Chapter 9- Creating and Sharing Information with Multimedia Technologies

Photo Credit to krissen on Flickr

 
Focus Question: How can teachers integrate podcasts and vodcasts into their teaching? 

Prior to reading this chapter I did not realize their was such thing as a vodcast; I assumed that a podcast included both audio and video. According to the text a vodcast is comprised of both audio and visual, and just like podcasts is available for access online from a computer or portable media player. There are an abundance of educationally appropriate podcasts and vodcasts available for teachers to present to their students. iTunes and Podcast Alley are just a few of the sources that enable a teacher to search for specific educational topics presented via podcast. Podcasts and vodcasts can certainly be used to improve and enhance the educational experience of the student. If the teacher has a class blog, he/she can post a self made podcast of the lessons or material for students to further review outside the classroom setting. There are endless possibilities when incorporating technologies such as podcasts and vodcasts into the classroom. From presenting outside material to further the subject matter of a lesson, to incorporating a personal podcasts reiterating and reflecting classroom material, this integration of technology can be beneficial and a successful alternative to traditional lectures and reviews.

The following video is a perfect example to show how a teacher may include a vodcast into the learning experience of the student. This could be posted to a class blog where the student can access and reflect from home or any other location outside of the classroom. By providing a vodcast to their students, the teacher enables the opportunity for the students to expand on the material.

Tech Tool Link: Digital Storytelling

This makes me so excited, like five year old Shanna excited! The Educational Uses of Digital Storytelling website is run by the University of Houston and provides a plethora of resources, videos and directions on how to creating a digital storybook. Digital storytelling allows one to create an interactive story using digital media. The stories can range from personal, historical, narrative, and more; the possibilities are endless. In the classroom, having a student create a digital story not only allows them to train their technological muscles, but it also provides an opportunity to incorporate the lesson materials in a fun and different manner. With such a range of different technology based tools, there leaves little excuse for students to be inundated with the mundane archaic approach to instruction of non-interactive lectures.

Summary & Connection:

Multimedia technologies allow teachers to create a learning experience for their students that expands from the traditional two-dimensional text. With technology, information and instruction can be presented via video, text, picture and audio in the interactive realm. Power points, pod and vodcasts, digital images and movies are just a few of the wonderful ways a teacher can incorporate multimedia technology to enhance the learning environment for their students. By using multimedia technologies, students have a more hands on approach to learning and are more engaged into the material. Multimedia technology also gives the teacher an opportunity to provide further reflection outside of the classroom via blogs or classroom websites, allowing for an ever accessible classroom no longer inhibited by four walls and time frames.

Photo Credit to jsgeometry on Flickr

Resources:

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5

Chapter 8- Communicating and Networking with Websites, Blogs, Wikis, and More

Photo Credit to mnotta on Flickr

Focus Question: How can teachers use email or instant messaging to foster information exchanges with or among students?

In today's technology driven world, communication is no longer inhibited by time zones, oceans or even continents. Technology has created a mode of communication between students and teachers that is multidimensional, email and instant messaging are two prime examples of this innovative exchange. Statistically in the United States, more than one in four people use instant messaging as a form of communication; according to the text, four in every five adolescents use the internet (p. 215). As a teacher by using these forms of communication with students, that are familiar and comfortable with them, you can incorporate lessons as well as extend classroom time with online office hours. Not only does using email and instant messaging enhance the correspondence between the teacher and student, it can also be used to enhance the curriculum. While most students are "Lol'ing" and "OMG'ing" in their exchanges, teachers can utilize the ever popular instant messaging and email vernacular to teach lessons in spelling and grammar. Allowing the students to email libraries, museums, elected officials, etc. will not only help them develop their professional letter writing ability, but also allow them to obtain more information and develop internet literacy. While I admit I am not a big fan of the word abbreviations that are credited to the abundant use of email and instant messaging, I will say that from a teaching standpoint its usage proves to be very successful in collaborating communication and knowledge.

Photo Credit to The Shifted Librarian on Flickr

Tech Tool Link: Posting and Publishing with Digital Image Scanners

Digital image scanners are a really great tool for any classroom, especially a classroom that has a blog incorporated with it. With a digital image scanner any tangible work that has been created on a piece of paper can be transferred to a digital image on the computer. As a middle school science teacher, I can upload the DNA worksheets I had my students color and fill out onto my classroom blog by using the digital scanner to convert the pictures. Digital image scanners also allow individuals to scan various published works to a digital image to use as a handout or learning tool. I think of all of the tech tools I have discovered in this book so far, digital image scanners are the most exciting. The possibilities are endless with what a teacher can do with their students work. They can have an online gallery for students and parents to have access to 24/7. Very cool!

