So psychologist have found something I thought about for years. Social media websites like Facebook may be harming students ability to socialize. To see that their may be evidence that could connect social networking to narcissistic behavior, alcohol dependence and other psychiatric disorders is pretty scary. Now normally I don't pay attention to most studies done by "the professionals", because if they wanted to find something wrong with something they could. Like cell phones causes cancer. Or how babies shouldn't drink formula because it will stunt their growth. I've even heard that we should only eat organic fruits and vegetables because of the pesticides in them. However, this study done by psychologist Larry Rosen has some thought interesting things to consider. I especially agree with his assessment that he makes about how teenagers and young adults are not mature enough to process information they receive over the internet. They often get confused and are much more vulnerable to internet predators. Another important point Dr. Rosen makes in this article is that some kids may feel pressured to send lewd pictures of themselves to their friends which could lead to them eventually having their picture posted all over the internet. This could lead to depression and social anxiety. Other teens may be afraid to deny a friend request because the rejection may lead to them being harassed at school or cyberbullied. These are some very legitimate findings and I do feel that it is the responsibility of parents to educate their children on the effects of being on the internet and social networking.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
What's Facebook's Effect on Kids?
Original Article: http://www.technologyreview.com/web/38258/?ref=rss
So psychologist have found something I thought about for years. Social media websites like Facebook may be harming students ability to socialize. To see that their may be evidence that could connect social networking to narcissistic behavior, alcohol dependence and other psychiatric disorders is pretty scary. Now normally I don't pay attention to most studies done by "the professionals", because if they wanted to find something wrong with something they could. Like cell phones causes cancer. Or how babies shouldn't drink formula because it will stunt their growth. I've even heard that we should only eat organic fruits and vegetables because of the pesticides in them. However, this study done by psychologist Larry Rosen has some thought interesting things to consider. I especially agree with his assessment that he makes about how teenagers and young adults are not mature enough to process information they receive over the internet. They often get confused and are much more vulnerable to internet predators. Another important point Dr. Rosen makes in this article is that some kids may feel pressured to send lewd pictures of themselves to their friends which could lead to them eventually having their picture posted all over the internet. This could lead to depression and social anxiety. Other teens may be afraid to deny a friend request because the rejection may lead to them being harassed at school or cyberbullied. These are some very legitimate findings and I do feel that it is the responsibility of parents to educate their children on the effects of being on the internet and social networking.
So psychologist have found something I thought about for years. Social media websites like Facebook may be harming students ability to socialize. To see that their may be evidence that could connect social networking to narcissistic behavior, alcohol dependence and other psychiatric disorders is pretty scary. Now normally I don't pay attention to most studies done by "the professionals", because if they wanted to find something wrong with something they could. Like cell phones causes cancer. Or how babies shouldn't drink formula because it will stunt their growth. I've even heard that we should only eat organic fruits and vegetables because of the pesticides in them. However, this study done by psychologist Larry Rosen has some thought interesting things to consider. I especially agree with his assessment that he makes about how teenagers and young adults are not mature enough to process information they receive over the internet. They often get confused and are much more vulnerable to internet predators. Another important point Dr. Rosen makes in this article is that some kids may feel pressured to send lewd pictures of themselves to their friends which could lead to them eventually having their picture posted all over the internet. This could lead to depression and social anxiety. Other teens may be afraid to deny a friend request because the rejection may lead to them being harassed at school or cyberbullied. These are some very legitimate findings and I do feel that it is the responsibility of parents to educate their children on the effects of being on the internet and social networking.
Closing the Loop in Education Technology
Original Article: http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/08/09/closing-the-loop-in-education-technology.aspx
When I read this article I was a bit surprised to find out to just how few dollars are being spent on technology in schools, only 1.6 of the overall spending in education. That's really not an investment at all. I'd say technology is looked at as more of an afterthought to those people in charge of making crucial decisions about education. It's an extra curriculum activity at my school. The education profession has to start looking at what is going on in the world today. The way technology is driving the economy here in the 21st Century somehow is ignored in our schools. They rather continue to talk about test scores. Notice how much attention is spent on test scores but our education system in this country continues to fall behind other countries in them. It's my hope that we start to make educational technology more of a priority, just lake mathematics, language arts, and reading is to a school. Maybe if we decide to invest in the things that matter, the things that are relevant today, like educational technology, our schools can see an increase in student achievement.
When I read this article I was a bit surprised to find out to just how few dollars are being spent on technology in schools, only 1.6 of the overall spending in education. That's really not an investment at all. I'd say technology is looked at as more of an afterthought to those people in charge of making crucial decisions about education. It's an extra curriculum activity at my school. The education profession has to start looking at what is going on in the world today. The way technology is driving the economy here in the 21st Century somehow is ignored in our schools. They rather continue to talk about test scores. Notice how much attention is spent on test scores but our education system in this country continues to fall behind other countries in them. It's my hope that we start to make educational technology more of a priority, just lake mathematics, language arts, and reading is to a school. Maybe if we decide to invest in the things that matter, the things that are relevant today, like educational technology, our schools can see an increase in student achievement.
