Blog Post #14

I had such a great experience in EDM310 and I can't wait to start my journey as an Educator.

Project 13

I loved the group I was a part of.  Group members consist of; Mary Anderson, Christie Mason and Angyl White they are all wonderful and kind people.  We all got a long great and communicated like we have known each other for years.  We not only had such a great group but we all formed such wonderful friendships!
We communicated through text messaging and Google (Gmail).  We used Google for searching pictures, videos, etc.  Google was the primary form of communication we used a lot.

Blog Post #13

Back to the Future:
This video had a lot of great ideas.  I loved the idea of students creating their own blog.  This will help with their writing skills and help them come familiar with the computer.  Now, about blogging versus multiple choice question is a different story.  I like testing with multiple choice but why not use best of both worlds.  Teachers can give a multiple choice test and have an essay question for them to answer on their blog.  This way the teacher can make sure the students learns the information and helps with the guess rate.

A Vision of Students Today:
This was shocking information.  The statistics are jaw dropping.  This video puts an emphasis on how many educators not willing to experience change and embrace technology.  If teachers will not use technology in their classroom, they they are not preparing their students for the future.  Students should benefit from the technological culture.  The outside world revolves around technology, so why not use it to help our students succeed.  As a future educator I want to help my students learn and benefit from all tools that will help them succeed in their future.

How Will You Teach Me In The 21st Century:
This video helped me realize how I want to use technology to help my students.  I want my students to learn and understand the importance of technology.  I would like my students to connect and participate with people all around the world.  This will show my students different views of how people use technology in their classroom.  Also, i want my students to experience the tools that will benefit them to have a successful future.

Project 15

Final Report on PLN

I have successfully added great teaching tools and resources to all of my tiles on Symbaloo.  I will continue to expand my Symbaloo and  in turn, I will continue to be a "Life Long Leaner".  Thank you, Dr. Strange for introducing, how we can stay organized and effectively use technology in the classroom and in our personal life.  My Symbaloo will never be complete because technology is always changing.  Therefore, I will always add new teaching tools and techniques as I continue with my teaching career.

C4T#4

In my comment I tried to link my personal blog and class blog but it would not let me and I do not know why.

I was assigned Lee Kolbert, A Geeky Momma's Blog.  I was truly inspired by her and she encouraged me to be more involved in the technological world.  I have been using my Symbaloo more often, in search for great teaching tools.  She is currently a district manager at the Department of Educational Technology.  She has been an educater in Palm Beach County, FL. for 26 years and was a classroom teacher and district technology specialist.  She is very passionate and enthusiastic about helping teacher integrate technology in their classrooms.'

Ms. Kolbert discusses in her post, Something I learned at ISTE, is that her experience usually focuses not only in the content, but how inspired she is.  She has seen an increased focus on lifting teachers spirits and helping them see that they really are needed.  She states, "If you're trying to help teachers feel empowered, it's not helpful to contribute to the idea that they are all alone out there."  She also wanted to know, if it was wrong of her to not care anymore about the people who make it difficult to connect.
Comment 1:
My name is Angelia Gafford, I attend The University of South Alabama and I'm taking a class called EDM310 which teaches how to incorporate technology in the classroom. I do not feel it is wrong that you do not want to try so hard because some people have to learn things on their own. I have noticed that there are some future educators worried if they will be replaced with technology. So, knowing there is an increased focus on lifting and empowering teachers helps put my mind at ease. Thanks for the tip about Soundnote on the iPad.

How Long Would It Take You To Read "War and Peace?"

Source: Staples eReader Department

Ms. Kolbert did this exercise and found out she could read 369 WPM, 48% faster than the national average.  This is a free test and will only take a few minutes.  At the end it presents you with a list of books and information on how long it would take you complete each book.  Also, it tells you how many books you can read before you start to loose battery life.
Comment 2.-I tried the hyper links again but my comment has to be approved.  I hope it worked this time.
Hello Ms. Kolbert.  My name is Angelia Gafford and I attend, The University of South Alabama.  I am currently taking a class this summer called, EDM310.  This is a class to help teach us how to incorporate technology in the classroom.  I decided to test myself and found out that I can read 220 WPM which makes me 12% slower than the national average and I can read 2.9 books before recharging. This was a fun activity to test your reading skills and has encouraged me to read more. I also, hope my classmates will test themselves to find out their score.  If you would like to contact me, I can be reached at Twitter @angeliagafford and Angelia Gafford's Class Blog.

Progress Report: Final Project #16

                                                       

I would like to say, "I love my group".  We all get along great and when we get together, it is a hoot.  We all have busy schedules therefore, we have been communicating via email and texting.  I have my sentence and book trailer complete.  I would like to use my blog post #6, Randy Pausch's Last Lecture.  I am going to send it to my group and do some personal editing, as well.  I have started working on my two minute video about important technology I want to incorporate in my classroom.  I started gathering my ten photos and I can't wait to see what the group has put together.  

Blog Post #12

I am an Elementary Education Major and would like to teach 3rd grade and I feel that Smartphones will be a tremendous asset to my classroom.  Therefore, I would like you to watch the video, A Tongue-in-Check Video About Bans on Smartphones in Schools. Then answer the two questions listed below.

1.) Discuss the Pros and Cons of using smartphone's in the classroom.  

