of technology integration. I will support and help my co-teachers who are struggling. I will encourage those teachers who are hesistant.

I will do the best of what is expected of me. For whatever I will do, I hope to become a "one little candle" that will make a difference in the lives of my students.

MY PHILOSOPHY

2006-11-15T06:32:00.000-08:00

Image Source: http://www.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/techconf99/conference3.jpg

MY PHILOSOPHY ON INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

Instructional Technology is simply a MEANS to an END.

The success of my teaching comes only when I am able to "teach my students on how to fish". It is my goal to let them be able to learn how to study, how to find the solution to problems, how to explore and discover new ideas, and how to make their learning useful in their everyday lives. This is a task that can be achieve when students are empowered.

Empowerment is when I can draw from them their gifts and their experiences and make these as their tools to enrich and develop themselves. This is a powerful learning experience which would give my students healthy self-image that affirms their belief that they have the power to steer their life to where they want to be and to become the best of what they can be.

Since today's student is a technological native, I take full attention of their capacity to and their familiarity in the use of technology. Hence, I study and utilize whatever technological strategy that enhances their learning. This will make their classroom experience relevant.

My commitment to Instructional Technology is to study it and use it as a TOOL for which I can empower my students.

I do not integrate technology in my teaching just to follow the trend. It is a necessary tool for which students have to use inorder to be successful in their learning. Technology is a part of their life like water to a fish. It is what would define their life experience. It is what would help them understand and learn. It is what would make them ready for their future.

Hence, technology integration is NOT just an integral part of my teaching but my moral obligation as a teacher of today's young generation.

image of computer

2006-11-07T22:50:00.001-08:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-11-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

My Plan of Action for Technology

I do not really have an actual plan. My main plan is one of, first of all, finishing up this MA program. My hope is that I will learn something with these classes that I will find easy to use and very helpful. The only other part of my plan of action involves trying not to fall behind in technology.

I have never been super interested in technology. The truth is, for still being young, my outlook on change in the world is that more closely related to the outlook of an old man. I do not like change. I am generally not impressed with new technology, especially when I feel it is not necessary or that I can get the same result using a method that I am used to. It took me years to figure out what a blog was, but in truth I had little interest in it. I don't keep a written journal, and I had little interest in an online journal.

I do not, however, want to fall behind. I need to still have a general idea of what is going on in the world of technology. That is one of the reasons why I have taken this MA challenge. It will likely catch me up to current methods of technology.

In truth educational technology is not particulary interesting to me. Because I teach younger children, what they need is personal interaction with me rather than more time with a computer. The technology I use in class, such as the overhead and DVD player, is all the technology I feel I need in my class.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-11-05T22:48:00.000-08:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

I am not sure what an action plan is, but if it what I think it is, then my plan is to carefully look at the technology that is available to decide what works best for my students and classes. I try to use the appropriate technology with the appropriate lessons and students.
I don’t feel that technology should be used just because it is there. As a teacher, I feel that it is my place to decide what is effective and proper for me. My students tend to push me into some technology uses that I am a little uncomfortable with, but they are good about explaining why they chose the medium that they used.
I feel that a classroom cannot be totally technology free, but it should not be controlled by the technology, I think that knowing the limitations of the technology is just as important as knowing the benefits of the technology.

ED636 - Fall 2006 Action plan

2006-11-05T18:55:00.000-08:00

Marcelle Diambra Odi
Ed636
Action Plan to complete instructional technology goals

My plan was to take a series of instructional technology classes to be able to say that I’m technology literate. Now that I’m taking this class I don’t believe that will be enough for me to know the system if I don’t make a habit to use it often or routinely.
Marcelle Diambra Odi
Ed636
Action Plan to complete instructional technology goals

My plan was to take a series of instructional technology classes to be able to say that I’m technology literate. Now that I’m taking this class I don’t believe that will be enough for me to know the system if I don’t make a habit to use it often or routinely.
I still have problem with the blog because after my course assignments are done I don’t see a use of it so every week I have to go to the departure point. It is frustrating.
The other point is that for teachers , we have so many things done already for us coming with the curriculum that I don’t really get the urge to know all the different point of technology. It is certain that I appreciate more the work done for me to support my teaching.
Technology is supposed to reduce the teacher load of work. It seems to me that without the help of the computer programmer or other that create activities and programs we will have reached the opposite result.
I still have problem with the blog because after my course assignments are done I don’t see a use of it so every week I have to go to the departure point. It is frustrating.
The other point is that for teachers , we have so many things done already for us coming with the curriculum that I don’t really get the urge to know all the different point of technology. It is certain that I appreciate more the work done for me to support my teaching.
Technology is supposed to reduce the teacher load of work. It seems to me that without the help of the computer programmer or other that create activities and programs we will have reached the opposite result.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-31T15:51:00.000-08:00

November 1, 2006
Blog posting on your action plan to complete instructional technology goals.
Araceli Nelson

My plan to complete instructional technology goals:
1. Is to develop social understanding and the ability to work in groups, develop the ability to plan and complete projects.
2. Develop a technology-rich classroom where interactive projects built on standards facilitate student use of technology.
3.Empower students to create meaning from learning, conduct research, improve communication, and develop responsibility.
4.Promote the active exchange of innovative ideas and experiences in educational technology among the campus community.
I will like to use technology to provide and support a challenging curriculum through engaging instructional practices like cooperative learning, critical thinking and project based learning.
One of the many reasons that I like to integrate technology into my curriculum is that the students become more responsible for their home work, they do not relay that much on the teacher because everything can be done by the computer.

