Just 8 weeks ago, I looked at my class syllabus and thought about dropping out of the class. The list of technology assignments made me instantly dizzy. In addition to the assignments, I had to register for all these programs and online resources which were all unfamiliar. I simply wanted to throw in the towel and "head for the hills." While sitting in a Professional Development training session today, I was glad that I didn't give up.
Imagine my response, when the host announced that the trainer was unavailable to teach the class. I thought for sure that they would cancel the class but instead they popped on the computer and thus appeared the training. He used a previous recorded session of himself! I smiled so hard because I knew that I was now capable of doing the same thing. And although the instruct wasn't there, the recording was so clear that he wasn't missed. I actually almost raised my hand to ask a question :)
After stressing for numerous days about my ability to create such projects, now I too am able to create Podcast, Digital Stories, and interactive Power Points. All of these projects gave me a lot of practice with resources that can be beneficial to my students and to myself.
I must say that I have come a long way and Boy Am I Proud of Myself!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
No Excuses-Just Results
Elementary Students Encouraged to Set College Goals
After reading the article, "Elementary Students Encouraged to Set College Goals," I was so inspired. I would love to try this kind of program at my school. The article showcases an Elementary school in San Diego. This school noticed that their students were ranking the lowest in their area and decided to take action. Instead of continuing with a traditional school set-up, this school added a twist.
The first thing that the school did was change the name to No Excuses University. Then instead of assigning classroom numbers, the classrooms were labeled a college name. In each classroom, the students learn about their college and operate as a unit. In addition to learning about the college, the students are also required to complete a career plan. This plan helps them start thinking about higher level education early in life instead of waiting until they are in high school.
Three additional ideas that I found interesting were:
*The parents attend training at the Parent University to learn skills to help support their child.
*The child completes a career plan and the parent reviews the college checklist.
*The school has reached out to the community and began training business volunteers, churches, and fraternities on the program so that they are able to support the students.
With students, parents, teachers, and the community all working toward a common goal, students have a better chance at achieving their academic goals. What a great idea!
After reading the article, "Elementary Students Encouraged to Set College Goals," I was so inspired. I would love to try this kind of program at my school. The article showcases an Elementary school in San Diego. This school noticed that their students were ranking the lowest in their area and decided to take action. Instead of continuing with a traditional school set-up, this school added a twist.
The first thing that the school did was change the name to No Excuses University. Then instead of assigning classroom numbers, the classrooms were labeled a college name. In each classroom, the students learn about their college and operate as a unit. In addition to learning about the college, the students are also required to complete a career plan. This plan helps them start thinking about higher level education early in life instead of waiting until they are in high school.
Three additional ideas that I found interesting were:
*The parents attend training at the Parent University to learn skills to help support their child.
*The child completes a career plan and the parent reviews the college checklist.
*The school has reached out to the community and began training business volunteers, churches, and fraternities on the program so that they are able to support the students.
With students, parents, teachers, and the community all working toward a common goal, students have a better chance at achieving their academic goals. What a great idea!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Turn Your Attention to the Monitor
Camera System Connects Homes to Classrooms
Today I read an article entitled, "Camera System Connects Homes to Classrooms." This article discussed a school which has chosen to use camera system to present classroom material to students who are away from school. As the article stated, teachers record their class lessons which can later be review by students at home. Although the program was intended for students who are absent, I believe that all students can benefit from this system.
Often in school, kids are distracted by other students behavior problems or because they just aren't paying attention. Having a review of the lesson available at home is a nice luxury. This also helps if students have a question while completing homework. Students can listen to teacher instructions without zero distractions. I particularly like the fact that teachers can plan for their absence by recording a lesson and leaving it for the substitute teacher. Instead of wasting a class day with busy work, the substitute teacher simply pops in the DVD and the kids watch their teacher present the lesson.
I wish that all school districts had the funds to incorporate such programs in their school because this would help keep students learning at home as well as in school. Also, an added bonus would be for parents! I would love to see a such a program in my children school because I can assist them better with questions that I am unfamiliar with.
Today I read an article entitled, "Camera System Connects Homes to Classrooms." This article discussed a school which has chosen to use camera system to present classroom material to students who are away from school. As the article stated, teachers record their class lessons which can later be review by students at home. Although the program was intended for students who are absent, I believe that all students can benefit from this system.