2.) Do you feel the Pros out way the Cons?

Answer:
Technology has become a great resource to use in the classroom.   About 70% of students own smartphone's and 69% of schools ban their use.  Having a smartphone allows the capability of internet access anywhere and anytime.
Pros:

• Built in Camera 
• Built in Microphone 
• Light weight, easy to carry
• Built in video recorder
• Internet Connection with easy browser usage                         
• Useful applications to help with learning
• Connected keyboard

Smartphones bring versatility to the classroom.  Students can use the camera to take pictures of their work, the microphone to record lectures and the video to record what they do.  They will have on the go internet usages at their fingertips, it's light weight and easy to carry. Tthey can use application such as mobile scavenger hunt, Flashcards++, Project Noah and GoKnow.  There is a keyboard to makes it easier to take notes.  Teachers can use this mobile device to teach colorful lessons and in turn, help maintain their attention.  By showing students how fun using their phone is in the classroom, they will be eager to expand that knowledge outside the four walls. 

Cons:

• Disruption                                         
• Distraction                      
• Unfairness
• Control
• Insurance
• Cost
• Bullying
• Cheating

The cons of having smartphones in the classroom; disruption caused by a ringing phone, students distracted by playing games or texting, cheating made easier and unfairness can occur because of affordability and in turn, will cause bullying.  Some problems may occur with controlling what exactly the students are doing.  Smartphones can cost a large amount of money and teachers can run into the problem of who's insurance would pay?

I believe the pros defiantly out way the cons because we will have disruption whether it is a ringing phone or class clown,  students are distracted easily and using technology will help maintain their attention. Students are also, going to play games or pass notes using pencils and paper.  Some smartphones are less expensive than computers and teachers may be able to find phone companies willing to give to their school.  Also, parents maybe more prone to buying their child a smartphone and paying the monthly fee vs. an Xbox or PlayStation.  Students cheat all the time with pencil and paper.  Therefore, having a smartphone isn't going to make cheating occur more.  Take a look at the bigger picture, our students education.  Educators should embrace all technology because the future of our students lies in our hands. 

I referenced these articles and watched the video to explain my answer.

Smartphones: Teaching Tool or Brain Candy?

Mobile Devices in the Classroom.

Smartphones! the pros and cons of mobile technologies in the classroom.

Blog Post #11

Ms. Cassidy's talks about how she began the use of technology in her Skype Interview with Dr. Strange.  Ms. Cassidy's technological journey started about 10 years ago when she was given 5 computers to operate in her classroom.  She began to think, "How can I use this technology to help educate my students".  So, she researched ways to use technology in her classroom and became a successful teacher in the process.  She had a very helpful support group that made it a little easier to accomplish her goals.  Ms. Cassidy had to make sure the identity of her students would be protected and she needed permission from all parents before she could post anything on the internet.  Therefore, she sent a form for the parents to sign at the beginning of the school year.  Ms. Cassidy states, "Technology is here to stay, that we have to change because the world is changing and if we do not, then we are handicapping ourselves and our students".  This is a very powerful message because if we do not change then our students will be the ones to suffer.
She explored many different ways to incorporate technology and demonstrates how useful it is in her video, 1st graders in Ms. Cassidy's Class.  Her students looked very excited and enthusiastic while making this video.   I gained many great ideas that I would like to use in my classroom.  For example, having a class blog because it gives the parents a convenient way to view their child's progress.  I also loved Wiki's because it showed a different variety of answers and helps them learn from other people.  I also like the idea of students posting their work on the class blog because it made them proud and they enjoyed seeing new comments from people across the world.   I loved the use of Nintendo DS, which showed them how to share with others.  I enjoyed learning how Skype can be used to communicate with classroom all around the world.
I did have one concern, will our students still have great penmanship?  Even though they are writing on blogs, they should still learn the proper way of forming letters with pencil and paper.  A way to address this issue is to not forget about pens, pencils, and paper.  Teachers should make sure their students still learn the proper way to write a sentence without typing it on a key board.

Blog Post #10

Adventures in Pencil Integration
While I examine both photos I think to myself, "what does this metaphor mean"?  I believe it means that they have the same purpose, just one pencil is more useful for a networked students.  I read a comment John T. Spence wrote and he said, "it is a mock of the Mac and PC commercials".  That makes since, though a PC is very useful and gets the job done but the Mac is more up to date and has other benefits that we can use as teachers to help our students.  It can be a better advantage to spend a little more extra money on the Ticonderoga because it will last longer and you can learn new and different things that a PC does not offer.
Why were your kids playing games:
Mr. Spencer uses this blog post to explain the type of teaching methods he is using in his classroom to the principle.  This helps me understand why I do not want to participate in the "burp back" teaching method.  Our students want to learn and are more eager to learn, when teachers incorporate fun activities.  Sometimes we think, "We have to do it because it's for school" and this makes us procrastinate.  If make it a fun, then  students will be more willing to participate.
Educators should use other methods of teaching such as, technology.  This will help the student find their own style, method of learning and help with retaining the information.  Also, other teaching methods besides lecture can help stimulate their brain, expand their minds to be open and continue to want to be, "Life Long Learners".
Mr. Spence also talks about in his blog, 10 ideas for using Instagram in the classroom.  Instagram is an application you can get on your phone to modify pictures.
He says, "Instagram reminds me to pay attention".  That he can pay attention to the beauty in the world by these 10 different ways; digital storytelling, grammar practice, photo journalism, photo prompts, metaphors, photos for blogs, find the context, ethnographic study, sharing art, and just let them take a picture.  I never new that one app. could help us modify the way we see the world.  This gives us the option to take a picture and change it to the way we see it and how we feel when we take that particular photo.
Don't teach your kids this stuff. Please?
Mr. McLeod has his PHD. and is currently servicing as a Director of Innovation for Prairie Lake Area Education Agency 8 in Iowa.  He is also the founding Director of the UCEA Center for the Advanced Study of Technology Leadership in Education.
What this means to me is that, Educators need to be open to change and understand the importance of how technology can impact our schools.  It also means, that our students need to be shown the importance of education because that is vital to their survival in the real world.  I have notice Future Teachers concerned about having a job once they graduate.  Well, Dr. Strange is a perfect example of why teachers will still be needed.