Time for Action

2006-10-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

Thomas J. Petra
ED636 – Dr. Rivera
Action Plan

When it comes to writing an action plan on meeting my instructional technology goals, I find that I am somewhat at a loss. I have already applied some of the concepts
I have learned from the class in my instruction, but I find that time is a resource I am currently lacking. Since I just woke up in front of my computer, I will try to give it a shot.
First and foremost, I will complete the St. John’s Masters Program. Besides my professional duties and those to my family, the work required to attain this degree is one of my highest priorities. I will continue to implement the concepts that I learn into my curriculum and, when possible, I will incorporate my curriculum into the accomplishment of certain university assignments.
I will continue to research educational topics that interest me and gather articles from periodicals, journals and other Internet sources. I will use the LiveText and an ERIC account to manage these. At present, these searches have been dedicated to university work, but eventually these will be of a more personal, professional sort. I will add to this the inclusion of online subscriptions to educational journals that interest me.
I need to arrange a meeting with our school’s technology resource person so that I can be sure I am aware of the onsite hardware and software available to me. I ought to know all of the capabilities these resources have to offer, as well as the abilities of my personal laptop computer that may be unknown to me. I have already learned so much in the past two months, but I know there is much more.
Ironically, my most daunting goal is also the oldest. The implementation of handheld computers in my instruction is something I have been meaning to do for almost two years now. I think my subject area is one of the obstacles I face in meeting this goal. Still, I can’t substantiate that comment without first training myself in all of the handheld’s capabilities, which I have not.
All of this would much easier if there were 30 hours in a day. Nonetheless, I will endeavor to complete these goals in order. The attainment of a Master’s degree is of the most significance. The rest will follow with time.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-25T00:07:00.000-07:00

Instructional Technology Goals
Marcelle Diambra Odi
Ed 636
Dr. M. Matilda

Technology has been in the school system for long years but it seems that the development of the communication network is the one bringing the most important changes in the education system.

The introduction of technology changed slowly the orientation of the school system. From a teacher-centered system, education is nowadays student-centered. We could say that technology contribute to this evolution. The student now has an active part in the learning process. I see technology as a support to the traditional education system.

The goals of technology in the education system is, I hope, to liberalize education, to make it more accessible, open.
Innovation in technology, specially with computer and digitization of information, allows instruction to be more cognitive and constructive.

There is a debate over the fact that technology is taking away the humanistic dimension of education. We should realize that the integration of technology, the emergence of internet have brought a lot of changes in many areas of our everyday life. We, as educators, can’t fight the current.

Technology in the classroom is a tool for making teaching and learning for students and teachers more productive and engaging.
In the language classroom, video is a very effective medium to develop students’ language proficiency. I use a lot the internet activities because they’re very constructive and the students relate easily to those activities than the one in the book.
The overall goal of Instructional Technology is to create different forms of learning and teaching with the help of technology. The teacher still have to determine what was to be learned or how it was to be taught.

My goal is to efficiently use technology to present the world to the students. To be able to achieve that I have myself to be familiar with technology.
In the area of foreign language the internet offers many activities, games that one can use to energize the classroom.
I just wish to learn how to use technology to discover all the tresors available to me to enhance learning.

ED636 - Fall 2006/ch9

2006-10-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

Marcelle Diambra Odi
Chap. 9: Computers
ED636
Dr. M. Rivera

Computer is the invention that has brought rampant changes in our daily life and particularly in the school system.
Computer offers an important support to the teacher but in no means can it replace him, mostly at the primary and secondary levels.
Most teachers are nonusers of computer in classroom because they’re intimidated by the technology.

The purpose of this chapter or other materials dealing with the subject is to inform and educate the teachers in the use of the tool.
It appears that the University of Illinois was a pioneer in introducing computer in the classroom in 1960.
The invention of the microprocessor followed by the microcomputer in 1975 make it possible today to make a full use of the computer.

They’re 2 major applications of computers in instruction:
-computer-assisted instruction (CAI)
-computer-managed instruction (CMI)
In the CAI , the student interacts directly with the computer in a controlled sequence in a form of drill-practice and self-test.
In the CMI the computer serves as a liaison between the teacher and the student for instructional purpose. It also stores valuable information pertaining to teacher and the student.

The roles of computers
Computers have many functions in the school system and everywhere else. In administration computer is used to keep records, to type letters, to do scheduling of classes, to do payroll and many more.
In the classroom we can think of 5 types of applications:
- as an object of instruction
- as a valuable tool for the teacher as well as for the student
- as an instructional device
- as a catalyst for school restructuring
- as a means of teaching logical thinking
Computer has the advantage to allow the student to work at his own pace and time sometime, it presents the different activities in a way that it captivate the attention of the learner, it also provide a broad diversity of learning experiences.
Computer has limitations that can be controlled. One of the limitation of computer is the lack of social interaction. The cost factor is also a limitation for certain social classes and countries.
In the school system , if the computer has to become a great tool the teacher has to learn to work with the technology and be completely computer-literate.

TECH-PLAN

2006-10-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

Image Source: http://www.tekconnect.com/images/education.jpg

In order to realize my technological goals, I am outlining the following plan of action for myself.

1) Masters of Education: Instructional Technology: I hope to finish this program as this will allow me to solidify my commitment to technology integration in teaching.

2) Acquire Certification Courses from: PC or Mac Applications that will be relevant to education. I need to have adequate technical knowledge and skill in running the OS or programs more than just navigating the user-friendly buttons of the standard integrated softwares in a PC or Mac.

3) Smart Board: Hopefully, as funding would allow it, I want to start using the smart board in my classroom to test firsthand its usefulness to my teaching and to my student's learning.

