Reflection

EME2040 has taught me so much! Out of all the teaching classes I have taken at Edison State College, it has probably taught me the most and helped me discover different ways to run a classroom. I have learned a lot of information mostly from the book; I know much more about how to use a computer and different technologies in the classroom. Students respond to change and they can become more involved in their learning when they are engaged in interesting activities. The book explains how to focus on students and teachers and provides ways for them both to strive through helpful websites and transformative technologies. It also includes various computer software and programs that help teachers become more organized and prepared. I also know how to evaluate a website to ensure it is qualified and updated (Maloy, 2011).

Before this course, I knew absolutely nothing about technology besides Word, PowerPoint, and how to access the Internet. This course has widened my talent and I have discovered new ways to keep the classroom interesting. So many children use technology so it is good to use the things that interest them the most. I also know more about standards for teaching and what is expected in my curriculum. These are the standards being taught in the classroom and they are also used on the FCAT so it is good for me to keep up to date with them. (Florida Department of Education, n.d.). There are also many websites that I can use to enhance my teaching like zunal.com or wikispaces.com. All the pages I have discovered online allows teaching to become easier. I believe with the resources from the book and this class, I will be a successful teacher.  

The syllabus provides many outcomes due to this class; I think I have successfully achieved all of them. With the help of my classmates, I was able to create a Internet-based project that taught 1st graders about patterns. I also learned how to evaluate a website and check for its validity. All the discussions were easy to talk about because they were all relative to what we should know when it comes to teaching in our own classrooms; for example, talking about legal and ethical issues hit home due to the fact those issues are seen everywhere. I found the portfolio to be very helpful and it is a good area to have everything organized, also it was a good project to show off our new talents in the technology world. Evaluating all those projects and websites were a big help to get us ready for the future. I especially liked learning about assistive technologies and discovering all the technologies for helping those with special needs. It is also a big help to learn about ways to teach English Language Learners in order for me to reach out to them and their parents and form a relationship with those students.

I have enjoyed our discussions in the class; I like how we are able to respond and talk to each other. There was no problem when we needed to voice our opinions. I especially liked the online discussions because we could respond to each others answers and evaluate what each classmate said on a certain subject. I enjoyed one of the discussions when we talked about legal and ethical issues; it was enlightening to see what everyone’s viewpoints were. The activities in the classroom were also exciting; I loved interacting with each other and always being able to work with different people so we could all become friends. I do not think there is anything I would change about this class except for the time length!

Resources
Florida Department of Education. (n.d.).Curriculum and Instruction. Retrieved December 2, 2013, from
        http://www.fldoe.org/bii/curriculum/sss/
Maloy, R. W. (2011). Transforming learning with new technologies. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and
Bacon.

Journal 11

November 13, 2013
Chapter 11 Engaging Teachers and Students in Learning and Self-Reflection

Focus Question #1 What is performance-based assessment for teachers and for students?
Performance-based testing for teachers are how their supervisors will assess them in classrooms. This includes the teachers being evaluated by people in charge of the teacher license programs and also the teachers in the school. In order to get a full-time job, teachers will have to take a state test, be observed teaching in their classroom, write papers how how they teach in the class what what methods they use for students, and how that they can relate to the community. They also are self-evaluated and learn new ways to make their teaching skills better. Students are assessed by their everyday work and how they are doing overall in school. This allows other teachers to view a students' file and see how they are progressing in class, as well as seeing what they need help with.

Tech Tool 11. 2
Online surveys are great ways to get feedback from students and helps teachers decide how to further help them in class. Surveys from Zoomerang allow teachers to design their own surveys using different templates and greetings to help the students view the surveys easier. It also allows teachers to put the information online so people can see how they are doing. SurveyMonkey gives ways to make polls and surveys to collect information. It has many examples to follow so teachers understand what they are doing, which is super helpful. It also gives real-time results and allows teachers to make surveys quick and easy. Poll Builder allows teachers to make polls for free; it does not have a lot of options but it does formulate quick polls.

Summary and Connection
This chapter highlights ways that can get a young teacher's career started. Just like the other chapters of this book, it contains different resources teachers and students can use to excel academically. Portfolios are discussed and the book states the many uses of it for teachers; teachers can put their past lessons and information about themselves into this online resource. There are advantages and disadvantages to using online portfolios, but as time goes, it is probably not as hard as it used to to get access to a computer. Teachers use this tool to display their knowledge and skills over time, and it can also be edited with more information. This tool is a great resource due to the fact schools can view them and see what each teacher has done in their past; I think it is a good evaluation process so teachers can use to show themselves off as well. The online surveys and student participation systems such as clickers are great resources because they involve the students with the activity. They allow students to see their responses on the board but it does not show who got it wrong or right, so that there will not be any embarrassment. I like how this chapter embraced students and encourages teachers to include them in decision making so that they will be more interested in the work. My philosophy of education is focused on the students so I really liked that aspect of this chapter.

                                                      Photo Credit to NCSSM on Flickr
 
Resources
Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.  

