I am lucky in the fact that what I plan to do with technology at the moment is already an attainable goal for me. Last year, I had an LCD projector/screen installed in my room and this year I got four computers in my room. So, students not having access to computers is not an issue. Using the screen, I could show students videos of different artists and demonstrations, as well as step by step instructions to navigate certain parts of the internet, but to tell you the truth, they know a lot more than me most of the time! One other thing that I would like to learn to use is the SmartBoard. I have access to one, but I don't know how to use it at the moment, and I would like to find ways to use it in the artroom so that the technology could become more interactive for the students.
I would like to find more resources on the internet, and possibly bookmark some of the sites that would be most beneficial to my students. I would also like to search the internet for more ideas on collaborating with other artrooms around the world. I know that they are out there, I just need to find them.
I also would like to acquire some software for my computers so that students could create/manipulate artwork on the computers. Right now we don't even have Photoshop on our computers. There are so many different types of technology out there for them. I think that I need to find someone who is more experienced in this field to give me suggestions as to what I need and create a "wishlist" of sorts. Then I could try to get a grant to purchase the equipment. I definitely don't want to wait around for the district to purchase it. Also, I need to acquire some other technologies to go along with the computers that art students could use, such as digital cameras and scanners. ( I feel like a kid at Christmas asking Santa for gifts!)
So far, I have been able to take a couple of steps (baby ones) to implement my game plan. Just today, I introduced a lesson to my class and I showed them a video from TeacherTube explaining the project. It is called "The Memory Project" and I found it via the internet. Art students from all over the world volunteer to create portraits of orphans from other areas of the world and send them to these orphanages so that these children have something to call their own, and at the same time allows my students to feel a part of something bigger and to reach out to others. I had to communicate with the organizer of this project via the internet also, in order to receive our pictures. The students seem to think that it is a good idea (so far) so we will see how it goes. I need to get final approval on it tomorrow from the principal. We need to raise $15 per picture in order to participate so we are going to create a sort of "gallery showing" of all of the artwork when we are complete and invite parents and community members to help to donate. At the showing I plan on using technology further by showing video of the project and a slideshow of the students creating the portraits.
Ahh, such grand plans! We'll see how it goes. Thanks for listening! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Susan
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Developing my personal GAME plan.
After reviewing the NETS*S Standards there are many that I would like to improve upon. The two that stand out most for me are Standard 3 which talks about (a) demonstrating fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations and (b) collaborating with students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools to support students success and innovation AND Standard 5, particularly (a) participate in local and global learning communities to explore creative applications of technology to improve students learning. Being a student at Walden, particularly in the Integrating Technology into the Classroom specialization area, is definitely a global learning community where I am learning many new skills related to technology, but I would like to learn more about integrating technology into my area of art education in particular.
Goals: 1) To become more confident in my own abilities with technology to want and be able to use technology more fluently and creatively with my students so that it is being used to enhance their learning and to be able to use technology to collaborate with parents and community members. 2) To learn more about integrating technology into my specialty area of art education so that students have more opportunities to learn and use these technologies.
Actions: 1) Really, the actions that I need to take require time-and that is my biggest problem at the moment. I will make sure that each class that I teach has at least one plan that uses technology. I am going to create more visuals using computers and video to share with my classes. I will search the internet and art ed. collaboratives to find projects that serve the community or allow my students to share work or conversations with others interested in the arts.
Monitor: I will monitor my progress by checking my lessons to make sure that technology is infused in each class in some way. Every year I would like to add more until technology becomes part of the natural process of the class. I also want to make sure that it doesn't take over my class though. I am not a digital arts teacher-I am a fine arts teacher. There will always be something unique and special about creating something with your hands and getting dirty!
Evaluate: I will evaluate my goals and learnings by keeping a journal/list of what I hope to accomplish and then checking to see what and how I have accomplished these goals. I will make sure that what I have implemented into my life and my students life makes sense to be there- to make sure that it is enhancing our learning and understand and not just being used instead of something else. I will also keep in my journal how successful each new project/idea was and what the strengths and weaknesses were.