C4T#3

I was assigned Dangerously Irrelevant which discusses Technology, Leadership, and the Future of School.
Dr. McLeod has a PHD. and is currently servicing as a director of Innovation for Prairie Lake Area Education Agency 8 in Iowa.  He is also the founding Director of UCEA Center for the Advanced Study of Technology Leadership in Education.  You can also check him out on Twitter @mcleodreads.
Comment 1
I commented on blog post Teach Students Higher Order or Critical Thinking Skills?  Not if Texas Republicans have their way.  Dr. McLeod talks about how Texas chooses not hold education at the highest importance. This was my comment for this blog post, My name is Angelia Gafford and I'm a student of the University of South Alabama.  I am taking a class this summer EDM310.  I would like to think we want to make sure our students are developing critical and higher order thinking skills.  As a future educator, I want my students to embrace learning and become as my professor Dr. Strange would say, "Life Long Learners".  This new information was completely shocking to me.
Comment 2
Dr. McLeod is taking a 1 year leave of absence from the University of Kentucky starting July 1.  He will be serving in Iowa as the Director of Innovation for Prairie Lake Area Education Agency 8.  He will be focusing on resourcing and supporting the 45 innovated school districts that the AEA serves.  I commented, Congratulations, the more technology is used in our classroom, the more our students will benefit.  We all need to be able to effectively use technology in all classrooms. 

Project #14 Smartboard

Blog Post #9

At a Teachers Desk; Mr. McClung:

Mr. McClung has written a blog describing helpful suggestions that all teachers should be prepared for or even follow.  He points out the things he has learned in his 1st year of teaching.  This is great for Education majors to read, so we can gain a better understanding of how it can be our 1st year in the field.  Everyone's experience will be different but this is useful insight from the mind of a 1st year teacher.
He talks about how to read the crowd and focus on your audience.  Teachers should focus on students vs. worrying about how being judged by your colleagues or superior.  Teacher should be flexible he says, "No lesson is ever perfect.  The lesson you teach and the one you plan are always different".  Educators should be open minded to change.  This can also go along with everyday life circumstances.  Remember to stay clam and everything work out.
Next he talks about communication, this is the glue that holds everything together.  Without communication things would chaotic.  We should use communcation to build trust and friendships with fellow teachers.  Teachers should "Be Reasonable", because no student is perfect.  If a students does not surpass your expectations, then take the time to work with them a little more.  I would love to incorporate all the useful teaching tools I've learned in EDM310.  We should always want to learn more and want to stay LIFE LONG LEARNERS.  Never be content with the little information you are shown, always push forward and learn more.  Mr. McClung's 1st year blog will help me to be patient, kind and understanding and in turn will help me be more successful as a teacher.  The advantage to reading his blog i,s that I may have less of a chance getting blindsided.

Blog Post #8

Dr, Richard E. Miller
Dr. Miller wants to challenge teachers to adapt to a listening/watching culture by teaching students to produce multimedia instead of lecture with pens and paper.  This is a new age, a cultural change, we have the capability to communicate instantly and globally.  Dr. Miller talked about the easy access to virtual text books and how we can find them on Amazon.com for as cheap as 0.59 cents.  Dr. Miller also talked about how he did projects without ever stepping into the library.  This will give our students the option to work at their own pace.  Doing project and assignments will be easier because they can do it in their home without ever leaving.  They can also, collaborate by using networking technology such as, video and images.  This will make it more interesting for the reader and more enjoyable for the person doing the project.
Part 2
Dr. Miller stated, "We work in a digital environment".  I agree 100% because our culture has updated our technology resources to make learning fun and exciting.  We are able to use technology that can change right before our eyes.  Just think, your in a science class and the teacher uses the smart board to show 3D object to explain photosynthesis.  The teacher will have the students glued to the screen.  Years ago, teachers didn't have the capability to use this kind technology in the classroom.  We should take advantage of all this technology.  Educators should share ideas freely, become open to change and embrace this new culture as technology takes over.  Teachers should use technology to push technological ideas into our culture.  Dr. Miller say, "The limit and restrictions are the ones we place on ourselves", this means that we only see what we want to see.  Educators need to open their eyes bigger and see how technology can bring amazing techniques and advantages to teaching our students.  Educators need to be an, "open book", open to new ways to teach and embrace this change.