Monday, August 8, 2011
U.S. Teachers Protest Social Media Crackdown
Original Article: http://www.edweek.org/tm/articles/2011/08/05/446137usteachersonfacebook_ap.html
This new law that forbids teachers from having "exclusive access" online with current or former students who are still minors I think is a good thing, therefore I am not in favor of these teacher who protest this law. As teachers we have to remain professional and that means leaving private matters to the parents of your students. Now I know that most teachers who befriend their students on facebook have nothing but good intentions however, their are some teachers who violate the trust of their students.
I, for one don't need to befriend my students and if I do it should be public for everyone to see. When you hear about 87 teachers getting caught sending inappropriate messages to students and even charged with committing sexual misconduct it makes the whole teaching profession as a whole look bad. Call me old fashion but I still believe that some things should remain private.
This new law that forbids teachers from having "exclusive access" online with current or former students who are still minors I think is a good thing, therefore I am not in favor of these teacher who protest this law. As teachers we have to remain professional and that means leaving private matters to the parents of your students. Now I know that most teachers who befriend their students on facebook have nothing but good intentions however, their are some teachers who violate the trust of their students.
I, for one don't need to befriend my students and if I do it should be public for everyone to see. When you hear about 87 teachers getting caught sending inappropriate messages to students and even charged with committing sexual misconduct it makes the whole teaching profession as a whole look bad. Call me old fashion but I still believe that some things should remain private.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Nothing Beats DVR
Original Article: http://articles.cnn.com/2011-08-01/tech/dvr.timewarp.gallaga_1_dvr-royal-wedding-kate-middleton?_s=PM:TECH
The one thing I miss the most when I'm visiting my relatives over the holidays is my DVR. I can't imagine watching television without using the DVR system. Watching live TV is so yesterday. I can't stand it. Especially when you have your favorite shows on network television and you have to sit through the commercials. I've been watching DVR television for about 9 years and when I first got it I was working a graveyard shift, so I would use it to record all my favorite television shows, movies and sports games and would watch them later on my day off. I'm also able to rewind certain educational programs on television and use them as resources in the classroom.
There is one drawback to watching recorded DVR programming though, and it involves sporting events. You have to try to ignore all communication from other people, the internet or feeds from your cell phone because they might tell you who won the game before you had a chance to watch it yourself. I will never forget the time I recorded my team playing and decided to go to the store and get some snacks and watch the game later that afternoon. When I got to the store the first guy I saw told me that results of the game and that my team had lost. I was crushed. Didn't even get the snacks. I wanted to tell guy; Don't talk to me, I don't even know you! I quickly realized that I was wearing an Atlanta Falcons hat and the guy was a Aints fan. Needless to say that I now get the snacks before I watch the game.
The one thing I miss the most when I'm visiting my relatives over the holidays is my DVR. I can't imagine watching television without using the DVR system. Watching live TV is so yesterday. I can't stand it. Especially when you have your favorite shows on network television and you have to sit through the commercials. I've been watching DVR television for about 9 years and when I first got it I was working a graveyard shift, so I would use it to record all my favorite television shows, movies and sports games and would watch them later on my day off. I'm also able to rewind certain educational programs on television and use them as resources in the classroom.
There is one drawback to watching recorded DVR programming though, and it involves sporting events. You have to try to ignore all communication from other people, the internet or feeds from your cell phone because they might tell you who won the game before you had a chance to watch it yourself. I will never forget the time I recorded my team playing and decided to go to the store and get some snacks and watch the game later that afternoon. When I got to the store the first guy I saw told me that results of the game and that my team had lost. I was crushed. Didn't even get the snacks. I wanted to tell guy; Don't talk to me, I don't even know you! I quickly realized that I was wearing an Atlanta Falcons hat and the guy was a Aints fan. Needless to say that I now get the snacks before I watch the game.
How to unlock a car with a text message
Original Article: http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/08/03/black.hat.war.texting/index.html?eref=rss_tech&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_tech+%28RSS%3A+Technology%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Creating all this new technology has created a whole new set of problems when it comes to crime. Criminals are finding new ways to steal your identity, shut off your home alarm system, break into cars and rob you. Now what's frightening about this article is how easy it seems for people to simply pass this information along to others and how that might cause an increase in these types of crimes. Most smart-phones now come with the tracking device, which at first seemed like a good idea because it makes it easier for to track where your kids are at all times as long as they have a cell phone on there person. On the other hand this same device can be taken over by hackers and can used to commit crimes. The internet, social media, cell-phones and other technology devices are great tools, but we have to be careful not to rely on them to do things like baby-sitting or monitoring our children because we are more than capable of doing it ourselves.
