Hello. I realize it has been a while since I posted last. I am now immersed in my job at St Paul's High School in Winnipeg, and loving it. I teach grades 9 and 10 basic French. It is a term position; I am taking over for a lady going on maternity leave. I teach four classes, two 9s and two 10s.
The atmosphere here is great. I love the friendly staff that are always willing to help you and answer your questions. The extra-curricular program here is also great. There are many opportunities for the boys to get involved in the community. I am in charge of curling here, both intramural and inter-school. I am really excited about this, and I hope it will be as fun for the boys as it will be for me! :)
Anyway, just thought I should update you on what is going on. Until next time!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Good news...
So, I got a job offer! I will be teaching high school French in St Paul's High School in Winnipeg! It's not official yet...I haven't signed any contracts, but I got the offer! Just thought I'd let anyone who reads this blog know! Will keep you posted!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Searching...
So, I don't have a job yet, everyone seems to be getting a job except me! I have applied for lots, been on an interview, but this waiting is killing me!
I haven't even had a subbing job. I have applied in at least 4 divisions for subbing, but have not received one phone call yet! This is crazy, whoever told me that having French is an asset, lied! I have applied for a few French jobs, but nothing. Anyway, just thought I'd keep people updated in case anyone is reading this blog!
I will update as soon as I find a job! Hopfefully I will be blogging soon!
I haven't even had a subbing job. I have applied in at least 4 divisions for subbing, but have not received one phone call yet! This is crazy, whoever told me that having French is an asset, lied! I have applied for a few French jobs, but nothing. Anyway, just thought I'd keep people updated in case anyone is reading this blog!
I will update as soon as I find a job! Hopfefully I will be blogging soon!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Morden Science units
So, here are a list of videos that are good for teaching some topics in high school science. They are all youtube videos, so if you don't have access to youtube, they won't work.
Grade 9
The first part of our unit is about Mitosis and Meiosis. These are both ways of reproducing on the cellular level.
Grade 9
The first part of our unit is about Mitosis and Meiosis. These are both ways of reproducing on the cellular level.
Best video I have seen for mitosis. It is fantastic!
Mitosis
Meiosis
Asexual Reproduction
Vegetative Propagation
Differences between Meiosis and Mitosis
For the part of our unit on reproductive success, here are some neat videos that show some animal behaviours and calls.
Lemur Mating call
Bird of Paradise Dance
Camel Mating Behaviour
Penguin Mating call
Embryonic Development with emphasis on the early growth
Genetics and Heredity
Grade 10
Photosynthesis song
Cell respiration (I've got a feeling)
Teacher singing a Photosynthesis song
Carbon Cycle Video
Limiting Factors in Ecosystems
Grade 11 Bio
Circulatory System video (great)
Circulatory system video (very quick)
Really good website for information about Blood
Respiration 3D
Monday, March 1, 2010
Last day of classes!
Hey everyone, this is the last post that will have something that I learned in classes...because it's the last day!! here is a link to my professional website with my eportfolio in it, if you're interested.
Today we learned about iTunes and podcasts. I thought this was interesting. I didn't know they were all free! I am definitely going to look through the store and see what I can use for my next student teaching.
I liked Mike's statement about the technology being great, but it can't replace good-old-fashioned great teaching. It can't replace good activities that you can do in the classroom.
Thanks for everything Mike, and to the class: it was a blast!
Today we learned about iTunes and podcasts. I thought this was interesting. I didn't know they were all free! I am definitely going to look through the store and see what I can use for my next student teaching.
I liked Mike's statement about the technology being great, but it can't replace good-old-fashioned great teaching. It can't replace good activities that you can do in the classroom.
Thanks for everything Mike, and to the class: it was a blast!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Second Last week ... Yay!!
This week is the second last week of school We only have 6 days left before we depart for student teaching, and I am so excited! I can't wait to be done classes, but we had more presentations this week and they were interesting!
Video conferencing was the first up this week. They talked about Skype and showed us how to use it. This was good because I have never used Skype, but now I actually know how to use it! I think it's a great tool for guest speakers who can't come into the school. This could lead to a greater variety of presenters, which is excellent! I also didn't know about that you could share files and show the screen that they are on. If they are having issues with a project or something on their computer, instead of sending the file, they can just show you the screen! I also like how the students would be able to leave a voicemail if they had a question. The second thing they talked about was Elluminate. We saw this with Alec Courous earlier in the term, but it was interesting to see it from the perspective of the creator. I like how the moderator and the students can modify the white board. This could allow collaborative work at large distances. I think Alec Courous was in Regina, Saskatchewan! I like the idea of the students being able to take notes about the presentations! Well done guys!!
Next up was "The good bad and the ugly of the internet:"
Bad:
Unreliable Sites : I think we need to teach students how to figure out which sites are good and which are bad.
Viruses : always a threat for schools, especially when filtering and blocking are not in place.
Personal Contact : I agree that the internet is having an impact on our social skills in face-to-face situations. These skills are something that we need to teach students in our classes.
Copyright Infringement : Teachers must emphasize the importance of citing and the ill-effects of passing things off as their own when it's not.
Anyone/Anything : Anyone can post anything. There is no monitoring and some of the information and ideas they are posting can be false or harmful to other people. We have to teach students how to use information safely and how to tell the bad sites from the good ones.
Good:
Instant Messaging : Can contact people in all parts of the world. Gain information that otherwise would have been unavailable. Blogs, Skype, Webcams, Facebook, etc are all examples of how this is used today. Instant messaging can be difficult to keep inappropriate use to a minimum, but I guess that's the teacher's job!