The Chipper Series and EDM310 for Dummies:
I enjoyed Chipper's video very much.  She talked about procrastination and how excuses aren't enough.  Do your work on-time or suffer the consequences.  If you do not do what you are suppose to do then drastic measures will be taken , like getting fired from your job.  Education can be very expensive, so don't waste your money.  EDM310 for Dummies is hilarious because I am sure there are others that feel the exact same way as it shows in this video.  EDM310 is required because it is going to help us in the long run.  It has opened my eyes to embrace change and want to experience my own technology adventure.
An idea I have would be, create a community website for all teachers that they can post new web links of new tools they find on the internet to help with teaching.  I would want to make this website simple enough that teachers who aren't as familiar with the computer can use it without struggle.  Also, teachers could have the option to share Google Presentation or Prezi's on the website for others to use.  We are in this together and if we all collaborate ideas and work together then we can use technology to our advantage.
I would recommend all teachers and future teachers take this class because it is useful.

Learn to Change, Change to Learn:
This video sums up what EDM310 is trying to achieve.  Education is ranked the lowest, is this what our future is going to be?  Technology has created bridges for educators to help with converting over to this change.  Technology has created a new world, a new environment, which opens new possibilities that we should embrace.  We need to grab technology by the horns and ride this bull because our students education is at jeopardy.  Classrooms should be converted to the 21t century networked students.  This is a task all educators should want to achieve not only to help our educational department but most important the education of our students.

Carly Pugh's Blog Post #12
WOW, Carly is very enthusiastic about teaching, technology and learning.  She opens the door to more possibilities, educators can use to help their students in every directions needed.  Carly relates her blog post to Dr. Miller's presentation perfectly.  Carly relates also, how EDM310 helps bring creativity because of the use of technology.  English Teachers remind me of people who are open minded and want to bring imagination and creativity to the next level.

1.) I thought that Edmodo.com would help students, parents and teachers all stay better connected vs. the phone and email.  I will use this website in my classroom because this is a great tool.

2.) The website that produced the video that we had to watch was Animoto.com/Education.  As a teacher this is a great FREE tool for teachers to use to help make learning fun and exiting.
3.)Taking a Poll

Project #11

Project 12 Book Trailer

C4T#2

I was assigned to John T. Spencer.  He is a 6th grade ELL teacher in an Urban, Title One School.  He will have a classroom that is blended with one-to-one appraches of chromebooks, Kindle Fires and iPod Touches.  He is working towards pursuing constructivist and personlized learning experineces in his classroom.  He just presented and led a workshop at the iPossibilties iPad Conference in Indiana on June 11, 2012.  I watched Paperless Math which talked about wonderful tools to help students with math like blogging, podcasting.
Comment 1.
Advice For New Blogger:
Well, since I am a new blogger, this blog post fits in perfectly with this EDM310 Course.  Here is a shorter verson of the 12 tips to help you guys out.
1.) Don't find your Niche, well not yet at least.
2.)  Develop your voice
3.) Get a custom domain
4.) Engage in a conversation
5.) Prepare for CRITICISM
7.) Ignore the numbers
8.) Experiment with format
9.) Set an ethical standard for yourself
10.) Spend sometime on the Title
11.) Use social Media
12.) Brainstorm
These 12 tips should be in your back pocket when starting to blog.  He gives great advice and I am glad I was chosen to view this blog.  After reading these 12 steps I've set new standards for my blog postings.  I want to be more enthusiastic and be more detailed with everything I'm assigned to post on my blog.  And biggest of all, learn to take criticism in a good way even if it's hurtful.  We are all here to succeed and help whomever we can along the way.  I can't wait to venture off and search the web for ideas that I can use blogging once I'm an educator.  If you do these steps it will help you succeed as a blogger and can bring to peoples attention how blogging can change the way you think about technology.
Comment 2:
The Upside of #ISTE12
John Spencer spoke about how he has a space called Station Tavern, which is kinda like his, "safe haven".  This is where John and his buddies gather after work to debate vigorously, engaging in sophomoric junior high styled humor, and sharing a beverage that is banned from the staff lounge.  I commented saying, "it is nice to have a judgment free zone where you and your friends, family and co-workers can get together and talk about whatever you want".  I think that it is a key component to anyone really, to have a space where we can go to talk about what is on our minds and not be totally judged for our opinions.  I am glad to have been introduced to his blog and now I'm following him on twitter.

Project #11 Prezi

The Solar System on Prezi

Project #10 PLN Report

My PLN is coming along which Dr. Strange said, "should always be work in progress".  I have checked out all the different websites I can use as helpful tools for now and when I become an educator.  I LOVE my Gmail account like Google+, Google Presentation, and Google Drive.  Thanks EDM310 for introducing me to these amazing tools.  I can use all this stuff in my classroom to further educate the minds of my students (even though I was skeptical at first) but I have now seen a brighter future ahead that involves technology all the way.  I used Symbaloo to start and use as my PLN.

