As our class ends, I reflect upon my first paper regarding my personal theory. This is the first time I feel I have grasped this idea and understood it with the support of the professional resources from this class. It is not that I had some sort of idea however, our class brought my vague understand to a clearer picture. I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Orey and his discussions throughout the course. Dr. Orey presented the information in a manner, which I could relate to, and learn how to apply my methods into the classroom. I feel I have a strong foundation in my personal theory and have added to my understanding as I worked through the course. I will continue to use many of the old and new tools I have learned about within the classroom. I am excited to create and environment which supports maximum learning. Last week we started school and I was excited to apply my new found knowledge to my students’. I felt I was empowered and ready to pass this gift of learning in the following year. I began by setting up my classroom differently and reflected upon how I teach. I am excited to pass additional “power” more often to my students’ in their learning process.
Along with setting up my classroom, I have centered my technology tools to be used everyday. In using the document camera in my lessons and using websites such as Grooveshark I feel I am planting the seeds to a great year of learning. My colleagues and I have been collaborating the use of the Smartboards in many of our lessons. We will have our students use Flip cameras on our field trip next week to downtown Fairbanks. I look forward to working toward creating the puppet play with the support of Photo Booth in recreating a timeline of Fairbanks History. In utilizing these tools, students will have multitude of opportunities to learn the information. I firmly believe handing students technology will support and enhance their understanding. I know as an educator it has supported my schooling and growth.
Goals are something I set on a daily basis. How I can enhance, change, bring to or develop stronger lessons within my teaching. I think all teachers are evolving their lessons to best support the needs for their students’. In thinking about a long-term goal, I definitely want to embrace technology and the changes it brings. I want to have an open perspective and always have a go at new and upcoming tools. In doing so I need to be educated through classes, colleagues, readings, and other resources. I also need the resources in attaining new tools to use in the classroom. I feel continuing my education through Walden is assisting in meeting this goal along with professional development within my school. The second goal I have is to continue to pass the power to my students’. This is going to be achieved by updating my lessons and continue to drive student-based activities. Less teacher talking from myself and more student talking within the classroom! My instructional practices will need to be adjusted in a positive manner and I look forward to creating new and improved ones.
I have thoroughly enjoyed what I have learned in this course. I feel more confident and ready to present new and student friendly ideas in the classroom.
Connectivism and Social Learning in Practice
The chapter Cooperative Learning was by far my favorite resource text this week. I have always and will continue to be a teacher who uses this strategy. The connection between social and cooperative learning is a strong one. They are similar in the fact that students are working together to achieve a common goal. The importance of students being actively engaged, problem solving, building confidence, and practicing social manners are vital their learning process. Dr. Orey discusses the validation and encouragement students receive and how they observe each other as teachers in the classroom. (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009) These two key factors are important when students take part in working together. In taking in the knowledge presented students are able to not absorb their own perspective but the perspective of others. It is important to utilize these strategies to support and foster student learning.
In our resource, Using Technology with Classroom Instructions that Works, it states, “Student-created multimedia is a natural environment for cooperative learning.” (P 141) I feel this sentence expresses strongly why technology is important to incorporate when collaborating within the classroom. After understanding the ways to set up groups, you are then ready to explore the tools in technology. When students are able to become their own teachers with the support of their peers it opens another door to learning. In creating artifacts, there are many web resources to start from on the Internet. I found a few familiar ones from the text, however I was amazed on the many resources available for my students’. One in particular, IWeb was right up my alley in the direction I wanted to introduce to students. I am interested in having students work collaboratively to create a Blog or website. They can also do a podcast, photos, and movies. This can play into a variety of subjects to create an artifact to share with others. There are teacher websites, which also support cooperative learning by staying connected and sharing ideas. In using these resources, there is a direct relationship between social learning and technology. I look forward to exploring the websites in the classroom.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Social Learning Theories [Motion Picture]. Baltimore: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
In our resource, Using Technology with Classroom Instructions that Works, it states, “Student-created multimedia is a natural environment for cooperative learning.” (P 141) I feel this sentence expresses strongly why technology is important to incorporate when collaborating within the classroom. After understanding the ways to set up groups, you are then ready to explore the tools in technology. When students are able to become their own teachers with the support of their peers it opens another door to learning. In creating artifacts, there are many web resources to start from on the Internet. I found a few familiar ones from the text, however I was amazed on the many resources available for my students’. One in particular, IWeb was right up my alley in the direction I wanted to introduce to students. I am interested in having students work collaboratively to create a Blog or website. They can also do a podcast, photos, and movies. This can play into a variety of subjects to create an artifact to share with others. There are teacher websites, which also support cooperative learning by staying connected and sharing ideas. In using these resources, there is a direct relationship between social learning and technology. I look forward to exploring the websites in the classroom.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Social Learning Theories [Motion Picture]. Baltimore: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Constructivism in Practice
