Final Course Reflection

Final Course Reflection

For my final course reflection blog I wanted to try a Web 2.0 tool that had interested me throughout this course but I hadn't had a chance to try out.  So yet again I signed up for another trial.  This comic was made using Bit Strips.  I very quickly made it and I had fun creating!  The alphabet is 3 letters W-E-B! I'm the teacher and a colleague is complementing my blog.  Everyone now knows at my school that I am a blogger:) Then one student asks a question...everyone answers how they love Web 2.0 tools.  Learning is fun when students can choose and create, develop and deside!  I have yet another tool I plan to use in my class.  I learned so much throughout this course.  I am utilizing multiple technology tools and am aiming to "flip" my classroom in the near future.  I love blogging and if my schedule permitted more free time, I would blog more frequently.  I enjoyed Skyping with the various teaching professionals and learned a great deal from our conversations.  When I brought back a new way to incorporate the computer into the classroom, their enthusiasm increased noticeably.  My daughter was the guinea pig...trying everything out so I could test it before trying it with my class.  It was perfect because she's the same age.  Now she always wants my laptop:)  My class collaborated so nicely when using technology.  They worked well with Mrs. Parisen's class and the end result was a Digital Project that impressed our principal, parents, and colleagues.  They are so proud of their project!  We are currently adding to our class MAPPs Wiki.  Next year I want to create a Wiki or Weebly for my class.  I'll work on the design and details over the summer.  Hard to believe the semester is over...

Literacy Project

Literacy Project - Class Voki's

 The first thing I did with my class was show them what a Voki is.  We did this as a whole group in the computer lab.  I projected on the Smartboard the Voki website and the steps to create their own Voki's. Then I shared a personal Voki I created, and one that my daughter created.  This sparked their interest!  Then they really couldn't wait to get their own Voki started. I gave them a time limit to create their personal Voki, because they would use up the whole day experimenting with styles.  They wrote out their personal narratives, then edited and typed into their text space for their Voki.  While listening to their Voki read they learned that they could change the way certain words sounded by respelling it.  


Click below to view a sample Voki:)


My daughters Voki that I used as a model for my class. - Megan


Here are some links to my students' vokis.  Enjoy!!!

Student Voki Personal Narrative - Bella
Student Voki Personal Narrative - Dustin
Student Voki Personal Narrative - Lindsay
Student Voki Personal Narrative - Jacob
Student Voki Personal Narrative - Krissy


There are many more....we are still working on these:)

Sharing Skype with Megan

Skype

google images.com

After Skyping last class and hearing my son talk about how easy Skype is, I decided to set up an account on my home computer.  Then my daughter, Megan  caught on, and now she is Skyping with two of her friends everyday.  Since she is on vacation this week it has served as a way for her to set up play dates and sleepovers.  I find it so adorable how she uses tech. lingo like brb, for be right back.  Then she runs in her room gets a toy and holds it up to the camera to show her friend what they will be doing when she comes over to play.  Last night my daughter asked if she could buy a webcam... my response was as long as I know when you are going on and who you are Skyping with, YES!!!  My mother lives in-state but with our busy schedules we don't see each other enough.  I plan to Skype with my mom once I can set her up an account on her computer.  Skype is great!  Krysta and I tossed around the idea of Skyping with our two classes as an introduction lesson into Skyping.  I think we will revisit the idea once our next class project is completed.  I also thought of trying to find a children's author who would be willing to Skype...Hmmm.  Now I'm inspired!  Have you heard of any children's author who whould be willing to set up a Skype with a 3rd grade class?