4) Handhelds: I will explore more applications of handhelds to curriculum use. Handhelds should become an "intellectual partner" to the students and not just a distraction. Therefore, their learning should be enhanced when using these handhelds as skills practice for math, spelling, social, music, and science.

These are visions that I hope to accomplish.

My Action Plan

2006-10-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

This is a royalty-free image I got off of corbis.com (a photography website). It shows a person walking into the future guided by technology. That is how I want to see my future as an educator; that twenty or so years from now, I would have established myself as a teacher who uses technology as easily as a teacher today would use a piece of chalk.

Like I said before in my previous blog, the main thing that I need to be conscious with is ensure that one form of technology integration occurs in my classrooom at least every quarter. Hence, this will be my short term goal. Also, because teaching with technology comes with expensive equipment (e..g, document cameras, virtual reality kits) I need to figure out a way in which to acquire these without it coming out of pocket or unduly burdening the school in the process. There are hundreds of available grants out there for technology specialists. My long term goal therefore is to write a grant that will allow me to purchase equipment for use in the classroom. I am giving myself the next two to three years to search for grants that I can apply to.

Also, because educational technology is a rapidly changing field, I need to make sure that I am constantly abreast of the latest trends in technology. Hence my third and final goal is to ensure that at least once a year, I go to a professional development workshop to update myself in the field.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-21T01:28:00.000-07:00

I honestly do not have many goals when it comes to technology in my classroom. While I do use some, such as overheads and computers for a reading program called Accelerated Reading, I feel that at the age of my students (7 and 8) what they need is a teacher who interacts with them, not a teacher who has a computer interact with them. They have a computer class, and I think that is enough.

I do have my own personal goals related to technology, though. The first is to learn how to create a website. We have to do the webquest thing in here, and I guess that is the first step in learning to create a webpage. I still have SO MUCH to do on that, and I worry that I will never get it finished. In any case, I have wanted to create a webpage for years but have never found anybody to sit down with me and help me. I am also not too good and throwing myself into something that I don't understand.

I would also like to learn about the palm pilots. I see a lot of people with these, and my image is that they are basically electronic date books. I don't understand the interest that people have in them. However, my guess is that they can do far more than that. If that was not the case I don't think people would be so interested.

I would like to start using my desk top computer a little more with students. Another teacher and I just found a website containing whale songs. It would be so easy to introduce the students to that. I think that will be one of my main goals for the next few months.

ED636 - Instructional technology goals

2006-10-17T23:43:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-17T01:56:00.000-07:00

ED636 Blog posting on instructional technology goals
Araceli Nelson
October 18, 2006
Educational technology is the application of technology to the teaching and learning process. A technologically literate student accesses and acquires knowledge, exchanges ideas and opinions, solves problems, and creates, innovates and expresses themselves through the skillful use of a variety of technologies. As with any other tool, technology should be used by students when its use will increase understanding and enhance learning.
Technology, more than any other discipline, has the ability to be integrated throughout the curriculum. By providing access to information, opening pathways to communication and facilitating personal understanding, technology supports learning in all subjects.
My goals would be, 1. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of technological tools and devices. 2. Select and use technology to enhance learning and problem solving. 3. Access, organize and analyze information to make informed decisions, using one or more technologies. 4. Use technology in an ethical and legal manner. 5. Design, prepare and present unique works using technology to communicate information and ides. 6. Extend communication and collaboration with peers, experts and other audiences using telecommunications.
And my last goal is to use what I have learned in this course effectively in my class allowing my students to come up with new ideas using new technology.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-15T04:24:00.000-07:00

Rachel Kerr
ED 636
10/18/06
Blog posting
Instructional Technology Goals

My instructional technology goals are about the same as before. I will continue to try different multimedia in my classroom, when I feel that it is appropriate. I take several things into consideration when determining what is appropriate for my classes. First, I look at my students – can they use this appropriately? Next I look at the objectives that I want to accomplish – will the objectives be met the way I want them to be met with the technology? Finally I look at the time involved with the technology – will my time and the students’ time be well spent or will it be an overload?

After I try something new, I ask the students to evaluate what they thought of the lesson. Did it take too long? Do they want to do it again? What went well? What didn’t? I have them write this and turn it in without names and then I throw away the papers when I am done reading their comments. This way the students can be completely honest without worrying about who might see what. I value what the students have to say because most of the answers back are mature and give me a good insight to what they think and feel.
ED636 - Fall 2006

Goals for Instructional Technology

2006-10-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Our world is shrinking. We are in the Information Age where cascading technological advances are changing the way we live and learn. For many years Guam has been behind the times, primarily because of geographic distance. This most certainly is no longer true. Guam is digitally wired into any location on the planet. Cell phones, digital cameras, DVD players, and computer use are now an everyday occurrence in most peoples’ lives on our island. This is true with education as well. Not many years ago a teacher might ask his students, “Who has internet at home?” Now the question is “who doesn’t….?”
And so, as an educator, I must consider that the resources available to me are no longer limited - but limitless. This is one reason why I am enrolled in this Master’s program: to learn the current technological tools available to the modern teacher and how to apply them. One goal of mine is to read more scholarly publications. I would like to amass a library of ideas and opinions in my LiveText account. I find the online file storage aspect of LiveText very appealing. Now I can keep my office space less cluttered. Not being able to learn new techniques at a conference of choice is no longer an excuse for teachers on our island. They can gain new insights by reading an assortment of publications online.
In a more general sense, I would like to use the Internet more for doing research and gathering materials. Besides LiveText, I am using a moodle and blogging for the first time. Webquests are also a new concept for me. Also, I am learning that so many items are available as free downloads. The resulting effect is that I am seeing Internet usage in a new light.
Another goal of mine is to use my palm pilot for something other than a date calendar. I purchased it over a year ago in anticipation of using it with my students (most own one of their own). But I wasn’t able to participate in the training we had at the school for using the palm, so I need to catch up on its capabilities and how I can apply them in my classes. I can probably ask one of my students to help me.
One chapter of the text I found useful was the one on visual principles. Although I find myself already using some of those practices, I did gain some ideas on how I can present my materials differently and perhaps more effectively. Now that I have learned how to make a PowerPoint presentation, I find it possible to give students notes or an assignment in that format.
The one hurdle I see in accomplishing some of these goals is cost. I have been pleasantly surprised of the free cost of many of the resources we are using. But there is a significant monetary cost in the implementation of some of these materials and equipment in the classroom. Still, it is possible that I am unaware of the resources available to me. For instance, I now think it is conceivable that I could check out a LCD projector for its use in my classroom. I will make finding that out my first goal for instructional technology.

