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Delia Torres

Do you know about TED? - 49 views

Wow! Shannon, I was absolutely amazed by the Wii remote video from http://www.ted.com/talks/johnny_lee_demos_wii_remote_hacks.html. It proves that out of necessity, will, and creativity, there are ...

Fall 2012

started by Shannon Reynolds on 07 Feb 12 25 follow-ups, last by Delia Torres on 18 Mar 12
Christine Claudio

Why Teach with Project-Based Learning?: Providing Students With a Well-Rounded Classroo... - 7 views

www.edutopia.org/project-learning-introduction

shared by Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13 - Cached
  • Project learning is also an effective way to integrate technology into the curriculum. A typical project can easily accommodate computers and the Internet, as well as interactive whiteboards, global-positioning-system (GPS) devices, digital still cameras, video cameras, and associated editing equipment
    • Christine Claudio
      Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13
       
      This is Gayle using Christine's account... Considering the above highlight from the article, have you successfully integrated PBLs into your classroom? If so, what technologies were used? What challenges, if any, did you or your students face?
    • Juan Betancourt
      Juan Betancourt on 27 Feb 13
       
      Pbl can be incorporated at the end of the year to reinforce the items or lessons covered in the year, or short ones distributed on the year. The coverage of test teks take precedence during the year. This specially true in the core classes.
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 27 Feb 13
       
      I definitely agree that technology can be incorporated to the PBL, but not necessarily needed. Technology and PBL can be two independent things used to improve learning. I believe that using PBL at the beginning of the year would be more effective than at the end of the year because if you prepare your students throw out the whole year, they will get used to this technique, and why wouldn't you take advantage from the beginning instead of the end of the year.
    • Adam Hovde
      Adam Hovde on 28 Feb 13
       
      I really enjoy doing the few PBL units that I get to do. I find myself correcting misconceptions more often in PBL units. I like that the students get to come up with their own way of learning at times but it can frustrating at times correcting misconceptions. We have a school in the area that teaches solely with PBL. It is considered a magnet school and kids fight to get into the program. From the teachers I have talked to that have taught there they say the kids really enjoy PBL. They want a differnt kind of learning experience and PBL gives them what they are looking for.
    • April Canales-Perez
      April Canales-Perez on 03 Mar 13
       
      Unfortunately I have yet to incorporate PBL lessons in my classroom. My campus uses C-scope as our curriculum. Some of the lessons do have students relating mathematical concepts in real world situations but I wouldn't necessarily call it PBL. Cscope has incorporated the use of laptops in a few lessons. Overall the experience was good except of course when the gremlins come out to play. The biggest problem my students ran into was repeatedly getting disconnected from the Internet. I don't think this problem will be solved until our district invests in better Internet connections. I can't show students videos in the classroom unless I look it up at home, let the whole video download, then I can play it at school. Just to give you an idea of how bad the Internet connection is, but we make the best of it :)
    • Lupita Sanchez
      Lupita Sanchez on 04 Mar 13
       
      Like April I too, have been unfortunately not able to incorporate PBL into my classroom. However, our campus network does not allow for all my 32 students to be online at the same time. I understand April's frustration. Yet, I would like to plan out how to implement PBL to my 7th graders; which will prepare them for 8th and high school
    • Dara Cepeda
      Dara Cepeda on 04 Mar 13
       
      Yes I have incorporated 2 short PBL lessons. Students have used laptops to do their research and create a presentation, digital still cameras to record and document their findings and web 2.0 tool Glogster to present their project findings and possible solutions. I could see students were engaged collaborating by experimenting and creating new things. For example, one of the PBL was to find the formulas to create 9 colors out of three. They were eager surfing the internet, mixing paint, taking pictures of it and creating a Glogsters. That PBL took us about 2 weeks long (a bit longer than I expected) maybe because students had the opportunity to present their findings in front of the class by using Glogster. It was a fun experience, for the students and for me ofcourse. I can say they really enjoyed it and learned the formulas on their own.
  • Jessica Burnias on 25 Feb 13
     
    Christine, I read the article I do believe that PBL engage learners and allow for students to be able to relate lessons to the real world. The other interesting point is that students will present their findings in different formats, which allows for more creativity. Unlike stating that everyone has to create a PowerPoint the students will find what suits their type of learning style. This is a very important fact that all students learn differently and this allows all types of learners to be engaged.
  • ...9 more comments...
  • Heather Luna on 02 Mar 13
     
    Hi Gayle, I am glad you where able to post. I know you have been having trouble. In regards to your response, I agree that PBL are an excellent way to build depth-of-knowledge. Thinking is a skill that I believe needs to be modeled and taught. Students do not come into my classroom knowing how to think. Often times, they want me to think for them. If I continue to do this, I am doing a disservice to my students. I have to step back, release control, and allow them to take charge of their learning and PBLs are a great way to do this!
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 02 Mar 13
     