Alot of work-definitely worth it. Could someone just make the day a little longer?
Susan
Goals: 1) To become more confident in my own abilities with technology to want and be able to use technology more fluently and creatively with my students so that it is being used to enhance their learning and to be able to use technology to collaborate with parents and community members. 2) To learn more about integrating technology into my specialty area of art education so that students have more opportunities to learn and use these technologies.
Actions: 1) Really, the actions that I need to take require time-and that is my biggest problem at the moment. I will make sure that each class that I teach has at least one plan that uses technology. I am going to create more visuals using computers and video to share with my classes. I will search the internet and art ed. collaboratives to find projects that serve the community or allow my students to share work or conversations with others interested in the arts.
Monitor: I will monitor my progress by checking my lessons to make sure that technology is infused in each class in some way. Every year I would like to add more until technology becomes part of the natural process of the class. I also want to make sure that it doesn't take over my class though. I am not a digital arts teacher-I am a fine arts teacher. There will always be something unique and special about creating something with your hands and getting dirty!
Evaluate: I will evaluate my goals and learnings by keeping a journal/list of what I hope to accomplish and then checking to see what and how I have accomplished these goals. I will make sure that what I have implemented into my life and my students life makes sense to be there- to make sure that it is enhancing our learning and understand and not just being used instead of something else. I will also keep in my journal how successful each new project/idea was and what the strengths and weaknesses were.
Alot of work-definitely worth it. Could someone just make the day a little longer?
Susan
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Final Reflection-EDUC 6711
Looking back on the first assignment of this course, in which we described what our personal theory of learning was, I feel that my personal learning theory hasn't really changed. I feel that now I am able to give it a better name. I am also able to describe it better and have more skills to incorporate it into my lessons.
The theory that I related to the most was social constructionism. I feel that having conversations about what is being learned and collaboration with peers and teacher is the most important aspect of learning. Being a high school art teacher, I do get to see this theory in action quite frequently. There are many projects that my students complete that require them to be active learners. They must talk to their peers to solve problems and make inquiries. They must work collaboratively to complete work. I see how effective it is in the students becoming involved in what they are creating and taking ownership of their learning and experiences.
One adjustment that I will make to my instructional practice is making better use of rubrics to set clearer expectations for my students. I am also incorporating some type of technology into all of my classes. I have created a lesson for Voicethread that my advanced art students will use in order to share portfolios and would like to create a blog for students to use and also have begun to create a website for our art department.
As far as long term goal changes that I would like to make regarding technology integration, I would say that my main goal is to obtain better technology that is specifically designed to create and promote art. I would like to have digital cameras for students to use and updated software for creating art on our computers. I hope to obtain a grant in order to fund these. Having these types of technologies will allow students to experience what is new and decide if it is something that they would be interested in pursuing further. The other goal that I would like to achieve is to eventually use technology in each and every class that I teach at least one time each nine weeks. I plan on starting out implementing Voicthreads next year beginning with my Advanced Art classes and also plan on creating an art department web site with the students. Next, I will take another course and have students utilize blogging as a technology tool to share their work with others around the world. Eventually, I plan to have all classes utilizing technology in some way, whether it be creating art with computers or creating presentations using technology.
Susan
The theory that I related to the most was social constructionism. I feel that having conversations about what is being learned and collaboration with peers and teacher is the most important aspect of learning. Being a high school art teacher, I do get to see this theory in action quite frequently. There are many projects that my students complete that require them to be active learners. They must talk to their peers to solve problems and make inquiries. They must work collaboratively to complete work. I see how effective it is in the students becoming involved in what they are creating and taking ownership of their learning and experiences.
One adjustment that I will make to my instructional practice is making better use of rubrics to set clearer expectations for my students. I am also incorporating some type of technology into all of my classes. I have created a lesson for Voicethread that my advanced art students will use in order to share portfolios and would like to create a blog for students to use and also have begun to create a website for our art department.