GOALS

2006-10-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY GOALS

As a premise, Instructional Technology means “the process to utilize any form of technology in ensuring effective and efficient classroom instruction thus achieving successful student learning”. This is the answer to today’s need for effective classroom teaching vis-à-vis the students’ competencies. To put it positively, effective use of technology in teaching results to relevant and engaging learning.

SHORT TERM: COMMITMENT

My initial goal will be to re-align all my lesson plans and resources towards technology integration. Making technology as a means to an end, I will include in my lessons those resources that are already available in St. John’s School. I will try to adapt them in my lessons and will creatively use them with the purpose of enhancing my teaching. St. John’s is encouraging the use of Palm Handhelds as learning tools. I will continue to explore the uses of handhelds in my Math and Science Classes.

I will take responsibility of myself to learn more about integrating technology. I will attend, whenever possible, workshops that promote integration of technology to education. I will read current articles, will listen to PODCASTS, and will read books that teach innovative ways to integrate technology.

I have to make this commitment along with my vocation to make a difference in my students’ lives. I have to make this conscious and positive decision to use technology whenever and wherever possible.

LONG TERM: SMART BOARD

There is a technology already being used in the US Mainland that I hope to use. It is called the SMART BOARD. It is an innovative tool to manage the multimedia resources while using the whiteboard. This gives us control and access on the functions of the computer while we are using the whiteboard.

I had seen this demonstrated during our educational conference in Manila last March. I was amazed at how this technology can make multimedia presentations very interactive using the whiteboard without going near the computer.

This Smart Board could be adapted to so many uses from Math to Science and from presentations to demonstrations.

The setback for acquiring this equipment is initially the cost. However, it has proven itself as beneficial to education that would justify itself as worth the market value.

The Smart Board is what I am aiming for to use in the future. It is a material goal that is worth the commitment to integrate technology in education.

My Instructional Technology Goals

2006-10-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned before that my goal is to be more consistent in the use of technology and its integration into the curriculum.

This year, my advanced math class has ventured outside the classroom setting and into the Linux lab to create charts in spreadsheets. Our lesson was about Statistics and I wanted to show them how easy it was to create and manipulate charts with the use of a computer. I am guessing this was the first time they have seen spreadsheets and charts because the minute they hit the Create Charts button, you could really see the smiles on their faces and hear the collective "oohs"and "aahs" that accompany anything "cool" for a middle-schooler. A teacher never forgets that moment.

However, I would like to do something in terms of technology with my earth science and physics classes. I was thinking of using handhelds with sensors when doing experiments but on second thought, how often are we going to use them to justify their purchase? Maybe have them go on a webquest? That might work, if I could be a little creative in scheduling 2 classes into 1 computer lab.

I guess the realization of my goal will depend on how consistent I am with technology by ensuring that at least one form of technology integration occurs in my classroom every quarter. I can build up from there until it has become ingrained in my way of teaching that its use becomes second nature already.

ED636 - Fall 2006: ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-10-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

Thus far I have learned that there is too much I do not know. My thoughts about the use of technology and visuals in an instructional setting have not changed, but I am still overwhelmed at the processes necessary to produce certain items, especially those involving the use of the Internet to construct a webquest. I have finally decided on a topic, but I still don’t know where to really begin. I think that part of the problem (besides the fact that I have an old brain) is that we have not met enough times to go over the material that we need to learn. I know that the professor is always available via email, but it is difficult to know even what to ask. I think that if I were to reschedule this program in the future, I would not have three classes running simultaneously, but do each class much more intensely over a three over four week period, so that the students could concentrate on one subject at a time. I think that when you have a cohort of St. John’s teacher, many of whom are already overworked, three classes at one time can be just too much to handle.

The assignments that we have done from the book have reinforced what I already knew about the importance of visuals in the classroom. Having started my teaching career at the elementary level, and having taught kindergarten for many years, I have learned first hand the importance of visuals. I think this experience has been an advantage for me as I teach upper school students, because it also enhances my instruction in these classes. Many upper school teachers have not been trained in this area and it sometimes shows in their teaching. I remember past classes at the university level that were even more devoid of anything other than a professor standing in front of students and lecturing. Many might say that this has been the tried and true method of teacher since the time of the ancient Greeks, but does that mean we still should walk to work every day rather than use our cars….just because it’s what was done way back when?

