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James Hughes

Learn Coding for Elementary Students - 0 views

code.org/learn

educ775 coding elementary bloom's digital taxonomy

shared by James Hughes on 24 Jan 15 - No Cached
  • James Hughes on 24 Jan 15
     
    Anyone can learn the basic concepts of Computer Science! Intro activities for young students to begin learning program coding in a fun way. Computer games that hone technology skills and critical thinking.
mkm420fritz

You May Be a 21st Century Educator If... - Getting Smart by John Hardison - 21stedchat,... - 10 views

gettingsmart.com/...may-21st-educator

shared by mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 13 - No Cached
  • Participating in a Saturday #edcamp
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 13
       
      These are the hastag/chats through Twitter that I references in the other article and on our class wikispace. THey are so beneficial and really help you add other educators to your PLN.
  • You’re on an incessant search for tech tools (not tech toys) that will help students learn more efficiently, creatively, and collaboratively. Without a doubt, the learning objectives are the primary focus and educational technology is secondary.
  • You’re on an incessant search for tech tools (not tech toys) that will help students learn more efficiently, creatively, and collaboratively. Without a doubt, the learning objectives are the primary focus and educational technology is secondary.
    • William Masters
      William Masters on 20 Nov 13
       
      This was one of my favorite descriptions because of all of the tools that we have learned about during the course. I think at one point I was feeling a little overwhelmed by being exposed to so many new platforms and tools for learning. However, as I have continued to learn more, I feel that I am able to look at social media tools more critically and better imagine the learning possibilities that they might lead to. I agree these tools can exist to help students work more effectively, creatively and collaboratively, but I also think they increase motivation and interest when students are allowed to try new things. The point does need to be on the learning though. The technology is only there to enhance and deepen the experience. Clark Masters
    • emiblaser
      emiblaser on 21 Nov 13
       
      Clark, I absolutely agree with you. There are SO many tools out there, and both in this class and EDUC 525 I felt very overwhelmed by all the new ones we were exposed to each week. This quote does a great job of breaking it down- technology is supposed to improve our ability to teach, and we only have to include the ones that work for us and our classes. There was a quote on the other article that talked about a similar idea: "No, set the bar on what you can handle in terms of time and effort. Measure your Return on Investment (ROI) with each." Social media tools can be considered toys sometimes, and if we don't know how to use them the right way, they never make the jump from toy to tool. For me, choosing those tools that I can use to be tools, and focusing on those, keeps me from getting too overwhelmed. - Emi Blaser
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 21 Nov 13
       
      I would love to do a follow up to this course (or make it 3 credits) so that we can really dig deeper with a few tools and create, use, enhance our PLN.
    • Rachael Herr
      Rachael Herr on 23 Nov 13
       
      Clark (and Emi) I completely agree with both of your comments. This quote for me goes back to the concept of backward design; you have to have a clear idea of your instructional objective and goal before you can effectively plan your lesson (and in this case, execute it using educational technology tools). I think learning how to sort and sift through the plethora of tools available is something that this class has taught us, and will be invaluable as we incorporate different aspects of technology and social media into our teaching. - Rachael Herr
    • emiblaser
      emiblaser on 23 Nov 13
       
      Good point about backwards design! I think that idea makes a really good parallel with this one. -Emi Blaser
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 26 Nov 13
       
      Clark, thanks for your comment here!  I had trouble when reading several of these quotes because I wish I could use these techy tools in my low-income high population and anti-device school, that it was difficult to get insight. I'm excited to see and hear of all the updates happening here, and as someone said previously, this reminds me of the backward design approach -- that is, finding items and activities to enhance the lesson (and not making the lesson out of the tools/activities).   Thanks for sharing!
    • Meredith Tate
      Meredith Tate on 26 Nov 13
       
      (Meredith Tate) I think this comment brings up a great point. At times, I have seen teachers make a solid effort to use technology in their classrooms (which is great!) but not make a clear connection between the digital tools and the learning objectives. I'm sure I have been guilty of this at times as well! This post reminded me that I need to identify the learning objectives FIRST and then think about how to incorporate digital tools- not focus so much on technology that I allow the learning objectives to become an afterthought.
  • ...24 more annotations...
    • Lauren Neary
      Lauren Neary on 22 Nov 13
       
      Story of my teaching life!  This is a great article!  I can relate to a lot of these.  Last year I was able to count on my fingers how many times I ate lunch in the teachers lounge instead of at my desk.  Even though I go into school everyday super early to prepare for my day, I still don't have enough time to eat my lunch in "peace."  I am constantly on my computer, grading papers, emailing parents, preparing for my next lesson, preparing for a meeting, etc.  A lot of times, I look for filler activities on the internet to print out, so I can pull a small flex group, and can have something for the other students who can work independently.  This year has been the same way so far.  I wish I could be one of those teachers that enjoys eating their lunch while chatting with other teachers.  Instead, my lunch is always on the run, literally!
    • Lauren Neary
      Lauren Neary on 23 Nov 13
       
      -Lauren Neary
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 27 Nov 13
       
      I'm only student teaching and this is my experience, too!  Our school claims the morning for professional development every day from 7:15-7:45, then students begin rolling in at 8am - and my school day ends up starting at 7AM and ending at 5 or 5:30 PM - and everyone of those ten hours are jam packed with planning, grading, searching online, printing, and organizing for the day's classes or the next few days.  It's exhausting!  I wonder what it's like to be the teacher who enjoys eating lunch in the lounge? (I don't even know where the teachers' lounge is in my school!)
  • 34. You traded in the red pen for more nontraditional, feedback gadgets.
    • Rachael Herr
      Rachael Herr on 23 Nov 13
       
      This is definitely something I am working toward with my students right now (using Google Docs and Teacherblogit.com). I think it makes so much sense to move away from the traditional pen-and-paper feedback as instructional practices are already evolving past that. The hyperlink provided some great feedback ideas as well; the author used Audacity to "voice grade" essays, and also explained how to give audio feedback in Google Docs. Just imagining how much more efficient and thoughtful feedback could be for the students using these methods is exciting to me. The only thing I would look for is a way to transcribe the audio feedback for students who also like to have something written in front of them.
    • William Masters
      William Masters on 23 Nov 13
       
      I read over this point quickly when I first read this document, so I really appreciated your comment Rachel. This is such a great way to give students feedback. I think it would be so much easier to voice record ideas and comments. It is difficult to provide feedback clearly and concisely in a way students will understand on paper. I also think students are more likely to understand the comments if they hear them. I am looking forward to trying this out. Clark Masters 
    • Lauren Neary
      Lauren Neary on 23 Nov 13
       
      I think this is an amazing idea and I wish I could utilize it in my classroom.  However, I am a first grade teacher and my kids need to see corrections right in front of them, or it will not be as effective.  I would like to explore new methods that are available to engage the students more with making corrections and learning from their mistakes.   The idea of "voice grading" sounds really cool!  I think students would be more motivated to listen to their corrections and follow along through the computer.  Great post :)
    • Lauren Neary
      Lauren Neary on 23 Nov 13
       
      -Lauren Neary (sorry I keep forgetting to sign my name)
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 24 Nov 13
       
      It's so exciting to see technology moving and aiding education, but I think it's devastating that it won't reach poorer areas and districts soon.  My host-school for my field placement has such a huge student body and is so outdated that some of my 12th graders don't even know how to save a word document. My students would love learning how to use technology, but we simply don't have the resources! This caught my attention, because I literally just picked up some new red pens on my way home from my weekend night job; my red pens are all out of ink!
    • Meredith Tate
      Meredith Tate on 26 Nov 13
       
      (Meredith Tate) I really like the idea of using digital tools to provide feedback- particularly verbal feedback! I think it enables teachers to connect with students on a more personal level and could potentially save a lot of time during the grading process! I just struggle to think how I could implement this in a math classroom. Often it is so important to visually see how a problem is organized and operations are completed. I think using an digital "whiteboard" tool such as ShowMe (where I could write a problem on a blank page and verbally record how I solved it) may be a good compromise!
  • Students are encouraged to take pictures of projected notes, classmates’ drawings, brainstorming ideas, or anything that will move their knowledge forward.
    • Cecilia Zapiec
      Cecilia Zapiec on 23 Nov 13
       
