It Gets Better

Final Reflection EDM310

Project #13

Project #13 Group Project for Cheers

For project #15, we mainly used Skype and Google Hangout. I really preferred using Google Hangout, but it was very "buggy. We often had issues with a member not being able to get into the Hangouts and we all got "kicked out" at some point or another and would have to re-join the session. We started out using Skype and soon found out it is set up for only two people unless you pay a fee for group conversations, but the three of us could still hear one another. Although we couldn’t see each other, we used Skype a lot to talk about ideas and brainstorm. After deciding to divide our project into three parts, we used Google Docs to collaborate. Last, we used e-mail to share the final project file.

Project #16

Blog Post #13

E-Media Fast

While attempting to do this assignment by completing a 24 hour E-media fast here are some obstacles that I incurred: The first attempt was interrupted by the A/C service person trying to
get directions to my home, of course, I had to answer my cell phone because it is getting really hot. The second attempt was interrupted by my oldest daughter that lives in another state. I usually text her back the same day and so I did! The third and final attempt was interrupted by my youngest daughter that is enrolling in college in Texas this week and she called me about completing her fafsa. Although she lives by herself in Texas, my income will be used to determine eligibility for a grant because she is only 20 years of age.

Since I failed at this assignment and I am not a big media consumer, I know it will be hard for my future students to fast from media all day in the classroom. By attempting to do this assignment, I been enlightened to the fact that we are not living in Medieval times, so we must awaken and get busy spreading the technology of the age we are presently living. I was told in 2008 when I first turned on a computer that if I chose not to learn how to use it, that I should go home and close my door and never open it again. I understand what this statement means now that I have been educated by doing these blog post assignments.

Final Report on my PLN

Symbaloo is my choice for my PLN Personal Learning Network. I have only added a few websites for my home page. By having a PLN I save a lot of time and most of all it helps me stay organized. I included Twitter because I found that I can acquire information on just about any subject I need to know. Also I am following the list of people from project #10 that was suggested for following. I have included youtube which we have used a lot in this class. Of course, I can't forget Facebook. I have included sites for shopping and banking too. Most of the others are news and music. I have signed up for edupln.ning.com a global website used by educators around the world. Also I just signed up for diigo because I think it is going to be a useful site for posting and learning and I will not need all these bookmarks.

Project #15

Progress Post for Project #16

Our group "Cheers" chose to make a video for our project. We have created an outline with the web sites we will use for this video. While we were collaborating online for Project #15 we were planning for project #16, however, we still have a lot of work to do on this project. Because we started planning early we will have our project completed on time.

Creativity and Curiosity: My thoughts Special Post 12-A

For this assignment I read the article by Elli on curiosity fuels creativity teaching your kids to be curious and left her a comment on her article. I have to agree that being curious fuels creativity. I am always asking questions. I find that when people ask questions they are engaged in the conversation. As for the question of how to spark curiosity in children, I believe the more relaxed the children are the less fearful they will become and the thought of being wrong will not stifle their creativity.

My thoughts: When students are bored with learning facts they will not be engaged in how to remember all these facts, but when they have completed a group activity, for example, learning spelling words they will recall more of the words. The group may choose how to learn the words with either a crossword puzzle or using them in a sentence with a picture. Since all children learn differently, using different strategies will be necessary.

Also, I agree with Sir Robinson that while schools are focusing on drilling math and science into the students, they are not educating the students to think for  themselves. I feel strongly that all students should be allowed to participate in art, music, and dance. These are only some of the ways to become more creative. My oldest daughter told me that the school of performing arts in Mobile was her favorite school. I think that children learn by example, and that we have to model ways of being creative by using our teaching skills. The learning environment is the most important focus in the classroom.

From the American Psychological Association I found an article on motivating students to learn. This article tell us that "Research has shown that motivation is related to whether or not students have opportunities to be autonomous and to make important academic choices." So, by having choices, the students feel in control over their learning, thus further engaged in learning. "Teachers have observed that after the second or third grades, many students begin to show signs of losing their motivation to learn." So, what happens to their eagerness to learn? They are not given appropriate choices, therefore, they are not challenged to become independent thinkers and their creativity is shut down.

Project 12

For project 12 you will need to go to Web 2012 Discovery education and click on related links at the bottom. Each week 2.0 tools are published. I chose to make a comic using the make beliefs comix. You can make your own comic about whatever you like. You will need to write a two paragraphs about your post following the guidelines for writing a quality blog post.