Creating all this new technology has created a whole new set of problems when it comes to crime. Criminals are finding new ways to steal your identity, shut off your home alarm system, break into cars and rob you. Now what's frightening about this article is how easy it seems for people to simply pass this information along to others and how that might cause an increase in these types of crimes. Most smart-phones now come with the tracking device, which at first seemed like a good idea because it makes it easier for to track where your kids are at all times as long as they have a cell phone on there person. On the other hand this same device can be taken over by hackers and can used to commit crimes. The internet, social media, cell-phones and other technology devices are great tools, but we have to be careful not to rely on them to do things like baby-sitting or monitoring our children because we are more than capable of doing it ourselves.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
Fine-Tuning Internet Security
Original Article: http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/08/01/fine-tuning-internet-security.aspx
At my school, the school's cafeteria manager makes teachers pay twice as much as students for the same portion of food. For instance, if a student gets a hamburger and fries for lunch it will cost that student $1.25. If a teacher gets the same hamburger and fries for lunch it will cost $2.50. Same portion. Teachers don't even get extra fries with that. That doesn't sit well with me. I know, it may sound petty but I feel teachers deserve to be treated with a little more respect. Give us a little more fries or charge us the same as the students, that's all I'm saying!!
I feel that very same way whenever I find a website that I feel could help my students learn and the website is blocked for the sake of protecting students from online predators. Protecting the kids, I get that. But to deny access to educational websites like Quia.com or most wiki and blog sites for everyone, including teachers to me is another example of how teachers are being disrespected. Most teachers feel the same way. I think the idea of lower the restrictions for teachers to access certain websites so that they can have more resources available to them is a good idea. Making password protected access for teachers would keep students from going onto certain websites that may be deemed dangerous for kids and at the same time grant access for teachers and administrators to use for educational and research purposes.
At my school, the school's cafeteria manager makes teachers pay twice as much as students for the same portion of food. For instance, if a student gets a hamburger and fries for lunch it will cost that student $1.25. If a teacher gets the same hamburger and fries for lunch it will cost $2.50. Same portion. Teachers don't even get extra fries with that. That doesn't sit well with me. I know, it may sound petty but I feel teachers deserve to be treated with a little more respect. Give us a little more fries or charge us the same as the students, that's all I'm saying!!
I feel that very same way whenever I find a website that I feel could help my students learn and the website is blocked for the sake of protecting students from online predators. Protecting the kids, I get that. But to deny access to educational websites like Quia.com or most wiki and blog sites for everyone, including teachers to me is another example of how teachers are being disrespected. Most teachers feel the same way. I think the idea of lower the restrictions for teachers to access certain websites so that they can have more resources available to them is a good idea. Making password protected access for teachers would keep students from going onto certain websites that may be deemed dangerous for kids and at the same time grant access for teachers and administrators to use for educational and research purposes.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Revolution in Education
Original Link: http://www.techlearning.com/article/40844
When I think about the kind of education I want for my children, I'll refer to this speech given by Sir Ken Robinson. Not only does Sir Ken Robinson provide a very thoughtful speech about education, I thought his speech in this video was relevant to our current educational system. In his speech he makes the case for a radical shift from standardized schools to personalized learning. This does not mean everyone achieves the same personal mastery for the same standard tests and outcomes. Instead it means creating conditions where kids' natural talents can flourish. When will we realize that the old way just doesn't work. I have two children with very different sets of talents and skills. One is a very creative and loves art, music and dance. The other is finding is creative niche through technology and he loves puzzles. They learn differently. They enjoy different things. Why can't they both be given the type of education that will sharpen their talents and creativity? Why do they both have to take classes they don't enjoy? Take tests on subjects they have no interest in pursuing in the future. The whole notion that we must provide the same education for every child is a bunch of nonsense. The future has to better than the past or we fall behind. I would like to see more smaller learning communities of schools that emphasizes certain areas of interest for students.
Penalty for Sexting
Original Link: http://www.edweek.org/dd/articles/2011/07/12/37mct_casexting.h30.html?utm_source=fb&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mrss
I can see other states adopt similar measures to deal with students who get caught sexting in school. Suspending and possibly expelling students who get caught sexting is a necessary penalty because it makes students understand the consequences of sending dirty, obscene, messages over their cell phones. Giving students more access to technology has it share of drawbacks and sexting is probably at the top of that list. I've had my share of encounters with students who I catch using their cell phones in class and the majority of the time when I turn the phone in, there's inappropriate pictures or text on them. I used to look at the photos when I catch a student violating the use of a cell phone in class but I don't anymore. This type of stance by the California law makers is a good approach to this serious problem. If we want our students to have more technology access, we must police them much like cyberpolice use the internet to catch online predators.
I can see other states adopt similar measures to deal with students who get caught sexting in school. Suspending and possibly expelling students who get caught sexting is a necessary penalty because it makes students understand the consequences of sending dirty, obscene, messages over their cell phones. Giving students more access to technology has it share of drawbacks and sexting is probably at the top of that list. I've had my share of encounters with students who I catch using their cell phones in class and the majority of the time when I turn the phone in, there's inappropriate pictures or text on them. I used to look at the photos when I catch a student violating the use of a cell phone in class but I don't anymore. This type of stance by the California law makers is a good approach to this serious problem. If we want our students to have more technology access, we must police them much like cyberpolice use the internet to catch online predators.