Information : Information can be found about anything and this can be a really useful tool for teachers and students as well!
Distance Education : Access for all! Good education for all students and courses that they could not take before, they are able to take!
Teacher Resources : Again, we can find anything on the web, and the internet is such a great tool to use. It makes teachers lives less hectic and crazy! Something we all can appreciate.
(atozteacherstuff.com, etc.)
Teacher networking : Teacher support over the internet is great. Sometimes teachers need help, and they can send out a call for help on their network, and tons of people will reply.
The next up was Video games in the classroom. It's a great idea for some courses, but I think there are very few games to teach biology! Someone should invent that...*hint hint*
Ok, so sorry to make this blog longer, but I almost forgot about today! Today we had Darren Kuropatwa and another guy and I can't remember his name right now! But they came to talk to our class today about technology...no kidding! Darren talked today about technological literacy. I thought it was interesting that he said we shouldn't be teaching kids literacy, but fluency. Technological fluency is competency with today's tools and using them with new technologies tomorrow. I thought that was a good distinction. Our tools evolve way faster than our culture and we need to be sure that our kids can extrapolate their skills to future endeavors. That was the thing that stuck out most for me!
The other guy (still can't remember his name) talked about neat things you can do with your cell phone in class. He showed us a program called iPadio where you can call a number and record a call. You can then attach it as an mp3 to a website OR transcribe the call into words. This would be a good program for children with special needs. If they could take the phone call and have it transcribed into notes for them.
The only thing I wanted to see was HOW to use these interesting technologies in my classroom. I have found with a lot of the presenters, they tell us all about a program, but don't really tell us how to use it in the classroom, because goodness knows, I don't know how!!
That is really enough for now, so blog you later!
Video conferencing was the first up this week. They talked about Skype and showed us how to use it. This was good because I have never used Skype, but now I actually know how to use it! I think it's a great tool for guest speakers who can't come into the school. This could lead to a greater variety of presenters, which is excellent! I also didn't know about that you could share files and show the screen that they are on. If they are having issues with a project or something on their computer, instead of sending the file, they can just show you the screen! I also like how the students would be able to leave a voicemail if they had a question. The second thing they talked about was Elluminate. We saw this with Alec Courous earlier in the term, but it was interesting to see it from the perspective of the creator. I like how the moderator and the students can modify the white board. This could allow collaborative work at large distances. I think Alec Courous was in Regina, Saskatchewan! I like the idea of the students being able to take notes about the presentations! Well done guys!!
Next up was "The good bad and the ugly of the internet:"
Bad:
Unreliable Sites : I think we need to teach students how to figure out which sites are good and which are bad.
Viruses : always a threat for schools, especially when filtering and blocking are not in place.
Personal Contact : I agree that the internet is having an impact on our social skills in face-to-face situations. These skills are something that we need to teach students in our classes.
Copyright Infringement : Teachers must emphasize the importance of citing and the ill-effects of passing things off as their own when it's not.
Anyone/Anything : Anyone can post anything. There is no monitoring and some of the information and ideas they are posting can be false or harmful to other people. We have to teach students how to use information safely and how to tell the bad sites from the good ones.
Good:
Instant Messaging : Can contact people in all parts of the world. Gain information that otherwise would have been unavailable. Blogs, Skype, Webcams, Facebook, etc are all examples of how this is used today. Instant messaging can be difficult to keep inappropriate use to a minimum, but I guess that's the teacher's job!
Information : Information can be found about anything and this can be a really useful tool for teachers and students as well!
Distance Education : Access for all! Good education for all students and courses that they could not take before, they are able to take!
Teacher Resources : Again, we can find anything on the web, and the internet is such a great tool to use. It makes teachers lives less hectic and crazy! Something we all can appreciate.
(atozteacherstuff.com, etc.)
Teacher networking : Teacher support over the internet is great. Sometimes teachers need help, and they can send out a call for help on their network, and tons of people will reply.
The next up was Video games in the classroom. It's a great idea for some courses, but I think there are very few games to teach biology! Someone should invent that...*hint hint*
Ok, so sorry to make this blog longer, but I almost forgot about today! Today we had Darren Kuropatwa and another guy and I can't remember his name right now! But they came to talk to our class today about technology...no kidding! Darren talked today about technological literacy. I thought it was interesting that he said we shouldn't be teaching kids literacy, but fluency. Technological fluency is competency with today's tools and using them with new technologies tomorrow. I thought that was a good distinction. Our tools evolve way faster than our culture and we need to be sure that our kids can extrapolate their skills to future endeavors. That was the thing that stuck out most for me!
The other guy (still can't remember his name) talked about neat things you can do with your cell phone in class. He showed us a program called iPadio where you can call a number and record a call. You can then attach it as an mp3 to a website OR transcribe the call into words. This would be a good program for children with special needs. If they could take the phone call and have it transcribed into notes for them.
The only thing I wanted to see was HOW to use these interesting technologies in my classroom. I have found with a lot of the presenters, they tell us all about a program, but don't really tell us how to use it in the classroom, because goodness knows, I don't know how!!
That is really enough for now, so blog you later!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
And the presentations begin!
Okay, I am going to attempt to make this blog non-intense. I will cut down on the length for you guys!
Today we started the presentations. I really enjoyed the presentation about cyber-bullying. It was very informative and it made me think of ways that I could combat cyber-bullying in my classroom. Of course, there is not much we can do but offer support to the students when they are bullied and report any incidences to administration.
