WOW!

http://www.speedofcreativity.org/2009/09/23/interactive-technology-access-does-not-guarantee-good-teaching-and-learning/

So, I'm FINALLY doing my homework for my technology class and I come across this blog about technology. "Interactive technology access does not guarantee good teaching and learning" is the topic of Wes Fryer's September 23rd blog. Puzzled by the title I read on. I thought this site was supposed to promote technology and it's affects on education. WOW! That's the only word that I can use to describe how I felt after reading/watching/listening to the blog. Dean Bowen discusses how to better use "classroom" time while taking advantage of technology. This blog has inspired me to reconstruct my vision of what my ideal class will be/sound/look like! I would be able to lecture to my students outside of the classroom and spend most of my time with them interacting with them engaged in debates/discussions and laboratory investigations! I'm so excited!

A question for my classmates!

Does anyone own and use a Nintendo DS? I was wondering if there was a program that I could use for my tutoring sessions where I could do what you can do with the DS. I'd like to send instant messages but write/draw them using a tablet. Does anyone know if this exists on a regular computer? I'd like what I write using a stylus to be made visible and available for editing by someone on another computer instantly. Is this possible, yet?

Using Blogs in My Classroom

Grade Level: 10th

Content Area: Biology

One way I think I could you the blog in my classroom is for students to discuss the bioethical situations that are arising in todays society. They can read case studies about cloning, genetic engineering, etc. and offer their opinions. I can have them debate via the blog to encourage thoughtful contributions to discussion. I could give them prompts to use that they can eventually practice in live, in class debates such as referring to another's comment, explaining why they agree or disagree using respectful language and pertinent support of their opinions. Students who might feel intimidated to contribute to heated debates would have an opportunity to share their insights without fear of being ridiculed or attacked for their thoughts.

Welcome to Sam's Blog Spot!

Hello!

So, the technology I have already integrated into my classroom are the following:

1. I've used a projector and my mac to display PowerPoint presentations for the daily lessons.

2. I've accessed YouTube to show the music video, "Jeremey" by Pearl Jam for a lesson on class rules.

3. I've set up a course website (using the apple program, iWeb) for the student to refer to when wishing to download course handouts, to view daily lessons via PowerPoint, to view homework information or class pictures, etc.

Is there anyone else who has already started using technology in their classrooms? If so, can you describe and share?