Skype with Mr. Gwaltney

Last Weeks Skype with Mr. Gwaltney and His A.P. Students

I was impressed with last weeks lengthy Skype with Professor G and his four students.  The ladies were articulate in their explanations as to why their online course with Mr. G is working for them.  They explained how they need to be extremely flexible and organized in order for the collaborative assignments to be successful.  I can only imagine how scheduling and planning are key.  Krysta and I had to rearrange several days in order to complete our Digital Story.  Then I think of how it must be to work around several schedules and from people from different time zones too!  Must be tricky.  Next I think of the wonderful Google Docs, which I have come to LOVE!!!  They mentioned how Google Docs is their chosen way to stay organized and share ideas.  Yes, I can see how using Google Docs would make the process of collaborating and assigning tasks much less time consuming.  Also, I found their opinions on online communication vs. classroom communication to be truthful and understandable.  I can think my answers through before typing them in for others to view.  I had a few friends take A.P. classes when they were in High School but the classes were at a community college.  I have seen technology advance to what it is today.  How far it has come!!!  When I mentioned the Skpe to my 15 year old son, I asked him if he would take online A.P. classes and he said, 'Yes".  Who knows maybe one day he will be Skyping with you Judy???

Digital Story-Symmetry Final Draft

Digital Story on Symmetry

                        

This is the final draft of our Symmetry Project.  We hope you enjoy!!!

Digital Story Project - Work in Progress

 Symmetry Digital Story

Whose Line is it Anyway? (Rough Draft)

Work in Progress

This is the rough draft for Krysta and my Digital Story on Symmetry. We still need to work on fading the music, slowing down the text, possibly some narration, and editing some of the pictures to make it a shorter story.  It has been a long process and having not used imovie before it's been a rough road.  However, once we realized that it saves automatically we weren't so intimidated that we would loose all of our work. Then we began to take risks. Thankfully we were able to import the pictures, arrange them by activity, clip the videos to show student learning, create interesting transitions, download and import music.  This being a holiday weekend and reportcards going home next week, Krysta and I are trying to be flexible and creative with our schedules in order to research how to make the changes that need to be made.  Work in Progress

Book Discussion Wiki

http://www.google.com/

As Krysta and I work together on our digital story, we learned that we are both reading Charlotte's Web to our classes.  We had talked about creating a Wiki for our classes to gain experience with using a Wiki.  My class has a Wiki with their MAPPs pals and they love to post comments and different ideas to it, but why not create another one with their Symmetry buddies.  We've been pleased with their collaboration and how they interact with one another.  Watching them guide each other has been wonderful.  I see many of my former students take on a leadership role as they help my students extend their learning.  In the coming weeks, after we  complete our Digital Story, be on the lookout for the Charlotte's Web Wiki!  : >)

My Tagxedo

Cool Tagxedo

I was trying out the Tagxedo website that Rubi shared with us. My Tagxedo has to do with my blog.  Check out how many Web 2.0 words there are:)  I can think of so many ways to use this tool.  My class loves word clouds and Wordles, so I know this will be a hit.  I couldn't figure out how to embed the image into my blog though.  Any words of advise???  I'm hoping to use this site with my class this week, but would like to be able to share their work....PLEASE HELP!!!

My Class Wiki with MAPPs

Wiki, Wiki, Wiki

This is a Wiki that my class is working on with their friendship school.  This MAPPs Wiki was created for our MAPPs Program.  We were adding to it this week.  We had fun discussing our visits with each other.  If you don't know about MAPPs I blogged about it earlier...check it out!  It's a great program and I'm loving the collaboration with another school.  Here are some pictures of my class working in the computer lab this week on our Wiki.  They love to post!!!

Screencasting in the Classroom

Screencasting

I think this is a great video on Screencasting and how to utilize it in as a tool to engage students in the 21st century classrooms.  I have found that many students in my class are visual learners.  Screencast can meet this need to meet the expectations to differientate for all types of learners.

I recommend watching this video....



What do you think? I can see myself using screencasting.  However, I just started doing a Wiki with my class, so I'll probably wait until they have the hang adding to their Wiki for a few weeks before introducing another tool.

Google Reader

Using Google Reader

Image credit - www.google.com/

I have no idea if I'm using Google Reader as it is intended.  I wasn't even sure I subscribed. I ended up doing a Google search for Google Reader.  Once logged in I was able to do a quick search and found specific blog postings.  Then I realized that I had been using it all along:) I can see why this would be useful if you want to blog about a specific topic or refer back to a previous blog.   How are you using Google Reader?  I hope to learn more on how to utilize Google Reader more effectively.