Virtual School May Drain Taxpayers Funds In Tennessee
Original Link: http://www.edweek.org/dd/articles/2011/07/25/37mct_tnvirtual.h30.html?utm_source=fb&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mrss
This is just as much of a political issue as it is an educational issue. This virtual school is a for profit business that uses online access to recruit students throughout the state of Tennessee and will use state obligated funds of over $5000 per student to pay for it. Sounds to me like more of a money making business than an actual "good idea", which is exactly what the state of Tennessee Republican politicians are saying. The funny thing about this plan is that if a student in grades K-8 wanted to enroll in the virtual school in the state of Tennessee it would cost just about the same as it would to go to a community college and the state will pay the bill.
To top it off, only 4% of the funds will go to the school district that was awarded the contract. The other 96% of the funding will go to the COMPANY. With the issue over tax cuts, public funding reduced, and smaller government continue to surface in congress, this idea is another way of cutting diminishing the value of teachers and unions in this country. If these politicians truly wanted to make education better they would make the program free for any student and not allow companies to benefit from this kind of thing.
This is just as much of a political issue as it is an educational issue. This virtual school is a for profit business that uses online access to recruit students throughout the state of Tennessee and will use state obligated funds of over $5000 per student to pay for it. Sounds to me like more of a money making business than an actual "good idea", which is exactly what the state of Tennessee Republican politicians are saying. The funny thing about this plan is that if a student in grades K-8 wanted to enroll in the virtual school in the state of Tennessee it would cost just about the same as it would to go to a community college and the state will pay the bill.
To top it off, only 4% of the funds will go to the school district that was awarded the contract. The other 96% of the funding will go to the COMPANY. With the issue over tax cuts, public funding reduced, and smaller government continue to surface in congress, this idea is another way of cutting diminishing the value of teachers and unions in this country. If these politicians truly wanted to make education better they would make the program free for any student and not allow companies to benefit from this kind of thing.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Are You Tapping Into Prior Knowledge Often Enough In Your Classroom?
Original Post:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/prior-knowledge-tapping-into-often-classroom-rebecca-alber
Making learning a connection between what students know and how students learn new information is a necessity in the classroom. Whenever you as a teacher encounter a student who has difficulty learning new information, it's important to find out how much prior knowledge they have on a similar area so that the student build a relationship between new information and prior knowledge. I agree that the use of brainstorming techniques like concept mapping, KWL charts, and other brainstorming techniques help students gain visual understanding to new concepts. I would like to think that the use of technology also adds an extra dimension to the way students explore and discover new information.
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/prior-knowledge-tapping-into-often-classroom-rebecca-alber
Making learning a connection between what students know and how students learn new information is a necessity in the classroom. Whenever you as a teacher encounter a student who has difficulty learning new information, it's important to find out how much prior knowledge they have on a similar area so that the student build a relationship between new information and prior knowledge. I agree that the use of brainstorming techniques like concept mapping, KWL charts, and other brainstorming techniques help students gain visual understanding to new concepts. I would like to think that the use of technology also adds an extra dimension to the way students explore and discover new information.
Monday, July 18, 2011
What Does It Take To Be Great
Original Post: http://www.edutopia.org/teacher-excellence-part-one
This article was great. The desire to be great is what every person strives for, regardless of their profession. The million dollar question is how? How do you become great? Sure, some people are blessed with certain God given abilities. Like the ability to quickly understand how to solve complex math problems, the ability to sing, or play an instrument or play basketball. I remember a friend from high school that was so smart that everyone knew that person would become the next millionaire entrepreneur, or the next brain surgeon. What was so extraordinary about my friend was that he made it look so easy. Regardless of the subject, he would always know the answer. For the rest of us ordinary folks who didn't have that luxury, we had to study twice as hard to just to pass the course.
What I realize now that I didn't understand back then was that because I put in the extra time to work hard, I made better grades in the classroom and I now apply hard work to my life. So it really doesn't manner how you got there, everyone can be great. Now I truly believe that some people are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. I
This article was great. The desire to be great is what every person strives for, regardless of their profession. The million dollar question is how? How do you become great? Sure, some people are blessed with certain God given abilities. Like the ability to quickly understand how to solve complex math problems, the ability to sing, or play an instrument or play basketball. I remember a friend from high school that was so smart that everyone knew that person would become the next millionaire entrepreneur, or the next brain surgeon. What was so extraordinary about my friend was that he made it look so easy. Regardless of the subject, he would always know the answer. For the rest of us ordinary folks who didn't have that luxury, we had to study twice as hard to just to pass the course.