As far as new things I have learned, I feel that I have failed here to accomplish what I had hoped. I am beginning to understand the webquest, but I am still baffled when it comes to even start setting one up. This will be my primary focus after we meet this week.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006
Thomas Petra
Visual Thoughts

What I’ve learned so far is that I am already applying many of the concepts presented in the textbook, but I am behind the times in a lot of areas. Technology can be hard to keep up with, and some of it requires money and advanced equipment.
After reading the chapter on visuals in my book, I thought about how I may be already applying those ideas. I am a math teacher so we are quite dependent on visuals in my class. The majority of visuals I use are nonprojected visuals. I try to make my room visually appealing to the students. I use motivating posters including one of Albert Einstein. I have charts of conversion tables, early Chinese number systems, and one for tracking typhoons. Sometimes I will hang something on the wall that in unrelated to math just to stimulate ideas, for instance a Guam fruit chart or a topographic map of Mount Rainer. My students and I use drawings and charts on an almost daily basis to solve math problems. Drawing a picture is a method they apply in problem solving. When my students make a graph or chart, I require them to do it by hand. I know there are computer programs to generate these, but I think my students need to arrange and produce these by pencil on paper to learn the concepts fully.
We do not use projected media as much as nonprojected media. I have an overhead projector in my room but I don’t use it often. Although I have produced transparencies, when I do use the overhead, it is usually by drawing directly on a clear sheet. I have used the projector to demonstrate with manipulatives. I had never heard of a document camera before. That would seem to be a useful tool for a math teacher to use.
But as far as overhead projectors go, I find it quicker and easier to do things by hand on a white board.
I was surprised the book even mentioned slides. That seems so ancient now. What interests me most now is projecting via a computer. That would really make things easier for me. I could make charts or diagrams on my computer and display them the next day. I could display information downloaded from the Internet or even have a modern-style slide show.
We use visuals constantly in math to diagram the abstract and communicate ideas. This has been done since Euclid drew in the sand with his finger. I could continue to represent visuals as I am, but I also have to understand that my audience is getting a lot more sophisticated. So, I would like to place an order for a computer projector for my classroom and a document camera for the math department. Are they cheap?

2006-09-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture that showcases a single component of instructional technology.

My thoughts on Instructional Technology

2006-09-27T06:01:00.000-07:00

So far I have learned that visuals play a huge role in instructional technology. Two of the first six chapters were devoted to discussing them. Instructional technology is also not a new concept; ever since the first teacher started taking chalk to write on the chalkboard, that teacher was already demonstrating instructional technology.

Personally, I would like to be consistent in my use of instructional technology. Like the book says, it's not technology until it is "used" or "applied". Last school year I used a lot of technological tools, from handheld computers for math applications to computers with Internet access to visit different websites for educational purposes. This year, my math class is the one that is really getting the benefit of any technological innovation from me. I would like to see myself giving more opportunity for my science classes to use technology. Logistics is partly the reason but that is another story....

I count myself lucky to have been given the opportunity to teach in a school that supports technology. Other teachers are not as lucky. I should learn to use this to my own and my students' advantage...

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-26T22:59:00.000-07:00

Reflection on what I learned in this class

I have to admit that I'm taking this technology class for the challenge and it happens to be quite a challenge. After the presentation on the Assure Model, the WebQuest and Livetext instruction I read a lot on education and technology.The next step for me is to use what I learned in my classroom regularly.

Technology for learning

Depending on the field the term technology has different meaning.In the school system technology of learning includes the theory and practice of design, development,utilization, management and evaluation of process and resources for learning.
The role of media in instruction: with the introduction of media in the school sytem people were afraid to see the teachers disappear slowly from the classrooms.It appears that teachers are more than never needed in classrooms to design, organize,direct, supervise the lessons even though the education system is moving from the instructor-directed instruction to the student-cetered instruction .In the student-centered instruction the student does more than listen and take note. The student nowadays has more parts, more responsabilities in his or her education.
Technologies and media play an important role in distance education and special education because they allow the student to be independant, to learn at his own pace without the physical presence of an instructor.
Some observers made the remark that technologies in learning dehumanize the teaching/learning process.I believe that the teacher is still the backbone of the school system. The technologies and media support , reduce the work of the teacher allowing him or her to take care of other aspects of the learning process.
Technology per say is not an alienating product. it's the inadequate use of it tht make harmful.

2006-09-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

What you have learned and your thoughts on instructional technology.

So far, I have learned that I am very uncomfortable trying out new technological ideas in my classroom because I just don’t think much of this is appropriate for the type of program I teach. The International Baccalaureate English program especially the higher level, which is what I teach, demands quite a bit of personal interaction with the literature. This interaction involves discussion and presentations that are to be verbal analysis with very little technological support. IB also is not a very flexible program when it comes to time – we are on a tight schedule, especially at the higher level. There really is no time to be wasted frivolous activities. We read, analyze, write, and speak. I find that the tool the students need is the teacher.

I have already incorporated Moodle as a homework submission site and Rolly has been incredibly supportive with working with me in this. I haven’t really been able to expand beyond journal type entries.

I feel that instructional technology has a place in the classroom, but not as a primary instructional tool. Like with everything else, the technology should be used in moderation.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

I have learned quite a bit so far, but not nearly as much as I would have liked. Am I discovering that I am not a big fan of technology. I kind of guessed that before, but having online classes has pretty much confirmed it for me. I need to have actual classes. I am very much "old school". It is difficult for me to deal with the freedom, I guess, of having online classes. It is also more difficult when I don't understand something.

I have learned some interesting things about visuals and audio, however. One such interesting thing was that no matter how you prepare there are times that your message isn't getting through. The book called this "noise". The glare on the chalkboard, the buzzing of a fly on the light, the desire to go to the bathroom; any of these can distract a child. Visuals and audio, though, help keep those distractions to a minimum by giving the child something interesting to focus on.