I used a program from 2.0 web tools makebeliefscomix.com for my assignment and this is the comic I created for the project.

I feel that when students are given the opportunity to create their own projects they will do a better job. Students that are visual learners will benefit tremendously from creating a comic. One of the main problems with students getting started with a topic for a writing assignment is choosing a subject. First, by creating a comic the students may narrow the subject. This will make it easier for them to get started.

I chose the good fairy, which is one of my childhood favorites. The fairy is turning the book into a computer. I felt this was appropriate for this class assignment. Since technology is what we have been exposed to in this class, and learning how to use it as a future educator will determine what type of teacher we will be I wanted to write my essay on creating a magical classroom. A classroom that I dreamed of teaching where the students were excited to read a story. The best part about being a student in the 21st century is learning to blog about what you have learned and share it with the world. I may just become a blogger after all and to be able to share how to blog will be like creating magic in the classroom.

C4T#4

Summary


I posted a comment for Bill Ferriter who teaches 6th grade language arts in north Carolina. See his blog at The tempered Radical His April 11,2012 post titled Calling Out #atpic Nation included his view on how professional learning communities are reaching their potential for changes in teaching and learning environment in schools. In his opinion, from my observation, the PLCs are only giving lip service. His point is that there is a simple explanation for the difference between what our PLCs are versus what our PLCs should be. He is convinced that we are sold out to standardized test. He asked the question "Are you so concerned with your own position and/or reputation that you've stopped advocating for what is right for our students?

Yes, we have image problems that effect how we will change the environment of teaching. Because I believe that most people will just go with the flow rather than change the system because change can be scary. As a future educator I want to engage the students in a learning environment that sparks their interests and motivates them so that they don't want to miss a day of school.

My Comment

Hi Mr. Ferriter,
I am a student at the University of South Alabama in Dr. Strange's EDM 310 class. I agree 100% that teaching is more than burping back facts! As a future educator I feel passionate about doing what is right for the students by teaching them to be resourceful, creative, and to communicate effectively. They need to feel confident they can solve problems in our world. We do need to make time for the skills that matter the most.
Thanks for your post,
Cyndi Ford

Summary

I posted a comment for the second week on The tempered Radical The title of his April 28 post is Why I NEVER recommend Teaching as a Profession. First, he wasn't talking about his students being the reason for not wanting to teach, but with the political system being the reason. His post was in response to Phil Berger wanting to create a merit system and do away with teacher tenure. Find the article Senate leader Berger proposes changes to teacher employment rules This is a quote by Berger "Until we get the policy right, I don't think the taxpayers of this state are prepared or should be asked to put more money into the public schools then we are presently." Of course, Bill Ferriter says " He's not even CLOSE to getting the policy right." So, this is the interesting part for me because as stated in his post research has shown that what Phil Berger is proposing will lead to worse results. You will need to watch in this RSA Animate talk This is a very enlightening post by Mr. Ferriter.

My Comment

Hi Mr. Ferriter,
I am a student at the University of South Alabama in Dr. Strange's EDM310 class. Your post is an eye opener on some issues I will face as a future educator. I know I will face many challenges as an educator and I appreciate your passion for teaching and sharing the frustrations that go along with the job.

Blog Post #11

After watching First Graders in Ms. Cassidy's Class I couldn't believe these kids were blogging. They were having so much fun while learning to write. Also, they used wikis in their classroom to learn about rituals around the world. These kids are learning to collaborate while making their own videos, for example, they made one about counting. Can you believe they got to play on Nintendo DS too. They were playing Nintendog! Believe it or not they were actually learning how to get along by sharing and discussing how to take care of their dog.

Ms. Cassidy's class motivates me to learn as much technology as possible to share with my future students. By using wikis they will be educated on how to look up information in their future. I will definitely use a webpage for the students with the different subjects we are studying. I like the idea of teaching the students to blog at an early age, namely, this will boost their confidence in writing because of the comments they receive. I think that using Skype would be an excellent way for the students to visit other classrooms and acquire knowledge from other students. I think that I may encounter some problems with the Nintendo because of the problem of everyone wanting to play on it first. After all these kids are still learning to share.

After viewing the Ms. Cassidy"s Skype conversation I learned that she has the students blog about once a week. She talked about how she keeps the students safe, namely, they only use their first name and they don't put their picture on their post. She is teaching them some of the benefits of blogging, such as, learning to be nice when you leave a comment and not to say mean things. Also, she is teaching them the importance of where to go on her web page, for example, stay in the middle of the page and not on the sides. This is a great start for these first graders.