Image credit - Norman-Wright-Jr-Blog

My First Voki

Mrs. Klock...the Voki Rookie

Here is a link to the Mrs. Klock Voki I created.  I'm sure as I learn more about the use of Voki's I'll be able to embed into my instruction.  I have a strong feeling that my students would love to create their own Voki's.   This is a keeper!  I got carried away choosing clothing, hair styles, and my voice. 

 How funny, I chose pink because it is Spring you know:)  Yeah, Spring!!!!

 

Maybe we can all create a Voki for our Wiki on a specific topic?  

We can use it to discuss anything.  Any ideas?
Kinda creepy how her eyes follow you.

Interactive Treasure Hunting Game

Ning, Computer Exchange

Please check this Youtube video out and let me know what you think. What age range would this App be geared towards?  Does anyone know if there is a PC version?

While I was viewing some of the postings on the Computer Exchange Ning forum I came upon an interesting submission by Keyosha Olive.  Thanks Keyosha Olive!!! Treasue Kai  is an App that is based on a series of books written by Karen Robertson.  I plan to try out the game with my class...if I can get access to an ipad.  I'm not sure if there's a PC version. For now I asked my 9 year old daughter if she was interested in trying it out, and she said 'yes'.  The game is interactive and does allow for plenty of reading. It seems thrilling, and I have several students in mind when I say...Yes, I think it'll be a big hit!
 Have you used this App?

My Diigo

http://www.google.com/

         I am a newbie when it comes to Diigo, but I am finding it useful.  I've bookmarked several sites that are used regularly in my class, such as Spelling City, ixl, and Thinkfinity.  There are also sites listed that I use regularly such as Superteacher worksheets and the Harcourt Reading site.  I like the organized way to save regularly visited sites, and using the highlighter option.  Sometimes I forget that I am able to save sites that I like to my Diigo, I guess the more I use it the more I will remember that I can.  It is a work in progress.  I've begun to save useful sites for the Digital Story Krysta and I are doing together on Symmetry.  It's a great way for her to gain access to sites I found and can quickly see the portion I found useful because I highlighted within the site.  I am not sure what to do with the post-it option.  Has anyone used this feature?  How would I use it and what have you used it for?  
                                             Here is the link to my Diigo.

This is a great link on how to use Diigo in the classroom.  It is more for older learners, but I found it interesting.  I embedded it from Youtube.  What do you think?  Have you introduced Diigo to your students?

Skype with Aviva

https://twitter.com/#!/Grade1

           We seemed to more comfortable as a class Skyping and asking another teacher questions as opposed to a well known author.  Aviva shared many wonderful insights on how she incorporates technology into her grade 1/2 classroom.  I enjoyed listening to her students describe the tools they like to use and how it helps them learn.   It was interesting that both girls blog from home.  None of my third graders know how to blog yet!!  One of the questions asked was the demographics of the community which Aviva comes from.  I was not surprised to hear it was a wealthy community.  They have the funding for the most up to date technology and are fortunate enough to have the resources available to provide her students with various forms of technology.  It reminded me of a book I was assigned to read in undergraduate school titled,  Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol.  The book takes you on a journey into several public schools across the country.  To quote the summary of the book, "Kozol believes that children from poor families are cheated out of a future by grossly underequipped, understaffed and underfunded schools in U.S. inner cities and less affluent suburbs." 

http://www.amazon.com/Savage-Inequalities-Children-Americas-Schools/dp/0060974990 

What do you think can be done to ensure that students from impoverished communities get the same advantages technology wise as those students from wealthy districts? 