Summary & Connection:

Communication and networking is an essential key in the classroom, and technology has made this even easier. Teachers can incorporate both synchronous and asynchronous online communication with students by the use of email, instant messaging, blogs, wiki and web pages. No longer is the educational experience limited to the four walls of a classroom in a 50 minute time period, students now have the ability to access their classroom and teacher in an online setting. There are so many different types of blogs, websites social media outlets and wikis available for a teacher to construct that will be appropriate and enhance the experience of the student. I personally can see myself having a classroom blog, what a great idea. I especially like incorporating the student's personal work with tools such as the digital image scanner. While the teacher must ensure that the students are safe and protected while accessing these networking outlets, I truly think the possibilities are endless when it comes to the myriad of forms of communication and collaboration available.

This video shows that there is no age too young to start incorporating digital aspects and social media into the classroom. Our students are already inundated in their everyday lives with this technology, why not incorporate it into their educational experience.

Resources:

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5

Chapter 7- Problem Solving and Inquiry Learning with Software and Web Tools

Photo Credit to Tomasz Stasiuk on Flickr

Focus Question: How can teachers use computer games and simulations as learning resources?

While there is much debate regarding the influence computer games have over children, both positive and negative, it would be naive to neglect the idea that they may be beneficial to the learning experience of a student. Skills-learning games are used to engage the student in the academic material while providing the element of game play (p. 189). There are games available for nearly every subject; the games not only allow the student to practice the skill at hand, but they can also introduce new skill sets in an environment that appears less threatening. This does not mean a teacher will provide Grand Theft Auto to a student as a lesson in social studies, there are digital games for learning that are developed around education rather than entertainment. According to the text there are strategies available for teachers to effectively involve computer game use in the classroom:

"Minimize the use of games that teach isolated skills; scrutinize games that function solely on points won or lost; discuss games and their content; play games together" (p. 196).

 The following video is an example how computer game usage can be effective to the educational experience of a student. As teachers we cannot forget that there are many different types of learners in our classroom. I believe that incorporating educational computer games helps bridge the gaps between the various learning styles.

 Tech Tool Link: Discovery learning using Squeak and Scratch: Scratch

Scratch is a website that allows students to create their own online games, interactive stories and animations. Scratch gives students the opportunity to explore their creative mind, with the help of technology no idea seems too far-fetched. According to the website, Scratch is really designed for students aged 8-16 so for early elementary age students it may be a little too advanced. Although, teachers in any grade level may find Scratch a useful resource to create stories or games of their own to incorporate into their lesson plan. The activities on Scratch promote critical thinking skills and allow students to advance their knowledge and ability in technology. I think this website is extremely useful, there is even a Scratch online community for educators to exchange ideas, resources, etc. to enhance their curriculum. I would certainly include Scratch in my classroom, consider it added to my Symbaloo and Delicious accounts for future reference!

Summary & Connection:

It is really amazing how much software is available that will enhance the educational experience of students. While I feel there are aspects of direct instruction that can be useful, incorporating the many facets of educational software really ties learning directives together. Educational computer software programs are more than just an activity to occupy time in a classroom; many require higher order critical thinking and analysis, active research, and facilitate the student's ability to learn and retain the information of a given subject. Like in many instances with technology and internet usage in the classroom, the teacher must be proactive in ensuring the material is appropriate for the child and for the curriculum. Teachers must evaluate educational software to be certain it is encouraging a higher level of thinking for the students. I think if the software is appropriate, and it not only meets but exceeds the standards listed in the curriculum then it will be a great addition to the classroom. It an be guaranteed that in one classroom exists a diverse group of learning styles, why not appeal to masses? 

Photo Credit to cproppe on Flickr

Resources: 

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5

Chapter 6- Teaching with Educational Websites and Other Online Resources

Focus Question: What is information management and digital content?

In a broad sense, information management is the collection and organization of data. For businesses information management plays an important role in decision making and policies. According to the text for educators

"...information management means organizing and utilizing all the different kinds of electronic information one must handle professionally and academically" (p. 144).

Digital content is the information that is acquired online. Digital content for a teacher can provide information, resources and tools that will enhance the teacher's classroom curriculum and academic material.

Photo Credit to Choconancy1 on flickr

Tech Tool Link: An interactive online field trip: The Cave of Chauvet-Pont-D'Arc

Let's be honest, the majority of students in the United States are not going to have the resources to expand their horizons and travel throughout the world to conquer great discoveries. The Cave of Chauvet-Pont-D'Arc contains hundreds of paintings that date back 31,000 years. Without the advancements of technology, students would only be able to experience the awe through a two-dimensional picture in the pages of a textbook. Thanks to the website www.culture.gouv.fr/culture/arcnat/chauvet/en there are no barriers that would inhibit a student from being able to explore this amazing discovery. These are the technological innovations that really help make the world more accessible to any person, no matter where they're from or what their socioeconomic status may be; no longer are we held back as teachers or students from exploring unknown frontiers. It's truly amazing.

