Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
The History of Superman-Digital Story
I used voicethread to create this digital story. Although I'm not a big fan of it and struggled to put a voice in it; I do think that this will be very beneficial in the classroom. This type of technology can be posted on a website for any student that failed to attend class or just didn't understand the material. If I had a microphone, I think I would've been able to put my voice in it.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
My Travels from Coast to Coast-Digital Story
This website was more confusing to use, and very difficult to embed into this blog. I wasn't a big a fan of the music selection. However, I did enjoy the fact that it looked like an actual scrapbook. Overall I would say this is an okay website, but I don't really see much use for it in the classroom.
Growing Love-Digital Story
This is my favorite of the Digital Stories I completed. I felt the site was very user friendly and made it easy to create a unique and creative digital story. My only problem was that it was difficult for my computer to upload so many pictures at one time; otherwise, this was the best site to use.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Response: Growing Up Online
As I was watching the story on "PBS Frontline" I really had to re-evaluate the impact the Internet has on the student. I reviewed three of my peers' blogs: Jessica Fetherston, Emily Dirks, and Brittney Scheeringa. I found each of their opinions enlightening, and for the most part I agreed with them. I intend on expanding so their ideas I liked to further incorporate my ideas on this topic.
One thing that Jessica mentioned in her blog was the idea that "questions were brought up when television, phones, video cameras, and cell phones were invented." And I believe that she couldn't be more accurate. As the times change it becomes increasingly difficult for older generations to adapt to the new technologies. Of course questions are going to be raised because with each new technology we are becoming more open with our emotions and ideas. This is worrisome because while we are become more expressive, everyone within reach of the Internet now has access to that. And while many parents are frightened by the idea that a stranger has a deeper understanding of their child's life we also neglect that this is a safe haven to some of the students.
This leads into the next blog I reviewed. Emily brings up, what I believe is possibly the most important point on the Internet. As educators it is our duty to be aware of the newest technology. Furthermore its necessary to, as Emily says, "educate children on the proper uses of the Internet." These students need to understand the dangers of using the Internet; specifically predators and/or cyber bullying. However, that isn't the only place that needs attention. Students need to understand that any and everything they place on the Internet will be there forever. So any college or future employer can see what they've posted and even if it seemed funny at the time, most institutions wouldn't be interested in someone so irresponsible.
Finally Brittney mentioned her fear of not being able to compete technologically with the next generations to come. And my fears coincide with that notion. I am terrified that these students will be able to use the Internet and computers and all sorts of gadgets much quicker and more efficiently than I can. Which I fear will cause them to become bored in the classroom and working on other non-school related items. As an educator I will try to attend classes and keep up with the newest technologies. One thing that the high school I attended did have was a foreign language computer lab. Each student was able to use a computer; however, the teacher had a larger computer that not only allowed her to access all of the same programs, but simultaneously granted her the ability to see each students computer screen. I think if schools were to go more digital (which is where it seems we're heading), then they should get class/teacher friendly tools similar to our computer lab.
Overall I think that there are many pros and cons to "growing up online" or having schools become more "digital". But if we prepare teachers and lessons to help understand this new world and education system then we should be okay. I do strongly recommend having a mandatory class on Internet safety. Each student should be able to recognize warning signs and keep as safe as possible. But the Internet I think is more of a tool than weapon.
One thing that Jessica mentioned in her blog was the idea that "questions were brought up when television, phones, video cameras, and cell phones were invented." And I believe that she couldn't be more accurate. As the times change it becomes increasingly difficult for older generations to adapt to the new technologies. Of course questions are going to be raised because with each new technology we are becoming more open with our emotions and ideas. This is worrisome because while we are become more expressive, everyone within reach of the Internet now has access to that. And while many parents are frightened by the idea that a stranger has a deeper understanding of their child's life we also neglect that this is a safe haven to some of the students.
This leads into the next blog I reviewed. Emily brings up, what I believe is possibly the most important point on the Internet. As educators it is our duty to be aware of the newest technology. Furthermore its necessary to, as Emily says, "educate children on the proper uses of the Internet." These students need to understand the dangers of using the Internet; specifically predators and/or cyber bullying. However, that isn't the only place that needs attention. Students need to understand that any and everything they place on the Internet will be there forever. So any college or future employer can see what they've posted and even if it seemed funny at the time, most institutions wouldn't be interested in someone so irresponsible.
Finally Brittney mentioned her fear of not being able to compete technologically with the next generations to come. And my fears coincide with that notion. I am terrified that these students will be able to use the Internet and computers and all sorts of gadgets much quicker and more efficiently than I can. Which I fear will cause them to become bored in the classroom and working on other non-school related items. As an educator I will try to attend classes and keep up with the newest technologies. One thing that the high school I attended did have was a foreign language computer lab. Each student was able to use a computer; however, the teacher had a larger computer that not only allowed her to access all of the same programs, but simultaneously granted her the ability to see each students computer screen. I think if schools were to go more digital (which is where it seems we're heading), then they should get class/teacher friendly tools similar to our computer lab.