What I realize now that I didn't understand back then was that because I put in the extra time to work hard, I made better grades in the classroom and I now apply hard work to my life. So it really doesn't manner how you got there, everyone can be great. Now I truly believe that some people are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them. I
Student Commitment Depends on Teacher Commitment
Original Link:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/student-commitment-depends-on-teachers-ben-johnson?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Learning in the classroom is the responsibility of the teacher and every teacher must remember that. I enjoyed reading this article, not because it added some new ideas, or concepts or beliefs about how to be a better teacher. The reason why I enjoyed reading this article is because it simply reminds us all of what the real reason for teaching is and that is to ensure that all students will learn. It's that simple yet it's so important to remember. Especially when you're having one of those days, when nothing is going right. Students feed off the energy that the teacher gives off. When the teacher has a positive attitude towards the students then it creates an healthy, comfortable environment for students. I keep positive quotes and things like pictures to keep me motivated. I think that when you remain positive and motivated you enable yourself to become a better teacher in the classroom and a greater influence for your students.
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/student-commitment-depends-on-teachers-ben-johnson?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Learning in the classroom is the responsibility of the teacher and every teacher must remember that. I enjoyed reading this article, not because it added some new ideas, or concepts or beliefs about how to be a better teacher. The reason why I enjoyed reading this article is because it simply reminds us all of what the real reason for teaching is and that is to ensure that all students will learn. It's that simple yet it's so important to remember. Especially when you're having one of those days, when nothing is going right. Students feed off the energy that the teacher gives off. When the teacher has a positive attitude towards the students then it creates an healthy, comfortable environment for students. I keep positive quotes and things like pictures to keep me motivated. I think that when you remain positive and motivated you enable yourself to become a better teacher in the classroom and a greater influence for your students.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Business Impact of Social Media
Original Link:
http://www.readwriteweb.com/enterprise/2011/07/the-business-impact-of-social-media.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
So I guess I was wrong. I can admit it. I predicted that because people in the world today are only interested in something for just a short while, that I thought that social media was going to be a fad. I guess not. Not only does social media outlets offer new ways in which people communicate with each other, now I see that companies think that investing in social media is very important to their marketing and promotion of their products and services. And it only going to get bigger. When you think of social media, you think of websites like youtube, twitter and facebook. What many people don't realize is how many blogs, wikis, online video and podcast websites have emerged over the last few years. In order to compete in this global economy of today companies have to invest in these media outlets in order to remain relevant.
http://www.readwriteweb.com/enterprise/2011/07/the-business-impact-of-social-media.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
So I guess I was wrong. I can admit it. I predicted that because people in the world today are only interested in something for just a short while, that I thought that social media was going to be a fad. I guess not. Not only does social media outlets offer new ways in which people communicate with each other, now I see that companies think that investing in social media is very important to their marketing and promotion of their products and services. And it only going to get bigger. When you think of social media, you think of websites like youtube, twitter and facebook. What many people don't realize is how many blogs, wikis, online video and podcast websites have emerged over the last few years. In order to compete in this global economy of today companies have to invest in these media outlets in order to remain relevant.
Simulation Nation: The Promise of Virtual Learning Activities
Original Link: http://www.edutopia.org/computer-simulations-virtual-learning
Great Post. Being a business education teacher, I'm always searching for quality business simulation games for my students because it's a great way to give them real world entrepreneurial, financial, and management experiences. However, many of the free business simulation games that I've experienced are limited to being more interactive than simulation based. Schools should be investing in more technology based activities instead of continuing to pour money into new textbooks. And not only for the courses that I teach.
Computer simulation activities benefit every subject in schools. From math, to literacy, to science, the use of simulations can help students learn complex content. I especially like the fact that was mentioned in the post of how professionals use simulations all the time. From doctors simulating the effects of drugs, to weather forecasters simulating the effects of climate change. In a lot of ways simulation is like performance based activities because they require students to be actively engaged in the learning process. Non-traditional ways in which students learn today is primarily through technology. Schools have to catch up. Many school administrators are so afraid of students misusing their cell phones or computers because they may cause a distraction to their learning process, that they are unwilling and unable to understand the endless opportunities that exist for students to continue to learn and grow in this technology driven society.
Great Post. Being a business education teacher, I'm always searching for quality business simulation games for my students because it's a great way to give them real world entrepreneurial, financial, and management experiences. However, many of the free business simulation games that I've experienced are limited to being more interactive than simulation based. Schools should be investing in more technology based activities instead of continuing to pour money into new textbooks. And not only for the courses that I teach.
Computer simulation activities benefit every subject in schools. From math, to literacy, to science, the use of simulations can help students learn complex content. I especially like the fact that was mentioned in the post of how professionals use simulations all the time. From doctors simulating the effects of drugs, to weather forecasters simulating the effects of climate change. In a lot of ways simulation is like performance based activities because they require students to be actively engaged in the learning process. Non-traditional ways in which students learn today is primarily through technology. Schools have to catch up. Many school administrators are so afraid of students misusing their cell phones or computers because they may cause a distraction to their learning process, that they are unwilling and unable to understand the endless opportunities that exist for students to continue to learn and grow in this technology driven society.