Blog Post #7

Thomas Suarez:
This was an added assignment to blog post#7 and I was very interested to find out that a 12 year old boy named Thomas Suarez was able to understand and create apps for you iPhone, iPad and etc.  What I learned from this young inspirational boy was that technology is surrounding our educational system and we should embrace all aspects of this great tool.  He makes a funny joke, "students know a little more then teachers with the technology".  What does this mean?  In my opinion it tells us that our educators have not converted to the new age, the 21st century new age.  If our students are surpassing us in the technology world then they will be teaching us vs. us teaching them.  We need to get on the universal technology band wagon and help improve our teaching methods by incorporating new ideas that we gain from the virtual world.
This video tells me that technology is vastly growing all over the world and in every classroom.  The 21st century has students learning how to incorporate technology in their school atmosphere.  By Thomas creating a group in his school sponsored by a teacher it brings teamwork which will help the students in the future.  His dedication to technology and interest in making new apps, will save money for the educational system.  Before, meeting all the team members of iSchool I was on edge about technology and how it will impact our educators usefulness.  With Thomas creating groups to show his classmates and even teachers how technology can advance our learning skills, this will open many doors for new and inventive ways students can venture out and invite technology in their lives.  Kinda like the ripple affect, once a students notices how fun and exciting a project can be they share their experiences and show others they can do it too.
This video fits in with blog post #7 because I feel that Dr. Strange is trying to show us that even 12 year old children are incorporating technology and find it interesting to invent apps that will help their fellow classmates but also teachers too.  Technology is a ride at a Disney world I want to take over and over again.  I feel that Dr. Strange also wanted us to know that building apps isn't impossible and we can do anything we set our minds too.  We should use all tools necessary, to help our students learn and to retain all information in their life time.

Wendy Drexler: The Networked Student:
I would like to start off by saying what a great video this was.  Loved the idea and this video kept my attention the entire time.  Being a 21st century educator to me means understanding the use and tools of all technology available to me.  In this video they discuss the importance of how technology can give a diverse connection which can empower our students to take control of their learning.  Blogging. podcasting and so many more give the opportunity to open the minds of students to see other opinions and to create one of their own.  We can use the tools like iPad, MP3 players and iPhones for more then listening to music or talking/texting on the phone.  We can use these tools to invent apps that will help students expand their mind to more than just a book sitting in front of them.  It will open their eyes to see what all the world has to offer.  With using podcasting our students can access the best professors from all around the world.
Virtual text books is a wonderful idea.  In my opinion they should not cost more then $25.00 because you can get them for free in some cases.  It will save our children from back aches and physical deformities.  We could save so much money if we had text books we could utilize by just a push of a button.  
We were told to pay close attention to the question, "Why does the networked students even need a teacher?  Well for all of who had doubt before have no fear, the list explains why teachers will not be obsolete but helpers to guide students to be life long learners.  The reasons why our students will need educators are;  they will teach how to build networks and offer guidance when stuck, show how to communicate properly and ask respectably for help with experts, help navigate their future, turn a web search to a fun and exciting treasure hunt, help find new interesting facts, organize the enormous amounts of information obtained and in the heart of all teachers, we will hope to show all our students to keep learning, inventing, sharing, and expanding your mind to the many possibilities technology will offer now and in our future.
                                                     
A 7th graders Personal Learning Environement (or PLN):
All the words that can come out of my mouth after watching this video is, "AMAZING"!  This 7th grader is more organized then myself at age 27.  I am working on my PLN and its coming along, I hope to have it completed by Sunday!  These are great ways to keep organized and help stay connected with all the learning tools on-line.  She states that this is freedom, freedom to learn how you feel is best. Children are all about being an adult and growing up fast, in my opinion.  So, these tools give them a little taste of how the real world is and how technology affects the world around us.  She is one smart 7th grader, when I was her age I was worried about friends and what I was doing that weekend.

Blog Post #6

Randy Pausch's Last Lecture:
While watching Pausch's Last Lecture, I was touched by all of his amazing accomplishments.  This video as an assignment was a great idea.  I gained useful advice during the hour and sixteen minutes I spent watching this video.  His last lecture begins by reflecting on his childhood dreams, I can relate to the passion of his dreams because it was always my childhood dream to become a teacher.  I can recall many teachers who made an impact in my life; much like Dr. Pausch did in his students' lives.  Dr. Pausch's Last Lecture has fueled my desire to help students and make a difference in their lives. Dreams bring Creativity  to the minds of our students opens doors, and brings hope and possibility to help accomplish your goals.  We shouldn't shatter the dreams of our impressionable students but make them dream even bigger.  My father is a teacher and he has influenced me and all of his students to pursue their goals.  Teachers like Dr. Pausch and my father have helped me realize that all things can be accomplished with hard work and determination.

Dr. Pausch also stressed the importance of inspiring our youth.  When I have my classroom, I want to display pictures, stories, and examples of motivation individuals my students can look up to as role models.  This will set the tone for students setting high goals to succeed.  I believe I will include one of Dr. Pausch's inspirational quotes amount that display.   Dr. Pausch also reminded us that your first attempt may not turn out the way expected, but it is important to never give up on your dreams.  Be persistent, brush yourself off and try again.  My classroom will be a gateway for hope and possibility to is unending.