The presentation on filtering also made me think. I really believe that someone needs to figure out a better way of keeping students safe on the internet but meanwhile allowing adequate access to the websites that the students need. I personally think that the best way to teach kids to be self-sufficient on the internet is to take off all the filters and teach them how to be safe on the internet.
Our presentation was about the world wide web and the internet. Yes, they are different things! I did not know that until I started doing research for this presentation. The www is a sub-section of the Internet. The internet is the means by which people can connect on the web. It was a bit confusing at first, but Joaney found the "bus" analogy. The internet is like the bus and the world wide web is like the people on the bus. They are always getting on and off and moving around. I found this really interesting picture that illustrates the web quite well, and it's also very pretty!
Anyway, there was no class on Monday, so that's about all I have to talk about for now!
See you next time and thanks for reading!
Today we started the presentations. I really enjoyed the presentation about cyber-bullying. It was very informative and it made me think of ways that I could combat cyber-bullying in my classroom. Of course, there is not much we can do but offer support to the students when they are bullied and report any incidences to administration.
The presentation on filtering also made me think. I really believe that someone needs to figure out a better way of keeping students safe on the internet but meanwhile allowing adequate access to the websites that the students need. I personally think that the best way to teach kids to be self-sufficient on the internet is to take off all the filters and teach them how to be safe on the internet.
Our presentation was about the world wide web and the internet. Yes, they are different things! I did not know that until I started doing research for this presentation. The www is a sub-section of the Internet. The internet is the means by which people can connect on the web. It was a bit confusing at first, but Joaney found the "bus" analogy. The internet is like the bus and the world wide web is like the people on the bus. They are always getting on and off and moving around. I found this really interesting picture that illustrates the web quite well, and it's also very pretty!
Anyway, there was no class on Monday, so that's about all I have to talk about for now!
See you next time and thanks for reading!
Monday, February 15, 2010
The week before Valentine's day...
Okay, before I begin, I apologize to whoever was supposed to comment on my blog. I didn't have internet this weekend!
This week we had a nice Monday off! Wednesday we had Mike in our class, and we talked about the Alan November video that we were supposed to watch. Personally, I found the video entertaining and interesting, but a bit distracting. Mr. November was cooking lobster for the whole video! He was shopping for them, prepping them, cooking them and serving them while he was talking about technology in education. I thought it was a bit weird. Anyway, about the video...
Alan November talks about three "Myths" people believe about technology. I found these the most interesting part of the video, because I agree with Mr. November.
First Myth: Technology is an equalizer of society
Everyone seems to agree with this, but to me, (and Alan November) it is polarizing society. The people with access to technology are using it to their advantage and the people without access are following along behind those with the resources to attain this level of technology. I think this is not only happening in society in general, but also in schools. People keep telling us to begin to use technology in schools, but maybe every student doesn't have access to that technology. Not every kid in our classes are going to have an ipod or even a computer at home that is sufficient for them to view videos and do some of the work required for classes. Some might say "let them use the school computer labs!" Really, those are no different. Everything is blocked on them, they are slow, inefficient and difficult for teachers to book for the students to use!
Second Myth: People can use the web to get diverse ideas from around the world
Alan November says that many people are using the internet to get their version of the truth only, not others' opinions on certain matters. This leads people to believe they are correct in their views, even if they are not. I think using the web in this way requires critical thinking skills. These can be cultured with education! Many school divisions are emphasizing critical thinking in their schools. As teachers, we need to teach the students how to find varying opinions on subject matter and to make an informed decision about what they are viewing. I know I use the internet for this, I actually look for people that disagree with what I think, and use my thinking skills to determine if they have valid points or not. I enjoy seeing others' opinions and views on certain subject matter, and viewing their arguments for or against something. It is a way for me to keep my mind sharp! ;) I know, I'm a nerd!
Third Myth: Technology makes kids smarter
I think this is a ridiculous assumption! Nothing makes kids smarter except learning. Using technology does not automatically mean that a person is learning. Alan November thinks that technology is a distraction for many kids, and I agree (to an extent). He says that there is a rise of plaigarism because students want to get things done fast. I agree with this. Students are very motivated by instant gratification. They want to know an answer now, and don't want to search for it themselves, or to work for it to find the answer. I think technology is moving education backward a bit, especially if it is not being used or taught properly. As I mentioned above, this is also allowing students to neglect their critical thinking skills and rely on machines for answers that they could have figured out on their own.
At the request of some people in the class who have had to read my blog previously, I will stop here. Apparently my blogs are "too intense" (ie. too long).
Have a nice short week!!
This week we had a nice Monday off! Wednesday we had Mike in our class, and we talked about the Alan November video that we were supposed to watch. Personally, I found the video entertaining and interesting, but a bit distracting. Mr. November was cooking lobster for the whole video! He was shopping for them, prepping them, cooking them and serving them while he was talking about technology in education. I thought it was a bit weird. Anyway, about the video...
Alan November talks about three "Myths" people believe about technology. I found these the most interesting part of the video, because I agree with Mr. November.
First Myth: Technology is an equalizer of society
Everyone seems to agree with this, but to me, (and Alan November) it is polarizing society. The people with access to technology are using it to their advantage and the people without access are following along behind those with the resources to attain this level of technology. I think this is not only happening in society in general, but also in schools. People keep telling us to begin to use technology in schools, but maybe every student doesn't have access to that technology. Not every kid in our classes are going to have an ipod or even a computer at home that is sufficient for them to view videos and do some of the work required for classes. Some might say "let them use the school computer labs!" Really, those are no different. Everything is blocked on them, they are slow, inefficient and difficult for teachers to book for the students to use!