As far as long term goal changes that I would like to make regarding technology integration, I would say that my main goal is to obtain better technology that is specifically designed to create and promote art. I would like to have digital cameras for students to use and updated software for creating art on our computers. I hope to obtain a grant in order to fund these. Having these types of technologies will allow students to experience what is new and decide if it is something that they would be interested in pursuing further. The other goal that I would like to achieve is to eventually use technology in each and every class that I teach at least one time each nine weeks. I plan on starting out implementing Voicthreads next year beginning with my Advanced Art classes and also plan on creating an art department web site with the students. Next, I will take another course and have students utilize blogging as a technology tool to share their work with others around the world. Eventually, I plan to have all classes utilizing technology in some way, whether it be creating art with computers or creating presentations using technology.
Susan
Sunday, June 7, 2009
VoiceThread Assignment Reflection
Hi everyone,
We'll, I finally made my first voicethread and it was actually much easier than I thought. The hardest part was actually embedding it into my blog...that is why there is two of them there. Now I can't seem to get the extra one off. Oh well, that will be a battle for another day. The important thing is that the VoiceThread is done and I am impressed by how easy it was to create. I can see my students using this tool for all kinds of things. They could create a portfolio of their artwork for themselves or to share with others. They could create a VoiceThread on artworks or even steps to create something, like a tutorial. I really love the idea of students creating a portfolio though...they could add their artworks onto the VoiceThread and give a short description of each item and talk a little about what the piece means to them. They could share it with prospective colleges, family or just keep it for themselves. Students could also use this as an idea sharing outlet or a place to critique each others work. Out of all of the new technologies that we have learned about so far, this is my favorite. I love it. And if I can do it, anyone can do it! I am definitely going to play around with this more...I would love to figure out how to incorporate video and music into this also! Neat stuff.
Susan
PS I failed to mention in my VoiceThread that I would love it if anyone had any ideas of what we could do to those ugly tiles! We wanted to incorporate the school's/town's history into the tiles so that it would become not only something beautiful to look at but also tell a story of the region. Our school is located in an old steel mill town and the history of it is so rich. Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick are among a couple of names that are associated with Homestead, PA. So, if anyone has any good ideas, I would love to hear them. We are soon going to look into finding some type of grant/funding for the project-another first. Thanks, Susan
We'll, I finally made my first voicethread and it was actually much easier than I thought. The hardest part was actually embedding it into my blog...that is why there is two of them there. Now I can't seem to get the extra one off. Oh well, that will be a battle for another day. The important thing is that the VoiceThread is done and I am impressed by how easy it was to create. I can see my students using this tool for all kinds of things. They could create a portfolio of their artwork for themselves or to share with others. They could create a VoiceThread on artworks or even steps to create something, like a tutorial. I really love the idea of students creating a portfolio though...they could add their artworks onto the VoiceThread and give a short description of each item and talk a little about what the piece means to them. They could share it with prospective colleges, family or just keep it for themselves. Students could also use this as an idea sharing outlet or a place to critique each others work. Out of all of the new technologies that we have learned about so far, this is my favorite. I love it. And if I can do it, anyone can do it! I am definitely going to play around with this more...I would love to figure out how to incorporate video and music into this also! Neat stuff.
Susan
PS I failed to mention in my VoiceThread that I would love it if anyone had any ideas of what we could do to those ugly tiles! We wanted to incorporate the school's/town's history into the tiles so that it would become not only something beautiful to look at but also tell a story of the region. Our school is located in an old steel mill town and the history of it is so rich. Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick are among a couple of names that are associated with Homestead, PA. So, if anyone has any good ideas, I would love to hear them. We are soon going to look into finding some type of grant/funding for the project-another first. Thanks, Susan
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Connectivism and Social Learning in Practice
While studying about all of the different types of learning theories for this course (my head is spinning...), one quote from George Siemens describing his theory of connectivism really stood out. The defining principle states "what we consider to be right today may tomorrow be considered wrong" (Orey, 2005). With all of the technological advancements in the past 30+ years, the field of education is facing a huge challenge to keep up. There are debates raging over the correct learning theory to use with today's students. New theories are being created to deal with the new age of learning in today's society.