Overall I think that there are many pros and cons to "growing up online" or having schools become more "digital". But if we prepare teachers and lessons to help understand this new world and education system then we should be okay. I do strongly recommend having a mandatory class on Internet safety. Each student should be able to recognize warning signs and keep as safe as possible. But the Internet I think is more of a tool than weapon.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Money for Good Grades
My reaction to reading the article, "Earn an A? Here's $50." in the Chicago Tribune was "Are you kidding me?!" I didn't think that anyone could actually be serious about this. Bribing students to get good grades didn't seem like the best choice to improve Chicago public schools. There are too many problems for this idea to be properly implemented. I achieved mostly grades throughout my elementary and secondary education, and I never received any money. At first I think I was simply jealous that some students were getting this kind of treatment, I worked hard in school to get good grades and I didn't get $50 for an A! However as I thought deeper into this issue, I really realized that I disagreed with this on more than just a personal level.
The first opinion article I read that addressed this idea was y MARGO UNQRICHT Seventh-grade English teacher, Lehi, Utah (http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3617/is_200405/ai_n9360319). And she stated that although she thought bribing the students with money crossed the line, she did lend the idea that students should be rewarded for a job well-done with something like a pizza party. With her I agree, students should be rewarded with a pizza party or a celebration after working hard on a project or an exam. However, giving them money is definitely crossing line. Instead we should reward them (high-poverty students) with things they actually like clothes or food.
The next article I read was entitled "CPS To Pay Students For Good Grades" and published on the WBBM website (http://www.wbbm780.com/pages/2948980.php?). It described that the funding for this project wouldn't be coming from tax dollars. While I am very relieved that my money won't be going towards this program, I believe its necessary to be concerned with where the money we give them is going. This money that we plan to give the students for good grades, could instead be put into the schools and different learning facilities so that they have better lessons and a better grasp on the material they're learning. Or if we must give them money, the state instead should have the money put into a college fund so they can use it to attend a university or vocational school, or given to them as a reward after graduation. This will increase graduation rates and cause students to work hard throughout all of high school.
The third and most influential article I read on this topic was "Is it smart to pay for good grades?" by Liz Pulliam Weston (http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/RaiseKids/IsItSmartToPayForGoodGrades.aspx?page=2). In her article she describes the argument between her and her husband; he was for getting paid for good grades, while she was against it. I think she brought up some very valid points. Many students in today's classroom have learning disabilities. By bribing them to get good grades we're rewarding the naturally gifted, and harming the ones who work really hard to get the Bs or Cs. This creates an ego goal orientation in the school setting. This will cause those who are reflect more of the mastery goal orientation to struggle, get frustrated and eventually give up. Overall I think that this program can do more harm in the school setting than good.
Finally, I read the article "Good grades pay off literally" in USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2008-01-27-grades_N.htm). This article again provided a lot of background information on the debate, but one thing it mentions is how this "undermines kids' motivation to do high-quality work when they're not being paid". It does all go on to mention that student grades did progress because they wanted the rewards. However I think that this method is only helping the already smart students. They put forth the little extra effort that isn't actually given to them to earn these great prizes, while those that really try get frustrated and want to quit.
Overall I think that this can be beneficial to the honor roll students; however, those that aren't on honor roll are forced to compete with students that they already believe are smarter than them. I think can be seen as another example of a self-fulfilling prophecy. Students that work hard deserve a reward regardless of the grade they receive. Rewarding hard work will encourage the continuance of it, whereas rewarding good grades isn't a fair playing field.
The first opinion article I read that addressed this idea was y MARGO UNQRICHT Seventh-grade English teacher, Lehi, Utah (http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3617/is_200405/ai_n9360319). And she stated that although she thought bribing the students with money crossed the line, she did lend the idea that students should be rewarded for a job well-done with something like a pizza party. With her I agree, students should be rewarded with a pizza party or a celebration after working hard on a project or an exam. However, giving them money is definitely crossing line. Instead we should reward them (high-poverty students) with things they actually like clothes or food.
The next article I read was entitled "CPS To Pay Students For Good Grades" and published on the WBBM website (http://www.wbbm780.com/pages/2948980.php?). It described that the funding for this project wouldn't be coming from tax dollars. While I am very relieved that my money won't be going towards this program, I believe its necessary to be concerned with where the money we give them is going. This money that we plan to give the students for good grades, could instead be put into the schools and different learning facilities so that they have better lessons and a better grasp on the material they're learning. Or if we must give them money, the state instead should have the money put into a college fund so they can use it to attend a university or vocational school, or given to them as a reward after graduation. This will increase graduation rates and cause students to work hard throughout all of high school.