      Nowadays we are creating opportunities in our lessons for collaboration, cooperation and student-directed learning. As opposed to the traditional instructional approach of teacher-led, students copy notes and memorize facts. Today we provide our students different contexts and media to address all types of learners. I love to see my students help/teach each other and they are only in 1st grade!-Cecilia Zapiec
    • William Masters
      William Masters on 23 Nov 13
       
      This is a great point that you highlighted. I love the fact that I can take pictures of the whiteboard and print it for the students to put in their notebooks for reference later on. I think it is important for students to learn to take notes and tune in to important information, but for some this can be difficult. This is another way that teachers can support struggling learners and ensure everyone is getting the information they need. Clark Masters
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 24 Nov 13
       
      I have assigned projects several times that require students to draw, take pictures, or create collages. I think it provides a creative way for students to reinforce what they have learned in class. It promotes critical thinking and they have to use technological resources in order to research the material they will need to complete the exercise. Brenna Wyatt
  • 42. You consider yourself the “guide-on-the-side” or “facilitator-to-inspire-greater” instead of the “sage-on-the-stage.”
    • Jingyun He
      Jingyun He on 23 Nov 13
       
      The best teacher, in my opinion, is not someone who talks a lot during the lesson and who thinks himself or herself as "sage-on-stage," but a human being who is willing to learn with his or her students. Since a teacher has more knowledge and experience than his or her students, his or her role becomes a safeguard of students' thinking. The teacher needs to be teach his or her students how to think sanely and sensibly by guiding them how to read articles and solve problems. Thus, a teacher is "guide-on-the-side" and 'facilitator-to-inspire-greater.' Written by Jing Yun He
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      Very profound Jingyun. I couldn't agree more.
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 26 Nov 13
       
      Thanks for your comment Jingyun! I find myself constantly learning, especially with my 12th grade group of students studying brit lit - in some ways I'm learning it right alongside them and their input is extremely valuable.
    • Kimberly Kaseman
      Kimberly Kaseman on 26 Nov 13
       
      Great points!! I get irritated when my children come home even with misinformation because the teachers refuses to admit they don't know something, which kind of goes along with your comment. I will admit to my students if I don't know an answer to something and then we can research it together or I encourage them to research it and let the class and me know what they find out. One of the key things I put into my introduction letter to the parents of the students I work with was that I looked forward to "learning along side" of their students, so I couldn't agree more with your sentiments. Thank you for sharing.
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 27 Nov 13
       
      I very much enjoyed your post. I was just telling my student teaching supervisor how as a student, some of my favorite classes were the ones where it was a group discussion. I was an active participant in the education process and retained more from these lessons than simply sitting back and listening to someone talk to me for an hour. I understand lecture is necessary at times but I feel strongly it shouldn't be the only teaching strategy.
  • You eat lunch over a laptop while perusing top educational sites for new ideas.
    • Jayme Crimmins
      Jayme Crimmins on 23 Nov 13
       
      This actually made me laugh when I read it because I have done this a few times with my cooperating teacher during my student teaching. I am always thinking of what to add to a lesson or what to change. I am ALWAYS online looking for different ideas for an upcoming lesson or just for ideas as to what to change in the future in my classroom. It still amazes me how much things are changing since I was in high school. The school I am students teaching at now has ipads for one classroom and next year is looking to have them for all of the classrooms. Our students love it and they never groan or roll their eyes when asked to use one for an assignment. I am always online looking for new ideas to keep students interested and wanting to learn.
    • Camille Rylak
      Camille Rylak on 26 Nov 13
       
      Wow, your school is extremely lucky to have ipad's for a classroom. I found out that apple does provide discounted pricing through Apple in Education. In addition, if a school has older Apple products that still have some value they can be turned in through Apple's recycling program with a credit given for the purchase of new hardware. http://grantsguys.com/grants-for-ipads-in-the-classroom/
  • of your most trusted and reliable colleagues is in another state or country and responds just as quickly via social media as the teacher next door.
    • Kimberly Kaseman
      Kimberly Kaseman on 24 Nov 13
       
      I can totally relate to this. I have teaching friends in several states that I text and Facebook with on a regular basis about challenges, questions, or just to share how things are going for me in the classroom. They are definitely quicker to respond to me and often more available than my CTs are. Even when my student teaching is all said and done, I will be moving and will rely on Social Media to connect and communicate with my CTs and principal here in NC. It is the easiest way to keep in touch these days.
    • Jingyun He
      Jingyun He on 25 Nov 13
       
      I am communicating a Chinese teacher who teaches English in China about how to teach English to Chinese students in China. He and I regularly do qq instant messaging so that I share good articles how to teach ESL with him all the time. It is very effective to communicate with other persons on social websites.
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 27 Nov 13
       
      I find I respond to friends and colleagues quicker via e-mail & social media rather than the phone most of the time. With everything going on in our daily lives, all the multi-tasking, it is often more convenient. Plus, I can look back at the conversation if I need to. I also have friends in various states that I am able to communicate with to get ideas and feedback. Brenna Wyatt
  • 31. You’ve ever said, “Students, take out your smartphones and record me as I discuss this assignment. Then you can play it back as often as necessary.”
    • Meredith Tate
      Meredith Tate on 23 Nov 13
       
      (Meredith Tate) This sentence caught my attention because I see it as very applicable and potentially helpful in a math class setting! I have seen students take pictures of assignments or step by step solutions of longer problems written on the board- but have not had students record an explanation of a particular topic. I think this could have been helpful when I was teaching a more challenging lesson on graphing/analyzing rational equations. Having students take a video of the instruction to play back as needed as they worked through problems of their own may have been an excellent resource. I really like this idea and think it is one that I will certainly be able to apply in the future!
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 24 Nov 13
       
      I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, I can see how it would be helpful and have often allowed students to take pictures in class of the blackboard or whiteboard when assignments & directions are listed. However, I also have concerns about cell phones being abused in class. Because they are small hand held devices, it is easy enough for students to start doing other things on them. It is something I would be compelled to monitor closely. Brenna Wyatt
    • Meredith Tate
      Meredith Tate on 26 Nov 13
       
      (Meredith Tate) Hi Brenna, I definitely hear your concerns. When I first read the section, I initially thought about how helpful it would be to have students record the steps of a complex math problem. However, as you pointed out, there are some implications for classroom management. I guess if students get the "green light" to have phones out in class to record lessons, it would be very easy for this privilege to be abused. Another concern would be the possibility of students photographing and/or recording other students against their will (it sounds ridiculous, but it happened in my class!) Looking at this again, I think it might be a good idea to allow students to record within very specific parameters. For example, I could invite students to record one specific practice problem or record the lesson myself and post it for students to view in their own time. Thanks for bringing up some of these classroom management issues!
  • Your classroom rarely has the same seating or furniture arrangement two days in a row.
    • brittany wilson
      brittany wilson on 24 Nov 13
       
      It didn't take me long to find out I'm a 21st century teacher, when I read number four on the list about switching around your desks and furniture every other day, that is defiantly me. The janitor at the school, who I am friends with, gives me a hard time about it, because I am always switching around the room, which messes with her cleaning, but she said she doesn't mind because she knows that it improves the learning of my students and how much I care about it. Even at teaching kindergarten, kids still can bored at seeing and hearing the same things day after day, so I want to change it up, not only in the daily routine of the learning process but in seating arrangement as well, Its like its the first of school ever day in my class. Students get excited, and improves the learning environment. Brittany Wilson 
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      I give you credit for your diligence in arranging your classroom. This is a concept that I have often struggled with because I can only think of a few ways to arrange a square room consisting of 20 desks. However, we have learned how to pull on an ample number of resources in this class that can help spur some ideas (K. Gordon).
    • Danielle Malone
      Danielle Malone on 25 Nov 13
       