 The video below shows the Paleolithic paintings that were discovered in the Cave of Chauvet-Pont-D'Arc. The video itself is a bit lengthy, but it would (or something similar) would be an interesting way to lead into a classroom discussion, then the virtual tour through the cave.

Summary & Connection:

This chapter really makes me grateful to be becoming a teacher in such a technology centered era. Technology is certainly friend not foe in the classroom. There are so many innovations, websites, programs and resources that help teachers makes the best of their curriculum. Technology also allows teachers to better organize themselves, and make certain that their lesson plans are meeting state and federal mandated criteria. Educational websites are a way for teachers and students to be engaged  by the knowledge the internet has to offer. Interactive activities that not only enthrall the student, but also present them with creative information that they will retain is such a plus in the educational world. I look forward not only to what I can discover and use in my classroom, but also for what the future has to offer in regards to technology. To infinity and beyond!

Photo Credit to flickingerbrad on flickr

Resources: 

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5

Chapter 5- Researching and Evaluating Internet Infomation

Photo Credit to celt.keene on Flickr

Focus Question: What are search engines and how do they work?

Search engines have been my saving grace since high school. The use of search engines helped fuel my research papers with facts, find study material for exams and really facilitated the acquisition of the bulk of information I obtained through the years. The definition in the book is clear, concise and as simple and accurate as can be regarding search engines: "Search engines retrieve information from the Internet". Any person can access vast amounts of information regarding any topic by using key words in a search engine. For example, if I were interested in learning more about President Nixon I search the keywords "President Nixon" in a search engine and thousands of results containing websites, articles, images and video would appear. Among the more popular search engines are Google.com, Ask.com, Yahoo.com and AOL.com; although, there are specialized search engines available depending on the subject matter of the keywords. Webopedia is a search engine exclusively for researching computer and internet related information and terminology. To the novice search engine user the task of finding results may seem daunting at first, but by using specific key words the process is much simpler. The information that is out there waiting to be discovered is truly infinite.

The video below demonstrates how the powerhouse internet search engine Google works in regards to retrieving information to their database. I find it so interesting how the management of search results came about from mathematical calculations and formulas. 

Tech Tool Link: LibriVox

LibriVox is an awesome website where the user can go on and listen to recordings of published books for free. Volunteers read the books and the audio recordings are made accessible to the public. This is such a wonderful idea, especially for young children or those who have a visual impairment. This website allows for all individuals to experience the joy of books, poetry and many more literary gifts. I think as a teacher this is a great way to incorporate technology and literature into a lesson plan, which I don't believe is as easy to integrate as would a math or science subject be. LibriVox also enables the student to broaden their literary horizon. Reading certain books may present an intimidating situation for slower readers, but if they are able to listen to the material while they read the quest to successfully reading the material appears less treacherous. I'm so glad to see that there websites likes this available to the public, when given the appropriate tools and opportunities we all can flourish way beyond our expectations.

Photo Credit to kayray on Flickr

Summary & Connection:

Although sometimes daunting or difficult to maneuver, the internet really does allow for greater accessibility to information and knowledge. It is important for the teacher to guide the students into proper and efficient internet research (such as using search engines) as well as how to process the discovered information. There are several ways to search information with keywords using a search engine: free-text, keyword/exact match and Boolean. The better the user becomes at recognizing useful ways to search for information the easier it will be. With the myriad of useful information available there is also just as much incorrect and harmful information to be unearthed. In order to differentiate between the various types that are present the user must be proactive in critical reading, reading labels, distinguishing between URLs and developing criteria for evaluating the website or resource. The internet also presents the opportunity for plagiarism, whether intentional or not, to be easily done. The teacher must be sure to discuss the issue of plagiarism, how it can happen, and the ramifications that will occur as a result. Personally, I cannot fathom life without the internet, using it has become second nature. Every day there is a new component, website or resource that I find; and although I have run into some fallacies, the good outweighs the bad when researching information.

Resources: 

 Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5


I find this commercial to be a hilarious and accurate portrayal of how most individuals view information they receive from the internet. Beware: not all information from the internet is true!

Chapter 4- Integrating Technology and Creating Change

Photo Credit to Denise Krebs on Flickr

Focus Question:  What are “digital inequality” and the “participation gap”?