Second Myth: People can use the web to get diverse ideas from around the world
Alan November says that many people are using the internet to get their version of the truth only, not others' opinions on certain matters. This leads people to believe they are correct in their views, even if they are not. I think using the web in this way requires critical thinking skills. These can be cultured with education! Many school divisions are emphasizing critical thinking in their schools. As teachers, we need to teach the students how to find varying opinions on subject matter and to make an informed decision about what they are viewing. I know I use the internet for this, I actually look for people that disagree with what I think, and use my thinking skills to determine if they have valid points or not. I enjoy seeing others' opinions and views on certain subject matter, and viewing their arguments for or against something. It is a way for me to keep my mind sharp! ;) I know, I'm a nerd!
Third Myth: Technology makes kids smarter
I think this is a ridiculous assumption! Nothing makes kids smarter except learning. Using technology does not automatically mean that a person is learning. Alan November thinks that technology is a distraction for many kids, and I agree (to an extent). He says that there is a rise of plaigarism because students want to get things done fast. I agree with this. Students are very motivated by instant gratification. They want to know an answer now, and don't want to search for it themselves, or to work for it to find the answer. I think technology is moving education backward a bit, especially if it is not being used or taught properly. As I mentioned above, this is also allowing students to neglect their critical thinking skills and rely on machines for answers that they could have figured out on their own.
At the request of some people in the class who have had to read my blog previously, I will stop here. Apparently my blogs are "too intense" (ie. too long).
Have a nice short week!!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
TWAS...This Week At School (In Internet for Educators)
Howard Griffith and Donald Girouard:
Web-based courses
-I like how the online classes can be asynchronous. This is a really great asset to students who might work and sometimes are unable to come to school during school hours. I know I had many students who wanted to leave early from class because of work hours. This could be used for those types of students and they can work on their own time.
-I also liked how the pedagogy was built into the courses. These people are the experts and they have done all the work for us! I think it would take some personalization on the part of the teachers, but since it is so well set up, it would be fairly easy to use. The lessons are modular and should follow in a simple sequence. There are lessons, assessments, activities and worksheets available in the packages from the Manitoba Education website.
-I love how in this program you can create announcements as popups, that way no one can say that they did not know about something! This is such a neat way of teaching and a great resource, even if the course is not web-based!
Shawn Kleebaum:
Google Applications
-Google apps education account: allows schools or divisions to use custom domain names with several google products: gmail, google, calendar, docs, sites. It is free!
-Division does not have to worry about email, maintenance, nothing to install, data is safe and secure, etc. Surely the divisions would be ok with this, no money on their part, no time on their part, etc. I think this would be a good thing for the school divisions!
-No advertising in the google education accounts. That is really nice, because sometimes there are really inappropriate ads on internet sites, that students should not see!
-Schools can not control all the email, etc. If the division likes to control, you might not be able to use it in blocked schools. All the divisions I have been in have EVERYTHING blocked. I had to think of some really creative ways to get around the blocks to use technology in my classroom!
-Downfall: applications are not as full featured as desktop applications, but that is not a big deal for me, for my purposes, it seems like the google apps will be fine for me!
-American server...data is stored in the US, so if you say something on here, the US has right to look at the data and it could cause a problem for them crossing the border, etc. I really think that this should not be an issue in classrooms because the content should be monitored by the teacher. Especially since it is a collaborative kind of thing.
-If the internet is down or google goes down, you can not access some of your documents, etc. This would probably not be as much of a problem for me, because I plan very far in advance, and I seem to be able to think fast on my feet.
-This is a neat program to be able to share things with the students! Documents can be edited by students, students can subscribe to the calendar, so they always know what is due and where the class is going!
-Students can hand things in electronically, and teachers can do marking wherever they are! This would be very convenient, and it also teaches the students to use the internet when they make their own google site!
This was a very interesting presentation, and it was much easier to see the influence it can have on the classroom, he really brought the technology back to the classroom. Great presentation!
Web-based courses
-I like how the online classes can be asynchronous. This is a really great asset to students who might work and sometimes are unable to come to school during school hours. I know I had many students who wanted to leave early from class because of work hours. This could be used for those types of students and they can work on their own time.
-I also liked how the pedagogy was built into the courses. These people are the experts and they have done all the work for us! I think it would take some personalization on the part of the teachers, but since it is so well set up, it would be fairly easy to use. The lessons are modular and should follow in a simple sequence. There are lessons, assessments, activities and worksheets available in the packages from the Manitoba Education website.
-I love how in this program you can create announcements as popups, that way no one can say that they did not know about something! This is such a neat way of teaching and a great resource, even if the course is not web-based!
Shawn Kleebaum:
Google Applications
-Google apps education account: allows schools or divisions to use custom domain names with several google products: gmail, google, calendar, docs, sites. It is free!
-Division does not have to worry about email, maintenance, nothing to install, data is safe and secure, etc. Surely the divisions would be ok with this, no money on their part, no time on their part, etc. I think this would be a good thing for the school divisions!
-No advertising in the google education accounts. That is really nice, because sometimes there are really inappropriate ads on internet sites, that students should not see!
-Schools can not control all the email, etc. If the division likes to control, you might not be able to use it in blocked schools. All the divisions I have been in have EVERYTHING blocked. I had to think of some really creative ways to get around the blocks to use technology in my classroom!