Everyone knows that school isn't always fun.  It can be stressful, time consuming and countless hours of hard work.  Education shouldn't be all about memorizing dates, burp back lectures and standardized testing.  Through EDM 310 I have learned that it is possible to utilize technology resources in order to effectively teach students.  Dr. Pausch showed his students the same thing with a brilliant, positive energy.  I have learned that technology resources are never ending.  Dates in history can be brought to life with 3D images, videos and podcasts.  I will be able to supply hands on materials that will help my students learn from hands on experience.  There will still be a place in my classroom for taking notes with pencil and paper, but I believe relying more on the benefits of technology will enable my students to perform better on test.  This will be accomplished by stimulating their brains with fun and exciting techniques.

It is one thing to dream to be a teacher, but it's another thing to become a teacher who reaches students and inspires  people the way Dr. Randy Pausch did during and after his life.  The passion Dr. Pausch had during his last lecture, knowing he was about to die, made ma appreciate my life and the opportunities I have ahead of me.  His final foal was to bring hope and the promise of success to his children through his life's dreams, works, and lessons.  I am grateful that I have been introduced to Randy Pausch's lectures.  His message is something I will never forget, and I hope to live by his example.

Project #8

Blog Post #5

iSchool....what to think? Well, my opinion is, iSchool is a wonderful suggestion but should we really rely on technology for everything to do with educating our youth.  Don't get me wrong, it is a great idea to do away with text books, paper and number 2 pencils.  But I catch myself thinking is technology going to take the place of our educators.  We still need paper, pencils, text books and etc.  Technology is a great tool we should incorporated in our classroom as a learning tool NOT take the place of educators, text books, paper and pencils.
Can we rely on technology for everything?  What if our computer caught a virus and all technology was shut down for the school we were teaching at?  What would we do?  Revert back to text books and number 2 pencils?  Yes, we would.  Technology isn't the answer to all educational issues.  It is an important tool that we should all relate in our classrooms.  Using technology to help our students learn and make leaning exciting is what is most important in my opinion NOT the use for everything.  Sometimes you have to rely on paper and pencils.  I like the idea of iSchool but I also like the idea of keeping books in the classroom.
Erick Whitacre's virtual Choir
This sound alone that all the participants put out is inspiring.  Makes me rethink myself about iSchool and technology.  The sound was everlasting.  I rethink my feelings about how technology alone could change the schools across this world.  We can learn so much more about what technology really has to offer.  When you think about it, and catch a grasp of what you just learned, with a blink of an eye there is something new to venture off into.
Technology is the most amazing gift we could be granted with.  We can use this wonderful tool to change the lives of all the youth around the world.  I know believe in the iSchool and the good it can do for our educational system.  Technology is something we use every second of every day.  Why not use it for educating our children.  This is very inspiring and I can't wait to use everything I learn to help educate my students.
Flipping the classroom:
This is a wonderful tool to use in all classrooms.  As a future educator we are challenged to help all students at the same level.  With flipping the classroom it gives us more effective ways to help each students.  I loved the fact that she gives the students the opportunity to view the material and post question online.  This gives the students 24 hour access to all material besides just a book with boring bland information inside.  I will use this method at my advantage.  I would like to mix all students together because children can learn from their classmates as well.
We are becoming educators to help our students apply the knowledge they gain to the real world and to be successful in life.  If we have struggling students, middle group and higher level students in the same classroom learning at different paces then that will only diversify the classroom setting.  I loved the fact she had gained the attention of all students by being in the middle.  For the students who are struggling, the material online gives them so much opportunity to excel without other students knowing they are falling behind.  I can't wait to apply these methods of learning styles to my classroom.

Project # 9a

Blog Post #4

Pod-casting with First Graders
Podcasting uses many helpful techniques educators can use to enlighten the minds of students.  Technology may frighten some, at first but we can show how fun podcasting can be.  It can bring students together and they can exude confidence in the skills the acquire.  For example, podcasting with first graders her students will learn skills like listening, speaking, presenting, comprehension, storytelling, performance, voice acting, oral fluency media, and technology.
Podcasting brings the story to life, make reading more enjoyable and will help them retain information longer.  Having podcasting exercise will make reading more exciting.  It will also, help them to learn how to follow direction.  Her students looked so happy and enjoyed learning about podcasting.  All students like to see the wonderful outcome of their hard work.  One issue I had would be, will podcasting take away from text book reading and learning?
Benefits of podcasting in a classroom by Joe Dale:
Joe Dale used podcasting to interact with the outside world.  This gives the children opportunity to communicate all around the world.  Technology is a form of our everyday life.  I really enjoyed learning that podcasting can help student with missed work when out sick.  This gives the students the ability to access everything they need straight from their home.  Podcasting gives these advantages to the students; they can listen for a review when out sick, higher levels of blooms taxonomy, excited about learning, projects to enhance their learning experience.
Another learning tool I enjoyed finding out is uploading podcasts into blogs.  Podcasting can be useful to get students out of their comfort zone, open up in the classroom and even start a meaningful debate.  Students will use podcasting to help use their higher order thinking skills.  I also, loved the fact that parents will be able to view and listen to what their child is learning.  I have friends who ask their children, "So what did you learn today" their response,  "nothing".  Now with podcasting and posting it is more convenient for the parent.  It will also help parents be involved with  school work and homework.  I remember when I was younger my parents tying to help me with homework and since they were out of school for so long, they too had a hard time figuring out what was right and wrong.  Podcasting will open new doors and bring a brighter light to the minds of our students.  I can't wait to start on ours for EDM310.