I use visuals a lot in class. Because I deal with second graders they tend to need concrete examples, which I try to provide. While reading the book, however, I realized that the visuals I use might not be enough. I do a lot of drawing on the overhead and the board during class, but I think sometimes I need to spend some extra time ahead of class and find actual pictures. This is especially true when dealing with certain kinds of animals and concepts in social studies. I am not a good enough artist to draw a perfect picture of a badger, for example. My students would benefit seeing a photograph a lot more than my drawings. In social studies, my students have trouble every year with the differences between cities, towns, and farming communities. I think having more pictures of these things, perhaps on a bulletin board, would really help them. I plan to start that soon. That is something that could help my students a lot.

It is my opinion that the technology level of my classroom is fine the way it is. While my kids mainly use technology such as overheads and taking tests on a computer, I don't think it is necessary to add a lot more. I see the benefits of having a lot of technology with older students, but at this age I believe my children need their basics, and most of those can be taught without too much technology.

ED636 MILESTONE #2

2006-09-26T02:17:00.000-07:00

September 26, 2006 is ED636 Milestone #2

SIGH...
So far, the struggle to complete all the requirements have been daunting. Thanks to St. John's School, I am able to access the Internet with ease and convenience. There were so many pages to read, and so many thoughts to type. Well, no complains. This is the price for my commitment to professional development.

WHAT HAVE I LEARNED?
Having read over photocopied pages on Chapters about Visuals and Visual Principles, I have discovered some ideas that can enhance my teaching.

ON VISUALS
Images are powerful instructional media. They are not to be taken for granted. With creative preparation and purposeful planning, I can use them to teach Math and Science in a more effective way.

My students can analyze pictures to draw the concepts that are the objectives of the lesson. I do not have to neccessarily do the usual lecture and presentation thing. They can enhance their learning by using their critical thinking skills. Such is an inductive approach that uses their skills and interest in viewing pictures or video segments.

St. John's has a lot of digital gadgets available for instructional use. I can design their use to make my lessons engaging and interesting. We have cameras in handhelds that I can use in Science to make the students illustrate the concepts of evaporation, condensation, and others. These are not the normal classroom procedures but surely will make the lesson relevant to their everyday life.

ON VISUAL PRINCIPLES
Of all the ideas that were mentioned, I was interested on the importance how we present our visuals. I was curious about following the Rule of Third when designing posters, bulletin boards, or taking pictures. There was the guidelines on font sizes and line spacing. Designing visuals is not at all done at random. These are proven guidelines that will make the message be understandable to the learners. I guess it is just a matter of practice as to how they will be done. For now, I must make sure to practice (one guideline at a time) them when creating visuals for my lessons.

ON INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY - MILESTONE #2
Classroom instruction have become more sophisticated because of the technological advances. Students have also become technologically literate. They cannot anymore be treated like the students a decade ago. Instruction must suit their capacities inorder to achieve learning success. There is a great competition of the way messages are delivered in today's television and film to the way messages are delivered in the classroom. Hence, upgrading and updating the teaching style according to technology is necessary.

This Instructional Technology course is truly relevant and is a must for the effective teacher!

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-19T23:45:00.000-07:00

Visual principles
In the past teachers have used visuals but they were mainlya show of words.Nowadays visuals are more appealing than before.
The result of a study comparing a visual-based and traditional instructions shows that there is a slight superioty for achievement with the visual based instruction.In that statement ,we have to consider many other factors that can influence the findings.
-Visuals offer to the learner representation,images and sounds that are easily remenbered.
-Visuals have the possibility to capture attention, to get more interest from the learner.
-Visuals simplify the information, support it and reinforce it. Visuals explain with images and they also reduce the effort of the learner.
The visual literacy is an important point for the teacher and the learner.It refers to the learner possibility to interpretate the visual correctly.The learner should be able to decode the information for the visual to accomplish its purpose.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

Media and instruction
Using the word media we most of the time think about jounalism. This reading reminded me that media is by definition any form of communication of knowledge or information.
The media was introduced in the school system as early as 1905 in a form of a class trip to a museum.Media appears to be very important in the education world because it brings to the learner the support that can not be obtained through words only.By media I now understand all the activities that I've been using in class.(presentation,demonstration, discussion, drill,practice,games...).
The introduction of media in the school system and the developpement of technology push me to ask why do we still need teachers in the classrooms when the students can get his intructions from the internet.
I believe teachers are needed to channel and organize instruction.
The media is a supplemental support for the teacher.
I could even say that with the media the teacher can easily allow his students to travel the world, learn about the thing that surround the student in a fun and creative way.
In choosing the media for a lesson a teacher has to have in mind the learners cultural background, their age and the effects that the media will hve on them.
The teacher should go through the " 5P".
I really enjoyed the chapter and decided to use the media available to me wisely.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