C4K April

#1

My assigned student posted a question on her blog:

Do you like to play or do any sports like Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Field, Swimming, Soccer, Tennis, or any other sport or sports you like to play or do?

This is my first comment for Kate

Hi Kate,

I am a student at the University of South Alabama. I enjoy swimming and I am in an Aquatics class this semester. I have learned front crawl, elementary back stroke and breast stroke. Also, I enjoy playing volleyball at the beach with my friends. Sports have always been an enjoyment for me. Sports are a great way to stay fit!

Are you going to pursue a career in volleyball?

Best wishes,
Cyndi Ford

#2

My assigned student posted some jokes on their blog:



Why was the gopher wearing its golf socks, because it had a hole in one!

What goes up and never goes down? Your age!

What do you call a cow with no legs? Ground beef!

What type of snake do babies like to play with? A rattlesnake!

What goes tick-tock and woof-woof? A watchdog!

What type of bean can’t grow? A jelly bean!

This is my comment for Kate:

Hi Kate,

It is me again the student from the University of South Alabama. Your jokes are really funny and I like your sense of humor. Thanks for a good laugh!

Cyndi Ford

#3

My assigned student posted some more jokes on their blog:

What do you get if you mix a rabbit with a snake? A jump rope!

What do you call a polar bear in a desert? Lost!

What do you call a cute volcano? Lava-ble!

Why didn’t the clam share its pearls? Because it was shellfish!

Why are wizards good at fishing? Because they really know how to cast a spell!



This is my comment for Kate:

Hi Kate,

I am a student at the University of South Alabama. A bit of humor is a nice break from studying for me. Thanks for your post. I wanted to share a web site with some Educational Jokes

I hope you will enjoy them.

Cyndi Ford

CK4#10

Mubashshir had posted an animation with his voice using Kidpix.


I left a comment for Mubashshir at click to view

This is my comment:
Hi Mubashshir,
I am a student at the University of Alabama in
EDM310 class, thus, this is how I found your animation. I enjoyed listening to you tell how you like to read, swim, and listen to music. These are also my favorites. I am taking a swim class at the University this semester. I like to read for information and for enjoyment too. Listening to music can be a good way to relax.

You are doing a great job!

C4T#3

Comment #1 March 1 Blog Post Comment

I posted this comment for Mr. Bernia on the Prezi he posted on leadership on March 1.

Your Prezi was very informative on leadership. I gained knowledge as well as motivation that I will take with me as a future educator. Thank you for your presentation.

Summary

I want to comment further by saying that I found the information can be useful for the students and anyone in leadership because if we are leaders we are role models whether we are at school or at the grocery store. Also he said leadership is about action not title. Lastly he said "if you want to lead people, give them freedom, purpose, and the chance to be an expert."

Comment #2 March 22 Blog Post Comment


Thank you, Mr. Bernia,

I am a student at the University of South Alabama. I am new to twitter and I have learned that I will be a better teacher by collaborating using twitter today. Thanks for all the informative links.

Cyndi Ford

Summary

I posted a comment for Mr. Bernia on his March 22 Post. He shared a link for those of us who are new to twitter10 steps for educators new to twitter that I found to be motivating to use twitter more often.

Blog Post #10

After reviewing the video on To Teach or to Educate these are some of my
thoughts about educating my future students. I intend to educate rather than just
teach by using a variety of instructional strategies. First, I would like to be
remembered for the story telling teacher. By encouraging the students in discussion
to solve problems would be one strategy. Second, to lead by example by having the
students speak, for example, show and tell would be another strategy. Last, by
using role play the students can learn by having a script and playing the part.

I can remember the stories and discussions from elementary school long years ago.
Some of the stories were about everyday life lessons that I have applied to my life.
By adding discussion the students will learn to solve problems and appreciate the
education they receive. I want to make the students feel comfortable by using show
and tell in the classroom. By teaching the students to speak at an early age they
will be better prepared for their future education. By using role play with a script
the students can learn a variety of subjects while having fun doing it.

Don't let them take home the pencils

Wow, this post uses pencils to describe the use of computers and it makes a really good point about education through the use of computers and how they might learn a few things by using them at home. I really like his idea of getting the parents involved and it is a very creative way of getting the message home.