Project 6 My Sentence

Blog Post #3

Peer Editing is working with a fellow classmate to improve, revise, and edit their own writing.  Sometimes people can get the wrong impression when you tell them they have errors.  So we should follow the 3 steps shown in the video and slide show, What is Peer Editing and Peer Edit With Perfection.  The 3 steps consist of compliments, suggestions and corrections but the most important task of peer editing is to,"STAY POSITIVE".  We want to help our fellow classmates by using peer editing with constructive criticism not destructive, we don't want them to feel like they are being attacked or humiliated.  We should help each other as much as we can because we are in school for a reason; to accomplish the goals we have set for ourselves.
Watching Writing Peer Review Top 10 Mistake has wonderful examples of the different types of peer editing your not suppose to do.  It makes me realize how important staying positive means.  Even 3rd and 4th graders understand the difference, so should we. As we go to school to become an educator, we should respect the concept of peer editing, take advantage of our classmates help and be open to any suggestion anyone may have.
I would email my classmate I was assigned too and offer suggestions and any corrections that I had.  She wrote very well and I enjoyed reading her blog.  I wanted to email which is private versus publicly announce errors that may have been seen.  Some people can get offended by offering help, so I feel it's always best to say anything in private.

Technology in Special Education: 

Technology has a positive affect on teaching special education.  Students are able to perform tasks they had difficulty doing before technology.  Technology gives special needs students more opportunity to achieve a higher education.  All classrooms should have a computer to help every student because technology is the future.

How I can use technology in my classroom would be to provide computer, iPad, smart boards and whatever new materials I've researched online.  I will use technology to perform positive techniques to study and learn new material.  Technology has made learning fun and exciting but it has also provided a means for special needs students to communicate and it brings positive influences to every student.  I enjoyed this video because it brought to my attention how important technology is in every classroom.

The application at the App Store I chose was Discovery and Exploration Maps because it will help students retain the information.  History can be tedious and maybe boring to some and the attention span of a special needs students could be shorter, so using a application that is the worlds cheapest time machine will entertain and make leaning exciting.
This application will show our students the world and geographical knowledge of human kind and how much things have changed over time.  Watching videos of the worlds history will encourage students to want to learn more because all student like pictures and videos.  I know personally that I can understand  information a lot better by watching a video versus reading it.  The information sticks because we are more entertained and drawn to learn out more.  I can't wait to start taking advantage of all these new resources I learned.  I want my students to want and enjoy school.

Harness for Students Digital Smarts:
Vicki Davis helps her students communicate all over the world through technology.  In her class, she teaches her students how to use all tools available to them.  She understand that all students learn at different levels and she takes that into consideration when she teaches.  Davis wants her students to have opportunities to use technology not for just a tool to study but for them to use on a daily basis.

Ms. Davis seems to be very proud of her accomplishments and I wish to be the same way, as an educator.  I want to help my students learn and understand that technology is a learning tool to help them all throughout their lives.  I enjoyed watching her video and learning the different ways she involves her students in the virtual world and will use her techniques to help my students as well.

C4T #1

The teacher I was assigned is Diane Krause and she is a Technology Staff Development Specialist and classroom for the future coach, where she provides assistance and support for faculty in the Wissahickon School District.  She is a goddess Soleil in the vitual world called Medievia (check it out)  Which in my opinion is pretty awesome.  She has been a member in the game world for 10 years. 
Her blog mainly consists of technology resources educators can use in the classroom.  She discovers new ideas and programs for teachers to use all over the world.  I commented on her post about Zinio, which is the worlds largest vitural magzine.  They have unique features like video, audio, and live links for your ipad, iphone, laptop, and desktop.  Zinio also have a blog you should check out.  The second comment I left was for her blog post about:
"Skype in the Classroom".

Diane pulled information about how we as educators can use Skype to show our students how learning can be exciting and memorable.  Knowing we can use Skype in our classroom to show our students what it's like all around the world, makes it exciting for me as a future educator.  We can use Skype to get ideas of what other classrooms look like and help students and teachers all around the world.  Not only do teachers use Skype but also people in the Military.  Skype is a wonderful source of technology we can bring into the classroom.  Like, virtual field trips to classrooms all around the world.  I enjoyed reading Mrs. Krause blog and will keep myself updated with her new findings of how to bring technology into our classrooms.

Project # 5 Google Presentation

Blog Post Number 2

Did You Know-A John Strange 2012 Version

The original did you know was developed by Karl Fisch and Scott McLead.  It was edited by John Strange for the EDM310 class at the University of South Alabama.  The United States entire population is outnumbered by India because they have the highest IQ.  I see this as, India understanding education to be the most important tool used to better them in work, school, etc.  Which, the United States should hold their education at the highest level of importance also.  In the video there was a prediction that in 2025 there will be more Chinese English speaking then native English speakers.  What does that say about our dedication towards education?  That maybe, the United States focuses more on fashion, music, dance, money, power and etc.  Some little interesting facts from the video, there are 1,097,220 videos watched every minute and there 1,393,519 Google searches made every minute.

