Ahhhh, an audience of two. It seems strange to speak this way to an audience of two, an audience of two pioneers who have chosen to take a flyer on an unknown course with a rather sketchy title and description guided by an unknown instructor. I have a feeling we are in for an exciting ride this term.
This blog is a stand-in for office hours, assignment sheets, a chalkboard. It's a place for my brainstorms, thought ramblings, discoveries. You'll find assignments, suggesting and required readings, viewings, and activities here. You are expected to give me some back-talk here... let me know you are reading and experiencing what I post. Don't fear to disagree or criticize, it's all part of the experience of creating.
Your blog serves the same purposes as mine. I'll read and comment frequently.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The Masterpiece sign-in
Please fill in the form I emailed to you or use the one at the bottom of my blog when you have finished your masterpiece.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Digital Nativism: A Critique
A critical look at Marc Prensky's writing on Digital Natives/Digital Immigrants.
Digital Nativism
Another view of the generations before and after the iPod. Food for thought.
Digital Nativism
Another view of the generations before and after the iPod. Food for thought.
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Human Element
Great Dow Chemical commercial... what teachers are all about: The Human Element. Lest we techies forget ;-)
21st Century Enlightenment
Got to watch this video all the way through... it has a lot to say about how we do schooling and incentivize learning. What kind of classroom/school can you envision given this view of motivation?
theRSAorg's Channel Ken Robinson
Here's a YouTube channel that does some really cool things with a whiteboard and marker... the Ken Robinson is just one of many. May give you some masterpiece ideas.
YouTube - theRSAorg's Channel
YouTube - theRSAorg's Channel
Heads Up - Interact With Tact - OnGuard Online
Good source for kids of all ages to bone up on 'netiquet' and info about online security issues. There are also links to videos that address these same issues.
Heads Up - Interact With Tact - OnGuard Online
Heads Up - Interact With Tact - OnGuard Online
Scholastic | Expert Space Digital Curriculum in Science & Social Studies
I don't usually offer up a commercial resource but this one caught my eye. It's from Scholastic a fairly trusted name in educational resources. I see that there is a free trial so if you want to give it a try I think others would like to know what you think.
No, I don't own any Scholastic stock.
Content-Area Support | Expert Space Digital Curriculum in Science & Social Studies
No, I don't own any Scholastic stock.
Content-Area Support | Expert Space Digital Curriculum in Science & Social Studies
Introducing Gmail Motion
Amazing development in communications... wonder what impact this will have on education.
YouTube - Introducing Gmail Motion
Where does your imagination take this idea?
YouTube - Introducing Gmail Motion
Where does your imagination take this idea?
Monday, May 16, 2011
Next Project: Important
This is a long post, but it's important (I'll upload to Google Docs also):
Projects #4 & #5
At our first meeting I promised to front-load the work for this class because I know many of you are toiling in K-12 teaching trenches and I’m aware of the craziness of the last few weeks of school. To that end I’m combining the last two projects into one. There are a number of topics we have not explored this term, web safety issues for example. However, we have uncovered a curriculum that I had not anticipated back in January when I first started assembling tools and topics for 675. Together, in addition to all the Google tools, we’ve found Symbaloo, Prezi, Voki, Xtranormal, and a bevy of other useful and fun tools and resources. So here’s the deal:
Project #4 was to engage you in a team project, working with two other classmates to create a product that would benefit kids (paraphrased and in a nutshell). Project #5 was to create a product that summarized what you learned in EDUC 675 without resorting to a written paper… use as many web 2.0 tools to tell a story about what you learned and what you plan to do with your new found powers.
The final project is a mash-up. Work with other classmates to discuss the future of education in light of new and emerging technologies (web 2.0 tools for example). After this discussion goes on for a week or two each persons shares with others what he/she plans for an ‘EDUC 675 Masterpiece”. Wikipedia defines masterpiece in this way: “Originally, the term masterpiece referred to a piece of work produced by an apprentice or journeyman aspiring to become a master craftsman in the old European guild system”. That’s what I’m talking about.
This is what I have in mind: I encourage you to work closely with classmates with whom you might like to consult… I’ll give you each other’s email addresses, you have access to all the blogs via the list at the end of my blog. You all may work together with one discussion or you may break into smaller groups for a discussion in Google Docs. I’ll monitor the discussion and join in when I feel like it. We’ll see who wants to be a leader to start up a discussion and who wants to be a worker bee. No extra credit, not bonus points or brownie points just an honest discussion about what was learned, what was missing, what might come next in your technology journey. Kick it around and then in a couple of weeks (see dates below) each person nails down a project that demonstrates what she/he has learned and what comes next in the journey to lead kids into 21st century success.