        The school I am working in is in between the middle income and the extremely poor.  We are incredibly underfunded, underequipped, and understaffed.  However, I do believe we are headed in the right direction.  If not by choice by necessity.  With the new standards, comes an increased demand on the rigor of instruction.  The switch from skill based to inquiry based learning was evident in Aviva's class.  I appreciate the comment that Aviva made that technology is just one tool they can use in her class.  They choose.  They have they control.  If the tool takes more than 5 minutes to explain than it's not for her.  Who has the time to explain each resource to each student.  Differientiation becomes easier because students control how they learn.  The teacher provides the objective and the goal, the students select the tool in which to reach the goal.  Awesome!!!

https://www.google.com/

        During my internship with SJC at Smith School of Science, Math and Technology I learned great ways to use technology as a tool.  Smith School is a Magnet school that had Livestreaming and ceiling mounted projectors in which to show all types of videos and lessons.  They had drawing tablets and Smartboards.  This was 5 years ago, I can only imagine where they are now with technology.  I wouldn't be surprised if students had handhelds in each class.  Unfortunately, if I don't use the tool enough after I have lessons I forget how to use the tool.  I have been to so many workshops and seminars and because I don't have the tools to use in my school I forget how. 

Wikispaces Tutorial

         Wikispace Video

         When I watched the Wikispace tutorial video on how to change the look and feel of a Wiki I learned that the organizer of the Wiki has many options. They can change settings easily so all users can have a single wiki look.  The site wide theme & colors would look the same.  For younger users this may be helpful because the continuity would make it easier to navigate.  I like how organizers can adjust the setting to allow the freedom to choose color and theme.   It is a reflection of the wiki creator.  Teachers that teach multiple classes like Middle School or High School teachers may find organizing Wikis by their look & feel helpful.  I would love each student to be able to create a personalized Wiki.  Any chance you can get a student to take ownership of their learning, they put more effort into each project and lesson. What are your thoughts about using a unified look and feel of a wiki to organize or create consistency for students? or Should students be allowed to create their own look and feel? 

                               

Symmetry

Useful Video for Teaching Symmetry

     I've been gathering ideas for our Digital Storytelling Assignment and I came across this YouTube video. The objectives are clearly stated, and the speaker talks slow enough for students to understand. While watching I thought of so many ways for students to demonstrate the different terms of Symmetry. Can't wait to get started!

Skyping with Alan November

          When speaking with Alan November last week through Skype I was a little nervous.  Not many people were asking questions, and the brief moments of awkward silence was slightly uncomfortable.  Skyping with friends and family is easier.  I think getting administrators to act upon the necessary technological changes for schools will be a difficult sell in this economy.  Budget is a touchy subject.  We are getting a new Principal and maybe a new Technology Specialist, so changes may be coming.

         I loved his idea that it's so important for students to learn about validating their information through multiple reference sources.  The activity of looking up "mouse" and "ears" on google images was interesting. Then to assign going on wikepedia and other sites to cross reference.  Followed by student evaluating, and determining which one seems to be a best representation. What a great way to show kids that Wikipedia is not always factual.  My students think Wikipedia is the best, but after this lesson they will realize the importance of looking at multiple sources to be sure it is a fact and not just an opinion.  I always avoid  commenting publicly on anything political or religious...but this cartoon below says it all when it comes to Wikipedia.

      I was aware of the new testing standards and the push to get students ready for the online assessments.  My concerns about the writing portion were somewhat addressed.  I'm realizing that my district will need to begin teaching Typing much earlier.  We currently don't begin typing until 3rd grade.  They use a keyboard in K-2, but aren't expected to have proper fingering until 3rd grade.  If they will need to type the writing portion, they will need to increase their wpm.  Otherwise their slowed typing could interfere with the fluidity of their writing.  The Typing program my school purchased is called Typing Pals and my class and parents really love it.  They can access it from anywhere that has internet service.  It tracks their progress, gives feedback and tips, and allows me to adjust individual expectations.  

         I'm realizing with the new changes focusing on problem solving and critical thinking that my classroom library needs to include more Non-Fiction, Poetry, and Digital Stories.  I feel I was just getting comfortable with the skills and strands needed for the CMT tests and now I need to switch gears and relearn ways to teach.  The reference to Kathy Cassidy's Blog was fantastic.  I went on her blog as soon as I got home and checked it out.  She is an amazing teacher that uses technology to it's fullest.  If you haven't had a chance to check out her blog, I strongly recommend it.  The videos of the students demonstrating their learning can be viewed.  Her videos inspire me to become a better "more technology friendly" teacher. I love the idea of a Flipped Classroom because teachers get to watch students take the leadership roles and learn from each other.  I'd love to use a Professional Development Day to visit a Flipped Classroom in action...maybe I will need to request one.  Does anyone know of an Elementary teacher who has Flipped their classroom in Northeast Connecticut?  I liked the model below when first learning about the Flipped Classroom.