Tom Johnson's post was largely influenced by Larry Feriazzo's July 1 post "take" on recent study saying home computer usage can lead to lower test scores and by computing with his friend Javi's experience with a Parent University. His post begins with an argument between the academic instructional specialist and himself about students living in low income families taking home computers and how it could lower their test scores. Gertrude the instructional specialist for the school views the use of computers at home as a distraction for the students, therefore, lowering test scores. Johnson points out that he met with Mr. Brown to develop program where parents learn certain skills to teach the students.

After reviewing Tom Johnson's Don't Let Them Take The pencil's Home!. The Question
is how do we measure authentic learning? There are many ways of learning. While students
may become bored with rote learning, games such as hang man can be an alternative to learning new words.

Being a teacher that is not afraid to incorporate a plan to bring the parents in to teach them skills to facilitate learning technology is a passionate teacher, if you ask me. So, why is it in the end the teacher has the finger pointed at him for the problem of lower test scores?

C4K #1 March

The student that I was assigned to had shared their experience at the art exhibition they visited with their family.

I commented on 4th grade New Castle UK blogpost and left this comment:

Hi, I am a student at the University of South Alabama. Thank you for sharing your experience at the art show. I enjoyed reading your post.
Thanks, Cyndi Ford

Blogpost #9

After reading Mr. Joe McClung's blog on What I learned this year (2008-2009) I feel I will be better prepared to teach my first year. In his first year of teaching he taught 6th grade Science. These are some things he learned, namely, he said "he learned a "TON" during his first year of teaching." I like this word because I think it is very fitting to the situation. Of course, I feel that I have learned a "TON" in this EDM 310 class. I know that I will be concerned as he was about the delivery of the content, but we need to be sure as he said "that we don't miss the most important part of teaching, and that is checking for student comprehension." Being flexible is good advice because I know that lesson plans will not always be perfect. More than trying to have that perfect lesson plan, when things go wrong try to better the situation with a "smile on your face."

I love the remark he made about technology that is very motivating for me because I get overwhelmed sometimes. He said "we cannot expect to master computer skills the first time we attempt them, so jump in head first ..... the water feels fine:)"

Another important detail is listening to your students because we may be the only person who does. Also, I agree that we should never stop learning he said "because we owe it to our students." Sometimes I don't want to take the time to learn new things because it is time consuming, but in the end I am not doing this for me, but for others, so they can experience learning too.

In his second year of teaching at What I learned this year (2009-2010) these are some points he addressed:

As a teacher we should not just lecture, but try to make the students to become independent thinkers.

Find that school Mom to help out. These are Mom's that have been there for several years and know how things work and will help at at a moments notice.

Check your ego at the door. We should do whatever it takes to get them to be excited about their education. We might have to play silly games to get them to respond. He said "we shouldn't be afraid to show we are passionate about teaching."

Don't be a control freak. Some people can go overboard with being in control. We should manage our classroom, but not to the point of doing everything for the students.

Scope and Sequence: Having a plan and staying on task to teach subjects for their grade level is very important. As teachers we will be more interested in one subject over another. We need to keep our perspective and spend adequate teaching and assessment time.

Don't lose sight of what is important: As teachers we cannot let adversity hinder our teaching in our classroom. The students are depending on you to teach and we have to be there to teach them no matter how bad it gets. His last bit of advice is to listen to those that have more experience than we do.

Project 14

Blogpost #8

This is how we Dream

This presentation by Richard E. Miller of Rutgers University is part 1This is how we dream This video is a "WOW" video that needs to viewed by all educators. This video is about teaching students to produce multimedia and not just to consume it.


He said "we are living at the moment of the greatest change in human communication in human history." He discussed incremental and fundamental changes and how they are taking place in technology.

An incremental change is where we search the web and collaborate and compose with images, sound, and print documents and weave into a coherent document. A fundamental change is when we are working in the digital environment where information is updated instantly.

I believe what he is talking about that "these ideas do not belong to us individually, but they do belong as a culture" to be a different way of communicating with the world. He said that we "must be in the business of sharing our ideas freely.

After watching part 2 I see where this is leading with technology to watch this video This is how we Dream part 2 This is phenomenal to me as a future educator to be a part of these changes taking place. Using aggregated bots to see "Where's the happiest city right now." My desire is teach reading and writing with a passion in the early years, so the students will have the best foundation possible. By using graphic images the students response will be more creative in their writing. Also, since they will be able to create their own graphics they will also more attentive in the classroom.