The third and most influential article I read on this topic was "Is it smart to pay for good grades?" by Liz Pulliam Weston (http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/RaiseKids/IsItSmartToPayForGoodGrades.aspx?page=2). In her article she describes the argument between her and her husband; he was for getting paid for good grades, while she was against it. I think she brought up some very valid points. Many students in today's classroom have learning disabilities. By bribing them to get good grades we're rewarding the naturally gifted, and harming the ones who work really hard to get the Bs or Cs. This creates an ego goal orientation in the school setting. This will cause those who are reflect more of the mastery goal orientation to struggle, get frustrated and eventually give up. Overall I think that this program can do more harm in the school setting than good.
Finally, I read the article "Good grades pay off literally" in USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2008-01-27-grades_N.htm). This article again provided a lot of background information on the debate, but one thing it mentions is how this "undermines kids' motivation to do high-quality work when they're not being paid". It does all go on to mention that student grades did progress because they wanted the rewards. However I think that this method is only helping the already smart students. They put forth the little extra effort that isn't actually given to them to earn these great prizes, while those that really try get frustrated and want to quit.
Overall I think that this can be beneficial to the honor roll students; however, those that aren't on honor roll are forced to compete with students that they already believe are smarter than them. I think can be seen as another example of a self-fulfilling prophecy. Students that work hard deserve a reward regardless of the grade they receive. Rewarding hard work will encourage the continuance of it, whereas rewarding good grades isn't a fair playing field.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Response to: How will you be your own agent of change in the classroom to meet student expectations - is it your responsibility?
While reading my peers blog posts regarding the "youtube" videos, they all consistently replied that all teachers should be incorporating technology into the classroom. Specifically I reviewed Jacqueline's, Rachel Sisterson's, and Jenny Santiago's blogs; and I also concur with their opinions. Teachers need to be able to use technology in the classroom. One idea Jacqueline mentions is that by blogging or using Internet access the concept being discussed in class will become more interesting. The students probably will be more technologically savvy than I will as a teacher, and if I am able to relate to this young computer wiz's then I believe the lesson will be more captivating overall.
Jenny also brings up a very important point in her blog; teachers should be "an agent of change in the classroom to meet student expectations." The students need to be exposed to the newest technology so that they can compete best with their peers. Furthermore, being exposed to the newest technology can help them learn on a different level. These students are the next generation, and since 2000 the world has been becoming exponentially more digital.
Finally Rachel discusses how chalkboards are just plain boring to most students now. They need to be engaged and she brings up the idea of using smartboards, Geometer's sketch pad, etc. electronic tools in the classroom. Keeping the students motivated and interested in mathematics will be key, and incorporating technology into the classroom is a great way to do that.
Overall I agree with my peers' opinions on the necessity for technology to be incorporated into the classroom. The use of the internet, electronic tools, and new technology are vital to the success of my future students. Jacqueline, Jenny, and Rachel all bring up valid points and ideas that I will definitely try to incorporate into my lesson plan.
Jenny also brings up a very important point in her blog; teachers should be "an agent of change in the classroom to meet student expectations." The students need to be exposed to the newest technology so that they can compete best with their peers. Furthermore, being exposed to the newest technology can help them learn on a different level. These students are the next generation, and since 2000 the world has been becoming exponentially more digital.
Finally Rachel discusses how chalkboards are just plain boring to most students now. They need to be engaged and she brings up the idea of using smartboards, Geometer's sketch pad, etc. electronic tools in the classroom. Keeping the students motivated and interested in mathematics will be key, and incorporating technology into the classroom is a great way to do that.
Overall I agree with my peers' opinions on the necessity for technology to be incorporated into the classroom. The use of the internet, electronic tools, and new technology are vital to the success of my future students. Jacqueline, Jenny, and Rachel all bring up valid points and ideas that I will definitely try to incorporate into my lesson plan.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Ken Robinson-Schools Kill Creativity
In February 2006, Sir Ken Robinson gave a speach regarding the education system around the world. His main point is that "creativity is as important as literacy and we should treat it in the same state." Robinson all presents the idea that educators are teaching for the future (students starting school that won't retire until 65 1971); pointing out that we know very little about what will happen in five years, let alone 65. In it he claimed that the current world wide system is killing creativity. The process of education from before elementary school through after secondary school stops teaching children to use their bodies and furthermore hinders their creativity. Modern examples of that today, are that many students who learn through movement are put on various types of medications to help them focus. Another example is the famous choreographer, Gyllian Lynne, who struggled with learning because she wasn't able to sit still. After seeking medical help, a doctor finally told her mother to take her to a dance school where she would better learn. Eventually she danced successfully through her education and did the choreographer for both "Cats" and "Phantom of the Opera".