-Downfall: applications are not as full featured as desktop applications, but that is not a big deal for me, for my purposes, it seems like the google apps will be fine for me!
-American server...data is stored in the US, so if you say something on here, the US has right to look at the data and it could cause a problem for them crossing the border, etc. I really think that this should not be an issue in classrooms because the content should be monitored by the teacher. Especially since it is a collaborative kind of thing.
-If the internet is down or google goes down, you can not access some of your documents, etc. This would probably not be as much of a problem for me, because I plan very far in advance, and I seem to be able to think fast on my feet.
-This is a neat program to be able to share things with the students! Documents can be edited by students, students can subscribe to the calendar, so they always know what is due and where the class is going!
-Students can hand things in electronically, and teachers can do marking wherever they are! This would be very convenient, and it also teaches the students to use the internet when they make their own google site!
This was a very interesting presentation, and it was much easier to see the influence it can have on the classroom, he really brought the technology back to the classroom. Great presentation!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
My day at school!
Hello Everyone!
Before I get to my section about the presentation today, I want to take some time to vent. I feel like the University is driving me crazy! We have SOOO much work to do every single day! University profs always say you should spend 3 hours working at home for every hour in class time, but the amount of work we have equates to probably 6 hours per hour of class a day! I wrote out a list of all the assignments and tests that I have this term, and it took a whole page of lined paper! I could not believe it! There are so many things to do, I don't know how I am going to get all of it done, plus studying for tests and exams! They are going to burn us out before we even get out to student teach! Anyway, that's all I have to say, here is my "scholarly" blog.
So, think I have figured out how to take notes this time without losing them! If you are reading this...I was right! I didn't lose all my notes from the presentation we had today. Hopefully better luck is coming my way! I had my doubts coming into this presentation today. I thought "Video games to teach students in school? You've got to be kidding me!" I still think it will take a lot of planning and convincing to get games to be part of a curriculum in schools.
Things I learned today:
So I learned the definition of VOIP: Voice Over Internet Protocol (skype, vonage, etc.).
Glen used Mind Meister to illustrate his mind map of digital literacies. Mind meister is a concept mapping web tool for concept mapping, it can be used in classrooms to show students a mind map but also others can modify your web if you invite them! I thought that was pretty cool!
I also finally learned the definition of RSS: real simple syndication. Now I know, and now it makes sense. I still use Google reader every day to find out what's new in the world.
I learned a bit about Virtual goods. These are things you never actually can hold in your hand like iPhone apps, social networking systems, online gaming, etc. This is a billion dollar a year industry in the United States! And all for entertainment purposes!
Multi-user virtual environments: Second Life in Education:
-There is a teen grid that is only for teens, which is scrutinized and monitored very carefully. People's behaviour is limited, and they can get kicked out. I'm glad that there are safety measures in place for teens using the internet, especially in places where there is a danger of predatory behaviours and exposure to adult material. This makes me feel a bit better about using things like this in my classroom.
-He said that using second life with older computers sucks. Basically, all the schools I have been to have really really old and slow computers. I really don't think that this program is feasible in most schools, without putting a LOT more money into the technology programs.
-Really, this program seems far too advanced for me. I don't know if I can do this kind of thing, but I think I might have to explore this program first before making a decision about using it in the classrooms, but I guess I will have to figure out what the problem is on my desktop computer (with connecting to the internet) first before I use this program.
-Constructionism: People learn best when they're building something; an artifact of learning. This can be a very powerful learning tool. Apparently, social constructionism is even more powerful--when a person is preparing and building an artifact in order to teach someone else about a topic. I have noticed this when I am preparing lessons for student teaching, that now I know so many things that I didn't before. I think this is an important point for teaching, I loved using Jigsaw activities before now, and now I am going to research some other interesting ways of doing this.
-Gamer Theory: Teaching through computer games for example economic simulations, sports, etc. This will capture their attention better than a report or book. We need to figure out motivation for this learning everywhere, not just in video games. I guess we will have to modify curriculum so that gaming is a part of it, because I don't know many administrators or teachers that would want to try using video games in the classrooms.
-If you give students a task just above their skill level, it motivates them to learn because they get a sense of fulfillment when they can complete the task.
Anyway, I think that's all I have for now.
You are the weakest link...Goodbye!
Before I get to my section about the presentation today, I want to take some time to vent. I feel like the University is driving me crazy! We have SOOO much work to do every single day! University profs always say you should spend 3 hours working at home for every hour in class time, but the amount of work we have equates to probably 6 hours per hour of class a day! I wrote out a list of all the assignments and tests that I have this term, and it took a whole page of lined paper! I could not believe it! There are so many things to do, I don't know how I am going to get all of it done, plus studying for tests and exams! They are going to burn us out before we even get out to student teach! Anyway, that's all I have to say, here is my "scholarly" blog.
So, think I have figured out how to take notes this time without losing them! If you are reading this...I was right! I didn't lose all my notes from the presentation we had today. Hopefully better luck is coming my way! I had my doubts coming into this presentation today. I thought "Video games to teach students in school? You've got to be kidding me!" I still think it will take a lot of planning and convincing to get games to be part of a curriculum in schools.
Things I learned today:
So I learned the definition of VOIP: Voice Over Internet Protocol (skype, vonage, etc.).
Glen used Mind Meister to illustrate his mind map of digital literacies. Mind meister is a concept mapping web tool for concept mapping, it can be used in classrooms to show students a mind map but also others can modify your web if you invite them! I thought that was pretty cool!