    I was fortunate to be able to visit the Metro School of Design, where they teach 100% PBL, and it was very impressive to walk into the classrooms to be met with an child "ambassador" who welcomed us, and asked us what we would like to know about PBL, and then took us to each group where the "project manager" explained all the protocols and what stage they were in, etc. What is impressive is that these children were so confident, and knew the process as well as the content of what they were working on. I have worked with PBL with my students, and it is frustrating when they stumble, or make mistakes as they are going through the research and establishing their "need to knows" and "workshops". Lots of progress monitoring comes into play, and although the misconception is that the teacher does nothing, the teacher has to have a solid plan to be able to have a successful PBL. We interviewed a panel of students, and one mentioned that they "once had a PBL that was not fun because we did not get to present to anyone, just us" so having them solve a real problem or present to a live audience is very important to them. I do believe PBLs are effective, but will take time to implement successfully. We should start with mini PBLs and work our way up.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 02 Mar 13
     
    In response to Gayle: I too, have stumbled when implementing PBLs. I gave students the option of using technology, and at least two groups in each class chose a video. Because our children do not have any foundation in technology, they had many "need to knows" which in turn called for "workshops". It is difficult to teach everything at once in a 45 minute session once a week. I know that in the classroom, it would be different. I suggest we limit the options to two manageable products, and if technology is involved, get another adult to help with "workshops", such as a technology teacher or the librarian. We used iPads, and created a simple video which we are going to share with Apple TV. I will bring this back and create the videos after the STAAR testing, and use them to present to students next year. Subject was "Bullying and Cyberbullying"
  • Cesar Mata on 03 Mar 13
     
    I agree with Juan on this one. It would be hard to try PBL during the school year with STAAR looming over our heads. As much fun as it could be, it would be hard to convince administrators that PBL can solve our problems. With that being said, I would like to try PBL once we get through with STAAR.
  • albert rodriguez on 03 Mar 13
     
    I believe in PBL, but I also strongly believe in buy in. It's hard to have students follow this model in a non-self contained classroom, because PBL requires giving students more independence and ownership of their learning. In most classrooms students have learned to be spoon fed, because we think it's more effective and PBL feels almost unorthodox to many teachers including the students.
  • Georgina Salas on 03 Mar 13
     
    PBL's is a good experience for kids to go through. At first when we started doing PBL's for our MTT classes I hated them and didn't understand them. Luckily I had a great partner,Heather Luna, to guide me through them and see how they would benifit the students in our classroom. PBL's help the students see what is really happening in the real world and that there is more to life than video games.
  • Isabel Cabrera on 03 Mar 13
     
    Problem-based learning takes a lot of teacher planning. I really enjoyed the PBL lessons we created in Dr. Butler's database. We were able to see other PBLs created by other students and take some ideas from there into the classroom. PBL is becoming more popular and more school districts are buying into it. Students can collaborate and learn from each other. Students can take responsibility for their own learning while researching and coming up with a final product/project.
  • Brian Martinez on 04 Mar 13
     
    Project based learning plays such a pivotal role in helping the students truly understand new concepts. When technology becomes integrated as well, even more becomes possible. I recently came across the Museum of Math in NYC and am hoping to visit it this summer. There they have all kinds of projects integrating technology to teach Mathematics in a concrete instead of just abstract manner.
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 04 Mar 13
     
    Juan, unfortunately, the end of the year after testing seems like the more realistic place for PBLs. In Port Isabel we are required to use CScope and it leaves very, very little time for anything else. I do have students browse through the PBLs I created for another class even though they aren't actually doing the projects. I am looking forward to being able to actualy implement them. Edna, I think PBLs would be more effective at the beginning of the year. As you said, Students would become used to the technique; however, the problem I have is a curriculum that doesn't allow time for PBLs. Adam, I have had the same issues with misconceptions. It's a quite unnerving to let them lose, so to speak, and be in charge of their own learning when I know what I am responsible for them to know and have seen the misconceptions. I think PBLs are wonderful, but not when time is so limited and I must see to it that they learn a particular concept in a given amount of time. April, My PIISD uses CScope too and I completey understand the time constraints and limitations. I do like SCope, but it leaves NO extra time. Lupita, You're not alone. I sounds like most of us have had a hard time fitting PBLs in for one reason or another. Jessica, Presenting in different formats is one of the many positives of PBLs. I agree with you that this is an important point when considering learning styles. Isabel, I've not been able to implement the PBLs we created, but I've been able to share the content of them with my students. You're right in that they do take planning - as well as the ability to let go which I have not mastered yet! :) Brian, The Museum of Math sounds amazing. What a great opportunity. The ability to teach math concepts in a more concrete way instead of such an abstract manner is key.
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 04 Mar 13
     