Robinson's beliefs are very important to keep in mind. Each student learns and succeeds differently; and as a future educator I need to prepare my students for the future. While repetively enforcing the already known concepts of math, english, reading, and science is important; the students also need to be able to be creative in case something happens. They'll need to be able to think out of the box, and textbooks won't be able to accomplish that. Creativity is a natural talent, that needs to be trained and toned.
I agree with Robinson's beliefs about education. Students need to be more than book smart and be able to be successful in an instant. He makes great points that are reinforced by the examples he gives you. Students learn in different ways and as teacher you need to be able to accept and work with these differences.
Robinson's beliefs are very important to keep in mind. Each student learns and succeeds differently; and as a future educator I need to prepare my students for the future. While repetively enforcing the already known concepts of math, english, reading, and science is important; the students also need to be able to be creative in case something happens. They'll need to be able to think out of the box, and textbooks won't be able to accomplish that. Creativity is a natural talent, that needs to be trained and toned.
I agree with Robinson's beliefs about education. Students need to be more than book smart and be able to be successful in an instant. He makes great points that are reinforced by the examples he gives you. Students learn in different ways and as teacher you need to be able to accept and work with these differences.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Modern Technology in the Classroom
A recurring question in today's society is whether teachers should have the choice of incorporating modern technologies into the classroom. I believe that too a certain extent they should have a choice. However, these instructors must remember that it is their obligation to provide students with the best opportunities. Thus it is imparitive for the teacher to give students the most recent and useful technologies.
Students will gain numerous benefits if modern technologies are presented in the school setting. Those that are visual learners will especially benefit if they can see the graph being drawn or in general their concept visualized. Many students who get distracted with the everyday lectures, particularly in math classes, will concentrate better when working with a computer.
Although it is essential for instructors to work with modern technologies in the classroom, it is also important that they have an opinion of the requirements. For example many technologies are duplicates of one another (i.e. Internet Explorer and Firefox); thus, which ever program the teacher is most comfortable with should be displayed during the lesson. Teachers and schools shouldn't be worried about what's the easiest or simplest solution for themselves; instead, they should always be concerned for what is best for the student.
Students will gain numerous benefits if modern technologies are presented in the school setting. Those that are visual learners will especially benefit if they can see the graph being drawn or in general their concept visualized. Many students who get distracted with the everyday lectures, particularly in math classes, will concentrate better when working with a computer.
Although it is essential for instructors to work with modern technologies in the classroom, it is also important that they have an opinion of the requirements. For example many technologies are duplicates of one another (i.e. Internet Explorer and Firefox); thus, which ever program the teacher is most comfortable with should be displayed during the lesson. Teachers and schools shouldn't be worried about what's the easiest or simplest solution for themselves; instead, they should always be concerned for what is best for the student.
A Little About Me
Hi Everyone! My name is Susan Murphy, but I go by Susie. I'm from Lake Zurich (a lovely suburb of Chicago). I have a large Irish family with three older sisters and one younger brother. Originally my family is from the West Coast, the Los Angelos area, but my parents moved to Chicago right before I was born. I have so much family in California that it's like I really have two homes. Luckily both areas are right outside of the city! My favorite thing to do is just walk around Millenium Park or the streets of Chicago- I just can't get enough of that.
Teaching has always appealed to me. I've always really excelled at Math, but my main desire is to make a difference in peoples' lives. I believe that it isn’t enough to stand in front of a classroom and lecture; the ability to impact someone’s future with words and technology is what separates teachers from everyone else. The most influential teachers I've had have recognized my potential and pushed me to succeed. My goal is to inspire my students and help them discover which path to follow.
After I complete the education program at the University of Illinois, I hope to teach in some diverse areas. Ideally for the first five years as a teacher I would like to teach in a third world country and in the inner city. I would like to give back to the world for everything that it has given me. After those first five years, I figure I'll probably want to settle down and start a family of my own. Although I want to teach in those areas I wouldn't want to raise a family there. So moving back to the suburbs would probably be my best option.
Teaching has always appealed to me. I've always really excelled at Math, but my main desire is to make a difference in peoples' lives. I believe that it isn’t enough to stand in front of a classroom and lecture; the ability to impact someone’s future with words and technology is what separates teachers from everyone else. The most influential teachers I've had have recognized my potential and pushed me to succeed. My goal is to inspire my students and help them discover which path to follow.
After I complete the education program at the University of Illinois, I hope to teach in some diverse areas. Ideally for the first five years as a teacher I would like to teach in a third world country and in the inner city. I would like to give back to the world for everything that it has given me. After those first five years, I figure I'll probably want to settle down and start a family of my own. Although I want to teach in those areas I wouldn't want to raise a family there. So moving back to the suburbs would probably be my best option.
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