Amorphous assignment? You bet! But, I have confidence in your ability and drive to do a creative and bang-up job that will blow my socks off. In the process of setting your own bar I believe you’ll encourage and support your colleagues to achieve greater heights. It would not surprise me if individuals sent drafts of projects to each other for critique, for example.
OK, here are the steps:
1. I’ll open a Google Doc where you all can discuss. Remember use the INSERT pull-down and select COMMENT to add to the discussion. I would imagine you’ll have private conversations via email/phone/text. After a while I expect some of you to start your own Google Doc discussion with a subgroup, perhaps based on content or grade level interests (or some other classification based on personality type or some personal or professional characteristic I have not thought of). Just as in the classroom be aware of not leaving anyone out (that means that each person must participate in discussions and speak up if feeling left out).
2. In the discussion tell your story… what did you learn, what was missing, what next steps are in store, where you’d like to be, technologically speaking, a year from now. Mention but don’t dwell on, obstacles to current/future success. Who is the teacher you’d like to be. Ask for ideas and advice from classmates.
3. Break off from the pack and do a web 2.0 masterpiece that encapsulates your story. Send me a link and share it with your classmates.
Dates to remember:
Now through May 25: Join the conversation about what it means to create a masterpiece. Start with my Google Docs document, add comments, form your own conversation groups. Don’t forget to share with me.
May 25. Send me an update on your masterpiece plan. What are you thinking about doing, what tools are you planning to use? I’ll post a Google Form for this.
June 6. Submit your masterpiece.
In the meantime:
• Continue to blog (perhaps a running commentary on your quest for a masterpiece?)
• Continue to read and comment on my blog. You may find some help here or a blog topic.
• Email me if you have a particularly sticky problem.
Projects #4 & #5
At our first meeting I promised to front-load the work for this class because I know many of you are toiling in K-12 teaching trenches and I’m aware of the craziness of the last few weeks of school. To that end I’m combining the last two projects into one. There are a number of topics we have not explored this term, web safety issues for example. However, we have uncovered a curriculum that I had not anticipated back in January when I first started assembling tools and topics for 675. Together, in addition to all the Google tools, we’ve found Symbaloo, Prezi, Voki, Xtranormal, and a bevy of other useful and fun tools and resources. So here’s the deal:
Project #4 was to engage you in a team project, working with two other classmates to create a product that would benefit kids (paraphrased and in a nutshell). Project #5 was to create a product that summarized what you learned in EDUC 675 without resorting to a written paper… use as many web 2.0 tools to tell a story about what you learned and what you plan to do with your new found powers.
The final project is a mash-up. Work with other classmates to discuss the future of education in light of new and emerging technologies (web 2.0 tools for example). After this discussion goes on for a week or two each persons shares with others what he/she plans for an ‘EDUC 675 Masterpiece”. Wikipedia defines masterpiece in this way: “Originally, the term masterpiece referred to a piece of work produced by an apprentice or journeyman aspiring to become a master craftsman in the old European guild system”. That’s what I’m talking about.
This is what I have in mind: I encourage you to work closely with classmates with whom you might like to consult… I’ll give you each other’s email addresses, you have access to all the blogs via the list at the end of my blog. You all may work together with one discussion or you may break into smaller groups for a discussion in Google Docs. I’ll monitor the discussion and join in when I feel like it. We’ll see who wants to be a leader to start up a discussion and who wants to be a worker bee. No extra credit, not bonus points or brownie points just an honest discussion about what was learned, what was missing, what might come next in your technology journey. Kick it around and then in a couple of weeks (see dates below) each person nails down a project that demonstrates what she/he has learned and what comes next in the journey to lead kids into 21st century success.
Amorphous assignment? You bet! But, I have confidence in your ability and drive to do a creative and bang-up job that will blow my socks off. In the process of setting your own bar I believe you’ll encourage and support your colleagues to achieve greater heights. It would not surprise me if individuals sent drafts of projects to each other for critique, for example.