Journal 10

November 1, 2013

Chapter 10 Promoting Success for All Students through Technology

Focus Question #1 What are differentiated instruction and universal design for learning?

Differentiated instruction is an approach that gives students different options to learn. They have various ways to take in information and make sense of new ideas. Teachers are able to meet the specific needs of students. Coming into a class, teachers should be prepared and have the tools to be able to help each and every student, no matter how they learn. Designing activities to teach to all learning styles is the key to success for these students. The only downfall is the fact that teachers do not instantly know how to specifically help students in class. Universal design for learning deals with how to serve each student in an educational setting. They think about how the brain works and relates it to learning; they give a chance for students to acquire their information, demonstrate their talent, and let them continue their work by enhancing the work. The purpose is for full participation for students but also offering individual help as well. Schools do not want students to feel better or less than anyone so they want to provide lessons that will not diminish quality for certain students who do need that extra help.  

Tech Tool 10.1

The CC16 Extra-Large Calculator is a bigger-than-normal calculator that invites everyone to use it. It has bigger buttons and is easier to view than most calculators so that students with disabilities can use it as well. It is lightweight and includes the four basic mathematical operations for students to use. As students use calculators more with real objects, they learn how to do mathematical functions without one! It helps them solve real-life problems. Jim Martindale's Calculators On-Line Center provides exciting and interesting problems for students to solve. These online simulations allows students to become more advanced. 

                                                 Photo credit to Youssef Abdelaal on Flickr

Connection and Summary

This chapter provides technology for any teacher, whether they know how to use a computer or not. It also provides ways to help every kind of student. There are low tech, mid tech, and high tech techniques that easily integrate technology into the classroom. There are different programs and software that allow teachers to teach better and assist. Electronic devices such as online dictionaries, calculators, and interactive sites are good ways to get students involved and let them have a chance to learn on their own, as opposed to the teacher just standing in the front of the classroom and lecturing. There are many processes and software that teachers can use when they want to make learning fun and give the students hands-on experience. I like all the information this chapter provides. This chapter helps me know what devices and various technologies are available that I can use to make teaching less boring. Honestly, when a teachers just talks the entire class, I get sleepy and do not pay attention; by using these things within a lesson, students can interact and like being in school. Although students should not depend on these technologies to do their work, people can see it as a very useful learning tool. I think it is amazing that they can be used to help special needs students and are able to help students like them thrive in the classroom. 

Resources 

Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.  

Journal 9

October 28, 2013
Chapter 9 Creating and Sharing Information with Multimedia Technologies

Focus Question #1 What is multimedia technology and how can teachers use it to effectively create and share visual information dynamically in their teaching?
Multimedia technology is when multiple media is combined to create high interaction between the student and the computer or technical device. It allows teaching to be more enhanced because of the different media being used. Multiple forms of technology can combine text, voice, images, and sound. Teachers can use technologies like interactive whiteboards, cameras and camcorders, and surround sound to extend the students' level of learning in the classroom. It takes advantage of the students' capacity to process information; with different technology being used during class, students can learn in many ways and exercise their strengths and weaknesses in how they learn. It gives teachers a chance to help every student, no matter what their learning type is, technologies can be worked for each individual student.  

                                                 Photo Credit to Entressen kirjasto on Flickr

Tech Tool 9.3 
Digital Storytelling tells different stories through digital media. It uses text, audio, and video imagery to make unique story presentations. It is especially cool because they can be personal and fun stories or even educational stories; it offers ways to teach about various themes. Digital art making allows students to make cool and visually compelling works of art. The website, http://www.nga.gov/kids/zone/zone.htm, allows students to create digital sculptures online and choose where they want it to be viewed. Students can play different games and view other artwork as well. It lets them be creative and not have to worry about what other people will think. Both these programs are good online tools that will help students be more creative and access the internet when they feel like being artsy.

Connection and Summary
There are many programs that teachers can use to enhance their classroom environment. Not only does it make learning more exciting, it opens up various ways to helping every student learn. Powerpoint, videos, cameras, and podcasts allow teachers to work with the students to create memories that are everlasting. As opposed to standing in front of the class using pictures that can not be changed or just lecturing to the students, these technologies brings forth creativity for both the student and teacher. With time and patience, multimedia will allow students to become computer savvy and teach educators to integrate technology in their lessons.

Resources
Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon. 

Journal 8

October 10, 2013
Chapter 8 Communicating and Networking with Websites, Blogs, Wikis, and More

Focus Question #2 How can teachers use email or instant messaging to foster information exchanges with and among students?
Email allows students and teachers to keep track of what they send and receive. Email allows teachers and students to think about they write and send meaningful responses, and it spell checks what is sent. On the other hand, instant messaging allows quick messages so they know they should get a response quickly. It is informal so there is no need to check spelling, as long as the message makes sense, it will be conveyed right. Email and instant messaging has passwords and protects what is being sent. Also, when using these messaging forms, students and teachers can explore their spelling and eventually become better in spelling due to their messages. They are used to write to contact libraries, museums, and universities; classes can send questions to academic experts and discover more about different fields. They can send emails to officials and public policy makers to influence the world around them. They are given a chance to express their voice to other people. Also, teachers can hold online office hours where students can ask them questions. It is easier to come up with questions when the pressure of a teacher and other classmates are not in the way.

