Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Interesting!



Came across this video today, it is crazy to see how far technology has come just in the past 30 years!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Unit 1 Reflection

Chapter 1
1. Must I use a inquiry-based learning approach in my classroom to use computers as a tool?
No, you do not have to solely use a inquiry-based learning approach in your classroom. As stated in the text there are other types of approaches such as problem-based and project-based that you can use as well. As teachers I think it is important that we find a right fit for our classes and students. Everyone is different and learns in different ways so it is essential to find what works best and not limit yourself to just one approach.


2. Can I still use tutorials and drill-and-practice software?
Yes, you can still use tutorials and drill-and-practice software. There are lots of different software available to teachers and they should be utilized. However, I also think they should be used in addition to other resources and be incorporated into the classroom in different ways. The teacher needs to explore and find what works best for her class.


3. Won't I have to spend a great deal of time to develop these units of instruction?
Just like most things in life if you want something to be beneficial and of good quality you are going to have to take some time to develop the units. I think in the beginning especially it will take more time but once you get comfortable with it it will hopefully not take up as much time as what was originally thought. Also, you can draw from previously made lesson plans and possibly work with others.


4. Won't every student need a computer to use it as a tool?
It would be wonderful if every student could have their own personal computer, unfortunately in today's times this simply is not always an option. Students can however work in groups which will teach them how to collaborate along with communication skills and how to work with others.


Chapter 2
1. How do I plan an integrated lesson that will work with my students?
There are many different ways that you can plan an integrated lesson plan. You could use the 10 steps of the NTeQ model, collaborate with other teachers or research ideas on the Internet. To begin with though I would most likely use  the 10 step NTeQ plan just to help familiarize myself with the steps involved and help me become comfortable creating them.


2. Why do I need objectives to help with planning and lesson development?
Objectives are used and needed because they help to establish a clear plan and assist in covering all points within a lesson or unit. It also makes it easier to identify students outcomes.


3. How can I encourage my students to engage in the processing of information?
One way to encourage them to engage in processing information is by using a Think Sheet. The text says that a Think Sheet " provides guidance to help students organize their thinking and probe the implications of the data manipulations"(p.40). A Think Sheet will really help them organize their thoughts and deeply process the information.
Morrison, G.R. & Lowther, D.L. (2010). Integrating computer technology into the classroom-skills for the 21st century. Boston, MA: Pearson.

4. Do I have to use a different lesson plan when I want my students to use computers?               
Not necessarily, as a teacher you can incorporate computers into your lesson plans so that you don't have to make up different ones every time you want to use computers. You could make different ones if you prefer but in my opinion you don't have to.
5. What is the relationship between objectives and computer functions?                                    
The relationship between the two is a successful and educational lesson. The teacher must identify the objectives for the lesson and then choose which computer functions they are going to use.


6. Can you use a computer for every objective or lesson?
Yes, you could find a way to use a computer for every objective or lesson. While computers are great resources to have I wouldn't recommend using one for every lesson. It is important that students know how to use other resources and tools as well.



Chapter 6
1. Now that I have access to the Web, how can I use it effectively?
Teachers as well as students can use the web effectively in many different ways. Teachers can gather information and research different topics for lesson plans. They can also use email and video conferencing to communicate with students and parents. Students can use the Web to do research for projects and go to educational websites that will build further on things they have learned in class.


2. How do I monitor students' use of the Web in my class?
First, schools need to have a way to monitor Web use and block certain websites so that students cannot access them. Teachers should have computers set up in a way that they can monitor what students are doing at all times. They could also have a list of approved websites for students to go to.


3. Which features of the Web do I use?
There are so many great features on the Web for educators to use. Personally, I would use the web for creating a classroom website, communicating with parents via e-mail, finding new and exciting lesson plans, and allowing my students to explore fun and educational websites.