      I love this! Even in my student teaching experience we've changed the seating arrangements at least three times in the past two months, and I can definitely see how it changes student participation and in some cases, their attitudes towards learning. By changing up the seating arrangements students were able to work in groups with people who had different strengths than their own, and they could see what collaboration was like outside of their normal comfort zone. Plus, we have so much learning material posted on the walls that the students get a different view of helpful tips or class work during the regular class period, adding a bit of extra subtle learning. I think it's a great way to keep the class on their toes and remind them that the classroom is a constantly changing space. (Danielle Malone)
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 26 Nov 13
       
      I wanted to change my seating arrangement, but it's difficult with so many different courses and classes - and only four minutes between each.  My co-op teacher said even though it's a great thought and concept, it's so difficult to apply in our school.  I wonder how these great ideas can apply to schools that are further behind and have more limitations than others? Thanks for sharing your response!
  • Blogging serves as a continual venue for professional reflection and pedagogical sharing to help you improve your teaching strategies.
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 24 Nov 13
       
      Blogging like other social media is a valuable tool for educators to share ideas and offer feedback. On more than one occasion, I have reviewed various blogs for ideas on assignments and ways to engage a diversified student body. I have often left feedback for the blog owners on the outcome on the class and ways that I have modified the lessons. Brenna Wyatt
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 27 Nov 13
       
      What a great way to make connections!
    • Brenna Wyatt
      Brenna Wyatt on 24 Nov 13
       
      I have included a number of projects in my lesson plans that give students an opportunity to be creative through drawing, taking pictures, and making collages. It allows them to put a piece of themselves into the work while reinforcing what they have learned in the classroom. They have had to use technology in order to research the material in the projects as well. Brenna Wyatt
  • 41. You’ve ever “stunk it up” in class with a terrible lesson plan, expressed your frustration via a blog post from your phone, and sought feedback from your digital, professional learning network.
    • Kimberly Kaseman
      Kimberly Kaseman on 24 Nov 13
       
      I felt this one this week. While I don't blog, I found myself texting, calling, and venting my frustrations on Facebook. I know it is a constant learning process for teachers too, but I felt so disappointed with my less than stellar lesson. It felt like a waste of time, even though I know that the students really still learned from it and so did I. After venting and freeing myself from my own negativity, I regrouped and re-planned so that I could teach the material in a better manner.
    • Jayme Crimmins
      Jayme Crimmins on 26 Nov 13
       
      I hate that feeling! I agree that being able to vent really helps change how we look at the lesson and what can be changed. I have also vented after a bad lesson plan by texting and going on facebook. I do like the idea of talking with other teachers through a blog post. I can see myself doing that in the future.
  • 3. Words like “flipped,” “blended,” “asynchronous,” “differentiated,” and “MOOC” are not words to describe how you feel after inhaling a chili hotdog just before riding a roller coaster called the “Vomit Van.” Instead, these words are part of your ever-increasing #edtech vocabulary.
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 24 Nov 13
       
      I'm in a constant battle against many people in education when I try to explain that MOOCs are NOT a bad thing!! (And when I mention MOOCs in a crowd of people who are not involved in education, they just stare at me like I'm crazy).
    • William Masters
      William Masters on 24 Nov 13
       
      I have had friends try some of the large, free online courses that are offered, but I had no idea what a MOOC was until you posted this. I appreciate your comment. It got me to actually find out what it was. Clark Masters 
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 27 Nov 13
       
      Thanks!  It seems as though most of my old college profs perceive online education in general - but specifically MOOCs, as a threat to post-secondary education.  This thought really bugs me, because I think it's essential that education be available for not only the nontraditional student like myself - but for anyone who wants it - even if they are below the poverty line!
  • 31. You’ve ever said, “Students, take out your smartphones and record me as I discuss this assignment. Then you can play it back as often as necessary.”
  • 31. You’ve ever said, “Students, take out your smartphones and record me as I discuss this assignment. Then you can play it back as often as necessary.”
  • 31. You’ve ever said, “Students, take out your smartphones and record me as I discuss this assignment. Then you can play it back as often as necessary.”
  • 35. You ever had a teaching moment like this…and decided that it needed to be the very last.
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 24 Nov 13
       
      This video is funny and reminds me of most of my math class experiences.  My students seem so used to this sort of experience that they're surprised I'm asking more of them all of the time.  ("MISS!  Why don't you just talk the whole time like other teachers?!")  I constantly have them writing, responding, working together, and moving around.  It's a huge labor for them, alright, but they're certainly not grumbling as much as they used to!  
    • Kimberly Kaseman
      Kimberly Kaseman on 26 Nov 13
       
      That is hilarious and I have sat through many classes that I felt like that. I also have had moments teaching where I felt like my students were starting to get that way. In those moments we would take a break and do an energizer activity to get them back engaged and alert. I hate when I have those times where material just needs to be presented, but that is where you stop and ask questions, create discussions, etc. to break up the boredom.
  • 27. Students in your class maintain a blog to share with a larger audience.
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 24 Nov 13
       
      I long to have my own classroom and have this sort of platform.  A great way to show parents what their children are up to - and for students to showcase and be proud of their thoughts and work!
    • William Masters
      William Masters on 24 Nov 13
       
      They are great tools and kids love to use them. If you are teaching elementary or early middle school, KidBlog is great. Very easy to use. It makes kids want to do their homework. Clark Masters
    • Jingyun He
      Jingyun He on 25 Nov 13
       
      I have a good Chinese teacher who teaches Chinese literature in a high school in China. He creates blogs for his students to demonstrate their understanding of Chinese literature and world literature. Students get beneifts by showing their writing on blog.
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 26 Nov 13
       
      I know I've shared this before but it's a great resource if you haven't seen it - budtheteacher.com he has done some amazing work with blogging!
  • 25. Interactive learning structures that integrate technology are constantly requested by students.
    • Camille Rylak
      Camille Rylak on 24 Nov 13
       
      In the 20th century technology is everywhere. We can't escape it and according to the On the Cutting Edge - Professional Development for Geoscience Faculty, individual interactive activities do the following: "engage visual, kinesthetic, and mathematical learners as they review animations, manipulate graphics, and solve both computational and non-computational problems; have the potential to promote topical discussions as students who work on an exercise run into problems and turn to their classmates for help or advice; and make the assessment of learning outcomes -- which are defined in terms of what students should be able to "do" -- easier because students actually demonstrate their understanding of a concept or technique by applying it." http://serc.carleton.edu/NAGTWorkshops/online/interactive.html
    • Cecilia Zapiec
      Cecilia Zapiec on 26 Nov 13
       
      Technology is second nature for our students today. Some don't know of a time before the internet or cell phones. Incorporating social media as a form of class discussion or a way by which students can help each other is an appropriate way to use their "tech-savvy" to our advantage. We can either create opportunities for social media or at least recognize its potential application for our students today.
    • Meredith Tate
      Meredith Tate on 26 Nov 13
       
      (Meredith Tate) I could really relate to this comment as well. I have found that students really enjoy and actually seek out opportunities to use technology tools in class. I know some of the appeal may be the chance to glance at the internet but, despite these unavoidable temptations, I have found that students stay on task for the most part. I was working with an extremely challenging class where it was very hard to encourage participation. One day, I had the students use the Socrative apps on the class ipads to submit and share their answer. This tool enabled me to display the class answers anonymously, so I could gauge understanding without singling anyone out. The response from the class was very positive and it made a huge difference in class participation.
  • However, your monthly checks do not indicate an increase in pay that is equivalent to your acquired knowledge via the social media giant.
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      Although social media is so useful for connecting individuals within the educational sphere, I think the satire here raises a valid point that we could possibly be checking our social media too much. If every class we have utilizes an ongoing social media site for communication and discussion, that is a lot of posts for a teacher to check periodically and unfortunately, we don't get paid per post checked. I never really considered the workload that social media can cause for a teacher until this point here. (K. Gordon)
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      Does number 10, "collegial pessimism" refer to having an "anti-college" attitude? I'm not really sure what that means although it is a very entertaining simile.
  • Your students present you with the best form of educational feedback when the annoying bell rings and they collectively say, “Ahhhhhh, class is over already?”
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      Just did a lesson in a classroom for my methods course on the assassination of President Kennedy and got this reaction...Sorry, I had to gloat. Although, I suppose the topic typically triggers that reaction. (K. Gordon)
    • Camille Rylak
      Camille Rylak on 26 Nov 13
       