                                                  Photo Credit to Renato Ganoza on Flickr

Tech Tool 8.2
Digital image scanners allows pictures and papers that are written to be transferred onto the computer so that it is saved. Paper can get easily ripped or lost, but on the computer, it will most likely be there forever. These tools are helpful and allow students to work on and off the computer; it integrates technology well. They are a vehicle for uploading printed or drawn images onto your computer. They give teachers the chance to add visual images made by students into their lessons. I believe this makes students feel involved as they see their work on the computer screen.

Connection and Summary
This chapter taught a lot about wikis and blogs, which is what I need help with. Although they are confusing, the book explained the difference between both and what situations should be used for each. It provided computer- mediated communication technologies like email, websites, and online discussions that are used to enhance teacher and student learning. Students enjoy being on the computer and using their phones; I learned that there are ways to include these items in their learning. This way learning becomes more enjoyable as they do hands- on activities and interact with people online.  

Resources
Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.  

Journal 7

October 9, 2013

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

Focus Question #2 How can teachers evaluate the different types of educational software available today? 

Teachers have to find out if the computer controls the activity, or if the student does. It is the students working and doing the assignment, not the computer; they control what they do. Also, they have to ensure the software favors long- term thinking as opposed to the student rushing through the activity. Students will learn and remember more when they actually think about what they are doing. The point is for the students to develop reasoning and start analyzing the material they learn. Also, any online activity should not promote violence, competition, or stereotyping because it can affect students personally. Competition makes students run through their work and try to finish first, they do not learn anything that way. Due to the excitement in online activities, students can use what they learn online and use it in the real world.Violence and stereotyping is not good for the real world.  

                                                    Photo Credit to San Jose Library on Flickr

Tech Tool 7.2

Zoombinis Logical Journey is an online game that teaches math solving problems and techniques. It is a game where students are given the chance to try and try, even if they got a question wrong. The point of the game is to help the Zoombinis get home by beating their obstacles, the math problems so they are involved in something they enjoy. Students will not get easily bored when they they playing a game so this is a good way to help them learn. As they continue to play this online game, they will remember the techniques they use and be able to use them outside of the game. Also, students can play together and interact as a group.  

Connection and Summary

This chapter provided a lot of examples and websites that make being a teacher easier. There are software and Web Tools all over the Internet that I can use to make learning fun, which is one of my main goals in teaching. Chapter 7 included different ways to discern the accountability of websites as well as described the purposes to use them. It also described ways on how to use these websites in lessons, and when too much or too little technology can occur. I learned a lot and now realize, even more than before, that even though I am not good at using the computer, this book has many outlets and helpful tips that will make me a good educator. 

Resources 

Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.  

Journal #6

September 30, 2013

Chapter 6 Teaching with Educational Websites and Other Online Resources

Focus Question #4 What are WebQuests and virtual field trips?

WebQuests are online inquiries that brings school work to life. Students follow a map or tour that allows them to visit other websites and get their information. The topic they pick is researched as they explore and investigate their questions. WebQuests are made for students and teachers; teachers can assign what level they want their students to work on in a WebQuest. For example, they have different models designed with students of every need, whether they have a problem or reading or they are really good at reading. A virtual field trip is when students can interact without leaving their classroom, they can simply see through a computer. Students can visit museums, science centers, and historical sites as they embark on this online journey. Virtual field trips allow students to communicate with each other or even interact with others in a different country or state!

                                                   Photo Credit to GalcierGuyMT on Flickr

Tech Tool 6.1

It is always a good idea to choose where your students can visit when they go on the Internet, this leads to no distractions or inappropriate websites. I agree that when you do not know what you are looking for, it is easy to get off track, especially on the computer. Teachers have the ability to save websites and let students have a chance to explore more into them, which is helpful for assignments. A tool used is called Portaportal that lets teachers and students bookmark favorite or important websites so they can share them or look at them later. It is a good resource to use when students are assigned a certain topic and the teacher provides a Portaportal that lets them go right into research. As I visited this website, I saw how easy it was to sign up and use this tool to simply copy and paste websites that contain information that is valuable. 

Connection and Summary

I think this is the most helpful chapter I have read! It included so many online tools I can use to easily integrate technology in lesson plans. Bookmarking will allow me never to forget websites that will help me in the future; it is also resourceful that I can discover more websites posted by other people. There are websites that are appealing to both students and teachers that allow both to design and explore them on their own. There are a bunch of websites that help teachers make lesson plans, find information, involve yourself in the sites, and even exchange ideas virtually. This chapter will surely be bookmarked for me!    

Resources

Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with 

new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.