Thomas Petra
“Media and Materials” response
ED 636 - Dr. Riverra

While reviewing the concepts of media and materials in the text Instructional Technology and Media for Learning, I was able to judge my own recent performance and learn something new. The most important realization I have made from this task is that teachers can use technology to make more efficient and varied lessons for their students.
If teachers wanted to enhance a lesson in the past, I think the traditional question they’d ask would be “Is there a video?” Although availability may have been a criterion in the past, that needn’t be the case now. Depending on the method of instruction a teacher may want to take, there are a variety of media formats he can choose from and with increased ease. Although the preparation of these materials may be time consuming, the overall goal of student learning can increase greatly.
I have been recently working on a Health and Nutrition unit for middle school students. There wasn’t any available unit for me to use and I didn’t have much notice to prepare for this. Basically, I will have different middle school classes for 30-40 minutes, 4 days each quarter on a rotating basis. So, I need 16 lessons for the school year.
My first objective was to build the awareness in students of health and nutrition in their lives. Is there a video? Well, actually that is how I started. I decided to use a documentary called “SuperSize Me” that I had recently watched. The video recounts the experiences of a man who ate nothing but McDonald’s food for 30 days as a health experiment, while also presenting startling information on the current obesity epidemic in America. This video definitely met my objective of building awareness, as I still hear students talking about it primarily at lunchtime. Although I initially viewed the movie for my own enjoyment, I went back and previewed it about 5 more times this time with an educator’s eye. There were several scenes that “may be considered unsuitable for younger viewers” that I flagged for censorship. I also mapped out what chapters on the DVD I would use and created a time log so that I had the material I wanted that fit the time span for the class. I introduced the video and told the students what to watch and listen for. This took two of my four days with them, so the remaining two days I gathered materials from different sources in the form of handouts and nutrition activities. So far, I feel I followed the concepts of media and materials fairly well presented in our textbook. But I also have 12 more nutrition lessons in the future to fill, and that is where I learned the most from our book.
The viewpoint of teacher-centered instruction is what most teachers would follow. It would be time-consuming, but I could shift my nutrition unit to student-centered instruction with increased learner participation. Instead of finding food pyramid handouts left in a desk, I could present students with a multi-media health education that will be more meaningful for them.
I need to gather materials and sources. I probably would have used nutrition labels for manipulatives, but maybe I can find one of those 10 pounds of fat molds to give students something they can touch. I already have nutrition fact sheets provided by McDonalds but I could also have the students compare the nutrition of different fast food restaurants on the internet more easily. Students can make charts, go on hypermedia webquests, and I can research more videos on nutrition. In fact, I recently found that there is a educationally enhanced DVD version of SuperSize Me available with 24 curriculum lessons. I’m sure there are also plenty of nutrition pamphlets available for free, I just need to order them. This will be a work in process. The nice thing about having the students on a rotating basis is that I can edit and revise the lessons’ content. At the end of the year, perhaps I will have a nutrition unit the school can use in the future.
I chose the topic of health and nutrition to teach students in this time spot because I think their health habits are horrible and it is a topic most educators glance through, especially in the higher grades. I wanted to give them something more memorable and hopefully make an impact on how they live their lives in the future. The media and material concepts from our text couldn’t have come to me at a better time.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-12T17:51:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006What have I learned? Thus far we've been introduced to the ASSURE method of lesson plans. This is something that, I believe, we have all been doing for as long as we've taught. As good teachers we have done it, maybe not actually thinking about each aspect of it. I think that by placing the note "ASSURE" at the top of my lesson plan pages will assure that I will make note of each aspect and think of why we are doing it that way or in that method.
I am still struggling with this blogging thing, but being an "old dog," I will learn it. I have to train myself to be a paperless person. Because old habits die hard, it's a struggle, but it shall be won.
Since, I am the computer teacher for the lower school it is imperative that I learn all possible and as soon as possible. It's a scary proposition when an elementary age student needs to show ME how to do things.
The amount of resources available to us as teachers today is thousands of times greater than when I first taught in 1963. It would be a shame not to use all that is available to us, especially when our students will benefit. A benefit that will enable them to compete in our global society.

What I have learned?

2006-09-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Blog posting on what I have learned.

The most interesting thing that I have learned in ED636 is how to use MOODLE. I still have many questions about it but I am sure that with the practice I will became an expert on using MOODLE

I have also learned how to use Live Text which will help us to create our own portfolio; I loved this idea of creating a portfolio on line, instead of creating one on a binder.

Another very important thing that I have learned is to develop a lesson plan following the ASSURE model. Before I was only familiar with Madeline Hunter’s Lesson Plan of Direct Instruction which has seven steps to follow: 1. Objectives 2. Standards 3. Anticipatory set 4. Teaching =input, modeling and check for understanding 5. Guided practice/monitoring 6. Closure 7. Independent practice. The seven steps make a good check list of elements in planning a lesson, just as well as the ASSURE model.

Araceli

ED636 MILESTONE #1

2006-09-09T22:21:00.000-07:00

I marked September 06, 2006 as ED636 Milestone #1. I have learned two important teaching tools:
1) ASSURE MODEL
2) WEBQUESTS

ASSURE MODEL: I learned that this is a valuable template in making effective lesson plans. ASSURE is an acronym that stands for:
A = analyze learners
S = state objectives
S = select instructional methods, media, & materials
U= utilize media & materials
R= require learner participation
E= evaluate and revise

This method or guideline "assure" the teacher of having adequate understanding of his/her audience and of planning for the appropriate action to achieve effective teaching and learning. There is an in depth understanding of the quality of students that will receive the instruction. Having so, the lesson is design to accommodate the various competencies of the students. Thus, the classroom activity is relevant and is engaging. The teacher is confident that the students will learn in the manner they all understand.

This ASSURE model is appropriate to today's teaching strategy. It highlights technology integration into the curriculum. It is central to the ASSURE guideline. The teacher uses the available technological tools with which students are drawn to a very engaging learning experience.

WEBQUESTS: I have learned that Webquest is a teaching tool that lets students learn through a technologically thematic learning environment. It uses the Internet (World Wide Web) as a source of information from which students are guided to analyze given data inorder to achieve the learning objectives through their critical thinking skills.

Through the various internet links, I learn that Bernie Dodge and Tom March invented this inquiry oriented activity to make learning interesting and relevant. I learned that the following make up the Webquest:
1) Introduction
2) Task
3) Process
4) Resources
5) Evaluation
6) Conclusion

I had critically evaluated 3 webquests. By doing so, I was able to appreciate what makes an excellent webquest. In summary, an excellent webquest is one that achieves the learning objectives, one that is interesting and appropriate to the desired end user (student), and one that reinforces learning with critical analysis and conclusion.

