Reflections 8

The speaker's presentation on open source software was really informative. I don't think I had ever thought about it, or even realized that I had used it before. What a great way to get students involved with technology- just give it to them for free with no hassles. This idea will help to close the gap between tech users and nonusers. I want to use Skype and other open sources such as online chats to facilitate learning within my classroom. These are all really cool tech tools.

I wanted to go back and recap on Web 2.0 tools a little bit more. I found a website (http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/a/oreilly/tim/news/2005/09/30/what-is-web-20.html) offered by O'Reilly that helped me to understand the concept better. If you have a chance review the comparison chart and concept map, it really helps distinguish Web 2.0 components. Web 2.0 is "serious stuff" that is rather cool. Web 2.0 allows its users to be participants. You can share open source projects on SourceForge.net, use Craig's list, listen to Pandora radio, or even participate in product reviews on Amazon because of Web 2.o. tools. I really like this idea and how technology allows use to be an engaged user.

Reflections #7

Class on last Thursday was both informative and engaging. The guest speaker provided the class with very detailed information about Web 2.0. Although the lecture was very informative, I wish it could have been presented in a manner that was more engaging. I really enjoyed the online chat, it was the most exciting part of class. I would like to use online chats in my instruction to collaborate with other classes who are studying the same topics. This will be a great way to get students engaged in learning. My only concern lies in how to keep students on task during the chats. I don't want the students to get off topic and turn the chat into a gossip room that that detracts from the learning. I will try out the online chat with small groups of students before using it with the class as a whole. Students will have to be given rules and guidelines to follow in order to participate in the chats.

Reflections Class #6

OK, back to this constructivist thing again. After reading this article, I have even more concerns about trying to use the constructivist theory. I support this theory in that it employs students to become active participants in learning; however, I still have some concerns about using the constructivist theory. My first problem is that this theory has to be applied in a gradual process. A gradual process meaning students can not handle using computers and the constructivist approach without defined boundaries and training. I could probably implement the entire theory by second semester of school- this is with hard work. My second concern is what happens when my principal walks by my class and the students appear to be misbehaving. Will I be evaluated as an ineffective teacher because the students are talking and I am only observing. What approach or theory will be utilized to change traditional thinking of the administrators who do not understand the constructivist approach? This is a concern because the teacher with the loud class is usually considered to be the teacher who lacks classroom management. Now honestly, no one wants to be stereotyped as that teacher.

Class Reflections #5

Well, I am taking a moment to just think about all the topics we have discussed so far. This technology thing is "serious business". Wow! The use of so many mindtools with the constructivist theory to aid the process. I can already see the benefits of the mindtools and how they will aid my students learning. I am thinking that the constructivist approach to learning will impede my students' learning. If I use this approach I will have to implement it as a gradual process. Many of the minority students I teach will require direct instruction, and over time they will gain the skills to become constructivist learners.

Class was productive on Thursday. I added all my hyperlinks to the presentation, and now I just need to add some clip art and animation. I look forward to the completing presentation and sharing it with the class.

Class #4 Reflections

Class 4 was interesting because it included a new component-classroom discussion. The discusssion circle was beneficial in that it help to bridge the gap between application and the assigned readings. The class discussion provided a common ground in which everyone could share their ideas and experiences with technology.

During the work period, I tried to finalize the theme/topic for my PowerPoint presentation. I really want to create a jeopardy game using this tool just because I always wanted to use it, but never knew how to create it. I think creating a jeopardy game will be a great way for me to extend my skills with Powerpoint. I think I will give it a try.