      Wow, that's awesome! What do you think you did to capture their attention? Did you use any technology to help you out?
    • Jayme Crimmins
      Jayme Crimmins on 26 Nov 13
       
      It is such a good feeling! I was fortunate enough to get that reaction from my classroom today. It was for a math activity/game that I created and the students loved it. It was such a great feeling to have the students make that noise and say that they wanted to keep playing.
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 27 Nov 13
       
      Awesome job, ladies!  I had this reaction when reading Macbeth a few weeks ago, and we had to stop reading for the period right after Macbeth had his best pal Banquo murdered.  My kids were like, WAIT WHAT WHY? And I was able to hook them, saying, "well!  See you tomorrow!"
  • 21. Your answer to a colleague’s question “What research did you base your decisions on?” is simply, “My teacher’s heart and a gut feeling.”
  • poor classroom management.
    • Kyle Gordon
      Kyle Gordon on 24 Nov 13
       
      The classroom that I am in for my methods course is a prime example of good classroom management. There has not been one issue in the whole time that I have been there, and the kids were on there best behavior for all the lessons that I conducted too. I almost felt guilty when my supervisor commented on how great the classroom climate was because I didn't feel like I deserved the credit for my mentoring teacher who had been grooming this behavior for the past 2 months. It takes a little more effort for the creativity aspect, but I have seen the nightmares that simply handing out worksheets everyday can cause. I don't want to be "that teacher."
    • typhany sellers
      typhany sellers on 26 Nov 13
       
      This is a great comment!  I've been in a student teaching placement and am almost just finishing up -- my placement is a great experience because it is so challenging; I have three different courses I plan for and teach six out of eight periods!  Sometimes it is SO difficult to NOT hand out worksheets!  I always have to bear this in mind when I am creating non traditional assessments and various projects.  Thanks for sharing this post! 
  • One of your workout sessions to de-stress from a tough day’s work turns into an effortless jog while a barrage of creative ideas initiate a seemingly endless foot race in your mind
    • Danielle Malone
      Danielle Malone on 25 Nov 13
       
      I know this point is supposed to be comical, but this has actually happened to me quite a bit. When I do get a chance to run (before it gets too dark) I start thinking about my next lesson plan or the unit I'm working on, and all of a sudden I have a few great ideas and I'm not focusing on the actual run. When I created a unit for Jamestown and the Native Americans/Colonists from the novel "Blood on the River", most of the connection questions I came up with were created on the run. For me, sitting down at the computer and thinking about something directly might not yield the best results, but when I'm off doing something else I can think about the lesson organically, and that's where I can come up with plans or activities that are actually interesting and have some kind of connection to the students' lives. It's an odd situation, but it's been working for me! (Danielle Malone)
    • Camille Rylak
      Camille Rylak on 26 Nov 13
       
      Danielle, that happens to me too. I love getting a lesson plan started and just letting it simmer in my thoughts as I go about with my day. Before I know it I have the entire lesson plan figured out in my head with, in my opinion, a lot of great ideas that bring the lesson to the real world for students to connect with.
mkm420fritz

6 Ways Google Docs Supports Collaboration In The Writing Process - 2 views

www.teachthought.com/...oration-in-the-writing-process

shared by mkm420fritz on 05 Mar 14 - No Cached
    • Chris Andrianos
      Chris Andrianos on 05 Mar 14
       
      The freedom to connect and contribute while on the go allows the learner to be engaged all the time. Just this past week we all have used this tool and I will agree that I was eager to revisit my notes and others to observe and participate in the conversation.
    • Chris Andrianos
      Chris Andrianos on 05 Mar 14
       
      Thanks Chris Andrianos
  • Track contributions made by collaborators or identify the source of changes made to the content of a document. It’s easy to see what each individual student contributes to a document because Google Docs assigns every contributor a unique color.
    • Chris Andrianos
      Chris Andrianos on 05 Mar 14
       
      Our group project used the same approach by assigning a color to each persons comments so that the dialog could be followed clearly. I find the auto save feature within Google docs, common for todays technology but very helpful because it is one less worry when writing and you have the trust of Google cloud. Thanks Chris Andrianos
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 05 Mar 14
       
      Good point Chris, if I had a dime for every time I made edits to our group Wiki and forgot to save, I'd have a nice little paycheck.  Wiki's seem to be the more basic of the tools available to us but effective nonetheless.
  • ...23 more annotations...
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 05 Mar 14
       
      This quote really sums up what technology's affect on teaching has been.  Although it is great for students and for teachers alike, there is still an adaptation that has to occur for it to be successful.
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 05 Mar 14
       
      "The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century."- Rich Bailey
    • Sara Jugan Vinskofski
      Sara Jugan Vinskofski on 10 Mar 14
       
      While I find this statement to bevery true it reminds me of cursive writing or handwriting. I have heard that it will soon no long be part of schools curriculums. How much so we change and leave in the past?
  • The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century.”
  • The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century.”
  • The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century.”
  • The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century.”
  • The very notion of what it means to write is shifting, and educators are faced with adapting their teaching practices to integrate new technologies while redefining writing and learning for the 21st century.”
  • While students are writing drafts, teachers take advantage of opportunities to work with small instructional groups to focus on specific job-related writing tasks to prepare students to put their new skills to work and contribute to the peer editing process. Here is an overview of some of the integrated writing supports available in Google Docs to include in small group instruction to that will empower students and help redefine the writing process.
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 05 Mar 14
       
      Hmm well this is something I don't think I've ever used for school.  I have used Google Docs to post documents that I needed others to add information to (i.e. grocery lists, etc.) however in terms of peer editing, it never crossed my mind.  This article comes at a great time where I am in the midst of two group final projects, and being a student mentor for three capstone students, sharing some documents in Google Docs would make my proof reading duties much easier... Also, this highlight and sticky note tool is awesome for editing- it reminds me of Track Changes in Word but without having to fight with Word ;)
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 05 Mar 14
       
      (not sure if I need to include my name for the previous post as it looks like it posts my name, but just in case.) Rich Bailey
    • caldwell14
      caldwell14 on 07 Mar 14
       
      I definitely can see the merits of Google Docs for peer editing. I had a brief experience with this while doing a long-term sub in 8th grade literacy and the teacher had students posting comments to shared documents. Of course, this is easier said than done with large groups of students, but I did find it to be effective and a huge time-saver. It was nice not to have 29 hard copies to sort through with people forgetting to put their names on their comments. When you're logged into the Google drive, you are held accountable for your work automatically so it makes grading and keeping students on task quite easy! (Sarah Caldwell)
    • Brielle Hart
      Brielle Hart on 12 Mar 14
       
      My final project group has been using Google Docs extensively. We are collaborating with eachother on a lesson plan document while also editing eachothers additional documents such as the AUP. It has really worked out well and I too enjoy editing on Google docs much more than fighting with Word Rich! -Brielle
  • they are more likely to revisit their work if they know someone else will be commenting on it
    • Laura Acker
      Laura Acker on 06 Mar 14
       
      This reminds me of an article I read for another class which talked about students involved in writing outside the classroom in an online affinity space. They would review each other's writings and the students couldn't wait to get out of school so they could go home and write online where others would see it.
    • Januari Evans
      Januari Evans on 07 Mar 14
       
      I was going to highlight this line then saw that you did too. What a neat tool this is! (sorry had to get that out there). but I have to agree, students love to see other people commenting/remarking/suggesting etc. on their work. I think social media really brought this into light. It provides the immediate feedback they crave. I also like that they can work from home or school. Some students work better in the classroom while others work better from home. Some remember something important to add to their doc on the way home or when they are not in class. What is nice is that they can add to the doc without having to wait to go back to class. Another upside is that the student can work on the doc at school even if they 'forgot' their homework. No more excuses for them. Although they might find this as a downside!
    • Michelle Macheras
      Michelle Macheras on 07 Mar 14
       