The social learning theories describe students as being "actively engaged in constructing artifacts and conversing with others" (Laureate Inc, 2008). It is important to create artifacts because we learn best by doing, but what is equally important is the "conversations" that the students are having with each other and the teacher. Being actively engaged in what they are doing and questioning how and why they are doing something really gets them involved in their own education and helps them to want to become life long learners. I don't believe that a teacher that stands in front of the class and lectures is allowing students the rich opportunity to learn that they accomplish through learning in a social setting through collaborative learning and other techniques.
Today's technological advancements have opened new doors for our students. Social networking has expanded to global proportions. Facebook, MySpace and other sites connect people from all over the world. Webquests, blogs, wikis, voicethreads, simulation games (my husband is a fan of WOW-he keeps in touch with relatives and friends across the country while battling the forces of evil together), e-mail and online learning have created a truly boundary-less learning community. Students have the opportunity to connect with authors, visionaries, politicians and artists. They can share information and create artifacts with other students from across the country. This allows students to become aware of different viewpoints and experience how other people feel about things. They also see how people are the same, no matter where they come from. I believe that the ability to be able to share with others the things that they have learned helps them to develop a deeper understanding for themselves.
Susan
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program Eight. Social Learning Theories. [Motion Picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program Ten. Spotlight on Technology: Voice Thread. [Motion Picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
The social learning theories describe students as being "actively engaged in constructing artifacts and conversing with others" (Laureate Inc, 2008). It is important to create artifacts because we learn best by doing, but what is equally important is the "conversations" that the students are having with each other and the teacher. Being actively engaged in what they are doing and questioning how and why they are doing something really gets them involved in their own education and helps them to want to become life long learners. I don't believe that a teacher that stands in front of the class and lectures is allowing students the rich opportunity to learn that they accomplish through learning in a social setting through collaborative learning and other techniques.
Today's technological advancements have opened new doors for our students. Social networking has expanded to global proportions. Facebook, MySpace and other sites connect people from all over the world. Webquests, blogs, wikis, voicethreads, simulation games (my husband is a fan of WOW-he keeps in touch with relatives and friends across the country while battling the forces of evil together), e-mail and online learning have created a truly boundary-less learning community. Students have the opportunity to connect with authors, visionaries, politicians and artists. They can share information and create artifacts with other students from across the country. This allows students to become aware of different viewpoints and experience how other people feel about things. They also see how people are the same, no matter where they come from. I believe that the ability to be able to share with others the things that they have learned helps them to develop a deeper understanding for themselves.
Susan
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program Eight. Social Learning Theories. [Motion Picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program Ten. Spotlight on Technology: Voice Thread. [Motion Picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Constructivism in Practice
Constructivism/constructionism employs many elements that support a learner-oriented environment. Students solve complex problems in a collaborative effort by investigating, hypothesizing, and creating external artifacts. In constructionism the learner is "an active builder of knowledge" (Orey, 2001 ). The learner is involved in real world applications so that they are more interested in what they are learning and are invested in the outcome.
I love the idea of the constructionist learning theory. Being an art teacher, I do teach Project-Based Learning. I am comfortable being the facilitator and allowing students the opportunity to learn through the process of creating something. I try, as often as possible, to allow students to choose their own subject matter and have them help each other before coming to me as a last resort. The main problem that I have with constructivism is the amount of planning time on the teacher end of things. I am by nature a procrastinator and know what happens when everything is not in order. I realize how important it is to have a rubric and clear expectations at the beginning of a project.
The different instructional strategies that were presented this week are good resources to use to help implement the constructionism theory. I especially like the Webquests and Primary Access (www.primaryaccess.org). The Primary Access site allows students to create their own movies about a particular subject. Students love to make movies and be creative with different genres so this would allow them to collaborate with each other and problem solve to create a final piece of work. Webquests allow students to work in groups to explore and solve a problem using today's technology while becoming independent learners. Students also could participate in a culminating activity/project using what they learned from the WebQuest. Questgarden is a good site to visit if you are interested in creating a webquest. They have a lot of templates to use and guide you through the process. There is a fee for using the site, but there is a free trial period to check it out.