    Dara, That sounds awesome! You're one of the few who have been able to use PBLs. What a great use of technololgy. I am sure the students really learned from the experience and had fun in the process. What do you teach?
  • Cristina Pintor on 15 Mar 13
     
    I have not had a chance to implement PBL lesson in my classroom. We are using the CSCOPE curriculum and we are asked to follow that sequence no matter what. I am waiting for after the end of course exams to have an opportunity to use a PBL lesson, although I personally think that PBL lesson will be more effective at the beginning of the year.
April Canales-Perez

Free Online Resources Engage Elementary Kids (Tech2Learn Series) | Edutopia - 12 views

www.edutopia.org/rn-free-online-resources-video

online resources elementary Classroom technology Education integrating 21stcenturyskills Spring 2013 Spring2013

shared by April Canales-Perez on 11 Feb 13 - No Cached
    • April Canales-Perez
      April Canales-Perez on 04 Apr 13
       
      View this video to see how Nicole Dalesio motivates her students to learn through the use of technology and free online applications. 
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 10 Apr 13
       
      It is amazing to see these children so young and so interested in technology, and the way they talk about technology AMAZING!, I would love my daughter to be part of this new era of students. The advantage of this type of learning is that schools do not have to invest a lot of money on buying expensive software, like the teacher mentined using the cloud or Web tools for free are simply great for school districts that do not have the funding.
  • Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13
     
    Teach2Learn Series offers engaging ideas!
  • ...13 more comments...
  • Cristina Pintor on 17 Feb 13
     
    I liked the video a lot. The way the teacher planned the lesson allows students not only to choose the project they like the most, but also to choose the tools they feel are the best to complete the project. The students seemed to be on task all the time and collaborating so they all finish their project. It is truly inspiring.
  • Isabel Cabrera on 17 Feb 13
     
    Great video, Heather. It is an eye opener to all educators to what little children are capable of doing with the technology that is offered to them and the variety of technologies they can choose from.
  • Jessica Burnias on 18 Feb 13
     
    That was a great video. I was really impressed how advanced the students were with the use of technology. I am a high school teacher so it is great to see how elementary teachers are getting the students engaged through the use of technology in the early years.
  • Heather Luna on 18 Feb 13
     
    Cristina, you are correct. These type of lessons require a lot of preperation, but the outcome is fantastic. The students are engaged and collaborating, furthering the depth of knowledge for all.
  • Heather Luna on 18 Feb 13
     
    Isabel, I am always amazed by how quickly young students learn to manipulate technology. Many times, I go in with only the basics and allow the students to teach me the "good stuff". They are so excited and can't wait to show off their final product.
  • Heather Luna on 18 Feb 13
     
    Jessica, I am glad you were able to see first hand what children can accomplish in their elementary years. In my opinion, elementary is the best time to integrate technology, because the students are like little sponges. They learn so quickly and more importantly, they are motivated and engaged! As a high-school teacher, what would you like to see in term of technology knowledge from your entering students - Web 2.0 tools; Word; PowerPoint; etc.?
  • Cesar Mata on 18 Feb 13
     
    Thank you for sharing such an interesting video. I like how the teacher gives the students a variety of options for assignments. The students have more freedom when deciding what projects they want to do and with what resources they like. It seems like the learners would be more motivated to succeed when they have these choices. I also like how the teacher is able to integrate multiple subjects within a single project. The students aren't just learning technology, they're learning how to work with each other and develop collaboration skills that will be needed throughout their lives.
  • Brian Martinez on 18 Feb 13
     
    The Roman philosopher Senneca said that "While we teach, we learn." When students are able to create presentations and even games to explain a lesson or information to others, the creator in turn learns as well. To be able to properly teach a subject, we must first fully understand it. Using technology for this purpose ensures that the students properly understand the concept being taught to them.
  • Christine Claudio on 18 Feb 13
     
    Isabel, the Edutopia video was evident that teachers have to find innovative resources when resources are scarce. The students were engaged and enjoing the activity. The students were able to work and explain the steps of the projects to their teacher. They had some great ideas to use for future projects.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 25 Feb 13
     
    Christine, This brings you and what you are doing in your classroom with your students. Although they are in first grade, you have introduced different apps and programs for them to use. I wish all this was available when I taught, but even then I made use of all the actual software we had. Kid Pix, iMovie, MacDraw.... it is much easier now, with all the free software and apps out there. Teachers need to get excited about teaching, and incorporate one program or app at a time.
  • Georgina Salas on 07 Apr 13
     
    Loved the video. It shows that learning can be fun and that students are not just using the computer for games. I loved watching the students collaborating and helping each other out. They were even using technology terms to explain themselves. I would have loved to see their final product.
  • Dara Cepeda on 08 Apr 13
     