      I was also going to highlight this idea. I actually had a student come up to me the other day and ask if I could provide more opportunities for students to come to the board and solve difficult problems. For her, the pressure (for lack of a better word) that is applied when she has to perform in front of other people as opposed to working by herself or even in groups leads her to learn the material quicker. I think this is similar to the idea of students revisiting their work when they know that others will be regularly viewing and commenting on it. Students will be curious to see what others have to say about what they have created, but they will also have additional motivation to present their best work since they know it will be available for their peers to view. The 24/7 availability also means that the students can take the time to work on the assignment whenever they want as instead of being limited to assigned working times during class.
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 08 Mar 14
       
      I was going to highlight this quote, but saw that several of you already did! I like that students can revisit their work and revise it in order to prepare for classmates or teachers to see and comment on it. Something I have been trying to work on with my first graders is accountability; when they are writing during writing workshop, I remind them that their work is going to be shared. I think doing so encourages them to write a little bit more, reread more often, and check for mistakes. 
    • E.J. Sexton
      E.J. Sexton on 08 Mar 14
       
      The use of portfolios are always emphasized as a great tool for both learning and assessment. Revisiting your work over and over again to identify areas that could be improved is one of the benefits of a portfolio. In this regard, Google Docs could be used for Online Portfolios, but I'm sure that's obvious.
    • caldwell14
      caldwell14 on 10 Mar 14
       
      As someone with limited classroom experience with Google Docs, I can champion how great it is that there is "nowhere to hide" with this technology. You've either logged in and done the assignment or you haven't so it makes grading super easy! (Sarah Caldwell)
    • Rich Bailey
      Rich Bailey on 10 Mar 14
       
      I really couldn't agree more and I am quite guilty of it.  I think that's why when I have a class with a discussion board or VoiceThread that I like to post early to give others time to comment on my work.  This to me is because I love learning of others perspectives and experiences.  I think the same goes for work that is posted for others to view, it inherently holds you more accountable for your work, which to me seems would yield a better quality of work... (Rich Bailey)
    • Sara Jugan Vinskofski
      Sara Jugan Vinskofski on 10 Mar 14
       
      I think that we have all been gulity of this. When we know our work will be graded, judged, or share with others we tend to put more effort into it. So I think this rings true.
  • A context-sensitive grammar checker can distinguish between words like “too” and “to” in a sentence and make appropriate suggestions for corrections. While Word uses color coding to make distinctions between spelling and grammar errors, Google sticks with one color, but the suggestion box offers smart and appropriate suggestions.
    • Sara Jugan Vinskofski
      Sara Jugan Vinskofski on 08 Mar 14
       
      While I think this is a great tool I don't think we should let this replace our children's ability to spell and having knowledge of proper English (SJVinskofski)
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 09 Mar 14
       
      I don't agree with spell check b/c often it replaces a word with the wrong word.....Nothing beats old fashioned reading/editing/revising!
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 09 Mar 14
       
      I agree Sara. I feel that revising and editing is one of the most important parts of the writing process. While it certainly can be challenging to teach younger children (I am student teaching in first grade) how to reread and make corrections, I absolutely see the value in learning how to revise one's work to make it even better! I am currently in the stages of teaching how to revise personal narratives during writing workshop; for some students, it can be a challenge, but I also see that all of the students do benefit.
  • Perhaps the most impressive Google Docs writing support to date is an integrated research tool that’s available right on the page. A basic search yields results relevant to the document and displays a variety of types of information beyond text  Useful content-specific buttons allow users to insert links, images,  maps, and citations into a document with the click of a button. Users can narrow a search to find only images, scholarly information and quotations. This powerful research tool provides students with convenient access to information in manageable chunks that are ready for use.
    • Derek Hughes
      Derek Hughes on 08 Mar 14
       
      I have used Google Docs before to collaborate on work, but I never realized how easy it was to do a search and incorporate that information into the document. I think this would be a great way to have students do a group research assignment. They wouldn't have to be together to discuss research and its so easy to do the research along with the document. This, coupled with the real-time editing and feedback mentioned above, would be an amazing collaborative experience for students.
    • awharris0528
      awharris0528 on 09 Mar 14
       
      The "Research" feature is something that is new to me. How amazing is it that I can keep everything pertaining to my Google Doc organized and right in front of me? This would also very very useful to students, who sometimes have a harder time keeping themselves organized. I can see this tool also being useful because it would mean that students using the Google Doc page to collaborate can ensure that they are looking at the same research to gather information. (Audra Harris) 
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 09 Mar 14
       
      I am still pretty new to using Google Docs. I had no idea of the extensive capabilities! I think it is really helpful to be able to use the research tool, and likewise to insert links, images, citations, etc. I find that most Google-related things are user-friendly, and Google Docs fits right in. Additionally as Audra noted, the "research" feature helps both teachers and students to stay organized.
    • Stephanie Mann Harvard
      Stephanie Mann Harvard on 11 Mar 14
       
      I think that in this digital age it is essential that students be able to navigate through the massive amount of information that 21st Century technology gives them access to. Further the American Library Association (ALA) defines information literacy as the skills needed to find, retrieve, analyze and use information. The Google Docs research tool helps students develop those skills. Students don't have to waste time searching through useless data from questionable or unreliable sources but are instead able to access relevant data effectively and efficiently. As a social media tool this allows students to collaborate more effectively. They have access to research & information that is available and organized in a way that helps develop understanding as well as helps them construct documents, projects, etc. so that others can learn with and from them. - Stephanie Mann Harvard
  • Since Docs are stored online, students can work at school and at home from any computer with an Internet connection
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 08 Mar 14
       
      I really like that Google Docs are so accessible to students. One of the most important factors in successful collaboration is that all members of a collaborative group have equal access and resources to share, in my opinion. Therefore, the ability to access Google Docs allows both students and teachers to access a writing sample or assignment at any time. Some students may not have internet access or a computer at home, but being able to access their work in school or at the library(or any other computer with internet) can be pretty helpful. My group and I used Google Docs to work on our project; I really liked being able to work at the same time with the other members, see what they were commenting on my work, and also being able to give immediate feedback. Google Docs has been an essential collaboration tool for our group! Lindsay Warburton
    • awharris0528
      awharris0528 on 09 Mar 14
       
      This brings up a point that I had not considered for students (which is silly really). In the lesson plan I am working on for my group project, I am having the students collaborate on Google Docs, but I had intended them to work on it at school. While it is very obvious that students can access Google Docs 24/7, it was just something I hadn't thought of. I would also like to touch on the highlight immediately following this one, which states, "they are more likely to revisit their work if they know someone else will be commenting on it." This is so true, and very important to note, especially because the students peers will be viewing the work. Students don't always care that their teacher will be viewing their work (especially in middle school, which is the age group my group is targeting) but if your assignment includes showing that work to their peers, suddenly the importance of the assignment goes to a whole new level. I truly believe that Google Docs can help excite and entice students to perform well and to use innovation and imagination with their assignments.  (Audra Harris)
    • Stephanie Mann Harvard
      Stephanie Mann Harvard on 12 Mar 14
       
      I must admit that I was initially slow to get excited about Google Docs primarily because I found myself comparing the functionality to that of Microsoft Office applications. Once I realized that the Google Docs construct was not to create another suite of applications to support productivity, and began to appreciate it as a set of tools for collaborative learning I became excited. As a result this quote emphasizes Google Docs use as a social media tool for teaching and learning. In addition to students being able to access their work from school or home, it also provides a vehicle for instructor feedback, peer edits and reviews and collaboration. Another benefit to Google Docs is that documents can be in multiple formats such as presentations, spreadsheets, etc. - Stephanie Mann Harvard
  • A built in smart spell-checking system that uses the Google Search helps students to easily identify spelling and simple grammar errors as they type.
    • E.J. Sexton
      E.J. Sexton on 08 Mar 14
       
      This would be beneficial for English as a Second Language (ESL) students. One of the strategies we learned for aiding ESL students in their writing is the use of technology that will correct mistakes as they are made instead of after the fact, as is often the case in hand-written assignments.
    • caldwell14
      caldwell14 on 10 Mar 14
       