The question was asked in the video, “Are you ready to be an educator”?  I will answer that with, yes because this world is growing this new technology and as long as we take advantage of the information given, we as educators can help students all over the world.  Educators have to be technologically literate because the power it possesses can be unimaginable when used to educate our youth.  We rely on technology for everything and before we know it, paper will no longer exist.  I learned that we have to take advantage of the virtual world of technology and in order to be the best educator I can be; I have to be technological literate.  We need our students to love learning and using technology we can make that happen.

Mr. Winkle Wakes by Mathew Needleman:

Mr. Winkle awakes up from his 100 year snooze to see the world has changed.  He noticed offices and hospitals were full of new machines and technology he has never seen.  He went to a familiar place, school where the teacher lectured and the students sat quiet in their seats taking notes, he like knowing that some things stay the same.  He saw a dusty machine in the back that he recognized from the other places he has been.

Today people use technology for everything.  In this video as the years go by technology advances and the classrooms stay in limbo.  With knowing how much technology can improve our ability to teach our students, we as educators should take advantage of every source we come across.  By using technology we can make learning exciting which will help our students retain important information and will help increase our numbers when compared to India and China.

                                  Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity:

When I think of creativity the first thing that comes to mind is art class.  Robinson says, “All children are born artists, but we are educated out of creativity”.   Children feel invincible, who cares about being right or wrong, they just want to have fun.  Adults are frightened of making mistakes and being wrong, is unacceptable.  Ken Robinson talks about 3 themes; humans have extraordinary creativity, we have no idea how the future will play out, and we agree on the extraordinary creativity children posses. 

I learned that all kids have talent and creativity is an important literacy component in education.  Some children learn through art.  As an educator I want to think of creative ways to teach to make learning fun and interesting.  Sitting in a classroom doing mandatory school work in plain pencil is boring, we should brighten it up; add music, color and dance.  Education is used to produce intelligent, hard working people but creativity is used to produce intelligent, hard working people who think outside the box.  

VS.

Classroom disruption:

What I notice about the technological based classroom students were more interested in learning, they were eager to learn new material and hated to miss class, they enjoyed the classroom setting and interacted with the teacher and each other, they also we more adapted to technology and knew how to maneuver themselves on a computer.  In the lecture only classroom I saw students bored out of their mind, the teacher didn’t know the students, the students were sleeping and by the looks of it they didn’t retain any information.  All I could think about was BORING. 

I would prefer to take the class that was technology based because it looked like the students enjoyed learning and retained information.  Mostly all of the classes I have taken are like the lecture class style, where it’s boring with lots of note taking.  The different techniques that appeared in the technology setting the teacher was more involved with his students.  He was eager to help in any way possible.  In the lecture style classroom, the teacher was not in tune with his students at all.  He didn’t make eye contact or want to help any students to the best of his ability.  The students will learn more effectively in the class with computers because they are paying attention and want to learn more.  I want to teach with technology and incorporate all technology in my classroom.  Students should be able to learn in a fun and desiring way.  Not sit in a desk in a non colorful room, with a teacher who has a monotone voice and is dull as a plastic knife.  Learning should be fun and teachers should be excited to teach the material.  We need to know all new technology and research ways to incorporate technology is our teaching.  All teachers should be technological literate and by taking EDM310 it will get me closer to my goal. 

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Project Number 2 Wordle

Checking Setting

Practice blog to make sure settings are correct.

Blog Post Assignment Number 1

A little bit about me:

Hello EDM310 Summer Class, my name is Angelia Gafford but some people call me Angie.  I'm 27 years old and yes still in school.  I love to learn new things and help anyone who is in need.  My friends and family mean everything to me.  I love making lots of memories because we only have one life to live, so we need to live it to the fullest.  I graduated for Murphy High School in 2003: I went straight to Bishop State Community College.  I attended for about 3 years and dropped out when the mishap with financial aid and teachers occurred.  I found a full time job working for an insurance company and 4 years later I decided to go back to school at the University of South Alabama.  I have now been at USA for 3 years and are counting down the days till graduation.  My number 1 priority is to complete school by the time I'm 30 years of age (fingers crossed).  

I'm somewhat of a homebody because I've lived in Mobile, AL. basically my entire life, with the exception of a few years of my childhood, when I lived in Oklahoma.  I have a very supportive family.  My parents help me with everything I need and if I didn't have them both I don't know what I would do.  I live with my two brothers in a three bedroom townhouse and love it.  I'm the oldest of us three and I look out for them at all time.  I come from a family of teachers, my father teaches special education at Theodore High and my mother just graduated from South and is now looking for a job teaching.  Last semester I observed a kindergarten class and that's when I new my calling was to teach.  I love knowing that I'll be helping students accomplish their goal.  

Time Management: by Randy Pausch
Time Management consists of goals, priorities and proper planning.  We should focus on doing the right things aquatically which is much more important than doing the wrong things beautifully, says Pausch.  This video helps you to realize how managing your time is a key component for success.  Our time is valuable; don’t make your enemies to be stress and procrastination.  We should never plan to fail but manage your time wisely.  For example, making a, "to do list" will help you not only remember what is important but will help you organize your goals and priorities.  This video is useful for students or anyone who want to learn how to manage their time efficiently and to focus on your tasks at hand.  I’ve learned by watching this video that time management is a long term life style change we should all posses. 

Practice Post

My First Post