Often in school, kids are distracted by other students behavior problems or because they just aren't paying attention. Having a review of the lesson available at home is a nice luxury. This also helps if students have a question while completing homework. Students can listen to teacher instructions without zero distractions. I particularly like the fact that teachers can plan for their absence by recording a lesson and leaving it for the substitute teacher. Instead of wasting a class day with busy work, the substitute teacher simply pops in the DVD and the kids watch their teacher present the lesson.
I wish that all school districts had the funds to incorporate such programs in their school because this would help keep students learning at home as well as in school. Also, an added bonus would be for parents! I would love to see a such a program in my children school because I can assist them better with questions that I am unfamiliar with.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
What are the Students Responsibilities?
Equation of Success: Top Ten Responsibilities that Students Must Own | Edutopia
After reading the article entitled, "Equation of Success: Top Ten Responsibilities that Students Must Own," I printed out a copy and asked my seventh grade son to read it. I found myself shaking my head and smiling after reading each number because finally, someone is placing the responsibility of educating students on the student. Too often we are looking for ways to teach students. What if we are giving our very best teaching? When is the student responsible for what they are learning.
This year my son began Junior high school. Already, I see a decrease in homework. He comes home nightly with an empty book bag. I inquired about his homework and I was told that the teacher didn't assign any. Fast forward one week! While viewing his grades on Gradespeed, I noticed a C. While discussing this grade, I asked how he could improve his grade. All of his answers revolved around what the teacher could do. This was shocking because he is not along in this his thinking. Sadly, I have noticed that as students enter the higher grades and the teacher gives them more independent practice, this is when students began to fail. I believe it is because students spend a huge amount of time memorizing for the test/grade instead of trying to apply the information.
I enjoyed the article because it hold students accountable for their education future. As I told my son, it is you who decides how much practice, review and studying your brain needs. He didn't understand studying outside of school because "she gave us time in class to do homework." To which I replied:
After reading the article entitled, "Equation of Success: Top Ten Responsibilities that Students Must Own," I printed out a copy and asked my seventh grade son to read it. I found myself shaking my head and smiling after reading each number because finally, someone is placing the responsibility of educating students on the student. Too often we are looking for ways to teach students. What if we are giving our very best teaching? When is the student responsible for what they are learning.
This year my son began Junior high school. Already, I see a decrease in homework. He comes home nightly with an empty book bag. I inquired about his homework and I was told that the teacher didn't assign any. Fast forward one week! While viewing his grades on Gradespeed, I noticed a C. While discussing this grade, I asked how he could improve his grade. All of his answers revolved around what the teacher could do. This was shocking because he is not along in this his thinking. Sadly, I have noticed that as students enter the higher grades and the teacher gives them more independent practice, this is when students began to fail. I believe it is because students spend a huge amount of time memorizing for the test/grade instead of trying to apply the information.
I enjoyed the article because it hold students accountable for their education future. As I told my son, it is you who decides how much practice, review and studying your brain needs. He didn't understand studying outside of school because "she gave us time in class to do homework." To which I replied:
Live up to your potential. Do your job. Look ahead. Keep up your end of the bargain in your own equation of success.
(Heather Wolpert-Gawron)
(Heather Wolpert-Gawron)
A Good Book
Five Books That Have Influenced My Teaching | Edutopia
I remember my first year of teaching. When I walked into the classroom, I felt clueless. What do I teach first? Is my classroom arrangement correct? What if I draw a blank and forget my name! Although I had the pleasure of working with some outstanding teachers, I went home feeling overwhelmed. Because my co-teachers were hard at work, they did not have the time to stop and mentor me. Some suggested some great programs and tools but this was limited. I am glad that technology has allowed for the sharing of teaching tips, tools, and daily prayers!
While reading the blog created by Mary Beth Hertz, I was happy to see a compiled list of books that may be beneficial to educators. Like children, I am always trying to learn something new so I began clicking on the links and researching the five books she listed. I found the descriptions of the books to be interesting and hopefully something which may help me better my teaching. I only wish that I had found 'blogs' sooner! Time for a trip to the library.