      That's a great point about ESL/ELL students - I have several in my integrated classes this quarter and writing is a real challenge for them so any tool to alleviate that stress would be welcome/beneficial. (Sarah Caldwell)
  • Provide students with a starting point for digital writing and take advantage of a virtual copy machine by creating templates.
    • E.J. Sexton
      E.J. Sexton on 08 Mar 14
       
      I think that teachers probably underestimate the value of templates. For example, think of research papers that use APA or MLA style. Templates would be a great resource to show students what the document needs to look like, as well as give them clues on how to format the document on their own. (Plus, it saves time!)
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 09 Mar 14
       
      I feel that modeling is a really important part of every lesson. If we expect students' work to look a certain way, we should show them exactly what we expect. Templates are definitely a great resource, specifically for helping teachers model what they want a student's work to look like and for giving students a starting point.
    • caldwell14
      caldwell14 on 10 Mar 14
       
      Agreed. I realized quickly that my freshmen had never written a compare/contrast essay before so I literally had to take two class days and break down expectations for them. It was time consuming but worthwhile. If something like Google docs or a similar program were to have built-in essay templates in the future, I would jump at the chance to use them! (Sarah Caldwell)
  • Use the revision history to review, compare, or revert to a prior version of the document at any time.
    • Samantha Carrabba
      Samantha Carrabba on 08 Mar 14
       
      The ability to go back and review old versions of a document is a great tool. I have often made revision, changed my mind and decided that I liked what I wrote earlier much better than the new version. This ability to look back and see the revisions you have made gives you time to critically think about your writing and think about the changes you have made. S. Carrabba
    • lindsaywarburton
      lindsaywarburton on 09 Mar 14
       
      I can think of plenty of times when I needed the revision history tool! As you said, I have often made changes to something I was working on, but then later realized that my first draft was better. Unfortunately, Word and other programs do not save our revision history! The Google Docs capability to go back and review a prior version of my work will definitely come in handy!
  • In addition, Docs provide support for collaboration in real time so students and teachers can have a virtual mini-conference about the work in front of them from any location if the timing is right.
    • Aaron Bilby
      Aaron Bilby on 09 Mar 14
       
      I am having my students create an Erosion presentation this week in my classroom. The students are allowed to use laptop computers provided by the school in my classroom. However, I am not allowing my students to move around the classroom into their groups. I am making my students use the chat function in Google to communicate to each other as they complete their presentation. I am very interested to see how well it works!
    • Januari Evans
      Januari Evans on 12 Mar 14
       
      this sounds very interesting. Please let us know how that works out. I am sure they love using the chat function. It is like texting in class! Great use of technology in the classroom. They are learning science and computer at the same time!
  • Google’s online spell-checking service is more comprehensive than a typical dictionary because the Googlebot constantly crawls the web for new and popular definitions.
    • Aaron Bilby
      Aaron Bilby on 09 Mar 14
       
      This is a great resource. One of the things that I have noticed with my students is that they struggle with spelling. Since Google has an excellent spell checker, I have noticed very few mistakes on documents that my students create on Google.  
    • Samantha Carrabba
      Samantha Carrabba on 12 Mar 14
       
      My daughter would love this feature as she struggles with spelling. I would hope that she doesn't rely on it too much and that she practices and improves her spelling skills. I think it is a good feature but students still need to practice editing their own spelling mistakes so that they can learn from them.
  • Continuous autosave to the “Google Cloud” virtually eliminates saving issues
    • Aaron Bilby
      Aaron Bilby on 09 Mar 14
       
      Another lifesaver in the classroom. How many times do students create projects on a computer and then go to the teacher and say "my project never saved"? With auto-saving, there are no worries that a project won't save and students can't use the excuse anymore that their project did not save either! 
  • students feel a sense of accomplishment as they work their way through the suggestions of their peers
    • Brielle Hart
      Brielle Hart on 12 Mar 14
       
      This sense of accomplishment is so important for student writing! Particularly in the elementary classrooms where writing can at times be very tedious and frustrating for students since they are still learning basic skills. In my classroom students are almost done with their big informational writing piece in which they researched a President and wrote a 2 paragraph informational report. These 2 paragraphs have taken us almost a month to complete and we are finally in the typing stage. I have noticed the students ADORE editing their work on the computer and the biggest smiles fill their faces when they can finally print their work!
    • Erika Brooks
      Erika Brooks on 13 Mar 14
       
      This is the greatest thing ever! I tend to work on my projects/ assignments really late at night and by the time I finsih, I close it without saving and then the horrible feeling comes over you. I cant tell you how many times I was in tears because I didnt save something that was over 3 pages. Im happy that my students dont have to go through the same pain we went through growing up in the old days.  Erika Brooks
  • ates saving issue
  • Continuous autosave to the “Google Cloud” virtually eliminates saving issues
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 17 Mar 14
       
      test
  • Chris Andrianos on 10 Mar 14
     
    I know that the Google online spell checker is more developed than a word spell check but I believe the best check is done by the writer. I also love the auto save to the cloud lowering the chance to have lost your work.
akenkelen

Introducing Social Media to Elementary Students | Edutopia - 23 views

www.edutopia.org/...-lower-elementary-beth-holland

shared by akenkelen on 12 Nov 13 - No Cached
  • it has become an imperative for us as educators -- and parents -- to model appropriate digital citizenship to even our youngest learners.
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 17 Nov 15
       
      "Even our youngest learners" - yes - as young as preschool if they understand reading a book/print.
    • jessqross
      jessqross on 22 Nov 15
       
      I think of my 8 month old and her ability to swipe left and right on my husbands Kindle already! Our children are exposed to all sorts go technology from birth and we should exposed them to it but responsibly. I remember telling my husband, i didn't want her to watch tv too early or be exposed to technology without loving the pages of a book first... It's definitely hard, can be done, be technology and social media should be in moderation. -Jess Ross
    • ocatvia
      ocatvia on 22 Nov 15
       
        Jess,your comment took me back to another article I read about how today's young people's brains have been completely rewired and almost programmed to be receptive to technology. But your concern as to how to behave in a parentally responsible way with regard to when and how to introduce your young child to technology made me also recall earlier articles I read about the many tech-employed parents working in Silicon Valley and how they have elected not to expose their preschool and elementary children to technology and social media because these, they believe, " inhibit creative thinking, movement, human interaction and attention spans." Like you, many want their children to discover of the magic of turning a page of a book and getting lost in it.  Here is a like to one such article: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/23/technology/at-waldorf-school-in-silicon-valley-technology-can-wait.html?_r=0    (O. McBride)  
    • jessqross
      jessqross on 22 Nov 15
       
      Thanks O. It is amazing the how many folks in Silicon Valley have the outlook. I understand their theory, however, i do understand that our work is saturated with it and it's many time necessary to even communicate and learn. I'm looking forward to digging in to this resource and reading a little more on this subject. Thanks for the article! :) -Jess Ross
  • teacher's blog post
    • slf327
      slf327 on 18 Nov 15
       
      I JUST LOVE THIS. This is everything I hope for in my future classroom. As I have been planning my final project, I felt as if I was starting out with something way to involved and was thinking about scrapping it all. After reading this, I am keeping it and am up for the challenge, as the students will get so much out of the experience! Awesome to hear how it works in other classrooms. I will have to check out her Twitter to see how it is unfolding! (Shannon Feerrar)
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 21 Nov 15
       
      This is definitely a shining example of how successful it can be for an educator. I know I would love to implement some kind of technology into my classroom and the way this teacher is doing it is a great inspiration. The engagement piece of the students is is something we all strive for and how to change it up so our students want to keep asking those questions! -Andrea Zajac
  • ...28 more annotations...
  • I have worked with and spoken to dozens of educators who strongly feel that engaging in social media is irrelevant for them because of their students' age
    • slf327
      slf327 on 18 Nov 15
       
      I feel as if this is a common "argument." As we learn more about the benefits of utilizing social media within the younger classroom, we have to share the positives and how we are going to change any difficulties that we faced. Hopefully that will allow for others to understand and see the benefits with utilizing social media in the younger classrooms.
    • Erica Soble
      Erica Soble on 20 Nov 15
       