Carly's Post

First, I appreciate Carly's Post because she is so inspiring and creative. Her writing style is so lively and vivacious. I agree with her that we "should be thinking about our philosophies as teachers." Second, the playlist she posted does cause one to think about their life and what they are doing with it. Last, by using multi-media Carly has included many topics that will be important when teaching students in the future, such as, inclusion, disability means possibility, daily activities, and this is what our students deserve. By using these topics and others in her assignment she created I think Carly comes very close to Dr. Miller's hopes for writing with multi-media.

Video Ideas

My idea of a video would be to use the advantages of taking EDM310 and incorporate satire within a classroom setting. For example, the students would know how to blog, use podcasting, and smart board, but the teacher wouldn't have any idea how to use these. This would be motivating for some of the students I have heard complain of having to be in this class.

In the video The Chipper Series I found the primary message to be that Chipper didn't care about her education and her future. She was more concerned with her social life and finding excuses not to do the work required to finish her education. After striking out with real life jobs she decides to buckle down with her education and go back to school.

In the video EDM310 for Dummies I found the primary message to be clear that these students were frustrated with their lack of knowledge of technology. The video is comical, but gets the point across. This class does seem overwhelming to start with, however, so are a lot of other things in life.

Learn to change, Change to learn

After watching the video Learn to Change, Change to Learn I ask myself this question, How would I change the old system of teaching to the new system of teaching by incorporating technology in the classroom? This video is very informative for educators and future educators. The point was made if the old way of just learning facts and focusing on memorization of history is not going to prepare these students for the work force.
So many jobs today depend on teamwork, networking, and communicating across the world, moreover, the potential employee must be technology literate to fill out a job application online.

I can see the point made that we can't just hand the students a lap top without thinking about the dangers of the internet. So, the teacher facilitates learning by being a filter and engaging in the education of the student. To do this, the teacher will be active in helping the students set up their blogs, and check them daily. The teacher can do book trailers, podcast, and teach the students to use different tools to communicate. The students are already using most social sites outside of school, so this will not be new to most of them. By teaching students to collaborate with each other, they will be better prepared for teamwork in their future.

Scavenger Hunt

On this website Web2.0 for the scavenger hunt I found these 3 items:

The tool responsible for making this video is Prezi I checked on the pricing for teachers and it is my favorite price $0.

The social site I found Edmodo This site is similar to Facebook and Twitter. This is a site that is used by teachers to communicate with their students. The students can get their assignments. The teacher can post the assignments,give quizzes and post grades. Also, the teacher can communicate with other teachers.

This is one of the items I found that I have never used before Picsviewr With this tool you can turn your photos into visual presentations. Picsviewr allows you to share your photo sets or browse your friends ones. Your photos can be set on a natural wall, stacked, postcard, and many others to choose from.

Project 11

Project 12

Project #10

First Summary post:


I have started a PLN and uploaded my profile with the help of Symbaloo click here
Also I have started a following list for twitter. After reviewing the
suggestions for this project I feel I am on my way to creating my PLN.

Blogpost #7

        After watching the video The Networked Studentclick here I found a new way to learn while networking with others. This teacher in the video is a teacher of connectivism. She empowers her students to take control of their learning. The student does not have a textbook. They use google scholar and their school library data base for valid information. They create their own blog and consult others to make sure they have the right information. This video was very informative and something I will use in the future.

My PLE is similar to this seventh grader on the video A Seventh Grader's PLEclick here It also include both personal and school sites. My personal sites are Facebook, which helps me stay up to date with friends. Also informative information for me to use teaching Sunday school is Kidologyclick here. I have a list for school with different websites that I find useful to complete projects. Some of these sites I have a bookmark that I use everyday are blogger: Dashboard, Google Maps, and News.

Blogpost #6

First, in Randy Pausch's last lecture click here he discusses his childhood dreams and how they were fulfilled when he became an adult. Second he explained how he achieved them and how he has enabled the dreams of others. Last he talks about his legacy he is leaving to millions of children.

While he fulfills his own childhood dreams, to name a few, experiencing zero gravity, winning stuffed animals, playing NFL football, and being a Disney imagineer. He talks about the brick walls that he hit and said that "the brick walls are there to stop the people that don't want it as much as you do." He did not become a football player, but he said he did get great experience while trying. He said that "experience is what you get when you don't get what you wanted." He said he was glad he became a professor so he could enable others to experience their childhood dreams. Also he said "you should be glad when people critique you because they love you and care about you."