The terms “digital inequality” and “participation gap” refer to the discrepancies between children of high-income homes and children of low-income homes regarding access to technology. “Digital inequality” focuses on the lack of monetary resources families from low socioeconomic backgrounds have to buy the most advanced, up-to-date computer technology and software. The “participation gap” falls under the same perceived issue of technology access between various income levels. Children that fall within the participation gap do not engage in the same technological activities that their peers do, such as online activity. According to the textbook:

"If low-income and minority students are unable to use all of today's technologies as other students do, then access alone will not reduce an inequality of educational outcomes".(p.95)

I think it is imperative that as a country we work to ensure all students are given the same educational opportunities. As our world, society and education system begin to gravitate around technology. it becomes our responsibility to provide equal opportunities for technological access to all students.

The video below is very informative on ramifications that can and will occur as a result of the digital divide. Lack of technological resources as well as familiarity with these resources affects not only our children, but our country as a whole. 

Tech Tool Link: Online Technology Integration Resources: Edutopia

Prior to reading the text I had a chance to navigate through the website Edutopia. The website offers a plethora of free resources and information regarding technology integration in the classroom. I think websites such as Edutopia are such a gift to teachers, especially today's teachers who are constantly inundated with new and exciting technology that can enhance the learning experience. It's comforting to know that while some of the content may be a bit overwhelming, the teacher is certainly not alone in their quest for appropriate, stimulating activity that will help teach and familiarize their students.

Summary & Connection: 

I really found this chapter quite interesting. Just seeing how far technology has come from when I was in elementary school is tremendous. Not only does the use of various technological programs increase the effectiveness of a student's learning experience, but it also helps the teacher in organization, planning, grading and presenting material. It is so important that we find a way to bridge the gap between the socioeconomic classes and technology access. Although there are activities and ways to integrate technology despite the disparity, students still suffer when they do not possess equal access to educational technological tools at home. The text made a very important distinction between change being "hard-wired" into computers and the reality that technology's impact in the classroom is navigated through the teachers, school officials and parents.

 Photo Credit to Massachusetts Education Secretary Matt Malone on Flickr 

Resources: 

 Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5

Chapter 3- Developing Lessons with Technology

Photo Credit to Doug Jennings on Flickr

Focus Question: How can teachers use technology to make decisions about meeting educational standards in their lesson plans?

According to the text:

Virtually every academic discipline taught in elementary and secondary schools has national, state, and local standards for teaching teachers to follow in planning their curriculum. 

Although these standards provide the basis from which teachers begin their lesson plans, they do not dictate the manner in which the teacher presents the information to their students. The content as well as method of teaching is determined by the teacher, but it is imperative that the teacher make sure he/she is meeting the standards given. Teachers can use technology by utilizing various programs, resources and websites that will help them create lessons, activities and assignments to educate their students while meeting the required curriculum. For example, while preparing students for the FCAT test, a teacher may turn to the internet to find fun, interactive and informative activities that will engage their students and prepare them for the state mandated test.

 The video below is an example of how a teacher may utilize technology to meet educational standards. By providing the videos such as this for their students, the teacher can reinforce the lesson (whether it be about shapes or patterns) as well as incorporate testing strategies that will help the students during mandatory testing.

Tech Tool Link: Online Resources for Lesson Planning: Gliffy

Gliffy is a website that allows you to create floor plans, seating charts, flowcharts, Venn diagrams and other types of visual aids. I'm interested in teaching either middle or high school students, and for me this website will be so helpful in organizing my classroom. Especially when the dreaded "testing season" comes around, by utilizing the seating chart arrangement it will take the stress of the teacher and student to try and decipher the classroom seating flow the day of the test. Not only is this program great for classroom feng shui, but the readily available charts that can be used to teach give the teacher more time on the lesson by alleviating the amount of time in constructing the diagram or chart.

Photo Credit to Gliffy

 


Summary & Connection:

I must admit that this chapter made me a little apprehensive about being a teacher. There is so much that goes into the job; it is not enough that the teacher must engage every student in their classroom, but the teacher must also be aware that their students are meeting local, state and federal standards. In my opinion, technology most definitely eases the the process of lesson planning, with the abundance of online resources teachers have more opportunities to incorporate fun and informative lessons into their teaching. It is important for the teacher to provide assessments to make sure their students are understanding the information being taught. There are numerous types of tests that can be administered to students to ensure this. While it is important for standards to be implemented to ensure that no student is being denied the education they deserve, I don't think standardized tests grasp the entire spectrum of students out there. No two individuals are alike, just as no two learners are alike. After reading this chapter I am now aware that as a teacher it is vital to the success of my students that I present lessons that will help them in reaching these objectives as well as gain and retain the knowledge.

Resources:

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. ISBN:10 0-13-159611-X, ISBN:13 978-0-13-159611-5