      Social media in the classroom, specifically the younger classroom is a key element to learning in my opinion. Students are already so tech savvy that we need to help them learn how they already know how. Our school district just blocked Pinterest from the computers because it is a social media site. Lots of teachers use that for their lessons though so they are working on getting that resolved.
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 15
       
      It's all about education - most of the administrators in the district probably have never been educated on social media - so they are afraid of it. If you create meaningful learning experiences using social media, then share it with others - invite them into your classroom to see how your students could benefit. Change takes time but it only takes one "irritation" in the system to begin that change. Dr. Fritz
    • slf327
      slf327 on 21 Nov 15
       
      Local districts in Lancaster have all started to participate in more technology in the classroom and the whole social media idea. I am not sure what district started it but it just seemed like all of a sudden everything went paperless and we were to be subscribing to district apps to keep up on what is going on. (Shannon Feerrar)
    • mrslynn1321
      mrslynn1321 on 23 Nov 15
       
      I am seeing an increase in the use of social media in my school district, but with just the younger teachers and particulary in Kindgergarten.  At my school, the kindergarten teachers have a website for their grade.  They also use bar codes and other means to increase student participation during class.  I have had training on these techniques, but have not used them yet. (Dawn Lynn)
  • This fall, however, they uncovered a new dimension for Twitter. In October, one member of the class found himself trapped in New York during Hurricane Sandy. Kristin Ziemke and her students used Twitter and their blogs to learn about the storm while also checking on their classmate's well being. She describes the experience in her blog:
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 15
       
      To add a sticky note right to the highlight, after you highlight - hover your mouse over the top left of the highlighted text. Then, a menu will appear - click the down arrow and add your note. -Dr. Fritz
    • slf327
      slf327 on 18 Nov 15
       
      I am so amazed by these teachers and their creativity. Great use of social media here! (Shannon Feerrar)
    • fareedadams
      fareedadams on 22 Nov 15
       
      I am amazed by the creativity too Shannon. (Fareed Adams)
  • Students already have enough screen time. Students need to be able to communicate in person. Students don't need to know about social media at this point -- it isn't age appropriate.
    • ferkomp
      ferkomp on 19 Nov 15
       
      I found this portion of the article to be very helpful. Since starting this class, I have focused mainly on the positives that social media has on students and the classroom. However, these three bullets make very compelling concerns/arguments for social media in the classroom. I feel it is important to gain a wide range of facts/opinions on topics even if you still feel the positives outweigh the negatives! - Mark Ferko
    • Erica Soble
      Erica Soble on 20 Nov 15
       
      These bullets are so true. The students are going home after school and sitting on some form of technology. Most think of social media as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, those sorts of things. I thought that too until I started taking this course. There is lots that students can use as far as social media that isn't along those lines.
  • individual
    • ferkomp
      ferkomp on 19 Nov 15
       
      I found this conclusion to the article to be very summative of the importance of social media in the classroom. The one part I especially liked as "whether you introduce social media to students through a class blog, individual student blogs, Twitter or paper, there is NO "right way" to begin". -- Mark Ferko
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 15
       
      The only "right way" is the way that enhances learning/connections/communications for your students! -Dr. Fritz
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 21 Nov 15
       
      I agree this is a great way to end the article. I think the part where it states "we introduce all children to social media in appropriate and meaningful ways" is key. To teach digital citizenship then we have to decipher the context for how are students are to be engaged and what they should be doing to create a proper learning experience still even online. - Andrea Zajac
    • William G Schumacher
      William G Schumacher on 22 Nov 15
       
      I agree that "teaching students about social media in appropriate and meaning ways" is very important.  I remember learning typing in middle school in the early '90's, and how bored I was with only typing certain letters with certain fingers.  I was really excited to type and use a computer, but I was not engaged because what we were doing was not meaningful.  So important!
  • Whether you introduce social media to students through a class blog, individual student blogs, Twitter or paper, there is no "right way" to begin. Do I really feel that toddlers should Tweet? Probably not. However, what's important is that we introduce all children to social media in appropriate and meaningful ways, regardless of their age, such that they can connect to a global audience and develop as empowered, networked learners.
  • If we honestly think about it, we were all taught the "social media" of our time in early elementary school. Remember the friendly letter? How about thank you notes? Telephone etiquette? In early grades, none of us were expected to master these skills independently, but they were integrated into our curriculum so that effective social behavior could be modeled at a young age
    • ferkomp
      ferkomp on 19 Nov 15
       
      I found this to be a very amazing and thought out point. It was a great addition to the article and really made a nice reference to past years before today's  "social media" was around! -- Mark Ferko
    • km3337
      km3337 on 20 Nov 15
       
      Students will be needing these media skills as they matriculate into middle and high school. For a student who is shy, this can be another way for them to communicate. (K.Maguire)
    • megbrown80
      megbrown80 on 21 Nov 15
       
      I completely agree and I hadn't thought of this before the article. We introduce these concepts to students at an early age and social media is another medium where students are sharing their ideas.  I do think the difference is that a letter and phone call are private between two people. Social media opens up our thoughts and opinions up to a great world and because of that we need to educate our students as early as possible.  (M.Brown)
    • slf327
      slf327 on 21 Nov 15
       
      Playing Devils advocate side: it also opens up for the lack of being responsible with communication, hence the large amount of cyber bullying and sharing of personal information. It is IMPERATIVE that we teach our students what is appropriate and inappropriate media manners. As teachers we also need to make sure we are aware of what is going on within our own sites and student usage in school. This seems to be fairly easy with programs to see what our students are doing on the computer as they are doing it. (Shannon Feerrar)
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 22 Nov 15
       
      I am also going to play devils advocate here because I think there is a loss of letter writing and cards in our world today. I did a lesson this past spring for pre-student teaching on card writing and the students loved it. They wanted to write more than one card. I think we have to teach our students how to be good writers first before we direct them to a social media environment. This can easily be done as we teach students and I agree it has to be appropriate with their writing. "You" is not spelled "U". Maybe I am sentimental, but I was just thinking the other day when we think about how people recorded history we had letters to help us piece some of it together. I would like students to still hold value to the power of writing. One word said wrong and posted out to the world could change their whole life. -Andrea Zajac 
  • I walked past their blog walls. To teach the concept of posting and commenting, the students created physical blogs on bulletin boards in the hallway of the school
    • Erica Soble
      Erica Soble on 20 Nov 15
       
      This was very interesting to see. I had never thought of using a blog as a form of writing for students in elementary level. The classroom that I am student teaching in is a preK classroom. They don't know how to type but they are journaling. They draw a picture and then write about it. If I had a higher classroom, I would think about blogging as their writing. (E. Soble)
    • mkm420fritz
      mkm420fritz on 20 Nov 15
       
      For the younger students, you could add their drawing to VoiceThread. THen, the students could "speak" their comments/story about the picture! -Dr. Fritz
    • megbrown80
      megbrown80 on 21 Nov 15
       
      What a wonderful idea! Showing students that really they are making a poster that has their ideas and opinions goes a long way to making the internet and posting less abstract. (M.Brown)
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 21 Nov 15
       
      I found this interesting as well. It is a great way to work on the pre-writing process with students as well as incorporating an introduction to how to use social media. I have seen some teachers do the whole Instagram or Selfie walls, but this to me would be more connected and more structural because then the students can actually go and write on their class blog. I agree Kindergarteners would love to record themselves. Knowing that we are working on fundamentals at this point in the year I see this being a great lesson activity for later in the year when they have gained some reading and more writing skills. They would feel more confident in their "voice" to want to record it. This is why I like the resource StoryBird it is a similar concept, but even this Croak.It resource would be nice for the students to use. -Andrea Zajac
    • William G Schumacher
      William G Schumacher on 22 Nov 15
       
      I love this idea!  I did something similar with a Google+ profile for the class, and they decorated the board with their profile information as a class.  The kids really enjoyed expressing themselves as a class.
    • mrslynn1321
      mrslynn1321 on 23 Nov 15
       