He did help his students, but he did not want to stop there so he helped invent video game simulators used by NYFD to teach firefighters to be first responders to chemical spills and terrorist attacks. He tells about ETC Entertainment Technology Center that he credits to Carnegie Mellon being the only place it could have developed. ETC is a two years professional degree. He describes the course as having no deans to report to, field trips, all project based, and intense fun student experience. ETC is global in three countries now. Companies are sending written agreements to hire the students when they graduate.

He described his project Alice that is his legacy he is leaving to millions of children to have fun while learning something hard. He described it as a head fake for the children. He said they can have fun writing software programs and not even know it is a program. He gives credit to Dennis Cosgrove and others for the project.

These are the points that he made to get you to achieve your dreams. He said you can't make it on your own. You need the role of parents, teachers, mentors, and students, to help you achieve these dreams. He said "Bosses" Respect authorities while questioning it." We learn from students because they understand how other students learn and have fun. Lastly he said never give up.

This video means so much to me because I did achieve my goals and dreams except for being a school teacher, which I am doing now at almost 50 years old. In another project titled my sentence, my sentence was never give up on your dreams. When I was a child I had many wonderful teachers and I wanted to be like them one day. They seemed to be very happy to be teaching. When I graduated I thought that I needed to make money, so I pursued a career in Real Estate and quickly climbed the ladder of success. Now I just want to live life and have fun along the way fulfilling my dream and the dreams of others.

Feb summary ck4

This is the link to my student's blog:
click here to view
I commented on a Christmas video posted on her blog. These guys were hilarious on the e card.

I commented on the class blog's pictures of beautiful sunsets
and dolphins.I love these sunsets because they look so real with the sun going down into the water.
click here to viewclick here to view

I left a comment for Emma in Mr. Avery's class at click here

Hi Emma,
I am a student in Dr. Strange’s EDM 310 class at the University of South Alabama. I enjoyed reading your post about the road trip to Florida. I liked the games you played on the trip. The longest road trip for me was to Galveston, Texas to see my daughter Taylor, which is only 9 hours from here. I enjoyed your video too with all the animals at the zoo.

#4I left a comment For Jozef and Filiz click here
Hello Jozef and Filiz,
I am a student at the University of South Alabama. I enjoyed reading your blog about your trip to cardiff to visit the Museum of Welsh life. Did they let you eat some of the vegetables? I love cabbage and carrots.

Thanks, Cyndi Ford

Project #8 Podcast

Project 9b

C4T#2

#1I left a comment for this assignment on this teacher's post Doug Pete

I read the quotes and found one of my favorites. There is also a wordle to go with it. To find my favorite click on this link to the blog post.

A mind is a fire to be kindled, not a vessel to be filled. ~ Plutarch

#2I left a comment for March 1, blog http://dougpete.wordpress.com/2012/03/01/uncle/#comment-8922

Thank you for the long list of information, I am always glad to learn new things. You are right there is no privacy. I am with you that we have to role with this one.

Blogpost #5

Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff. Please?

After reading this post Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff. Please? I thought this was me being negative about the internet because of the bad things they could learn and not thinking about all of the positive things that they could learn.
Dr. Scott McLeod J D PhD., is an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Kentucky, and is also recognized as one of the nations academic experts on K-12 school technology leadership issues.

I have to say that I agree with Dr. McLeod's position on teaching our children to be technologically literate. I believe that children need to be supervised so that they will understand which web sites are okay and which ones are not okay. After reading his blog, I can say that I used to think that teaching children technology was dangerous because of statements from other people. I found myself saying some of these comments to my children.
My opinions have changed about technology after attending a couple of years of college. Now I have fun with my son teaching him to communicate with his best friend after we moved this year by email. I agree that children will have a better chance of getting a job and communicating with the world in their future if we teach them to be technologically literate now.

i School

After watching the video i School I am excited about the future of public education. I want to a part of the revolution started by these students Travis Allen's Zeitgeist Young Minds entry (mobile learning) i School InitiativeThis is one of the ways technology can be used to in the future to facilitate public education.I am especially fond of the idea of communication between the teacher and the parent. The financial advantages are a bonus too. This idea comes from a student that knows what will work from being on the inside and I for one think it is a great idea.

Eric Whitare's Virtual Choir


After listening to these people perform in Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir my interest in exploring the use of the internet has been spurred. This choir music is so beautiful. They sound like they have been rehearsing for months. It is hard to believe this is all done through the internet, it is beautiful and intense choir music. These people are an awesome display of the use of the internet.