     

Following Ms. Dunsiger Blog

Mrs. Aviva Dunsiger Favourite Links and 

Now Some of My Favorite Link Too!

When visiting Aviva Dunsiger Wiki I happened upon an interesting tool.  It's called Gamestar Mechanic.  This is the pdf for Gamestar Mechanic.  It seems to be an excellent way to engage the students who are always completing assignments before others.  I will not simply give extra work because they're done early.  It's important that students don't get bored with learning.  This digital tool allows students to problem solve using 21st century skills through designing their own video game.  They share their video and then collect feedback.  Is this something that you would use in your classroom?  It's geared for 4th graders through 9th graders.  Do you think it could be used for Enrichment for my advanced third graders?  This video explains Gamestar, take a look at let me know if you like it or have used it before.  

Making Connections with My Classmate

I just read a great point made by Roseanne.  She was mentioning how Skype is a good tool to use in the classroom. She then mentioned how she knows someone who used Skype while she was out on maternity leave.  What are your thoughts?  My comment was that I have mixed feelings.  I like the idea of remaining connected, as long as it doesn't take away from bonding with the baby.  After all, it is a leave to be with baby.  Thoughts?  Read her entire blog entry and my response on Rosanne Field's Blog.

MAPPs Animoto Video

Updated MAPPs Animoto Video


MAPPs stands for Matching Areas and People Project and it is through EASTCONN.  MAPPS explores the themes of place and belonging for 3rd-graders and promotes a sense of pride in students’ communities through orienteering and map-building activities. The program runs strictly through a interdistrict grant.  When we meet with our friends we do great friendship, Social Studies, and Technology lessons. What do you think? 

Link to Christina's Animoto

 Great Animoto to view on Christina Nastimento's Blog  if You Teach Middle School Math.  It has a catchy beat and lyrics to go along with the images.  I sent the Animoto to our schools Title 1 Math teacher.  She loved it!!!  Thank you Christina.

Little Kids...Big Potential

Useful Video About Using Wiki's, Blogs, and 

Other Technology in the Classroom - Week 5 Blog

This is a very useful video I found on Youtube when searching for Classroom Wiki's.  This video demonstrates the different ways to use technology within the classroom.  Children explain how they blog, use wiki's and even Skype. It is obvious they are in control of their learning.  They show ownership and understanding through their digital demonstrations.  The collaboration between students within the class as well as throughout the country is evident, and extremely wonderful! Very impressive and something to strive to incorporate into my teaching.  Please enjoy!  What do you think about letting the students play Nintendo DS in school?  In this video children are allowed to play a game called Nintendog, an educational game, would you like to see kids bring in their technology devises to use in school?

How to Build An Educational Wiki

Wiki Tutorial - Week 5 Blog

This is a great tutorial for teaching how to build a Wiki.  He breaks it into easy to follow steps and shows a visual representation while verbally walking you through each step.  It's a full 10 minute video but is worth the time watching if you need detailed instructions.  I plan to visit this site when creating my own class Wiki.  Right now we share a Wiki through EASTCONN, which they designed and set up but my class gets to participate in.  I would post the Wikispace address but from what I hear it's limited to only those involved.  

My Blog About How is Technology Changing

How Technology is Changing School Blog

https://www.google.com/

I found it really interesting that Gov. Schwarzenegger from California is seeking for ways to incorporate digital books in the classroom rather than textbooks will help solve the states deficit problem.  I can only hope that more schools will follow suit.  Yes, it would save money, paper, toner, and clerical expenses.  More prominent of a factor for me, as the teacher, is the time it takes to copy all the materials that I need for the week.  I spend at least 2.5 hours in the copying room.  Time I could be spending on creating fun and engaging lessons, or helping Tier 2 students.  Our school did not purchase consumable workbooks for my grade, but other grades got all the consumables they asked for.  There is no definite amount each grade gets for budget.  Administrators can be subjective and allow certain grades to have more.  Do you feel this is fair and what could a teacher with no say on how budget is spent address this issue without sounding like a complainer?  

https://www.google.com/
I can imagine the future when all students can access any online text, activity, game, or reference with a handheld devise.  Just imagine...it's spring, the warm sun is beating down on your head as you teach our class with the latest downloaded digital book.  All reading in the fresh air and enjoying learning.  Mobile learning is extremely inviting and seems like it would be a great motivator for students.  