Susan
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
I love the idea of the constructionist learning theory. Being an art teacher, I do teach Project-Based Learning. I am comfortable being the facilitator and allowing students the opportunity to learn through the process of creating something. I try, as often as possible, to allow students to choose their own subject matter and have them help each other before coming to me as a last resort. The main problem that I have with constructivism is the amount of planning time on the teacher end of things. I am by nature a procrastinator and know what happens when everything is not in order. I realize how important it is to have a rubric and clear expectations at the beginning of a project.
The different instructional strategies that were presented this week are good resources to use to help implement the constructionism theory. I especially like the Webquests and Primary Access (www.primaryaccess.org). The Primary Access site allows students to create their own movies about a particular subject. Students love to make movies and be creative with different genres so this would allow them to collaborate with each other and problem solve to create a final piece of work. Webquests allow students to work in groups to explore and solve a problem using today's technology while becoming independent learners. Students also could participate in a culminating activity/project using what they learned from the WebQuest. Questgarden is a good site to visit if you are interested in creating a webquest. They have a lot of templates to use and guide you through the process. There is a fee for using the site, but there is a free trial period to check it out.
Susan
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Cognitivism in Practice
Cognitive learning theory suggests that learning be kept short for the learner, since the human brain can only manage 7-12 items at any one time. It also states that people can remember images much better than text alone. People store images in their memory and label them, also known as dual-coding of information. Another very important part of cognitive learning is episodic memory. If a teacher can tie learning into the students life, then it will become more memorable for the student.
Concept mapping is a good instructional strategy because it allows the student to organize information into a workable, visual model that makes sense to them. It can take all of the things that the student is learning and puts it into a map that shows the connections between things.
Virtual field trips are another good instructional strategy because not only does the student learn about a particular item, the student then gets to explore and actually "see" what they have been learning about. The more ways that you can make a connection with your students and what they are learning, the more likely it is that it will become part of their memory.
Concept mapping is a good instructional strategy because it allows the student to organize information into a workable, visual model that makes sense to them. It can take all of the things that the student is learning and puts it into a map that shows the connections between things.
Virtual field trips are another good instructional strategy because not only does the student learn about a particular item, the student then gets to explore and actually "see" what they have been learning about. The more ways that you can make a connection with your students and what they are learning, the more likely it is that it will become part of their memory.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Reflective Essay
This is my final blog posting for my 2nd course at Walden , Understanding the Impact of Technology on Education,Work and Society(EDUC 6710). I must admit that this has been my favorite course so far. I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I have. Although the assignments really took me out of my comfort zone and I spent some sleepless nights worrying over learning the new technology, I feel a sense of accomplishment! I am, as Mark Prensky(2001) would say, definitely a "digital immigrant", but I do feel that I am moving in the right direction to become part of the 21st century.
This course has helped me tremendously to develop my own technology skills as a professional teacher in the many ways. Before taking this course, I didn't really have any idea of the exciting possibilities that todays technology could offer. I had never participated in a blog, let alone create one. Now I have my own,which I have used basically for this course, and I have one that I created for my students to participate in! Podcasting using Gabcast was so fun and easy. I know that my students would really enjoy this. The Wiki was a bumpy road and I must say that I enjoyed this the least, but I do see the potential there for a wikispace for my art students. Practice, practice... I do believe that this class has made me more aware of the possibilities out there and less afraid to try and use them.
This course has made me realize what it feels like to be a struggling student (again!). I have felt the frustration and worry over not understanding the lesson and it has put me in the shoes of some of my students and has made me a bit more understanding of their feelings. It also has made me remember to ask questions and do not be afraid to not know something, because there are usually others out there that don't understand either. Also, the learning community here has absolutely benefitted me. Everyone is so helpful and I believe that we all really want to learn for ourselves and for our students. I do believe that we are truly on the path of the" lifelong learner".