I remember my first year of teaching. When I walked into the classroom, I felt clueless. What do I teach first? Is my classroom arrangement correct? What if I draw a blank and forget my name! Although I had the pleasure of working with some outstanding teachers, I went home feeling overwhelmed. Because my co-teachers were hard at work, they did not have the time to stop and mentor me. Some suggested some great programs and tools but this was limited. I am glad that technology has allowed for the sharing of teaching tips, tools, and daily prayers!
While reading the blog created by Mary Beth Hertz, I was happy to see a compiled list of books that may be beneficial to educators. Like children, I am always trying to learn something new so I began clicking on the links and researching the five books she listed. I found the descriptions of the books to be interesting and hopefully something which may help me better my teaching. I only wish that I had found 'blogs' sooner! Time for a trip to the library.
Fuel Up For Learning
Congress Sends School Nutrition Bill to Obama
Today I read an article entitled, "Congress Sends School Nutrition Bill to Obama." The article discussed the decision of lawmakers to push for an increase in healthy foods served in schools. Although I do not understand all the politics of the bill, I strongly agree that children should not receive junk food in their school meals. Children begin their school day early and often don't receive nutritious meals at home. I believe that schools should provide food which will help students remain energized throughout their school day. When we serve fatty, sugary, foods to children we are giving them empty calories. Think about your classroom one hour after lunch. How often do you see children who are draggy and sometimes complaining because they are still hungry? Junk food has no place in a school cafeteria!
With the decrease in recess and physical education classes, children go to school for 8 hours with little exercise. To combat obesity and eliminate the common "midday crash" children need food that gives them energy. In the privacy of their own home people should be allowed to eat whatever, but while in school, children should be given the best nutritional diet possible. Vending machines should be non existing, fried foods should be minimal and sugar should be a rare treat. I understand that their are bigger problems in the school system, but providing a well balanced nutritional meal to all children should be important.
Boy, am I glad that someone has noticed the damaged that is being done to these poor kids bodies.
For more information on the Push to Get Junk Food Out of Schools, visit: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/08/health/nutrition/08junk.html
Today I read an article entitled, "Congress Sends School Nutrition Bill to Obama." The article discussed the decision of lawmakers to push for an increase in healthy foods served in schools. Although I do not understand all the politics of the bill, I strongly agree that children should not receive junk food in their school meals. Children begin their school day early and often don't receive nutritious meals at home. I believe that schools should provide food which will help students remain energized throughout their school day. When we serve fatty, sugary, foods to children we are giving them empty calories. Think about your classroom one hour after lunch. How often do you see children who are draggy and sometimes complaining because they are still hungry? Junk food has no place in a school cafeteria!
With the decrease in recess and physical education classes, children go to school for 8 hours with little exercise. To combat obesity and eliminate the common "midday crash" children need food that gives them energy. In the privacy of their own home people should be allowed to eat whatever, but while in school, children should be given the best nutritional diet possible. Vending machines should be non existing, fried foods should be minimal and sugar should be a rare treat. I understand that their are bigger problems in the school system, but providing a well balanced nutritional meal to all children should be important.
Boy, am I glad that someone has noticed the damaged that is being done to these poor kids bodies.
For more information on the Push to Get Junk Food Out of Schools, visit: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/08/health/nutrition/08junk.html
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Buggy about Bugs!
Today I found an awesome science website for students. The website is designed for elementary students but I think middle school students would like this site also. I like that the website is colorful, the font is large, and there is a variety of information. Because my students can't read the information, I will read while the students follow along with the pictures. The site also includes step by step instructions on a lesson and videos are embedded. This is awesome! As a class we can watch the video, complete an experiment, and later discuss our results.
I appreciate science websites, because as a kid I disliked science. So anytime I find a resource which will make learning science fun, I will give it a try. I still struggle with science but websites such as Lawrence Hall of Science are helping me get the hang of it. This site is beneficial to teachers because it is free and can be access by students in and outside of school. If you get a minute, give it a try.
Link to LHS kid site:
http://www.lawrencehallofscience.org/kidsite/
I appreciate science websites, because as a kid I disliked science. So anytime I find a resource which will make learning science fun, I will give it a try. I still struggle with science but websites such as Lawrence Hall of Science are helping me get the hang of it. This site is beneficial to teachers because it is free and can be access by students in and outside of school. If you get a minute, give it a try.
Link to LHS kid site:
http://www.lawrencehallofscience.org/kidsite/
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