After viewing the video Teaching in the 21st Century Students I believe that an educator's job will not be obsolete. My opinion of teaching is that the teacher has to show the students how to use technology in the classroom. Having the proper skills in teaching students how to integrate technology into the classroom will be a standard required for all teachers.
In order for students to learn and not just memorize facts they have to be engaged in learning. The teacher's job is to help the student to be able to solve problems in life, learn to be creative, and apply what they have learned in real life situations.

Reading Rockets
 I have to say this is a great site Reading Rockets for everyone wanting to learn they have sites for math and science and too. I found the site for Discovery Education and clicked on students and then on help with math homework they have math for everyone up to trig. and calculus. Also, they have science brain blogging games and virtual investigations on this site.

After reviewing the information on the home page of Reading Rockets I found a helpful resource for teachers for starting with kindergarten that will enhance students comprehension.
Doing effective read-alouds includes information in teaching effective read-alouds using  the abstract
method, and effective read-alouds practice. There are different methods listed with many of these research based techniques for reading aloud in small groups. I found the second and third read aloud information helpful for clarity and understanding of the story.

Also, I found a reading podcast site at Meet the Author listed under strategies for teaching reading.
Under this link I found one of my favorites Aesop's Fable The Wolf and the Fox. There is so much information for teachers and parents I am totally engulfed. There are resources for all age groups and such a vast amount of information that can be used everyday.

Project #9a

Blogpost #4

First graders create podcast is an eye opener for me. I like the way these teachers organized the students into groups to create the podcast reading along in the Magic Tree House Series, The Vacation under the Volcano. When the students get to record their voices being the characters in the book, they are creating the podcast and also learning to read at the sane time.

Listening comprehension Podcasting is an exciting way to learn English. I did not realize how many times you have to hear a new vocabulary word to learn it.You need to hear the word 70 times! Also, by using podcasting you can hear the sound of the letters that make up the word and the words that follow to help learn the new vocabulary word.

The benefits of podcasting in the classroom is some very good information on the use of podcasting in the classroom. Using podcast can help students that may be out sick do their work from home. The parents can get involved in their child's studies. The student can review the lecture and post their comments.

Since children love to be the center of attention, podcasting is perfect for elementary students whether they are learning math, science, or any subject. Using podcasting can hold student's interest in a subject that they do not really like. Using project based education allows for creativity and innovation in the classroom.

Project #6 My Sentence

Project#5

Blogpost #3

Peer Editing

After reading Paige Ellis Peer Editing I learned the proper way to do peer editing.Peer editing is working with someone your on age to help improve revise, and edit his or her writing. Edit means making suggestions, comments, and changes to writing. There are 3 steps:
1. Compliments - Making a compliment about their writing, such as, I like the details in your paragraphs.
2. Suggestions - Making a suggestion to use a compound sentence instead of so many sentences.
3. Corrections - Grammatical errors, for example, using there instead of their when writing about a person.
Peer editing can be done publicly or privately through Email. This was a refresher for me because it has been a long time since I have done peer editing.


Using Technology in Special Education


After watching the video Education for special needs opens up a whole new world for these students. Some of needs may be non verbal, physical, or cognitive limitations. One of the students was able to enjoy reading by using an iPod touch. Another student used his mouse to touch the letters to complete a cross word puzzle. Non verbal students used the computer to speak for them.
As I watched the students in the class participate I could see that technology made them feel more comfortable in being part of the group. Learning seemed to be enjoyable for them as I watched them smile. Using technology will help these students to become a part of our future workforce.
Apps for Autism
After reviewing the iPad apps, I would choose the Blackboard sight word game HD app. It has 5 game settings, sound effects, voice, speech, so it would be great for students with autism. It is a free app. I would incorporate it in the regular class with all the students. Most students could benefit from this app. It reminds me of that old phonics game.
If the children can learn to spell the sight words that are needed by the 3rd grade, they will be on the way to reading faster. This will help boast their confidence, and make them want to read more books in the future.

Social Media


After watching Social Media Counter I feel a strong urge to get into high gear with the social networks. These figures are astounding to say the least. Because I am choosing a professional career in education, the need to be active in the social network is imperative for me.
Also,being a part of students lives and being able to communicate effectively with them and their other teachers will be a challenge. Just being able to speak the language of the social media can be confusing for me sometimes. After reviewing the counter I am totally motivated to start using the social networks.
A vision for Students today
After watching the video A vision for Students today I am enlightened as to what is really on the minds of students. This video is a cry for change. Some teachers are still teaching in the 19th century. If technology is not used in the process of students educational years, how will they survive in the world when they get out of school. Technology has to be incorporated into the early learning years, so teachers should technologically literate.
Without change in the methods of educating students they will be lost early on and may not be able to catch up in their future. Also student drop out rates will sky rocket because the students will be so bored.

c4t#1

I read Ms. Diane Krause's blog and found the information on formative assessment to be helpful in teaching students by staying on top of their learning by getting constant feedback. By doing formative assessment teachers can make sure their teaching styles are successful and adjust according to each students needs. By asking questions often, getting a thumbs up from students or putting them into groups their needs can be assessed often.