In third grade, students are highly excited each year for the Science Fair at our school. This is a chance to display their knowledge and to share with peers their newfound findings in a variety of ways. The constructionist learning theory is shown in this instance as students are building and creating a Science Fair project. The idea of supporting students and help facilitate the final outcome is highly empowering for students. The project-based tool is beneficial in the process of beginning and ending a Science Fair Project. Students are equipped with the necessities by the educator however; the students are the one paving the path to their own educational discoveries. In discussing with my students’ how the Science Fair process begins, the concept of Hypotheses is a key in starting their own project. I empower them with the tools to search out ideas to research and opportunities to act upon discovering the outcome of their questions. In supporting them in generating ideas, I hope to give them confidence in their own learning power and think for themselves. The ability for students to express their thoughts and discoveries are important. The development of an idea or theory can be supported through technology in a variety of ways. When encouraging students to problem solve and investigate, they are able to carry out exploring in their own hands. In the examples discussed in our resource book, Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, it describes the ways in which technology has impacted this process. It is stated “technology can play a vital role in generation and testing hypotheses because of new developments in probeware and interactive applets allow students to spend more time interpreting the data rather than gathering the data-a process that can be tedious and error prone.” (Pg 203) Students can use technology to understand their research in a manner in which the can interact and be engaged. In upper level grades, these tools are highly beneficial to organize student data. The use of spreadsheet software has visual impact as well as being used more in the classroom. In lower grades, classroom spreadsheets could be used as a whole group activity. In our math, program data is used in many lessons. The ability to use technology would be a great tool for visual learning students.
The resources provided in this chapter are one to take note of as an educator. I look forward to accessing these websites in order for my students’ to learn about the world of predictions and coming to a conclusion. I thought the simulation software would be exciting for students. As stated in our resources, “Simulation software also can provide incredibly engaging learning environments, resulting in increase motivation and retention in learning.” (Pg 213)
In the theories presented this week, I understand that we can construct our own learning and how we go about doing this in our brain. The tools we present to our students’ are vital in their development. When students have the availability to construct and build artifacts, they are demonstrating the understanding in a physical way. As an educator, the importance of knowing mechanisms of learning supports the ways we create our lessons. The connections we can create for our students will support them in their development of understanding the world around them. In doing so we are able to give them the tools through technology to discover, explore, research, and find the answers to their questions. I feel I have a greater insight in how my students’ learn in the classroom.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning Theories. (Motion Picture)
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
The resources provided in this chapter are one to take note of as an educator. I look forward to accessing these websites in order for my students’ to learn about the world of predictions and coming to a conclusion. I thought the simulation software would be exciting for students. As stated in our resources, “Simulation software also can provide incredibly engaging learning environments, resulting in increase motivation and retention in learning.” (Pg 213)
In the theories presented this week, I understand that we can construct our own learning and how we go about doing this in our brain. The tools we present to our students’ are vital in their development. When students have the availability to construct and build artifacts, they are demonstrating the understanding in a physical way. As an educator, the importance of knowing mechanisms of learning supports the ways we create our lessons. The connections we can create for our students will support them in their development of understanding the world around them. In doing so we are able to give them the tools through technology to discover, explore, research, and find the answers to their questions. I feel I have a greater insight in how my students’ learn in the classroom.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning Theories. (Motion Picture)
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Cognitivism in Practice
In my own learning process of cognitive learning, I will continue to absorb and filter through the theories presented in our resources. As an educator, I am feeling more prepared and knowledgeable about how to prepare students to access information through a variety of tools and strategies. In reading Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, it introduced new and useful ways to incorporate technology within learning. The importance to create a focus for students to envelop a new concept or idea will support in retaining information. In using word processing, spreadsheets, organizers and brainstorming, and multimedia, classrooms gain important tools to further the new found knowledge. This extension of their knowledge displays their understanding in a technological presentation. The ability to bring examples enhances the further development in understanding. In applying advanced organizers, students will benefit in higher-level thinking.
As a third grader teacher summarizing is discussed and practiced throughout the year. It is significant for “teachers work on helping students separate important information from extraneous information and state the information in their own words.” (Pg. 119) This at times can be a tedious for students to comprehend and apply in the classroom. After reviewing the recommendations for summary assistance, I found more efficient ways to support my students’. When teaching younger students, I feel the visual images are very beneficial. The graphic Figures displayed in our resources, are very similar to the program we use at our school. It supports students understanding and makes the connection between the information and how to organize their thoughts. The recommendation of using “rule-based summarizing” (Pg 121) is essential to stay focused on the vital information. I feel by keeping the information-focused students will retain and be able to apply in a technology-based practice.