I also finally learned the definition of RSS: real simple syndication. Now I know, and now it makes sense. I still use Google reader every day to find out what's new in the world.
I learned a bit about Virtual goods. These are things you never actually can hold in your hand like iPhone apps, social networking systems, online gaming, etc. This is a billion dollar a year industry in the United States! And all for entertainment purposes!
Multi-user virtual environments: Second Life in Education:
-There is a teen grid that is only for teens, which is scrutinized and monitored very carefully. People's behaviour is limited, and they can get kicked out. I'm glad that there are safety measures in place for teens using the internet, especially in places where there is a danger of predatory behaviours and exposure to adult material. This makes me feel a bit better about using things like this in my classroom.
-He said that using second life with older computers sucks. Basically, all the schools I have been to have really really old and slow computers. I really don't think that this program is feasible in most schools, without putting a LOT more money into the technology programs.
-Really, this program seems far too advanced for me. I don't know if I can do this kind of thing, but I think I might have to explore this program first before making a decision about using it in the classrooms, but I guess I will have to figure out what the problem is on my desktop computer (with connecting to the internet) first before I use this program.
-Constructionism: People learn best when they're building something; an artifact of learning. This can be a very powerful learning tool. Apparently, social constructionism is even more powerful--when a person is preparing and building an artifact in order to teach someone else about a topic. I have noticed this when I am preparing lessons for student teaching, that now I know so many things that I didn't before. I think this is an important point for teaching, I loved using Jigsaw activities before now, and now I am going to research some other interesting ways of doing this.
-Gamer Theory: Teaching through computer games for example economic simulations, sports, etc. This will capture their attention better than a report or book. We need to figure out motivation for this learning everywhere, not just in video games. I guess we will have to modify curriculum so that gaming is a part of it, because I don't know many administrators or teachers that would want to try using video games in the classrooms.
-If you give students a task just above their skill level, it motivates them to learn because they get a sense of fulfillment when they can complete the task.
Anyway, I think that's all I have for now.
You are the weakest link...Goodbye!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Alec Couros Elluminate presentation
Here I am being a dutiful student, typing notes onto my blog about our presentation today, and...
I LOST ALL MY INFORMATION!! I guess the computer refreshed itself, but i will try to rewrite what I had.
Alec Couros "elluminated" the class today and gave us some really neat information: slideshow
Well, I had a quote which was the basis for my whole other blog entry, but I don't know what it was and it wasn't in the slideshow that he posted. I guess I will just have to make do with what I remember!
I do remember that the picture of the networked teacher freaks me out every time i see it. It looks to overwhelming, but Alec told us some ways to make it not so crazy and take up so much time. He mentioned some different networks and sites we can use to amalgamate our resources. I have never seen Ning before, but I think I will have to check it out as a potential tool for using in my classroom!
I thought that using Youtube for social networking and asking, answering questions for students was a fantastic idea! There are so many different resources available on the internet that you might not have in neighbourhoods around your home or school!
He showed us some really neat and moving videos and links. Free Hugs, Cry of the Dolphins, Social Media Site
Well, that's about all I can remember...sorry for those of you that have to comment on this blog, it really sucks. I hope you can find something!!
TTFN-Ta-ta for now!
I LOST ALL MY INFORMATION!! I guess the computer refreshed itself, but i will try to rewrite what I had.
Alec Couros "elluminated" the class today and gave us some really neat information: slideshow
Well, I had a quote which was the basis for my whole other blog entry, but I don't know what it was and it wasn't in the slideshow that he posted. I guess I will just have to make do with what I remember!
I do remember that the picture of the networked teacher freaks me out every time i see it. It looks to overwhelming, but Alec told us some ways to make it not so crazy and take up so much time. He mentioned some different networks and sites we can use to amalgamate our resources. I have never seen Ning before, but I think I will have to check it out as a potential tool for using in my classroom!
I thought that using Youtube for social networking and asking, answering questions for students was a fantastic idea! There are so many different resources available on the internet that you might not have in neighbourhoods around your home or school!
He showed us some really neat and moving videos and links. Free Hugs, Cry of the Dolphins, Social Media Site
Well, that's about all I can remember...sorry for those of you that have to comment on this blog, it really sucks. I hope you can find something!!
TTFN-Ta-ta for now!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
New teacher advice!
So I was following a teacher's blog and she wrote down this list of things that she did in her first half year. I guess she is a brand new teacher and I thought it was interesting.
1. The first day of school is procedures…other teachers told me that I would really do no instruction the first day….and I didn’t in some senses, but when it was time for math, we did something math related. When it was time for writing, we did something writing related. I really do believe that going through the day was really beneficial for my kids, and me.
1. The first day of school is procedures…other teachers told me that I would really do no instruction the first day….and I didn’t in some senses, but when it was time for math, we did something math related. When it was time for writing, we did something writing related. I really do believe that going through the day was really beneficial for my kids, and me.
2. EVERY day, kids need something to do when they come in the room (first thing or after specials, or after lunch). It needs to be something consistent. Something the same from day to day for which they need no instructions from me. It takes out any distractions or time to play. “Bell Work” is my sanity.
3. Don’t judge a book by its cover, or even the first chapter. Who I thought my kids were in August is nothing like what I think of them now in December. Student inventories are ideal, but it is VERY necessary to go through EACH question as a class on the first day, otherwise they leave them blank.