OK, here are the steps:
1. I’ll open a Google Doc where you all can discuss. Remember use the INSERT pull-down and select COMMENT to add to the discussion. I would imagine you’ll have private conversations via email/phone/text. After a while I expect some of you to start your own Google Doc discussion with a subgroup, perhaps based on content or grade level interests (or some other classification based on personality type or some personal or professional characteristic I have not thought of). Just as in the classroom be aware of not leaving anyone out (that means that each person must participate in discussions and speak up if feeling left out).
2. In the discussion tell your story… what did you learn, what was missing, what next steps are in store, where you’d like to be, technologically speaking, a year from now. Mention but don’t dwell on, obstacles to current/future success. Who is the teacher you’d like to be. Ask for ideas and advice from classmates.
3. Break off from the pack and do a web 2.0 masterpiece that encapsulates your story. Send me a link and share it with your classmates.
Dates to remember:
Now through May 25: Join the conversation about what it means to create a masterpiece. Start with my Google Docs document, add comments, form your own conversation groups. Don’t forget to share with me.
May 25. Send me an update on your masterpiece plan. What are you thinking about doing, what tools are you planning to use? I’ll post a Google Form for this.
June 6. Submit your masterpiece.
In the meantime:
• Continue to blog (perhaps a running commentary on your quest for a masterpiece?)
• Continue to read and comment on my blog. You may find some help here or a blog topic.
• Email me if you have a particularly sticky problem.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
New Project Sign-in
I've added a new project sign in for project #3 near the bottom of this blog. Follow the directions there when you are ready to share your staff development presentation with me.
Monday, May 9, 2011
YouTube Resources for Web 2.0 Tools
Just found DiscoveryEd2010Web on YouTube. There are 7 videos that cover all sorts of web 2.0 tools appropriate for education. Many of the tools are ones we have explored but some are new to us (me, too). The guys in the videos are entertaining and the video editing is slick. Worth a look if you need some ideas for new tools or how to use the ones you already know.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Project #3: More Info
From the Assignments and Projects Document:
I would expect a demonstration that includes some elements that you've learned so far in EDUC 675 to show your audience the features (what the elements can do) and benefits (how they can improve teaching and learning) of Google docs, Symbaloo, Weebly, Voki, Wordle, XtraNormal, subject specific sites, etc. You may choose an audience (see examples above) and imagine that you are the expert (you really are) who is leading your chosen audience to use or promote more technology use in classrooms. Your job is to be convincing as well as entertaining. The final product will be a Google Docs Presentation or if you looking for a new experience, a Prezi. Use the speaker notes feature in Google Docs Presentations as a script for yourself or a written explanation of how your demonstration will be used. Use links to sites and examples of work you have done. My fondest wish is for you to actually use this presentation with a real audience and report back that you really wowed them. Make this a 10 minute presentation.
May 15: Project # 3 - Persuasive Preso: Features and Benefits. Audience: to department teachers, technology committee to allow access to Web 2.0 tools, Board of Education for more technology and access, other named audience. Should be mixed media, approximately 10 minutes.
I would expect a demonstration that includes some elements that you've learned so far in EDUC 675 to show your audience the features (what the elements can do) and benefits (how they can improve teaching and learning) of Google docs, Symbaloo, Weebly, Voki, Wordle, XtraNormal, subject specific sites, etc. You may choose an audience (see examples above) and imagine that you are the expert (you really are) who is leading your chosen audience to use or promote more technology use in classrooms. Your job is to be convincing as well as entertaining. The final product will be a Google Docs Presentation or if you looking for a new experience, a Prezi. Use the speaker notes feature in Google Docs Presentations as a script for yourself or a written explanation of how your demonstration will be used. Use links to sites and examples of work you have done. My fondest wish is for you to actually use this presentation with a real audience and report back that you really wowed them. Make this a 10 minute presentation.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Course Assessment
I've had some inquiries about how things are going as far as grades are concerned. As I mentioned at our first meeting I expect graduate level work from graduate students. However, it is up to you to determine what that means to you... up to a point. I have a good nose for game playing and scamming the system and I've detected none of that so far.
I'm of the 'mastery learning' school of evaluation. That means I believe in do-overs if a student misses the mark or leaves some stuff out of an assignment. You may assume you are doing well if you don't get a do-over or fix-it notice from me. On the project #2 comments you received I coded these do-over and fix-it notes in red. If you didn't get a red notice and I asked you a question about your web presence you may choose to take my suggestions or not. If I did request a change please communicate directly with me when you have made the adjustment (see next paragraph).