The Absolute Awesomeness of Field Trips
Original Link:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/field-trips-absolute-awesomeness-elena-aguilar?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Field trips are great opportunities to connect the classroom learning to real experiences. For teachers to get students out of their familiar surroundings and into different neighborhoods, cities, and natural environments is something I've had the opportunity to experience when I take my students to the FBLA Student Leadership Conference every year. I have seen first hand how field trips can open doors to a new way of thinking for many students. Many of my students have never been out of their city. This post has got me to think about planning other field trips in the future. It was mentioned that when you plan your trips in the summer you have enough time to raise money. This is something I'm going to do in the future.
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/field-trips-absolute-awesomeness-elena-aguilar?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
Field trips are great opportunities to connect the classroom learning to real experiences. For teachers to get students out of their familiar surroundings and into different neighborhoods, cities, and natural environments is something I've had the opportunity to experience when I take my students to the FBLA Student Leadership Conference every year. I have seen first hand how field trips can open doors to a new way of thinking for many students. Many of my students have never been out of their city. This post has got me to think about planning other field trips in the future. It was mentioned that when you plan your trips in the summer you have enough time to raise money. This is something I'm going to do in the future.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Do you believe Cell Phones Causes Cancer?
Original Article: http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-07-02/mobile-phone-use-may-have-no-impact-on-cancer-risk-review-finds.html
So according to The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection’s committee on epidemiology, cell phones may not increase the risk of brain cancer Well I guess that ends the question. Makes you wonder though, who is the driving force behind these researches? Just last month it was all over the news, "Cell Phones Causes Cancer".
If research can prove that cell phones causes cancer then pharmaceutical companies would benefit because more people will become potential cancer patients or at the very lest cancer prevention patents. On the other had if you go with this recent study that cell phones doesn't cause cancer, then of course cell phone companies benefit. I never really buy into these types of innuendo. Sounds more like politics than science. I, like millions of other people, will continue to talk, surf, and play games on my cell phone.
So according to The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection’s committee on epidemiology, cell phones may not increase the risk of brain cancer Well I guess that ends the question. Makes you wonder though, who is the driving force behind these researches? Just last month it was all over the news, "Cell Phones Causes Cancer".
If research can prove that cell phones causes cancer then pharmaceutical companies would benefit because more people will become potential cancer patients or at the very lest cancer prevention patents. On the other had if you go with this recent study that cell phones doesn't cause cancer, then of course cell phone companies benefit. I never really buy into these types of innuendo. Sounds more like politics than science. I, like millions of other people, will continue to talk, surf, and play games on my cell phone.
Would You Invest In Zynga Games
Original Article: http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/as_a_company_zynga_has.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
This is the all important question investors will have after hearing the news about Zynga filing for IPO today. When I first heard the news of this I had to go and research this company and I was stunned by what I discovered. You mean the tell me that Zynga is the company that created the popular Farmville game on Facebook, has made over 1.5 billion dollars since its inception in 2007! What! You Gotta B Kiddin Me! I just couldn't believe it. How can a 4 year old company be that successful? Two words Technology Games. This is what is driving economy these days.
Technology and Games has sort of taken over and replaced neighborhood outdoor activities and has totally consumed our time. Just last week I had to tell the little girl that lives down the street that my daughter couldn't come outside because we were playing the Wii video game. The news of Zynga has gotten my attention and I am now little curious to see just how successful this company will be when it is traded on the market. For many investors like myself who didn't get a chance to make money off of Google or Apple, the success of Zynga will be used as a gauge to what Facebook will do when it becomes a publicly traded company.
This is the all important question investors will have after hearing the news about Zynga filing for IPO today. When I first heard the news of this I had to go and research this company and I was stunned by what I discovered. You mean the tell me that Zynga is the company that created the popular Farmville game on Facebook, has made over 1.5 billion dollars since its inception in 2007! What! You Gotta B Kiddin Me! I just couldn't believe it. How can a 4 year old company be that successful? Two words Technology Games. This is what is driving economy these days.
Technology and Games has sort of taken over and replaced neighborhood outdoor activities and has totally consumed our time. Just last week I had to tell the little girl that lives down the street that my daughter couldn't come outside because we were playing the Wii video game. The news of Zynga has gotten my attention and I am now little curious to see just how successful this company will be when it is traded on the market. For many investors like myself who didn't get a chance to make money off of Google or Apple, the success of Zynga will be used as a gauge to what Facebook will do when it becomes a publicly traded company.
