I learned many valuable things from this class. I most enjoyed learning how to make a website. I have always wanted to be able to do that and now I know a quick and easy way. I will definitely utilize a website when teaching in the field. I think it is an excellent way to relay information to the students. Among other things I really enjoyed making and editing videos for the public service announcement. I feel confident making videos for other purposes as well, including demonstrations for class or student performance for assessment purposes.
It was kind of frustrating at first to only be given short instructions and then be let loose on assignments. Now I appreciate it more than ever. The technology we used this semester is not all that complex. It just takes some time and tinkering to figure out most programs. It is not practical to expect someone to be at your beckon call to show you how to use every new program that comes out. I have a better appreciation for figuring things out on my own.
I have always enjoyed using technology, but I have never been proficient with any one thing by any means. After listening to all of the gospel insight presentations I am excited about what technology can do for the spreading of the gospel. I feel like so often we hear about the evils of technology, and the presentations were a weekly reminder of all of the good things that technology has to offer.
I plan to be a PE teacher, but I never even thought about using technology in a PE setting before this year. I was schooled in a non-technology setting for PE, and it will be interesting to integrate it into classroom learning for future students.
Thanks for a fun and useful class!!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
App Appreciation Day
I have a feeling like somewhere along the way I will end up using an app for class work. In all honesty though, i really don't want to! I enjoyed learning about them in class and I am truly amazed at what technology allows us to do in the palms of our hands. But I think kids need to step back and have some good old fashion class instruction. A piece of paper to take home is a good thing every once in a while. You have to be responsible for where your assignments are, and heaven forbid we should have to learn proper hand writing. I realize that some study tools can be very helpful and so much more accessible through apps, but I don't think an app should replace traditional teaching means as the primary vehicle for learning. Giving the option is a fine idea, hence why I think I could end up using an app.
One app that I found that I think is pretty cool is called "gotomeeting." This app allows people to video conference very easily and in good quality without use of a computer. I think this could be perfect for broadcasting class for those who cannot be there(though this might actually encourage students to stay home and not come to lecture) or for parent teacher conferences. Instruction in person and conferences in person will likely remain my preference in the future, but this app allows for some leeway for both parties involved.
One app that I found that I think is pretty cool is called "gotomeeting." This app allows people to video conference very easily and in good quality without use of a computer. I think this could be perfect for broadcasting class for those who cannot be there(though this might actually encourage students to stay home and not come to lecture) or for parent teacher conferences. Instruction in person and conferences in person will likely remain my preference in the future, but this app allows for some leeway for both parties involved.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
I Don't Like Studio Code
This whole project has been a mess! First of all, I am not enrolled in the class that takes video of student teaching. As such I ended up using Hayley M's video to edit with Studio Code. It was really hard to hear what was going on much of the time, and the sound quality was not so great until the end-- where it cuts off early.
In terms of what I learned, I suppose my circumstance is an unusual one. Since I was not the one teaching I cannot reflect on what I have learned about my own management and instruction. I will, however try to highlight things I will implement or steer clear from in my own teaching.
I think it is important when teaching younger children to set very clear guidelines at the beginning. Hayley did a great job of this when explaining what the whistle means. If the kids know you have expectations they will probably behave better, and because they were well informed you can hold them accountable. When they do act out, it is essential to hold them accountable. Josh did a great job of this when Rodney was talking at the same time as him. There must be some level of allowance given when working with so many kids. But sometimes "letting things go" can reinforce bad behavior by the kids. So with allowance comes patience. Not everyone will be on task all of the time, and sometimes you have to keep working through it the best you can. Hayley does a great job of continuing instruction while reminding th kids over and over again to stay seated.
Praising students for their good works is an excellent way to encourage them to continue with good works. Motivation is often driven by praise, so it is important to let the kids know when they are doing good things. Proper demonstration is key for students to excel. Clear demonstration from a teacher gives a non-verbal reinforcement of instructions, usually making it easier to duplicate performance. As long as the class and teacher's instruction are organized the class will run smoothly. In the video the class was most on task when the teacher was clear in their instructions and involved in the demonstration process personally.
All of the aspects of teaching that I listed are important for me to implement into my teaching next semester when I begin student teaching. They are all crucial to creating a effective teaching environment.
In terms of what I learned, I suppose my circumstance is an unusual one. Since I was not the one teaching I cannot reflect on what I have learned about my own management and instruction. I will, however try to highlight things I will implement or steer clear from in my own teaching.
I think it is important when teaching younger children to set very clear guidelines at the beginning. Hayley did a great job of this when explaining what the whistle means. If the kids know you have expectations they will probably behave better, and because they were well informed you can hold them accountable. When they do act out, it is essential to hold them accountable. Josh did a great job of this when Rodney was talking at the same time as him. There must be some level of allowance given when working with so many kids. But sometimes "letting things go" can reinforce bad behavior by the kids. So with allowance comes patience. Not everyone will be on task all of the time, and sometimes you have to keep working through it the best you can. Hayley does a great job of continuing instruction while reminding th kids over and over again to stay seated.
Praising students for their good works is an excellent way to encourage them to continue with good works. Motivation is often driven by praise, so it is important to let the kids know when they are doing good things. Proper demonstration is key for students to excel. Clear demonstration from a teacher gives a non-verbal reinforcement of instructions, usually making it easier to duplicate performance. As long as the class and teacher's instruction are organized the class will run smoothly. In the video the class was most on task when the teacher was clear in their instructions and involved in the demonstration process personally.
All of the aspects of teaching that I listed are important for me to implement into my teaching next semester when I begin student teaching. They are all crucial to creating a effective teaching environment.
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