An important note here is that I'm attempting to train you to use the 'comments' feature in Google Docs, this may have not been clear in my note to you about how to see my comments on you projects. When you are viewing the Google Doc that includes my comments you may comment back by using the 'insert' pull down menu and selecting 'comment' . A comment will be placed a the location of your cursor... it will be dated I will be notified of your comment. This is how a conversation can be conducted via Google Docs. Pretty cool. Let's try it.
As always, read my blog! If you have not entered your email address to the right so you will be notified of new posts, do it now. Leave me a note in blog comments even if it is only: "That's cool" or "What BS", I want to know you are 'in class'.
The bottom line on Course Assessment: Everyone gets an A unless you really screw up. Don't make me go there ;-)
I'm of the 'mastery learning' school of evaluation. That means I believe in do-overs if a student misses the mark or leaves some stuff out of an assignment. You may assume you are doing well if you don't get a do-over or fix-it notice from me. On the project #2 comments you received I coded these do-over and fix-it notes in red. If you didn't get a red notice and I asked you a question about your web presence you may choose to take my suggestions or not. If I did request a change please communicate directly with me when you have made the adjustment (see next paragraph).
An important note here is that I'm attempting to train you to use the 'comments' feature in Google Docs, this may have not been clear in my note to you about how to see my comments on you projects. When you are viewing the Google Doc that includes my comments you may comment back by using the 'insert' pull down menu and selecting 'comment' . A comment will be placed a the location of your cursor... it will be dated I will be notified of your comment. This is how a conversation can be conducted via Google Docs. Pretty cool. Let's try it.
As always, read my blog! If you have not entered your email address to the right so you will be notified of new posts, do it now. Leave me a note in blog comments even if it is only: "That's cool" or "What BS", I want to know you are 'in class'.
The bottom line on Course Assessment: Everyone gets an A unless you really screw up. Don't make me go there ;-)
Monday, May 2, 2011
Tagul: Another Wordle look-alike
Tagul is another Wordle look-alike with a simpler interface than Tagxedo but with fewer features, I think. Take a look.
See my trial run to the right... the URL for this blog is the basis for this word cloud (I excluded common English words). Also, Tagul adds a roll-over feature that enlarges words as a cursor rolls over them. I greatly reduced the size of the example so it would fit the space available.
Got great reviews on Tagxedo, btw. Be sure to read what your colleagues are saying... very useful stuff.
Compare and contrast word cloud makers, anyone? Anyone?
See my trial run to the right... the URL for this blog is the basis for this word cloud (I excluded common English words). Also, Tagul adds a roll-over feature that enlarges words as a cursor rolls over them. I greatly reduced the size of the example so it would fit the space available.
Got great reviews on Tagxedo, btw. Be sure to read what your colleagues are saying... very useful stuff.
Compare and contrast word cloud makers, anyone? Anyone?
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Wordle on Steroids
Found this site that allows Wordle-like word clouds to be configured in shapes of your choosing. Problem is it requires the download of a plug-in from Microsoft called Silverlight and the site called Tagxedo does not work with all operating systems and browsers. It is also a bit mysterious (read not user friendly) in its operation. The good news is that once you figure it out it does what it says it will do... word clouds in a variety of shapes. It appears that one can even upload a picture or shape to become a word cloud (I did not attempt this feature).
Here's my attempt... it's the Gettysburg Address in the shape of Abe Lincoln. What do you think? Any ideas on how this might be used? What success did you have with this tool?
Here's my attempt... it's the Gettysburg Address in the shape of Abe Lincoln. What do you think? Any ideas on how this might be used? What success did you have with this tool?
Monday, April 25, 2011
CommonCraft: Source for videos that explain stuff
Common Craft is a great site to get a quick and simple explanation for lots of stuff. I'm most familiar with the technology things but there are other videos for everything from 'augmented reality' to 'zombies' (I'm not kidding!). When you get into the site choose 'browse videos' and select a category. These videos are simply done and may give you or your students an idea for a homemade video project. Common Craft videos are usually no more than 3 minutes long and are perfect to show in class.
The site looks like they are selling the videos and indeed they are, but you can watch everything online for free. So, don't be put off by the sales pitch.
Oh yeah, Common Craft videos are available in multiple languages... how can you use that?