Making Classrooms Fun
Original Article: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/debunking-classroom-myths-ben-johnson?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
I find this article to be not only inspiring for teachers but it should be what every teacher strives for. Reading this article made me think back to when I first became a teacher. I was mean. I was tough. I never smiled. I wanted to show my students that I was a serious teacher and they weren't about to disrupt my classroom like they do in all of them other classes. Over the years I've loosen up a bit however, I still maintain a well run, tight shipped, my way or the highway approach. I guess this is mainly because I teach at a school where the majority of students live in at risk environments. Just because you may have your share of discipline problems, as a teacher you shouldn't be closed to idea of making your classroom an enjoyable, fun learning environment. I never really thought of it that way. I've been so concerned with maintaining proper classroom management and less concern with whether or not my students enjoyed my classes.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
New Role Models for Our Kids
Original Article: http://www.cnn.com/2011/OPINION/06/28/granderson.raising.nerd/index.html?eref=rss_tech&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_tech+%28RSS%3A+Technology%29
Instead of having your children look up to the pro athletes, or musicians or actors why not have them look at successful people in business, medicine or law. I really enjoyed this resource because it reiterates the message that we as teachers try to get across to our students. It also made me think about how I'm raising my children. I will admit, my 4th grade daughter has posters of Justin Beiber and other Disney kid actors in her room.
Are we sending mixed messages to our children when we allow them to look up to celebrities while at the same time preach the importance of making good grades? I really never thought about it being an issue, well maybe a little bit. But now after viewing this article and video, I may think differently about what type of individuals I expose my children to.
Instead of having your children look up to the pro athletes, or musicians or actors why not have them look at successful people in business, medicine or law. I really enjoyed this resource because it reiterates the message that we as teachers try to get across to our students. It also made me think about how I'm raising my children. I will admit, my 4th grade daughter has posters of Justin Beiber and other Disney kid actors in her room.
Are we sending mixed messages to our children when we allow them to look up to celebrities while at the same time preach the importance of making good grades? I really never thought about it being an issue, well maybe a little bit. But now after viewing this article and video, I may think differently about what type of individuals I expose my children to.
Is College Relevant Today?
Original Article: http://blogs.forbes.com/nathanfurr/2011/06/24/universities-are-dead-long-live-universities/
In the technology driven society of today you can now learn just about anything from the internet. Do you really need an college education to be successful in today's society. This article raises this question and is somewhat interesting especially when many people can point to three of the most successful entrepreneurs in our lifetime that just so happen to be college dropouts in Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs and they could make an compelling case. I like myths that were brought up in the article like how some people say they only use 5% of what they've learned in college or how you can teach yourself everything online, which are simply not true. And more importantly, according to a recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau, a college master's degree is worth $1.3 million more in lifetime earnings than a high school diploma. So while you don't have to have a college education to be successful, chances are you will have a better chance for success if you have one.
In the technology driven society of today you can now learn just about anything from the internet. Do you really need an college education to be successful in today's society. This article raises this question and is somewhat interesting especially when many people can point to three of the most successful entrepreneurs in our lifetime that just so happen to be college dropouts in Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs and they could make an compelling case. I like myths that were brought up in the article like how some people say they only use 5% of what they've learned in college or how you can teach yourself everything online, which are simply not true. And more importantly, according to a recent report from the U.S. Census Bureau, a college master's degree is worth $1.3 million more in lifetime earnings than a high school diploma. So while you don't have to have a college education to be successful, chances are you will have a better chance for success if you have one.
Technology Apps are Changing Education
Original Article:
http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/how_consumer_technology_user-generated_content_are.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29
I knew it was only a matter of time before those apps that you can download onto your smartphone found there way to your computer. At the ISTE 2011 conference, more and more technology apps are being started. Especially now with the success of the IPAD, teachers now have the ability to download apps like the Show Me app, and use it to enhance lesson. The Show Me apps seems to be a easy to use sort of screencast application that teachers and students can use to create videos. It's great for teachers because it allows you to demonstrate what it is you want your students to learn. It's great for students because it allows them the opportunity to build video portfolios among other things. It's time for me to start building my app for the 2012 convention.
http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/how_consumer_technology_user-generated_content_are.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29
I knew it was only a matter of time before those apps that you can download onto your smartphone found there way to your computer. At the ISTE 2011 conference, more and more technology apps are being started. Especially now with the success of the IPAD, teachers now have the ability to download apps like the Show Me app, and use it to enhance lesson. The Show Me apps seems to be a easy to use sort of screencast application that teachers and students can use to create videos. It's great for teachers because it allows you to demonstrate what it is you want your students to learn. It's great for students because it allows them the opportunity to build video portfolios among other things. It's time for me to start building my app for the 2012 convention.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Say Yes is Investing in Our Future
Original Article: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/say-yes-to-education-college-tuition-anne-obrien
Despite economic tough times, Syracuse, New York school system is willing to invest $10 million dollars into their Say Yes Program to pay for students to attend college for free. This is great. Finally some news on how investing in education can encourage students to perform better. Many students now have a real incentive to perform at a high level. Parents should also be excited about the opportunity for their children to attend college for free. It's interesting to see if this program improves the 42 percent graduation rate in that school district. If it does then maybe other school districts will provide similar programs.