      Now that I know how easy it is to use voice thread, I could see using this tool in elementary school and having the kids make a presentation for the classroom or even the school! (Dawn Lynn)
  • In just the past few weeks, Kristen Wideen's students have shared math stories with a class in Iowa and frog data with a class in Singapore
    • km3337
      km3337 on 20 Nov 15
       
      This lends itself to the concept of flat classroom. As adults, it is necessary to collaborate across the globe in science and medicine. It's a great opportunity for students to build on their learning from another perspective. -K. Maguire
    • slf327
      slf327 on 21 Nov 15
       
      It would also help encourage accepting others and respecting others opinions. It will also allow students to open their minds and possibly learn a new way to to something. (Shannon Feerrar)
    • cloring
      cloring on 23 Nov 15
       
      This type of interaction is great. Not only does it let students share what they are learning, but it allows them to see how other students learn, and how their culture is different (C.Loring)
  • Lately, the grade 1/2 students in Kristen Wideen's class have been studying tadpoles and frogs. I know this because I've seen their Padlet wall of questions, witnessed the delivery of tadpoles, and watched a young boy read to his amphibian friend -- all through Twitter
    • megbrown80
      megbrown80 on 21 Nov 15
       
      This highlights the way social media can be so helpful to bringing parents and the community into the classroom. Parents can feel connected to their children's learning which means they will hopeful be able to engage with their children better and more easily. 
    • slf327
      slf327 on 21 Nov 15
       
      Anything that helps with parent involvement is always a plus!!!
  • Kristen Wideen originally created a class Twitter account so that her students could begin to engage in the cultivation of their own Personal Learning Networks (PLNs). Her students not only learn, but also share their learning with a broader community. Whether through whole-group Twitter activities and Skype, calls or individual KidBlogs, these students recognize that there are connections to be made beyond their Ontario classroom -- all while working on their reading, writing, communication and collaboration.
    • mrslynn1321
      mrslynn1321 on 21 Nov 15
       
      This is proof that elementary students can benefit from social media. Young learners and their families can see the advantages of using social in the classroom and young students are taught, at an early age, proper use of social media tools.
    • mrslynn1321
      mrslynn1321 on 21 Nov 15
       
      (Dawn Lynn)
  • My students were empowered to be part of a learning network that was for students, by students. So often, young children only have access to information that is filtered through an adult channel. While oftentimes that is appropriate, kids also need the model of other children as information providers
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 21 Nov 15
       
      There were many things said in this article, but I find this quote to be just as profound. We want our students to feel empowered and be a part of the learning process. In a social media context the students really do get to do this. I hesitate on how to introduce this at such a young age, but as models for our students we can help guide them in the right direction. -Andrea Zajac
    • mrslynn1321
      mrslynn1321 on 23 Nov 15
       
      This also speaks to a classroom being student led instead of always being teacher led.  I love to watch students work together and teach each other.  This is one area where I see the need for improvement in my teaching style and technology is one tool to increase this type of learning in the classroom.  (Dawn Lynn)
    • tsc898
      tsc898 on 23 Nov 15
       
      Student led learning seems particularly important with online resources since its something so many people use on their own. The more students practice exploring online resources and learn how to use online resources to accomplish tasks, the more students will be able to do this on their own. With the fast pace of that technology is evolving, its imperative that students learn to explore new online tools because new ones come along so often and old ones change in time. Timothy Conley
  • KidBlogs
    • azajac32
      azajac32 on 21 Nov 15
       
      With the resources mentioned hear such as KidBlogs and Croak.It there is a better understanding of how to implement social media in a classroom at a younger age. Before these I do not feel there would have been much success nor would teachers felt safe. The more tools available that offer a safe environment for students more teachers are going to want to use them.  -Andrea Zajac
  • Comments
  • Social media enables the creation of meaningful connections
    • jessqross
      jessqross on 22 Nov 15
       
      Meaningful connections! Because technology surrounds our ever day life... these are the "authentic and relevant connections" our children make with the world. It's the way they communicate. Although, face-to-face connections are important,educators should continue to find ways to teach children within this foundation, meeting their need and source of connection. -Jess Ross
    • cloring
      cloring on 23 Nov 15
       
      I also think this is important to students who may have social anxiety. Although it may be impossible for them to talk to someone in person, they may open up a lot more on social media/through technology (C.Loring)
  • connections
  • students
    • fareedadams
      fareedadams on 22 Nov 15
       
      I highlighted this section of the article introducing Social Media to Elementary Students because I think it emphasizes the importance for hands on activities for elementary school students.
    • fareedadams
      fareedadams on 22 Nov 15
       
      I highlighted this section of the article introducing Social Media to Elementary Students because I think it emphasizes the importance for hands on activities for elementary school students. (Fareed Adams)
    • km3337
      km3337 on 24 Nov 15
       
      This would be great to share with parents on Back to School Night because we often hear concerns from parents over amounts of screen time at home and they want their child to have opportunities for typical social time activities like recess at school. - Kathryn Maguire
  • Collectively, they would discuss their learning experiences as a class, before Tweeting out their thoughts, questions and ideas to their broader learning community.
    • fareedadams
      fareedadams on 22 Nov 15
       
      I think this is what makes tweeting so dynamic because you can transcend the confines of the classroom and connect with the broader community. (Fareed Adams)
    • jessqross
      jessqross on 22 Nov 15
       
      http://www.academia.edu/194162/Collaborative_Learning_Experiences_Using_Social_Networks Social Media Networks can play a huge role in the development of our children's learning experiences. I have attached this article on collaboration in the learning experience through 3 phases through a "live learning strategy". Enjoy! :) -Jess Ross
  • Not only did social media empower this student, but it also provided her with a global audience. In 18 days, she received 42 comments from teachers, family members and other adults from across the continent. By empowering her students with the use of social media, Kristin Ziemke connects them to a global audience and introduces them to the complex communication required to be effective digital citizens.
  • For teachers who have only started to explore the uses of social media for their own professional development, much less with their students, setting children loose on blogs or Twitter can seem daunting.
    • Mathew Kennedy
      Mathew Kennedy on 24 Nov 15
       
      Getting something started with something new can sometime scare people.  For people who are not technologically inclined this could be even worse.  I've heard teachers in the past shy away from technology instead of embracing it because they aren't tech savvy.  As teachers, we need to assume that new things and ideas will come out and we have to jump on board.  In the end, students benefit from this and that's the number one priority.  
  • As I said, I agree. However, if used effectively, social media can transform a student's learning experience.
    • km3337
      km3337 on 24 Nov 15
       
      Communicating with students from other environments can be valuable. Students can share things that they are good at as well as things that they struggle with. It is powerful for a child to hear from another child from a place outside their immediate realm. - K. Maguire 
  • Extend the Classroom
    • wwprincessjww
      wwprincessjww on 25 Nov 15
       
      "Extend the classroom" is a great phrase. Why does a classroom have to be a room? Social media came make the world the classroom. -Jeannine McGoldrick
  • I agree that young children need to interact in a face-to-face setting.
    • wwprincessjww
      wwprincessjww on 25 Nov 15
       
      "Children need to interact in a face to face setting". Children who are a bit shy will have an easier time face to face when they're online. -Jeannine McGoldrick
  • nicolecartledge on 12 Nov 13
  • ...2 more comments...
  • wwprincessjww on 20 Nov 15
     
    I have no idea if my highlighting and note will show up -Jeannine McGoldrick
  • mrslynn1321 on 21 Nov 15
     
    Beth Holland, communication coordinator and instructor at EdTech Teacher, gives three age-appropriate examples of introducing social media to children in the lower elementary grades.
  • mwilliams28 on 25 Nov 15
     
    The more I reflect on introducing social media to our elementary students, the more I wonder if we are teaching them that they are not relevant unless they are connected to a group of individuals beyond their physical environment, or to subconsciously validate themselves by the number of likes or comments they receive from their followers...#hmmmm~ Marissa Williams
  • mwilliams28 on 29 Nov 15
     
    "To teach the concept of posting and commenting, the students created physical blogs on bulletin boards in the hallway of the school." Before actually introducing a social media tool in the class we could have a blog wall to teach students #posting, #commenting and reflection to stare and frame their conversations and get them familiar with the process.
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