    Nice, I really enjoyed this video..it gave me so many ideas to use with my students. Very dynamic and creative teacher, she's a great example in motivating students to learn by using interactive technology tools! After I watched this video I had to explore her website and visit some of her students' final products. She is very organized and uses web tools to the max! Thanks for sharing this with us
  • Cora Mendez on 08 Apr 13
     
    This was a very nice video. You can tell the students were engaged, and they were familiar with what they were doing. It shows very good examples of how students can collaborate and integrate technology in learning.
  • Juan Betancourt on 09 Apr 13
     
    The issue at hand is finding applications that you can correlate to the TEKS you are teaching and having the computers available for your use.
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 15 Apr 13
     
    Wow! There is so much I'm not using! All year I've thought about integrating a movie projec, but haven't been able to. . This video is definitely a motivator. The students in the video were so knowledgable. Those skills will be so useful throughout their academic career. There are so many free tool and I agree with the teacher in the video - it's an answer to cut backs and actually much more motivating for students!
Crystal Martinez

EdTechTeacher | Professional Development for Creating 21st Century Student-Centered Lea... - 15 views

edtechteacher.org/index.php

math technology classroom ideas

shared by Crystal Martinez on 23 Sep 12 - No Cached
  • Crystal Martinez on 23 Sep 12
     
    This site has various resources that an educator can use in the classroom to incorporate technology in their lessons. After viewing the website, what are some of the areas that you found interesting or beneficial for your field of expertise?
  • ...14 more comments...
  • Alyssa Tanguma on 23 Sep 12
     
    Great website. I'm actually having to present to the math department on how they can incorporate tech. into their classroom this week. This site is great to show them!!
  • Victoria Lopez on 23 Sep 12
     
    This is an excellent website. I really like how it is set up to suggest web 2.0 tools according to what your learning goal is for technology implementation. It highlights key points about the website and rates its ease of use level. It organizes the Web 2.0 tools according to its purpose. For example, if I would like for my students to create books, magazines, posters, or newsletters online, this website simplifies my options by providing me with useful information on Web 2.0 tools that are available to accomplish this goal.
  • Jaime Villarreal on 23 Sep 12
     
    Thanks for sharing this website I will definitely have it as a resource to guide me in the implementation of technology into my lessons. My favorite part of the website is the table of technology tools with a description, example and level of difficulty. The method of organizing tools in a table allows me to have tools in an accessible format that will motivate me to use them rather than spending valuable time looking for resources and information on how to use them in separate places. This website provides additional tutorials as well that can provide guiding tools in the implementation of technology. I have also found very useful the following website: (http://education.ti.com/calculators/pd/US/Online-Learning/ ) from Texas Instruments that provides not only ready made lessons that implement technology but also free webinars to learn methods of implementation.
  • R. Palomares on 23 Sep 12
     
    Wow, The way EdtechTeacher.org is set up is very user friendly. The different tabs towards the top make navigation through this site very easy. There's something here for everyone, from teachers to school leaders who are looking for ways to incorporate more technology in their campus. I really liked and found interesting the tab that reads, "Teaching with Technology/Innovate projects & Lessons". There I was able to find numerous ideas of lessons and projects using technology. This provides a valuable resource to look into different project ideas. Great Website. Thank you for sharing! Also check this website out when you get a chance. (http://www.p21.org/)
  • Sara Aldape on 23 Sep 12
     
    Awesome, I definitely like this site: (http://edtechteacher.org/index.php/teaching-technology/tech-tools) there are lots of student friendly links in which students can use to integrate technology in their assignments. Teachers can also get ideas so that students can integrate technology using awesome graphic organizers. This website has on site links to go to on technology tools which are very user-friendly. Thanks for sharing! Check this website, there are awesome technology tools which teachers can use in the classroom. http://www.superteachertools.com/index.php
  • Maria L Mata on 24 Sep 12
     
    This website has so much information! I like that it invites teachers and administrators (Professional Development Services/Leadership and Change Tabs) to contact them to come to their campus or district to help incorporate technology to the curriculum. It has numerous links for teachers to use, and shows how technology is being used in innovative ways in the classrooms. I also like that it gives students' excerpts on actual projects and lessons that have been done. It gives really good explanations and justifications of the use of technology in the classroom. In checking out the various sites it gives, I came up with this one that I really liked http://www.4teachers.org/. Check it out, it gives you many resources for your classroom, and the blog section gives you many more websites that are very useful for teachers in all levels.
  • Marivel Garcia on 24 Sep 12
     
    This particular site is perfect. As a reading language arts teacher I am constantly looking for ways to enhance my lessons and make them hands on. I found the Digital Storytelling ideas to be extremely useful. I have personally utilized the Comiclife and Storybird in my classroom. By using Comiclife, my students were able to create their own comic strip stories for a Figurative Language lesson and they were able to bring there lesson to live. I have also used Storybird and this is a great way to make the students bring their own creative writing to live. They are able to go through the writing process and be able to share their published work with others from all over. Love this resource...
  • nora garza on 27 Sep 12
     