Despite economic tough times, Syracuse, New York school system is willing to invest $10 million dollars into their Say Yes Program to pay for students to attend college for free. This is great. Finally some news on how investing in education can encourage students to perform better. Many students now have a real incentive to perform at a high level. Parents should also be excited about the opportunity for their children to attend college for free. It's interesting to see if this program improves the 42 percent graduation rate in that school district. If it does then maybe other school districts will provide similar programs.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Best Way to Measure Teacher's Effectiveness
Original Article: http://www.edutopia.org/blog/teacher-effectiveness-measuring-test-scores-elena-aguilar?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EdutopiaNewContent+%28Edutopia%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
When it comes to teacher evaluations, most educators cringe at the thought of it. For a obvious reasons administrators must evaluate teachers to provide both positive and constructive feedback to teachers in an effort to make sure that highly qualified teachers are in the classroom. The problem that so many teachers have with the whole evaluation process is that regardless of how well they educate, manage, facilitate, encourage and invest in and for their students, the only thing that matters in the end to administrators are test scores.
At my school, they like to link teachers to each of their students test results and post them at the faculty meeting for all the staff to see. If your students did well on the standardized test you are considered a good teacher and if your students scored poorly then you are labeled ineffective.
My thoughts on this issue is to first eliminate the link between students test scores and teachers. I also feel that their should be more teacher observations by different administrators from other schools to eliminate bias opinions. Another important way to measure teacher effectiveness is by allowing students to be involved in the evaluation process. These methods will allow honest, fair and balanced ways that should be used in the process and could lead to better teachers in the classroom going forward.
When it comes to teacher evaluations, most educators cringe at the thought of it. For a obvious reasons administrators must evaluate teachers to provide both positive and constructive feedback to teachers in an effort to make sure that highly qualified teachers are in the classroom. The problem that so many teachers have with the whole evaluation process is that regardless of how well they educate, manage, facilitate, encourage and invest in and for their students, the only thing that matters in the end to administrators are test scores.
At my school, they like to link teachers to each of their students test results and post them at the faculty meeting for all the staff to see. If your students did well on the standardized test you are considered a good teacher and if your students scored poorly then you are labeled ineffective.
My thoughts on this issue is to first eliminate the link between students test scores and teachers. I also feel that their should be more teacher observations by different administrators from other schools to eliminate bias opinions. Another important way to measure teacher effectiveness is by allowing students to be involved in the evaluation process. These methods will allow honest, fair and balanced ways that should be used in the process and could lead to better teachers in the classroom going forward.
Apple and the IPAD only Scratching the Surface
Original Article:
http://www.readwriteweb.com/enterprise/2011/06/ipad-for-business-round-up-skype.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
With the addition of the IPAD, Steve Jobs and Apple continue to lead the way in cutting edge technology. The IPAD, for those of you that don't know this yet, is a tablet computer (the first of its kind), created by Apple Computers. It combines all of the functions of a regular laptop computer using a built in touchscreen keyboard, with Smartphone technology such as games, apps features, and a whole lot more. The first IPAD was sold in April of 2010 and in nine months had sold over 14.8 million. In January 2011, the IPAD 2 was released. Apple calls it the IPAD 2nd generation and is a slimmer, lighter, and faster with a lot more features than the original IPAD.
Now I am a person that really doesn't like to keep up with the lightning speed technology of today. I bought the Playstation 2 only after the Playstation 3's came out, for the discount of course and I purchase my first smartphone a year ago after my cell phone service provider offered the phone for free after my contract ran out. So I didn't really care to notice the IPAD when it first came out. It was only after my daughter's grandparents bought an IPAD 2 for my daughter as a birthday gift, did I begin to take notice to what Apple is doing. I love how fast the IPAD is. I love downloading the free games and books. I've even purchased some apps that my kids love. I've become a fan and I think my next computer will be a IPAD 3 for myself.
http://www.readwriteweb.com/enterprise/2011/06/ipad-for-business-round-up-skype.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+readwriteweb+%28ReadWriteWeb%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
With the addition of the IPAD, Steve Jobs and Apple continue to lead the way in cutting edge technology. The IPAD, for those of you that don't know this yet, is a tablet computer (the first of its kind), created by Apple Computers. It combines all of the functions of a regular laptop computer using a built in touchscreen keyboard, with Smartphone technology such as games, apps features, and a whole lot more. The first IPAD was sold in April of 2010 and in nine months had sold over 14.8 million. In January 2011, the IPAD 2 was released. Apple calls it the IPAD 2nd generation and is a slimmer, lighter, and faster with a lot more features than the original IPAD.
Now I am a person that really doesn't like to keep up with the lightning speed technology of today. I bought the Playstation 2 only after the Playstation 3's came out, for the discount of course and I purchase my first smartphone a year ago after my cell phone service provider offered the phone for free after my contract ran out. So I didn't really care to notice the IPAD when it first came out. It was only after my daughter's grandparents bought an IPAD 2 for my daughter as a birthday gift, did I begin to take notice to what Apple is doing. I love how fast the IPAD is. I love downloading the free games and books. I've even purchased some apps that my kids love. I've become a fan and I think my next computer will be a IPAD 3 for myself.
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