Hi Ms. Krause,

My name is Cyndi Ford. I am a student in Dr. Strange's class at the University of South Alabama. I have been assigned to your blog. I will be reading your blogs. I found your blog is very informative. I like the examples, such as,putting the students in groups, getting a thumbs up, to make sure that the students are learning the subject being taught. What are some other ways for teaching?

Thank you for your time,
Cyndi Ford

I read Diane Krause. blog on using technology to teach project based learning. By using the iPad 2 the students can "become" the animal that they are learning about in class. By using the animal they can create a presentation from the animal's point of view.

Good Morning Ms. Krause,

It's me again, and I think your blog really hits the spot on teaching our children with technology. The project based learning with the use of the iPad 2 opens up a whole new environment for learning.

Thanks, Cyndi Ford

blog post #2

Did you know?                                                               

After watching Did You Know my eyes are more open to making sure I speak proper English. People from India and China speak better English than most Americans. I speak slang everyday with people. As a future Educator, I want to be sure I will not translate this slang to my to my students.

I am looking forward to the next generation of teaching. I feel passionate about being technologically literate so that I will be able to communicate with the rest of the world. This video was truly an eye opener as to how many people there are in other countries that speak English. This tells me I must make my best efforts to speak proper English.

Mr. Winkle Wakes

After Watching the Video Mr. Winkle Wakes my question is "How will people communicate in the future if they are not technologically literate?" Poor Mr. Winkle could not receive treatment at the hospital because he did not understand how the hospital was set up.

He did not know how to communicate with the rest of the world.If students are being taught like the video with the computer collecting dust in the back of the room, they will not be capable of communicating with the rest of the world in their future.

The Importance of Creativity

After watching the video Schools kill creativity I have to say I agree with his comment that we as a society do not place enough emphasis on children's creativity.He talked about how each child is unique and we must help them to develop their special talents.

Children are always more interested in playing a game than listening to a lecture. When I was in elementary school when we drew a picture of what we wrote about it was always easier to think of something to write about. The ideas of our children are going to lead us into the future. We must place value on what each child has to offer in the classroom, whether in math, science, art, or dance. This video really enlightened me into thinking in the direction of accepting what the children are good at doing.

A Vision for the 21st Century

After watching the video A Vision for the 21st Century I was totally blown away by this idea.

The video is sending a message that we need to change the way we educate students in the classroom. I agree that lecturing to students and making them read out of books are ways that need to change. I am not sure if this idea of a 3-D video game is the answer, but maybe it could be a good place to start.

Blog Post #1

After watching Randy Pausch's video, I am inspired to do a to do list. Also, I learned that I need a daily plan so I won't be stressed out. He mentioned that you can change the plan, but you have to have one first before you can change it. The main thing he said that I remember most is experience comes with time and there are no short cuts.

I have lived in Alabama all of my life. I lived in Irvington, Alabama until I graduated from High School in 1980, then I moved to Mobile to attend Twentieth Century Business College. I got a job at Morrison's in the accounting department. I got married a year later. I wanted a job outside of four walls so I got my Alabama Real Estate License. After my first child was born in 1986 I stayed home with her. My second child was born in 1992 and I became a full time stay at home Mother. My son was born in 2000.

I divorced in 2003 and wanted to start a new career to support us. I attended Faulkner State Community College from 2008-2011. I graduated in General Studies. By now you have probably guessed I am close to 50 years old. I have always enjoyed working with children. I have taught Sunday School and worked in a day care center. My passion is to teaching because when I was in the fourth grade I had a sweet teacher who taught me to read. Reading the words was not the real problem, but comprehending what I read was hard for me. She took the time to make sure I could read that year. I am here getting my education today because I want to make a difference in children's lives.

Outside of going to school, working, and being a full time single mother I like to swim, hike, listen to 70's music, and cook. My interest are traveling and spending time with my family.

project #2

test post

hey my blog