    What a great website! Thanks for sharing it with us. I loved the fact that it even breaks it down into questions and you can click on the question and it will give some suggested links. I've used storybird before and the students loved it! I also found some digital story telling websites that I have never seen before. Check this link for more additional resources http://www.pbs.org/teachers.
  • Diana Cedillo on 28 Sep 12
     
    Wow! Impressive. This is a great website for teachers learning how to use technology in the classroom. I especially like the article called, "Beyond the Classroom with iPads & Mobile Technology". Integrating what interests our students such as ipads and iphones will provide opportunities for higher participation.
  • Santos Alvarado on 29 Sep 12
     
    This is a great website. I like how this website provides a variety of resources that educators can incorporate in the classroom. I like how this website provides different publications and articles that teachers can access to learn how to teach using multimedia. http://edtechteacher.org/index.php/news-a-media/publications I also like how this website offers teachers to register for free webinars on how to implement iPads and other mobile devices in the classroom. And also provides recorded links of past webinars through blackboard. http://edtechteacher.org/index.php/news-a-media/webinars
  • Saul Mendiola on 30 Sep 12
     
    This is a great website with a lot of information. It has many resources for us educators to integrate technology in the classrooom. thanks for sharing!
  • Joshua McDonald on 01 Oct 12
     
    Very first place I checked out on the website was the article on the 5 mistakes people make when using iPads in the classroom, and as someone who had this opportunity last year I can say I made most of those mistakes :) Great resource for those looking to improve technology implementation on their campus.
  • Sergio Perez on 01 Oct 12
     
    This website has so many different areas to choose from. I mainly looked at the math links and I found Real World Math. Real World Math is a website where you can find helpful lessons. Some of the lessons also deal with project based learning.
  • Maribel Gracia on 01 Oct 12
     
    I found the area of Teaching for 21st Century interesting because it states that successful integration in schools requires on going staff development. In addition, it has information on a cohort program that teachers are invited to get enroll in order to learn more about technology.
  • Sonia Aldape on 01 Oct 12
     
    This site is well rounded full of very interesting links that can help in different content areas. The areas of interest are the core subjects in my 4th grade level. It will be a great asset to the many sites in my library.
  • Mario Ortiz on 22 Oct 12
     
    It provides a lot of resources for teachers. One of the resources that it provides and that I think it's very helpful is the webinars.
Isabel Cabrera

Deeper Learning: Defining Twenty-First Century Literacy | Edutopia - 22 views

www.edutopia.org/...-deeper-learning-rebecca-alber

literacy 21stcenturyskills Education 21stcenturylearning technology Classroom integrating

shared by Isabel Cabrera on 05 Feb 13 - No Cached
Cora Mendez liked it
  • Deeper Learning: Defining Twenty-First Century Literacy
  • problem solver, critical thinker, and an effective collaborator and communicator.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 05 Feb 13
       
      Watch this video to see how this student defines deeper learning and how it has IMPACTed his life!
    • April Canales-Perez
      April Canales-Perez on 11 Feb 13
       
      The video would be a great video to show students because it can be inspiring to them. He is from another country and he has struggled academically but he never gave up. I like how he picked a topic that has impacted his life and has experience in immigration. I like the name of his school "IMPACT" because I truely believe that school has impacted his and has allowed him to further his knowledge in a much deeper way than a regular school setting.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 11 Feb 13
       
      I was also impressed with this school because it allowed the students to conduct their own research but still stay with the topic of government regulating laws. He chose a topic that was relevant and meaning to him: Immigration. He was engaged and learned a lot about U.S. laws.
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 14 Feb 13
       
      I saw the video, I was amazed on how the kid learn, this is a dream not only for students, but also for families and the education, Can you imagine to have schools working like this, hands on! where actually students learn and are engaged all the time!. Good article Isabel.
    • Juan Betancourt
      Juan Betancourt on 14 Feb 13
       
      Problem Based Learning is a great way to take advantage of the interests the students have, it helps them take ownership of their learning and making it more relevant to them.
    • Dara Cepeda
      Dara Cepeda on 16 Feb 13
       
      Wow that is something we should all consider, to create deeper learning through PBL. Very interesting to see how students can actually get engaged with a Project based lesson, it opens the door to understand problems and find possible solutions. It helps them to learn by using higher order thinking and at the same time it gives them the skills to be successful in their future career. Thanks for sharing that video with us Isabel :)
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 17 Feb 13
       
      To Edna and Juan, I could see how pbl lessons could be incorporated especially at the high school level. I could see the students using their higher thinking skills and deeper learning taking place with such topics like this, instead of textbook and worksheets. I know that in your engineering dept at PHS, you are already incorporating skills at a higher learning for these students. I think our district has already started implementing deeper learning by having the Early College and Engineering Dept.
    • Jessica Burnias
      Jessica Burnias on 18 Feb 13
       