The site looks like they are selling the videos and indeed they are, but you can watch everything online for free. So, don't be put off by the sales pitch.
Oh yeah, Common Craft videos are available in multiple languages... how can you use that?
Weebly Test
I've heard from some of you that Weebly restricts many of its add-ons to paying customers. I checked it out on my travel website and found that all the things that I think you need for our project are still free. I even added my Voki by pasting the html code from the Voki site into an html piece I drug into the site. I also added a YouTube video by pasting the URL into a YouTube piece I added to my page. See the site for more info.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Wordle from Comments
One of the features of Blogger is the ability to see all comments in one place (see the Stats tab at the top of Posting page). I copied all 127 comments, took out your names, dates and times using MS Word, and then pasted the words into Wordle. Makes for an interesting and revealing picture of what you've been commenting. See the Wordle on the right, double click to enlarge.
K-3 Diagnostic Test Support
As much as it pains me to support the test-crazy system, I know it is part of your life. Here's a link that you may already know about but just in case you don't...
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Symbaloo | Access your bookmarks anywhere
I know many of you have used Symbaloo but thought I'd give the rest of you the link... think: a Symbaloo for your class or course. Students could help it grow. Hmmmm maybe we should start our own 675 Symbaloo.
I've started a Symbaloo for EDUC 675... see if you can add to it.
TESOL Resource Anyone?
This site is a blog maintained by a UK professor, it has lots of links to TESOL sites:
Quizlet Video
Another Web 2.0 tool that you can use right now with any subject (including World Languages). Watch the video, use the tool. Write a review.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Messy but ????
For those of you interested in languages poke around in this messy but interesting site... there appears to be a ton of links to other language sites.
BrainPOP
You asked for it! (Not really but I know you really want sites that you can use right away in class instead of all that Web 2.0 tool stuff ;-)) This a good one... covers lots of subject areas and age levels. Comment on what you found useful here.
Library of Congress: Everyday Mysteries
The Library of Congress has a ton of good stuff for educators... here's one of my favorite pieces. Back up to the LOC home page to get an overall view.
Possible Writing Prompt?
I love this video... toddler twins talking to each other in a language all their own. What abou a writing assignment to "translate" the conversation these two are having. Could be a motivating way to teach proper use of quotations and conversations.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Here's a Strange Link
I know that in an effort to link school to the 'real world' teachers sometimes have kids make shopping lists and look up prices to do math or social studies (econ) projects. Jungle Jim's sends out their entire flyer as a .pdf file with descriptions of products and prices. No newspaper fuss or inky fingers... every kid gets a copy (don't let them print).
You may find other stores' flyers... can you say comparison shopping?
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Chalk Talk: A Kindergarten Blog
Just found this blog, it's written by a real teacher. I'd like to hear feedback from K and pre-K teachers. Looks like there are some links in the blog.
Blog Assignment: TED | Search
Somewhere in your college/graduate education you've probably been exposed to TED, at least one of the TED videos. Here's an opportunity explore and examine TED videos that may be of value to you or your students.
The assignment:
1. Click on the link below
2. Type "education" in the search window. When I did this I got 411 possible videos.
3. Browse the titles, watch bits of a few and choose one you want to review.
4. Here's the tricky part. Go to Google Docs, find the TED List, type your name on the first available line and enter the title of your chosen TED video, a link and some tags. However, you may not enter a video that is already on the list.
5. Write a review of the TED video on your blog.
Post to your blog by next Sunday evening April 24. Make that Monday April 25... Sunday is Easter.
TED | Search
The assignment:
1. Click on the link below
2. Type "education" in the search window. When I did this I got 411 possible videos.
3. Browse the titles, watch bits of a few and choose one you want to review.
4. Here's the tricky part. Go to Google Docs, find the TED List, type your name on the first available line and enter the title of your chosen TED video, a link and some tags. However, you may not enter a video that is already on the list.
5. Write a review of the TED video on your blog.
Post to your blog by next Sunday evening April 24. Make that Monday April 25... Sunday is Easter.
TED | Search
Friday, April 15, 2011
Flip to iMovie to Blog
I
I imported our individual clips into iMovie and added a theme, transitions, and some text screens to make a somewhat engaging movie. I decided not to publish to YouTube to protect the innocent ;-)
THE COLUMBUS IDEA FOUNDRY (and HOT LINKS)
A friend sent me a link to this site... The Columbus Idea Foundry... if you or a student ever wanted to learn to use a computer controlled router, learn to weld, or make Byzantine chain jewelry this is a place to start.