4. Clipboards and binders are saviors. If I could go back, I would have organized myself much better the first two weeks of school. EVERYTHING needs a place, and a stack in a filing cabinet is not it. I have now created a binder for each unit in each subject area. Ecosystems is in a binder, divided up by standards. Solar Systems, Numbers and Operations, and Persuasive Writing each have their own binders as well. Organizing by standard then by date has proven to be the most effective and accessible for me.
5. MAKE SURE to assign textbooks—it will cause more problems later if you do not. Sounds like a DUH concept, but it’s easy to screw up.
6. Plan your units with the standards and the report card in hand… I am still struggling come report card time when I need to insert grades…they do not line up exactly with the standards and you will fly around like a crazy person trying to get grades for a certain skill assessment.
7. BE FLEXIBLE… I was soooo pumped about the layout of my room…well it needed to be changed after the first month. Hot glue and clothes pins are your BEST friends.
8. Let parents know everything about their child’s progress as often as possible. Don’t assume the kids tell the parents because they don’t (regardless of how much you THINK they know, it never hurts to tell them more). If you do not, it will come back to bite you in the rear. I now send home weekly reports for every subject area (these are the things that take up my time in the afternoons and cause long nights).
9. Ask other teachers for help…and don’t assume you know what you’re doing before you start. You don’t.
10. Every school and every class is different. What works for some doesn’t work for others. I started by using the same discipline system that I used at Alps Road. Well it was a flop. Ask other teachers on your team what they use and develop yours from that.
11. Take the time to write a GOOD note to the parents of each student. Make it a goal to send one home for each kid before the year is over….parents LOVE this more than you know.
12. Blogs are AWESOME!! My room mom created one for all of my parents. I send her any important dates (unit tests, report cards issued, class parties) and the blog/google calendar automatically alerts the parents via email. If you don’t have a room mom, find the time to use one of these!!!
13. DON’T procrastinate. You need sleep and you need to be ahead of the game. Nothing is worst than discovering that your student isn’t passing something the day before report cards are due because you put off grading. Cleaning your classroom can wait, check email at home, and stay focused. Use to-do lists and actually check them off.
14. Time management is everything. The class I took in the fall was the best thing for me not because it taught me how to manage my time in my classroom, but how to manage my afternoon and use an effective planner.
15. Don’t fret over the small stuff. In time, it will all iron itself out. Parents, teammates, and administration are more forgiving than they seem. If you make mistakes, acknowledge them and apologize. One parent was really upset with me at the end of the first nine weeks (see point 8 and the paragraph about report cards). On the last day before Christmas break, she emailed me to tell me how much her daughter loved me and how she was grateful for a great first semester. Be honest, and be ready to take some flack here and there. What doesn’t kill you, only make you stronger.
http://teacherlingo.com/blogs/firstyearfrenzies/archive/2010/01/17/pre-christmas-break-and-rest-deprived.aspx
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Technology in the classroom....WHOA!
So here I am sitting at home in Winnipeg, ready to write my blog entry about our presentation yesterday, and of course I FORGOT MY NOTES!! I should have gone with my original plan yesterday of taking notes onto my blog, but the student in me wanted to take notes on paper! I am going to try and remember things from the presentation so people can comment! Here I go:
So we had a presentation on Wednesday from John Evans. One thing that John told us that really impacted the way I will look for resources in the future. He told us about RSS feeds and gave us some sites that utilized RSS. This enables me to "subscribe" to a site and all the new information comes to my computer! I already have found some really fantastic resource websites through using Google reader. I like Google reader because it is really simple to use and you can have the option to get new feeds sent to your email inbox.
Another thing we learned about was PLN's or Personal Learning Networks. Personally, I am not as much of a fan of PLNs as I am of blogs and bookmarking sites like Diigo and Delicious. I do, however, plan to use the PLNs that John showed us to obtain some great resources for teaching. I really enjoyed his LwICT PLN, it has some great resources and ideas for integrating the internet into my everyday classroom practices.
One thing I was thinking the whole time was that all this information at my fingertips was quite overwhelming. Then John saved my poor over-worked brain. He told us to make sure we didn't get addicted or subscribe to too many feeds, so that we actually have lives. That assuaged my fears and apprehension about using all this new technology in my classroom.
I hope this gives y'all enough to comment on. Again, sorry for those of you who have to read my blogs, as I tend to blab a lot.
"And now you know...and knowing is half the battle."
So we had a presentation on Wednesday from John Evans. One thing that John told us that really impacted the way I will look for resources in the future. He told us about RSS feeds and gave us some sites that utilized RSS. This enables me to "subscribe" to a site and all the new information comes to my computer! I already have found some really fantastic resource websites through using Google reader. I like Google reader because it is really simple to use and you can have the option to get new feeds sent to your email inbox.
Another thing we learned about was PLN's or Personal Learning Networks. Personally, I am not as much of a fan of PLNs as I am of blogs and bookmarking sites like Diigo and Delicious. I do, however, plan to use the PLNs that John showed us to obtain some great resources for teaching. I really enjoyed his LwICT PLN, it has some great resources and ideas for integrating the internet into my everyday classroom practices.
One thing I was thinking the whole time was that all this information at my fingertips was quite overwhelming. Then John saved my poor over-worked brain. He told us to make sure we didn't get addicted or subscribe to too many feeds, so that we actually have lives. That assuaged my fears and apprehension about using all this new technology in my classroom.
I hope this gives y'all enough to comment on. Again, sorry for those of you who have to read my blogs, as I tend to blab a lot.
"And now you know...and knowing is half the battle."
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Just a teacher...
This is a little poem I found while searching around on the internet:
PRELUDE:
I used to say I'm "just a teacher."