In teaching Fairbanks History, Virtual Field Trips play a huge role in introducing our city. The website tool has opened doors to places students and educators have never been. The opportunity when clicking a button and transported to the place you are learning about creates a higher level of understanding. In our resources, we have analyzed the importance of creating lessons, which make an imprint and connection to the student. To create an “Episodic Memory” (Laureate Education, Inc.) as Dr. Orey explains holds true to making that connection to the information presented. Technology has evolved where we can go anywhere, see anything, and understand the world we live in today. Students are more engaged have a clearer picture or image of what we as educators are explaining to them. In using Virtual Field Trips, we put learning more into the students hands.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning Theories. (Motion Picture)
As a third grader teacher summarizing is discussed and practiced throughout the year. It is significant for “teachers work on helping students separate important information from extraneous information and state the information in their own words.” (Pg. 119) This at times can be a tedious for students to comprehend and apply in the classroom. After reviewing the recommendations for summary assistance, I found more efficient ways to support my students’. When teaching younger students, I feel the visual images are very beneficial. The graphic Figures displayed in our resources, are very similar to the program we use at our school. It supports students understanding and makes the connection between the information and how to organize their thoughts. The recommendation of using “rule-based summarizing” (Pg 121) is essential to stay focused on the vital information. I feel by keeping the information-focused students will retain and be able to apply in a technology-based practice.
In teaching Fairbanks History, Virtual Field Trips play a huge role in introducing our city. The website tool has opened doors to places students and educators have never been. The opportunity when clicking a button and transported to the place you are learning about creates a higher level of understanding. In our resources, we have analyzed the importance of creating lessons, which make an imprint and connection to the student. To create an “Episodic Memory” (Laureate Education, Inc.) as Dr. Orey explains holds true to making that connection to the information presented. Technology has evolved where we can go anywhere, see anything, and understand the world we live in today. Students are more engaged have a clearer picture or image of what we as educators are explaining to them. In using Virtual Field Trips, we put learning more into the students hands.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Cognitive Learning Theories. (Motion Picture)
Behaviorism in Practice
In supporting students to acknowledge their own achievements and effort, we as educators can bring to them the use of technology to assist in meeting their goals. It is stated “research tells us that not all students realize the importance of effort.” (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007) pg 156) In assisting students to make the connection between effort and success, it is imperative to present ways in which students can practice upon what they have learned. Educators can implement many different strategies within the classroom for students to utilize. In creating opportunities for students to grasp, they then can take accountability for their own learning. When students work to master and track their own gain and successes they are able to see the effort and the impact it makes in their education. In taking part in this practice, their effort is reinforced and the sense of responsibility holds true in their active learning process. When students are able to understand the importance of practicing upon a concept, they are hoped to gain more enrichment from this activity. When “addressing their attitudes and beliefs about learning” (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007) pg 155) it can create a connection, which will impact their future successes.
When students practice and look upon concepts they have learned, it creates an opportunity to ingrain their knowledge. Technology plays a huge role in discovering new opportunities to practice and drill their new found awareness of concepts. This is an important reinforcement for instant feedback for students to be aware of their successes. When students extend the learning process at home, they are able to review and apply their knowledge in a variety of media. The examples discussed in our resource Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, explores the many opportunities for students to enhance their learning. When having a multitude of ways to revisit a concept a student is more apt to have a greater understanding of what they learned. By doing these instructional strategies and putting them into the hands of our student’s we are creating an opportunity for instant feedback and reinforcement. This is a powerful tool to extend to your families to work at home and work together to gain a goal toward proficiency in our schools. I believe the strategies and instruction do relate to behavioral learning theory in classrooms past, present and future.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
When students practice and look upon concepts they have learned, it creates an opportunity to ingrain their knowledge. Technology plays a huge role in discovering new opportunities to practice and drill their new found awareness of concepts. This is an important reinforcement for instant feedback for students to be aware of their successes. When students extend the learning process at home, they are able to review and apply their knowledge in a variety of media. The examples discussed in our resource Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, explores the many opportunities for students to enhance their learning. When having a multitude of ways to revisit a concept a student is more apt to have a greater understanding of what they learned. By doing these instructional strategies and putting them into the hands of our student’s we are creating an opportunity for instant feedback and reinforcement. This is a powerful tool to extend to your families to work at home and work together to gain a goal toward proficiency in our schools. I believe the strategies and instruction do relate to behavioral learning theory in classrooms past, present and future.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Reflection
In completing this course, I have learned a lot about new and evolving technology to help support myself within my classroom. I have been able to widen my knowledge about modern technology and how I can utilize these skills currently and in the future. I believe I have taken a greater understanding on how I can further my students’ learning in and out of the classroom.