I have changed my perspective from being teacher centered to learning centered in a few ways. As I said above, I always want to be a lifelong learner. I don't think that will ever change, so I don't just see myself as a teacher. I also see myself as a learner. I also appreciate the fact that some of my students know more than me, in the field of technology especially and I can learn from my students as much as they can learn from me. I do believe that students learn more when they are fully engaged in what they are learning. The old ways of lecturing and test taking do not work. Personally, I do not believe that they ever really did. With today's technology there is so much for the students to be able to get involved in. They will learn best of they are the ones creating and experiencing things rather than listening me talk about them.
I can continue to expand my knowledge of learning, teaching and leading with technology to increase student achievement in various ways. I will never stop wanting to learn what is going on in these fields. Daily there is change in these areas, especially though, in technology. I will continue to take courses and continue to stay on top of things. As far as my students are concerned, I hope to integrate technology into more aspects of all my courses. I have recently began a blog with some of my students to create a group mosaic. I have finally had a projector installed into my room so that my students can share in some of the resources that I have. I would love to expand the boundaries of my artroom so that it encompasses more than just our four walls. I would like for my students to have global experiences with other students and professionals. I am hoping to have them share their art with many others. I want them to be able to see the "big picture".
One long term goal that I would like to set for myself is to be able to incorporate technology into every lesson that I teach somehow. This is more of a personal goal, since I first have to become more comfortable in using these technologies myself, but I feel that I am on the right track. I will continue to learn about today's technologies and take courses. I will also ask questions of everyone! Students, other teachers, it doesn't matter. Whoever can help!
Another goal that I have is to be able to have more computers for my students and for them to have some type of drawing programs to use on these computers. I know that today's computers can do unbelievable things in the way of art and I would like to be able to give my students these experiences so that they know what is out there. This may be difficult for me in terms of money, but I can find available grant money hopefully or fundraise for these items.
Upon completion of this course, I do feel that my views on technology have changed a bit. I do see the potential in integrating technology into my classes. And I do realize that this is something that we must do in order to keep our students on track in today's society and to prepare them for their future. Today's society is a very global one and we must be able to adapt in order to survive and thrive in it.
Susan
This course has helped me tremendously to develop my own technology skills as a professional teacher in the many ways. Before taking this course, I didn't really have any idea of the exciting possibilities that todays technology could offer. I had never participated in a blog, let alone create one. Now I have my own,which I have used basically for this course, and I have one that I created for my students to participate in! Podcasting using Gabcast was so fun and easy. I know that my students would really enjoy this. The Wiki was a bumpy road and I must say that I enjoyed this the least, but I do see the potential there for a wikispace for my art students. Practice, practice... I do believe that this class has made me more aware of the possibilities out there and less afraid to try and use them.
This course has made me realize what it feels like to be a struggling student (again!). I have felt the frustration and worry over not understanding the lesson and it has put me in the shoes of some of my students and has made me a bit more understanding of their feelings. It also has made me remember to ask questions and do not be afraid to not know something, because there are usually others out there that don't understand either. Also, the learning community here has absolutely benefitted me. Everyone is so helpful and I believe that we all really want to learn for ourselves and for our students. I do believe that we are truly on the path of the" lifelong learner".
I have changed my perspective from being teacher centered to learning centered in a few ways. As I said above, I always want to be a lifelong learner. I don't think that will ever change, so I don't just see myself as a teacher. I also see myself as a learner. I also appreciate the fact that some of my students know more than me, in the field of technology especially and I can learn from my students as much as they can learn from me. I do believe that students learn more when they are fully engaged in what they are learning. The old ways of lecturing and test taking do not work. Personally, I do not believe that they ever really did. With today's technology there is so much for the students to be able to get involved in. They will learn best of they are the ones creating and experiencing things rather than listening me talk about them.