Lastly, we ended the class with an overview of how to use the Livetext resource, a truly great website - a must have for every teacher who wants to integrate technology into the curriculum!

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

What I’ve Learned So Far

While we have learned a good deal so far, what made the biggest impression on me was the Web Quests. Until September the 6th I had never even heard of Web Quests. I have rarely used the Internet with my students in the past. The most they ever got to use the Internet was to see pictures of certain animals when we discussed them in class. With Web Quests, however, my students would be able to do so much more.
The first great thing that I saw with the Web Quests was people have already created so many that anybody can use. We went through at least four different Web Quests and saw links for many more. There were some which weren’t any good, but for the most part I was quite impressed with what I saw. They gave me ideas, and if I had more computers in my classroom (or even a projector that worked with my current computer) I think I would definitely use some of them. The best one that I saw was about Ancient Egypt. I would have been excited to use such a Web Quest when I was in school. It really was a “quest”. Users had missions to complete, there were interesting pictures, and there were links that lead to other interesting websites. I was immediately pulled into the Web Quest. There were others, though, that were not so great. One Web Quest that we viewed (only, I believe, so that we would never make one like it) was about pilgrims. The original idea was pretty good, but the creator had obviously not spent a lot of time creating it. It was short, without much content, and many of its links did no work.
Later on we are going to have to create a Web Quest as well. The idea worries me, mainly because of the work that will have to go into it to make it worth looking at. I do not want to have one like the Pilgrim Web Quest. Finding all the necessary links, pictures, and ideas will take quite a long time. The thing that worries me the most is that I have no idea how to create such a thing. It seemed in class that we were expected to know how to create webpages and the like, which I have zero experience with. Even though it isn’t due for quite a while I am already stressed just thinking about it.

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

It has been interesting, but also frightening to see all the resources that we will be using in class. My skills in technology are limited to the word processor and browsing the Internet. Although I have taken classes in the past on the use of technology in the production of classroom materials, I have found that the skills you remember are the ones that you use. I think that this class will be helpful, because we will actually be using the resources that are presented to do our assignments and turn in our work.

I was very impressed with the work that some have put together in the Webquests. The Egyptian site was truly impressive, but there is no doubt that a lot of work and many hours were put into it. It makes me ask myself if I would have the time to devote to such a task with all the other responsibilities I already have.

A final note: None of the books have arrived as of Friday morning.

What I Have Learned

2006-09-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

So far, this class has been going great! While the technology may seem overwhelming (lots of media resources to learn in so short a time!), it can be done. Like I tell my students, the only way to really learn is to get your hands dirty and do it. I must confess that even though I already know some of the technology, I am not very consistent in using it and so I forget most of the resources' functionalities. I must always remind myself to use, use, and use!

I liked the webquests and I salute the teachers who devote time in making them. With the webquests, students are not just let loose on the Internet with nowhere to go. I have seen students go to sites that are inappropriate for their age because they do not yet know how to evaluate a site for its accuracy and authority. Which brings me to my next point: I would like to teach students instead on how to search and evaluate sites so that they may be more independent when researching for something where a webquest may or may not be available to them. It's like teaching a child to fish rather than giving him the fish, don't you think?

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

Rachel Kerr
ED 636
Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera
September 6, 2006
Blog entry – what has been learned

So far, this class has been very interesting. Without having a text yet, all learning has come from class discussion and activities. While so much information has been covered in class, what I have found particularly interesting has been the webquests, the ASSURE model and exploring the different submission sites.
The webquests were interesting to analyze because of the different qualities each contained. Although the class consensus was that the Egyptian webquest was the best, I still question using it as a primary teaching tool. I think that it would make an interesting enrichment activity. I could see how I could use webquests as an assessment tool for students to make for projects, especially with history and American Literature. I am pondering what material I will cover in my webquest, because I would like to create something that will be meaningful for my subject area and my students.
I enjoyed learning about ASSURE model on how to create meaningful lessons. Even though I have been teaching for a few years, it is interesting to learn about the newer research. The presentation was great because it gave us time to actually apply the ASSURE model to an actual lesson.
Having time in class to explore the internet sites and the different submission sites has been great. I am one who gets easily lost and frustrated with the technology. Going over blogs and moodle step-by-step has been very beneficial to me. The direct instruction on the sites has shown me how easy it is to use these sites. I am looking forward to exploring more uses for these sites.
ED636 - Fall 2006

ED636 - Fall 2006

2006-09-07T00:43:00.000-07:00

ED636 - Fall 2006

ASSURE... ARE YOU SURE?

2006-09-06T01:38:00.000-07:00

Today, Arlene, Araceli, and I are presenting to the ED636 class the ASSURE MODEL in developing an effective and efficient lesson plan. In just few days of prep time, we were able to make a decent and good presentation.

My Space

2006-09-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

My SpaceHere I go, beginning to post my 2nd blog, hopefully. My second class for ED636, Media Resources. I'm presently typing this blog under the assumption that when I have used up all the words I have in my head, and "Publish" this post it will actually happen. I suppose if I am smart I will save as a draft first, provided of course, that I also do that right.

What a day so far. The 3 yr old PreK were a handful in computer class this morning. If anybody out there reads this and has any ideas on how to get to 3 yr olds about computers, feel free to let me know.

The normal words that I hear are, "help me," "I don't want to do this," I want to do something else" or "I need to go peepee."

As soon as the PreK aide left.....5 kids needed to go to the bathroom. That's five out of eleven. I'm glad it's close to the room.

Again, if anyone has ideas for 3 and 4 year olds in a computer lab, I'm all ears.

2006-05-25T05:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

2006-05-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

Hafa Adai and welcome to our class blog! You will be posting assignments on this site throughout the semester. Take care and happy blogging!