Not any more.
---- Just Teacher ---
I'm not just a teacher
I have many roles
From sparking the mind
to discussing their goals.
I'm not just a teacher
I am so much more
Mama, wife, chauffer
a distance runner who is often sore!
I'm not just a teacher
I have to fix things too!
Computers, payroll taxes,
doorknobs, the heel of a shoe.
But Just...
ah what a word that can be
implying that things are fair!
Never this side of eternity.
Is it just that we grade until two
or are interrupted all day?
Is it fair that we often work
while others can play?
Is it just that we are often misunderstood
and that fallen
leave streaks upon the
crystal trophies of our noble calling?
Or is it just that
money seems to be squandered
and we're left to buy sticky tack with our pennies
as purchases around us aren't pondered?
But there's one thing
just one thing.
Well more than one thing.
Each human being.
If I can reach just one
to direct them upward
towards greatness,
though through torrential troubles they ford.
If just one of them
finds purpose or hope
or how to be happy
and broaden their scope.
I'm never just a teacher
any more than any one of these students could ever be
just a child.
I am more...
and through me
my students will be too!
----
POSTLUDE:
I stand here
in the chair of my desk
seeing every pencil hole in the ceiling tile
crumpled paper in hand
dry erase marker smudge on my right cheek
and hear my voice echo back off my smartboard
"I AM A TEACHER AND I AM NOBLE.
I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS NOBILITY OR PAID AS NOBILITY,
I AM NOBILITY BECAUSE OF MY PURPOSE
AND CLAIM THIS ROOM AS A CASTLE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE."
PRELUDE:
I used to say I'm "just a teacher."
Not any more.
---- Just Teacher ---
I'm not just a teacher
I have many roles
From sparking the mind
to discussing their goals.
I'm not just a teacher
I am so much more
Mama, wife, chauffer
a distance runner who is often sore!
I'm not just a teacher
I have to fix things too!
Computers, payroll taxes,
doorknobs, the heel of a shoe.
But Just...
ah what a word that can be
implying that things are fair!
Never this side of eternity.
Is it just that we grade until two
or are interrupted all day?
Is it fair that we often work
while others can play?
Is it just that we are often misunderstood
and that fallen
leave streaks upon the
crystal trophies of our noble calling?
Or is it just that
money seems to be squandered
and we're left to buy sticky tack with our pennies
as purchases around us aren't pondered?
But there's one thing
just one thing.
Well more than one thing.
Each human being.
If I can reach just one
to direct them upward
towards greatness,
though through torrential troubles they ford.
If just one of them
finds purpose or hope
or how to be happy
and broaden their scope.
I'm never just a teacher
any more than any one of these students could ever be
just a child.
I am more...
and through me
my students will be too!
----
POSTLUDE:
I stand here
in the chair of my desk
seeing every pencil hole in the ceiling tile
crumpled paper in hand
dry erase marker smudge on my right cheek
and hear my voice echo back off my smartboard
"I AM A TEACHER AND I AM NOBLE.
I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS NOBILITY OR PAID AS NOBILITY,
I AM NOBILITY BECAUSE OF MY PURPOSE
AND CLAIM THIS ROOM AS A CASTLE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE."
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
About me...
So...it's a lot harder to write a blog entry when it is for a class...How much personal information should I put in here? How much do people really want to know about me? No idea, but here goes:
My name is Katie, I was born and raised in Winnipeg Manitoba. I completed my first degree (B.Sc.) in 2008 at the University of Manitoba. I live in Winnipeg with my mom and sister (for the time being). I'm a bit of a nerd in my spare time...I play videogames with my boyfriend (only on occasion, I swear!), and my hair colour is not completely natural.
I think that should be enough about myself for now, on to the actual technology part of this blog:
For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher, and just recently, I have amended that goal to be a GOOD teacher. That is why I am taking this course.
My relationship with technology has been more of a necessity than enjoyment. With the exception of email and facebook, I really don't know much about what is out there for use in the classroom. That is my goal: To learn how to use technology effectively in my classrooms.
I have to say though, in my three student teaching placements, I really haven't had the opportunity to even TRY any technology. The only things I have had in my classroom have been overhead projectors and the occasional booked LCD projector. Seriously, Winnipeg schools are stuck in the stone ages of education!
Hmm...I can't think of anything else anyone would want to hear about me, so I will bring this entry to a close for now.
'Til next time: Keep fit and have fun!
My name is Katie, I was born and raised in Winnipeg Manitoba. I completed my first degree (B.Sc.) in 2008 at the University of Manitoba. I live in Winnipeg with my mom and sister (for the time being). I'm a bit of a nerd in my spare time...I play videogames with my boyfriend (only on occasion, I swear!), and my hair colour is not completely natural.
I think that should be enough about myself for now, on to the actual technology part of this blog:
For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher, and just recently, I have amended that goal to be a GOOD teacher. That is why I am taking this course.
My relationship with technology has been more of a necessity than enjoyment. With the exception of email and facebook, I really don't know much about what is out there for use in the classroom. That is my goal: To learn how to use technology effectively in my classrooms.
I have to say though, in my three student teaching placements, I really haven't had the opportunity to even TRY any technology. The only things I have had in my classroom have been overhead projectors and the occasional booked LCD projector. Seriously, Winnipeg schools are stuck in the stone ages of education!
Hmm...I can't think of anything else anyone would want to hear about me, so I will bring this entry to a close for now.
'Til next time: Keep fit and have fun!
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