**See the video below for how one teacher uses handhelds in the classroom.  

Kids and Handhelds

                             

In this video I found on You Tube, students are asked what difference using handhelds has made to their learning.  I was intrigued by their responses.  The CEO, of GoKnow Inc. Mr. Elliot Soloway helps listeners understand why handhelds have so many advantages.  They help students take control of their own learning, it allows for collaboration, and helps to organize.What do you think?

Blogging About Ch 1-3 in Alan November's Book

Empowering Students with Technology 

Blog for Preface, Introduction, & Chapters 1-3

https://www.google.com/

Honestly...I have always been somewhat apprehensive about teaching with technology.  My daughter has a technology teacher separate from her classroom teacher.  In my school the classroom teacher is responsible for the weekly lessons.  I see this book as a catalyst into my journey as a student and teacher.  The possibilities are extremely clear and attainable. As Mihaly Csikszentmihakyi (1991) would say about Yves, "he was into the flow of an optimal experience."  I can connect with Yves, Mr. November's former high school student, when he felt he could work better on his own terms.  I was really in a great flow when I was creating my Animoto.  It was bringing back memories and allowed for creativity.  I was having fun and I didn't want to stop.  When I shared the Animoto with parents they were amazed and were excited about how technology was being used.  

http://images.search.yahoo.com/

A couple of common statements you'll hear me repeat throughout the day to my students are, be a problem solver, look it up, and three before me (3B4Me).  I encourage them to ask each other questions and to peer tutor.  I see why it's important to shift control and empowerment.  Students love to learn from their peers and from different people.  One of my former students began her love for poetry by using an interactive online poetry tool.  She would write several poems a week at school and began to love it so much she would go home and continue writing poems to share with the class the next day at snack.  It became like a virus and others joined in  but nothing matched her enthusiasm.  It was cute!  I hope you like the website.  

https://www.google.com/

 I love being able to access my son's records daily.  His high school, uses PowerSchool and it's been very helpful in keeping me informed of his grades, attendance,  homework, and connected with his teachers.  I would hope that the administrators in my school get a chance to read Mr. November's book.  If a very compelling reason to informate is competition...maybe it won't be long before the competition gets serious and technology becomes commonplace in every class.  Reality and a reminder of a book I read during my Undergraduate class titled Savage Inequalities reminds me that not every school budget is equal.  Some districts have plenty of money and others skrimp by.

http://images.search.yahoo.com/

Anatomy of a web address, new to me!  I learned how to read the structure of a URL to help me determine validity of a site.  When I asked my son if he knew what the tilde~ in a web address means...he said no.  He has never been taught how to read the structure of a URL, and like I've said he's in high school.  How can learning about URL's and their structure be simplified and developmentally appropriate for young learners?  Are there any simple sites or tutorials for teaching URL structure, testing/checking for validity, and assessing purpose?

http://static.flickr.com/110/275042551_2d85d00577.jpg

Hello, my name is Michelle Klock and I am a digital immigrant. I have something in common  Lisa, we both took used electronic typewriters in college. I guess we're both digital immigrants.  A digital immigrant is anyone who was born before digital technology was widely adopted.  Digital immigrant may also apply to those who were not exposed to computers or technology at a young age. My children and class are digital natives.  They have had technology in their lives since they were babies.  I know that everyday I am pushing myself to  improve professionally.  Yes, the "real bottleneck to creative use of technology," as Mr. November stated, is staff development and time.  Of course money comes into play for my district, but these are hurdles worth leaping in my opinion.  I think it would be the most amazing feeling to experience my student as my teacher.  Have you ever experienced that feeling?