BTW: when you include a web site on your blog you can make a hot link by highlighting the word or words that make up the link (in this post: 'The Columbus Idea Foundry") then when you are in the post editing mode, click on the LINK function in the editing bar. A window will pop open where you can paste the URL for the link. Voila, a hot link.
BTW: when you include a web site on your blog you can make a hot link by highlighting the word or words that make up the link (in this post: 'The Columbus Idea Foundry") then when you are in the post editing mode, click on the LINK function in the editing bar. A window will pop open where you can paste the URL for the link. Voila, a hot link.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Tragic Death of the Flip
The Tragic Death of the Flip - NYTimes.com
Maybe I'm too nostalgic about this gadget but it makes me sad that such a cool, inexpensive, useful gadget can be killed off just because it doesn't fit the product mix of a mega-company who acquired it and then got buyers remorse. At any rate you should know David Pogue one of the tech writers at the New York Times. His columns are hip, funny, and by my yardstick spot on. Check out his videos, too.
R.I.P. Flip Video Cam
Perhaps I led you astray last night in class... the Flip is an orphan going the way of Saturn and Plymouth. Maybe someone else will pick it up. Still a great idea for classrooms... might pick one up for a bargain price.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Wikispaces - For Educators
Starting place for your wiki...
Lots of options for classroom use... just follow the yellow brick road ;-)
Couldn't Resist
I don't mean to pick on Dan but he put this great picture of himself on his blog...
and I couldn't resist doing some work on it myself. Sometimes teaching is just a lot of fun.
Try Photofunia you may even find some educational work for it.
and I couldn't resist doing some work on it myself. Sometimes teaching is just a lot of fun.
Try Photofunia you may even find some educational work for it.
Blog Assignment: ISTE | Digital Edition February/March 2011
As a prompt for your blog entry try this... choose an article from the Feb/Mar Learning and Leading with Technology. Write a brief review of the article in your blog and add a hot link to the article. The link below takes you to the table of contents for the L&L issue.
ISTE | Digital Edition February/March 2011
ISTE | Digital Edition February/March 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Assignment for Wednesday
We meet again on Wednesday, 6 to 8 in Roush 204. We’re going to make a video that may wind up on YouTube. I got this packet of cartoon speech balloons in the mail from Discover Card… some kind of promotion. My idea is this: we’ll use the speech balloons (AKA 'callout) 
to comment on Web 2.0 for teachers. Between now and Wednesday think about 2 or 3 words that you can print on your balloon and hold over your head. The words should make a statement about how web 2.0 tools improves teaching. I’ll come around with my Flip video camera and take a quick shot of each person and balloon. For example: My balloon might say: Animoto: Not Boring!
To avoid duplication I’ve created a Google Doc called Balloon Talk where you will enter your name and your balloon words. First come first served. Here’s the link to the doc… you all have editing powers.
to comment on Web 2.0 for teachers. Between now and Wednesday think about 2 or 3 words that you can print on your balloon and hold over your head. The words should make a statement about how web 2.0 tools improves teaching. I’ll come around with my Flip video camera and take a quick shot of each person and balloon. For example: My balloon might say: Animoto: Not Boring!
To avoid duplication I’ve created a Google Doc called Balloon Talk where you will enter your name and your balloon words. First come first served. Here’s the link to the doc… you all have editing powers.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Calling Your Attention to a New Addition
See my alter ego Golden Retriever to the right... created with Voki.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
I Get Questions
Actually I got A question. One of you asked about what I taught when I taught sixth grade. First of all I must remind you that I indeed taught during the last ice age when most sixth grades were self-contained classrooms... that means you taught everything. Everything and everybody. During my first year of teaching, in addition to all the traditional academic subjects I was responsible for teaching physical education, art and music. Thank God for record players. The everybody was the really difficult part... kids with all sorts of abilities and disabilities were clumped in the same rookie teacher's classroom. A rookie and a system with no notion of special or gifted education.