In regards to how I will further my new developments with technology, I feel confident in meeting my students’ needs inside the classroom. I am determined to gain continued education to implement these tools into my lesson plans. In order to increase student achievement I have to present technology in my daily lessons. I have already incorporated a document camera to improve curriculum to my students’. I also look forward to incorporating a smart board into my classroom. I have experienced the Itouch, and look forward to introducing my students to new websites to support their learning.
In thinking about two long-term goals to reach, I think a classroom blog is the first. I feel this would be beneficial to my classroom to add thoughts about our year in third grade. This will be a great opportunity to collaborate with others about what we are learning in our classroom. My other goal is to continue to be aware of up and coming information to bring to my students. I am very thankful for our technology teacher who brings technology tips every week to our school. I have been able to use these tools in order to extend classroom activities. I feel certain I can attain these goals and support my students to be 21st century learners.
In regards to how I will further my new developments with technology, I feel confident in meeting my students’ needs inside the classroom. I am determined to gain continued education to implement these tools into my lesson plans. In order to increase student achievement I have to present technology in my daily lessons. I have already incorporated a document camera to improve curriculum to my students’. I also look forward to incorporating a smart board into my classroom. I have experienced the Itouch, and look forward to introducing my students to new websites to support their learning.
In thinking about two long-term goals to reach, I think a classroom blog is the first. I feel this would be beneficial to my classroom to add thoughts about our year in third grade. This will be a great opportunity to collaborate with others about what we are learning in our classroom. My other goal is to continue to be aware of up and coming information to bring to my students. I am very thankful for our technology teacher who brings technology tips every week to our school. I have been able to use these tools in order to extend classroom activities. I feel certain I can attain these goals and support my students to be 21st century learners.
Technology Podcast
This has been a learning experience creating a podcast for this assignment. After reading the resources and completing the tasks of arranging my students for an interview, I was interrupted by my school district. Unable to interview my students I had to interview colleagues children. This created challenges at first however, in the end, I enjoyed discussing technology with the third graders. They were excited and had a variety of answers to my questions. I believe students have an array of understanding when it comes to technology. Hope you enjoy my podcast!
21st Century Website
As I reviewed the resources for this week and explored the 21st website I am curious. I was not aware of all this discussion for the readiness for students. I think maybe I tend to stay in a comfy bubble here in North Pole, Alaska. Although I know there are bigger and better information out there, I feel I meet the needs of my students daily. I am up to par with new and current information, however just when I think I got it.. there is more. I do realize technology is evolving daily if not by the minute. It can be hard to adjust your view so far out into the future. Just today I attended a training regarding career readiness for my students. Although this was geared toward sixth grade, it was brought to our attention it affects all of us, primary included. It can be hard to see the "whole" picture at times. I feel by learning about this website and understand the need to advicate for all students to be ready for the future. It was interesting to read about the U.S. Dept. plan for technology and the framework. I found the graphic rainbow a clear picture of what is foreseen for students to meet and the support then need. I look forward to learning more about this topic and how I can address my students in my classroom.
Blogging in 3rd Grade!
A class blog is an opportunity for educators and students to communicate with others in an academic setting. The idea of blogging in the classroom I believe would be beneficial to my students. I have taught third grade for eight years and have been part of the Reading First program. In our program our student focus highly in the area of reading elements. I find students either love reading or dislike reading in many cases. I strive each year to introduce strategies for my students who struggle and keep the interest for my students who are advanced. This program is wonderful, however I believe by giving my students the chance to discuss their reading interesting and comments with others would be supportive. If I were to set up blogging I would incorporate the smart board to get the class interested. By doing this students would have a visually and see the benefits of sharing their ideas and comments. I would encourage students to start thinking about what they feel, think, and give opinions about the literature they are reading. I feel then students could have a personal ownership of sharing, questioning, or reading about other students thoughts. In our classroom we also do a reading aloud time. Every year we read a series which the students love. I would think blogging would be another way student to express their predictions, thoughts, and comments. I am excited in the fact this is another tool as an educator to use within the classroom to connect to the world!
Hello Blogging World!
Welcome to my blog from way up North, Alaska! What a new and exciting adventure to begin as an educator. I've taught for eight years and currently teach third grade at a school I attended as a child. My husband I live on the Chena River with our two dogs, Toby and Sadie. I enjoy fishing, shrimping, boating, and a snow machine ride in the mountains for Alaska. As a student of Walden, I look forward to continuing my education to further support my current and future students.
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