      I think it is great how problem based learning is allowing to students to relate what they are learning to real world situations. This important they are being taught more than to just pass a test. They are using critical thinking skills and collaboration which are very important to be successful in the real world. Great video.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 19 Feb 13
       
      Problem based learning allows for them to research on a topic that is meaningful and relevant to the student. It does allow for critical thinking and independent learning.
  • ...6 more annotations...
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 05 Feb 13
       
      Are we preparing our students for the 21st century?
    • Adam Hovde
      Adam Hovde on 06 Feb 13
       
      It is hard to forecast what the 21st century needs from the students in school today. The smart phone was developed just a few short years ago and now it seems everyone has one and can use it proficiently. What technologies do we need to prepare students to use? What are we doing in class that students can take and use for the rest of their lives? These are very hard questions to answer. One of the "skills" I try and teach in my classroom is to make each lesson relevant to every student. In the video the student was able to do a project in his AP Government class that was relevant to him and he was able to find meaning in the project. Many students today can use their smart phones, tablets or PCs to help reserach, problem solve, critical think and collaborate. How do we as educators foster the desire in the students to use these technologies to do these things. It can be a big hurdle in some school districts that do not have the technology resources that other districts have. I do not think we can every really know if we are really preparing students for the 21st century but we have to give it our best shot and hope what we teach them carries over to the real world.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 08 Feb 13
       
      New technologies are coming out every year with new and improved features. The best thing for teachers is to expose the students to what is available out there and make them comfortable with technology. I expose my students to a variety of technologies and sometimes they are just amazed at how I created it and I tell them that is it something I learned from one of my college classes. I encourage them to continue their education after high school if they want to live in a nice house and drive a new car. If you give them the tools, we will be surprised at what they come up with and maybe they will invent something new. It is our job to make learning relevant and meaningful.
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13
       
      According to the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, students must learn the essentials for success in today's world, such as critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and collaboration. As a fifth-grade teacher, I attempt to promote these elements, but am often unable to do so because of the spotlight on standardized testing and AYP. This year I planned on integrating PBLs in the classroom, but was informed that my students would be unable to use the computer lab and/or the COW for anything except a specific program. This was very disappointing, but I made the most of it. The problem is that even if this "program" is improving my students reading ability (which seems to be the case), it not truly preparing them for the 21st century. Students are losing the ability to think critically, solve problems, and collaborate. I am confident that if given the opportunity to integrate PBLs, I would see an even greater improvement in my students reading abilities, as well as, there overall abilities. We have to move forward, but getting everyone to "buy-in" is proving to be a difficult task! I found this video on "21st Century Learning" and thought I would share, it is long, but has some great information: http://youtu.be/zSNWr_QYyPw. Enjoy!
    • April Canales-Perez
      April Canales-Perez on 11 Feb 13
       
      I don't believe we are preparing our students for the 21st century. Yes there is some teachers who will take the time and integrate technology into their lessons, but if administration doesn't support this then its very challenging to do this. We as teachers have a lot on our plate and we must make sure that students pass the state assessments. Teachers and administrators lose focus on what is really important and what our students need because of state assessments. If they don't see us doing passages or word problems then we aren't doing our jobs. I do agree it is our job to make learning relevant and meaning but will we ever be given the opportunity to do this. My students are always collaborating in class and applying the knowledge they have learned to real world problems. I challenge them to think and come up with their own answers and ideas instead of me doing it for them. I know there is much more that I can do, but its a start.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 11 Feb 13
       
      To Heather & April: The "STAAR" test I hear is very higher order thinking. It makes the students think outside of the box. The students have to analyze and internalize the data or read the stories very carefully because there are two really good answers. Unfortunately, we have a large number of students reading below level that we are trying to catch up those students. We can only try to do our best to integrate technology into the classroom.
  • (National Council of Teachers of English), twenty-first century readers and writers need to: Gain proficiency with tools of technology Develop relationships with others and confront and solve problems collaboratively and cross-culturally Design and share information for global communities to meet a variety of purposes Manage, analyze, and synthesize multiple streams of simultaneous information Create, critique, analyze, and evaluate multimedia texts Attend to the ethical responsibilities required by these complex environments
  • Being literate means one who is advanced at reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
    • Georgina Salas
      Georgina Salas on 11 Feb 13
       
      Now should we add computer literate as well? Since this is the way we are heading. Plus the students will eventually be STAAR testing in the area of technology.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 11 Feb 13
       