The questioner wanted to know if I taught science given my reference to the inflatable black trash bag balloon. The answer is, "Yes I did". We also made a pin hole camera out of a refrigerator box so kids could be inside the camera and see the inverted image on the screen. We made candles with wax melted on a hot plate... solid/liquid/gas (not a good idea in a room with limited electrical circuits). But we also made life size paper mache figures to retell the story of "The Hobbit" (literature/language arts). We made commercials for historic events using a black and white video camera and a reel to reel recorder (social studies). I read aloud every day after lunch (Hiroshima and Dracula were favorites). We used calculators as soon as they were available. Ask me about the computer that used a teletype machine as a terminal.
Technology is an artifact of its era. My era was primarily analog... real objects repurposed to engage kids and empower them to be part of their own learning. Today in the digital age Web 2.0 tools which were designed for business or art can be bent to the will of creative teachers. I encourage you to suspend disbelief, suspend the pressures of testing and governmental medling. Forget for a few hours each week that what we do in 675 is not practical in the "real world" of teaching today. See if you can find an idea or two that are so compelling that you'll do something really goofy with your kids and they'll go home and tell their parents about what they did in school today without being asked. I could happen. Really.
The questioner wanted to know if I taught science given my reference to the inflatable black trash bag balloon. The answer is, "Yes I did". We also made a pin hole camera out of a refrigerator box so kids could be inside the camera and see the inverted image on the screen. We made candles with wax melted on a hot plate... solid/liquid/gas (not a good idea in a room with limited electrical circuits). But we also made life size paper mache figures to retell the story of "The Hobbit" (literature/language arts). We made commercials for historic events using a black and white video camera and a reel to reel recorder (social studies). I read aloud every day after lunch (Hiroshima and Dracula were favorites). We used calculators as soon as they were available. Ask me about the computer that used a teletype machine as a terminal.
Technology is an artifact of its era. My era was primarily analog... real objects repurposed to engage kids and empower them to be part of their own learning. Today in the digital age Web 2.0 tools which were designed for business or art can be bent to the will of creative teachers. I encourage you to suspend disbelief, suspend the pressures of testing and governmental medling. Forget for a few hours each week that what we do in 675 is not practical in the "real world" of teaching today. See if you can find an idea or two that are so compelling that you'll do something really goofy with your kids and they'll go home and tell their parents about what they did in school today without being asked. I could happen. Really.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Here are three web 2.0 tools you can use in your classroom - ISTE Community
Here are 3 tools endorsed by a member of the ISTE community... I have not explored these tools so I'd like to hear from you if you find one or more of them useful.
Here are three web 2.0 tools you can use in your classroom - ISTE Community
Here are three web 2.0 tools you can use in your classroom - ISTE Community
Sunday, April 3, 2011
YouTube - An Open Letter to Educators
Dan Brown... the value of information. One young person's view of the traditional education model. If you teach older students or talk to parents about the education futures for their kids how might this view inform what you have to say?
Can you do a rif on the value of information and what that means to how teachers teach today?
Just food for thought.
YouTube - An Open Letter to Educators
Can you do a rif on the value of information and what that means to how teachers teach today?
Just food for thought.
YouTube - An Open Letter to Educators
Friday, April 1, 2011
We Are Teachers
Another online resource for teachers with links to other sites, join if it looks interesting. Sites like this keep a constant flow of ideas coming to your inbox. Take what you want, leave the rest.
We Are Teachers
We Are Teachers
eduTecher.net
eduTecher is a non-profit gateway to online education resources... see "links" to search by grade level and subject. Write a review on your blog if you find the site useful or a dud. OR Write a review of a site you found through eduTecher. Don't forget to include the URL in your blog post and in the bibliographic entry in Google Docs.
eduTecher.net - a non-profit web resource
eduTecher.net - a non-profit web resource
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Stuff from the first class
I thought it might be good to link to the presentation and other documents we viewed in the first class. As we progress through the course I may not post all links here but will expect you to go directly to Google Docs or Google Groups to interact with documents.
Since you are already in my blog look right and click on the follow icon and become a follower of my blog, I'll do the same for you (once you give me access). While you are at it enter your email address in the place provided so you will be notified each time I add to my blog. This may be annoying but you won't miss any tweaks to assignments or projects.
OK, here are the links to things you viewed in class tonight:
The presentation
Projects and Assignments
The Class Collective Reading List
Naming Conventions
Before the next meeting (Wednesday April 13) complete the following:
1. Start your blog... remember at least one entry per week. One of the entries this time will be a reaction to an ISTE article found here: ISTE | Digital Edition March/April 2011
Choose an article from the table of contents related to your field of study or interest and write a review of the article aimed at your peers in the same field of study. Post a review on your blog. Add a bibiographic entry for the selected article on our Class Collective Reading List in Google Docs.