I can continue to expand my knowledge of learning, teaching and leading with technology to increase student achievement in various ways. I will never stop wanting to learn what is going on in these fields. Daily there is change in these areas, especially though, in technology. I will continue to take courses and continue to stay on top of things. As far as my students are concerned, I hope to integrate technology into more aspects of all my courses. I have recently began a blog with some of my students to create a group mosaic. I have finally had a projector installed into my room so that my students can share in some of the resources that I have. I would love to expand the boundaries of my artroom so that it encompasses more than just our four walls. I would like for my students to have global experiences with other students and professionals. I am hoping to have them share their art with many others. I want them to be able to see the "big picture".
One long term goal that I would like to set for myself is to be able to incorporate technology into every lesson that I teach somehow. This is more of a personal goal, since I first have to become more comfortable in using these technologies myself, but I feel that I am on the right track. I will continue to learn about today's technologies and take courses. I will also ask questions of everyone! Students, other teachers, it doesn't matter. Whoever can help!
Another goal that I have is to be able to have more computers for my students and for them to have some type of drawing programs to use on these computers. I know that today's computers can do unbelievable things in the way of art and I would like to be able to give my students these experiences so that they know what is out there. This may be difficult for me in terms of money, but I can find available grant money hopefully or fundraise for these items.
Upon completion of this course, I do feel that my views on technology have changed a bit. I do see the potential in integrating technology into my classes. And I do realize that this is something that we must do in order to keep our students on track in today's society and to prepare them for their future. Today's society is a very global one and we must be able to adapt in order to survive and thrive in it.
Susan
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Podcasting
How exciting! I actually created my first podcast today AND embedded it into my blog! How cool is that? Just wanted to share my excitement and disbelief with everyone. How did anyone else's first experience go? I thought that it would be harder than it actually was. Hallelujah!
Susan
Friday, January 30, 2009
21st century skills...
I had a bit more time to wander through the website Partnership for 21st Century Skills today and the amount of resources on the site is tremendous. I found a neat part of the site this time. It is the personal collection feature. It allows you to save any resource that you find useful into your own personal list on their site. You are able to review the resource and rate it and it helps others know if the site is relevant.
I found edutopia to be very interesting. There is so much on the site.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
21st Century Skills
Hello all,
I have been looking at the website for Partnership for 21st century skills. There are so many resources on this site. It is definitely worth taking a look at. The list of companies and associations involved with this partnership are also pretty impressive. I have never seen so many big named companies/associations involved together for the same purpose. Route 21 has so many different sites included in it.
I didn't really notice anything different or disagree with anything in particular.
The implications that this has for the future of education is great. What this partnership is hoping to accomplish is an awesome task. But I hope that it can be done. I was disappointed to not see my state of Pennsylvania on their list though.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Utilizing Blogs in the Classroom 2
Thanks to everyone for their comments and suggestions. I am beginning to see some potential here for this blogging thing.
Now I am going to try and send these sites over to Prof. Arnold-another battle. I haven't been having much luck with this stuff lately. I am feeling a bit overwhelmed right now and do not really know if I am doing these things correctly.
Thanks again!
Susan
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Utilizing Blogs in the Classroom
I am having trouble coming up with how to utilize a blog in my particular classroom. My first problem is that I only have two computers in my classroom and my average class size is 15-20 students. I know that a lot of my students do not have access to computers outside of school. My next problem is that I am a high school visual arts teacher and I cannot really think of how my students would be able to legitimately use a blog in class.
One thing that I could possibly use a blog for is to get students in the class and possibly in other areas of the country or world to discuss what art means to them. Most of them have a very limited understanding of how art helps them and reflecting on this with other students may help them. They could also talk to other students around the world about the kinds of things that they do in their art classes and how art plays an important role in their lives. They could share their art with each other also.
It just seems to me that my idea is very simplistic. This is all new to me so any ideas and comments would be greatly appreciated. I still do not have a great understanding of this stuff!
I do think that this could serve as a wonderful instructional tool if I could find a way to adequately incorporate it into my art program.
Susan
Saturday, January 10, 2009
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