Thursday, December 1, 2011

http://prezi.com/vj4_jsekwci0/copy-of-technology-integration-within-the-classroom/

Friday, November 18, 2011

Interactive whiteboards

Description:
In our seminar last week we discussed interactive whiteboards. I have seen these in many classrooms, but never knew all the capabilities they possessed. Mr. Graham showed the class the different ways that this technology could be used for all grade levels. Many of the programs we were shown catered towards younger grade levels, but after doing some research, there are programs for older students as well.

Application:

Having a specialization in secondary social studies it could be difficult to use the interactive white boards. I think one way to use them would be to have a discussion question and allow the students to write their responses and brainstorm. This gets the students up and moving, it also allows them to read one another responses. I would start out by introducing the device and how it will be used. Next I would split the class into small groups where they would work together to come up with a group answer.

Reflection:

Pedagogy-Content:

Allowing the students to work in small groups using this type of technology is a great form of differentiated instruction. It gives the students a chance to get away from the traditional lecture or powerpoint typically used to teach. It can be difficult to think of exciting ways to teach social studies, but this would be one great way to do so. Social studies is often over-looked as not being important, but in reality history still effects us today.

Technology-Pedagogy:

When using new technology within a classroom, it is vitally important that the students understand how to properly use it. Technology can become distracting and get the students off track if not monitored. Allowing students to use the whiteboards to discuss a topic can be exciting not only for the students, but the teacher as well. It gives the teacher an opportunity to step back and observe his/her students at work.

Technology-Pedagogy Content:

Using whiteboards can alter the way students look at learning. They can also play learning games or create story lines while using this device. As a teacher it is your responsibility to make learning exciting and engaging. This would also be a great thing to use to review before an exam or quiz to ensure the students are on track. All-in-all I believe interactive whiteboards would be very beneficial for any subject at any grade level.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Ipads

Description/Experience
-In our last seminar we had a speaker discuss ipads and how they can effectively be used in the classroom. I think the use of ipads could be positive or negative. Apple provides many apps that range in all different subjects, many of these apps could be beneficial. On the other hand, I think ipads could also be a distraction to the students.

Application
-Ipads can be used in a variety of ways. As a teacher I would not only use these to promote learning, but also as a reward if the students were to do something worth praise. As a secondary education teacher it might be a little more difficult to make this technology appealing to the students because most are quite familiar with this technology already. I would use the History: Maps pf World app in one of my lessons. This particular app is a collection of detailed maps from all different time periods throughout history.

Reflection:
Pedagogy-Content:
-I would have the students work in small groups to first discuss the different maps. They would compare and contrast these maps and make short lists on their findings. I would have the students only look over a few, and these maps would be handouts. Later in the lesson they would incorporate the ipads.

Technology-Pedagogy:
-After the students review the handouts on maps, I would keep them in small groups. The ipad will be used to show the maps in more detail and will also keep the lesson intriguing. Technology is constantly expanding and is one thing that most students find interesting. I would make sure to monitor the students during this activity to make sure they stick to the assignment and do not get off track.

Technology-Content:
-Pairing the ipad with a traditional paper handout is a great idea. As a teacher it is important to keep lesson plans up to date and creative, using this technology is a perfect way to accomplish this. This map application would allow students to look into the assignment in more depth and at different angles.

Technology-Pedagogy Content:
-Ipads will not only get the students more excited about learning, but will also make life easier on the teacher. Tying technology; such as ipads, in with an activity allows the students to work somewhat independently and explore for themselves.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Tecnology Reflection: INstructional use of EdModo


  • Description/Experience

In our last Education seminar we went over a network called EdModo. This is a safe, simple way for teachers and students to collaborate. Through this network teachers and students can share grades, homework, announcememnts, etc. I find EdModo to be quite interesting because it is a great way for teachers to use technology within the classroom. This site is a great way for students to share thoughts and ideas, and it also cuts down on paperwork.



  • Application

I agree that EdModo is a great way to incorporate technology integration and diversity within the classroom. As a secondary education social studies major it is very important to keep things intriguing to the students. At this age the students will most likely know how to navigate a computer well. This network would be great for posting readings or articles, or even discussion topics. Discussion posts would be a good activity because it would be an effective way for students to read eachothers thoughts.



  • Reflection

-Technology:


EdModo is a form of technology used to make teaching easier and interesting. It is a way for teachers and students to brainstorm and share content at anytime.


-Pedagogy Content:


Content Pedagogy is simply teaching skills that teachers use to get the content to the students effectively. To get an assignment effectively explained to my students I would briefly summarize the assignment. Next I would have the students explain to me using their own thoughts what they believe the assignment is. Having the students back-brief would let me as the teacher know that the students understand.


-Technology Pedagogy:


Technology Pedagogy would be using technology to effectively teach. With an assignment; such as, a paper, I would allow students to use EdModo to share ideas or information for the assignmant. I would make sure that no one was basically writing the paper for the whole class. I would allow students to work on this at home, but would also use come class time in case a student does not have access to a computer.


-Technology content:


EdModo would replace the traditional power point or lecture teaching methos. The students would be given some freedom to find research for the assignmant on their own. It is important as a teacher to keep teaching interesting and different, otherwise students will lose focus.


-Technology Pedagogy content:


Overall I believe using a tool such as EdModo would be effective. I believe the students would learn more using this technique because instead of giving them the answers through a lecture, they would be required to find the information themselves. It is important to start with a brief overview of the assignment so the students get the general idea.