2. Read and react to my blog entries. Explore my gadgets and links, become a follower, enter your email address to receive updates when I post a new blog entry.
Happy surfing, browsing, viewing and reading... try to make some sense of this stuff related to what you do in real life.
Since you are already in my blog look right and click on the follow icon and become a follower of my blog, I'll do the same for you (once you give me access). While you are at it enter your email address in the place provided so you will be notified each time I add to my blog. This may be annoying but you won't miss any tweaks to assignments or projects.
OK, here are the links to things you viewed in class tonight:
The presentation
Projects and Assignments
The Class Collective Reading List
Naming Conventions
Before the next meeting (Wednesday April 13) complete the following:
1. Start your blog... remember at least one entry per week. One of the entries this time will be a reaction to an ISTE article found here: ISTE | Digital Edition March/April 2011
Choose an article from the table of contents related to your field of study or interest and write a review of the article aimed at your peers in the same field of study. Post a review on your blog. Add a bibiographic entry for the selected article on our Class Collective Reading List in Google Docs.
2. Read and react to my blog entries. Explore my gadgets and links, become a follower, enter your email address to receive updates when I post a new blog entry.
Happy surfing, browsing, viewing and reading... try to make some sense of this stuff related to what you do in real life.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
New to me...
Just a quick post to introduce a new site that I discovered today. I found it while navigating through the ISTE site... it's the Xtranormal (http://www.xtranormal.com/) site where you can make movies just by typing text (and adding a few other bits). Really cool, now we need to make a list of educational uses. Who wants to be first? See my first attempt posted here: http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/11541161
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
New Blog Today
I've been using the same old blog for the past several years (http://drheigle.blogspot.com/). It's been a catch-all for EDUC 675 and my travels. This seemed like a good time to split off in a new direction with a blog that is education only... although education covers a big piece of the map. If you are reading this (what a dumb statement, of course you are reading this) you are most probably enrolled in EDUC 675 OL Spring term at Otterbein UNIVERSITY. Each of you will soon be going through the same process I just completed to begin your own blog. For me and for the course the blog is a Journal, what we used to call a Thought Rambling. This is a place for me to "lecture" (in a good way), to muse about new stuff I've discovered, to suggest places for you to explore on the web, and a place to ask questions that seem important for us to consider.
As you come to know more about me you'll discover that I am a "Thought Rambler" my self. I have wide ranging educational interests and like to think about using found resources in unusual ways to teach and to learn. For example, when I taught sixth grade during the last Ice Age I found a roll of black plastic trash bags. To make a long story shorter, my class and I discovered how to use a hot iron to weld the bags together to make a giant balloon which we inflated with a window fan. We made one big enough so the whole class could sit inside... we could even project movies on the outside and watch them on the inside. We learned about air pressure, measuring, welding, geometry, volume, etc. Most of all we learned that by working together and solving problems we could do some pretty cool stuff. The bag welding was a little dangerous I guess but few worthwhile objectives in life are without some risk. The internet is my current roll of black plastic bags... the internet is kind of uncharted educationally and it can be risky but the payoff in student engagement and creativity is, to me, well worth dodging the potholes.
Join me in this journey of journaling and risking... respond to my posts, even if only a few words and I'll do the same for your posts.
As you come to know more about me you'll discover that I am a "Thought Rambler" my self. I have wide ranging educational interests and like to think about using found resources in unusual ways to teach and to learn. For example, when I taught sixth grade during the last Ice Age I found a roll of black plastic trash bags. To make a long story shorter, my class and I discovered how to use a hot iron to weld the bags together to make a giant balloon which we inflated with a window fan. We made one big enough so the whole class could sit inside... we could even project movies on the outside and watch them on the inside. We learned about air pressure, measuring, welding, geometry, volume, etc. Most of all we learned that by working together and solving problems we could do some pretty cool stuff. The bag welding was a little dangerous I guess but few worthwhile objectives in life are without some risk. The internet is my current roll of black plastic bags... the internet is kind of uncharted educationally and it can be risky but the payoff in student engagement and creativity is, to me, well worth dodging the potholes.
Join me in this journey of journaling and risking... respond to my posts, even if only a few words and I'll do the same for your posts.
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