      As new technologies are coming up, I feel that teachers and students should "keep up with the Jones." The more you are familiar with computer features the more comfortable you will be with computers and be able to adapt to new technologies. A lot of the web 2.0 tools we have been using are similar in some ways. For example, Spicy Nodes and bubbl.us are very similar tools. It is just a matter of exploring! The creativity in students will come out as they incorporate new tools into their projects. In addition, everything is now online..college admissions, financial aid, housing, and work study.
  • But for all the amazing, valuable stuff on the Web, there's loads of misinformation, half-truths, and misquoted, useless stuff. In preparing children to be literate in today's world, it's urgent that we teach the skill of scoping websites with a critical eye. Kids need to be explicitly trained in spotting everything from blatant pseudo-facts to slightly questionable content. This ability to "filter" will be required of them in both university and work.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 19 Feb 13
       
      This is so true. We need to teach our students how to use the information that is out there on the web. However, we must also teach them how and where to look for reliable data on the internet. They need to understand that not everything that is on the internet is true.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 19 Feb 13
       
      We do need to educate our students that not everything on the web is valid, just like commercials that are just gimmicks or have a "catch" to it. We need to teach them how to look for credible sources and that anyone and even them can write something on the Internet and that doesn't mean that it is true. There are even pop ups or emails that can invite viruses or can sell your emails for scams. It can be dangerous if the wrong people get a hold of your personal information.
  • It's true that, through deeper learning, many teachers and schools are already guiding students into this new century well-equipped to think critically on their feet, problem solve, and communicate effectively.
  • It's not about the actual tech - it is about the skills needed to get accurate information.
  • Isabel Cabrera on 05 Feb 13
     
    21st century learning skills: problem solving, critical thinking, effective collaborator and communicator
  • ...5 more comments...
  • Isabel Cabrera on 05 Feb 13
     
    Are we preparing our students for the 21st century? Are we using Deeper learning by activating prior knowledge and experiences? Are the students internalizing information, researching, analyzing, generalizing material beyond the content?
  • Georgina Salas on 11 Feb 13
     
    I enjoyed this video. It showed how someone not from this country chose to educate himself and look into the laws for immigration because he went through the experience. I feel that if anyone saw this video it would push them to do more with their education. I believe that if elementary, middle school, and high school students saw this it would inspire them to care more for their education and purse higher education than a high school diploma.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 14 Feb 13
     
    We need to bring this reality into our classrooms, our students take too much for ganted, but it would be even more effective if we give them a real life driving question that involves our students helping immigrants like this one get the education they so desire. Through a pbl driven lesson, students will come up with solutions, thus helping them truly understand the problems of this particular students. Perhaps we can teach empathy as well.
  • george saenz on 15 Feb 13
     
    I really like the video and what they were talking about and the determination it take to educate oneself. If everone on a campus could take the time out of there busy schedula and show this video to the students it would make a difference in how they see themselves and there education.
  • Cristina Pintor on 17 Feb 13
     
    I enjoyed the video a lot. It is inspiring to see how students are engaged with a PBL lesson. Students were finding possible solutions to problems that pertain and are significant to them. If students feel that the problem affects them personally they will try their best to find answers to solve the problem. By using PBL students will also acquire the skills needed to be successful not only in college, but in life.
  • albert rodriguez on 18 Feb 13
     
    I'm glad I work at HCISD, we're quite progressive when it comes to education and Project-Based Learning is getting a lot of attention and many efforts are being made to ensure that it's happening in our classrooms. I really liked the video especially the part on how the student made his assignment have value as immigration issues pertain to him. I think we're in the right place at the right time.
  • Cora Mendez on 19 Feb 13
     
    I thought it was interesting that it was a Pbl school. It was very obvious that the student was getting a deeper understanding of the topic. He was not only learning about immigration because he had to do some research and figure out where and how it was addressed in the laws and government. He was problem solving and using critical thinking which allowed him to have a deeper understanding of his topic.
Lucero Martinez

eInstruction - INTERWRITEPAD - 2 views

legacy.einstruction.com/...index.html

shared by Lucero Martinez on 13 Nov 12 - No Cached
  • Lucero Martinez on 13 Nov 12
     
    I had the pleasure of utilizing this in my classroom for a few years. I was able to walk around the room and make sure my students were on task without having to skip a beat of teaching. It allows you to use drawing, writing, and typing tools. It wirelessly connects to to the laptop through bluetooth technology and then the laptop is connected to elmo, and projector. You can capture an image of what you are projecting through your elmo and highlight, write notes, or draw on it, and you can save it for later use or print out notes for your students. You can also log on to the internet and it becomes your pointer, you can manuver through the web, freeze a page and write notes on it and save it. If you ever get a chance to work with one you will love it, I did! I miss it dearly because, unfortuately, the laptops at my campus are out of date and I haven't been able to successfully connect it to my current laptop which works when it feels like it. Now there's a new version out called Mobi Interwrite pad and I read that there is an app for the Ipad (not sure how the Ipad is connected to projector). But it is a technology worth looking into!
  • ...6 more comments...
  • Diana Cedillo on 15 Nov 12
     
    I was hoping this was something that I wouldn't have to pay out-of-pocket. I did see how you mentioned there being an app for the ipad. I'm goign to look into that once I log-off. I have "checked out" the ipad for a few weeks and apparently, the other two on campus have yet to be checked out. I believe teachers are having difficulty in how to use them in class. I on the otherhand have been trying new apps, programs, and reasons to keep the ipad in my classroom. LOL
  • R. Palomares on 18 Nov 12
     
    Lucero, this "Interwrite PAD" seems like an awesome idea to have. The ability to teach interactive lessons from different places in the classroom would be great! The best part is that it comes with the software ($249) value. The battery life on this technology is also incredible. Up to 40 hours of continuous use without recharging it. That's a whole week! Having and using this "Interwrite PAD" would be awesome. Thanks for sharing!
  • Victoria Lopez on 19 Nov 12
     
    Lucero, I wish all campuses had the luxury of devices like the Interwrite PAD. Interactive lessons would work out best if students had ease of access instead of being restricted to a certain area of the classroom. This device seems to be able to provide engaging activities for the students and I would jump at the possibility of having the opportunity to incorporate the Interwirte IPAD into my lessons. Hopefully our school districts will continue growth in technology and purchase these devices for educations everywhere.
  • Sergio Perez on 19 Nov 12
     
    Lucero, my school district has purchased an Interwrite Pad for all of the elementary teachers at my district. I have been able to use it for the past three years and find that it keeps my students engaged in the lessons that involve the Interwrite Pad.
  • Marivel Garcia on 24 Nov 12
     
    Wow! this is something my students can really gain from especially in my reading class. We are in the process of purchasing IPADS for our students and we are all looking forwards to it. Thanks for sharing.
  • Maribel Gracia on 26 Nov 12
     
    This is an excellent equipment for all teachers to use in their classrooms because you can actively monitoring your students while you teach your skill. Also another benefit for gthis interwrite pad is that a students can also put his or her response to the question being ask by the teacher. Great information. Thanks for sharing.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 29 Nov 12
     
    I know Mcallen I.S.D have issued students I-pads to use in the classroom. Here at E.C.I.S.D they have been assigned to teachers and us teachers have been using i-pads in our daily lessons. On my I-pad i have a remote desktop option for students viewing my work on the I-pad on the projection screen. Very neat tool and I feel that I-pads are very useful in teaching than a textbook.
  • Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
     
    Great classroom technology equipment. I recently purchased an iPad app Whiteboard which gives you similar tools as a whiteboard but on your iPad and you project the information wireless to your computer and projector. Its very useful when you need to walk around and check on students and still project information to the rest of the class.
Edna Orozco

Replicating Success: Project-Based Learning | Edutopia - 7 views

www.edutopia.org/stw-replicating-pbl

shared by Edna Orozco on 14 Feb 13 - No Cached
  • The more innovative a school and outstanding its results, the more impossible replicating it looks to educators elsewhere who are struggling with challenging student populations, limited resources, and unimaginative administrations.
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 14 Feb 13
       
      Do you agree with this statement? Is it true that we feel frustrated because we might not have the financial support, the adequate technology, or students willing to learn?
    • Juan Betancourt
      Juan Betancourt on 14 Feb 13
       
      It is not impossible to replicate pbl. The problem is coming up with a project using the existing tools and resources as well as spending the time to develop it properly, you just can't "wing it" like one of the teachers says in the video.
    • Dara Cepeda
      Dara Cepeda on 16 Feb 13
       
      I disagree with that statement. I believe schools that have all the necessary tools and technologies are outstanding with their results because they provide everything for the educator to teach. In other words they are saving time for the educator, they just have to concentrate in teaching and applying those tools. While teachers who work in a district without all of these sources, have to dedicate time in finding solutions, tools to implement in their lessons. In other words they have to be creative enough to be able to use their "limited" tools in numerous ways. But it is not IMPOSIBLE, if the teacher has the vision and dedicates time to create pbl lessons, or engaging lessons, it will have outstanding results with their challenging populations. It is challenging but not impossible.
  • The original textbook-free, nonprofit, public charter school
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 14 Feb 13
       
      It looks difficult even for educators to think that it is possible to teach without following a book, on a public school, and yet to get an engaging environment for students. Are you ready to move on from your comfort zone, and start planning with other teachers to implement PBL on your classroom?
    • Cristina Pintor
      Cristina Pintor on 17 Feb 13
       
      Although it would be challenging, especially in schools where technology is limited and/or obsolete, if teachers have the determination to implement a PBL lesson, they will find ways to succeed. It will be particularly difficult for teachers that are reluctant to change and are not used to the use of technology; but everything is possible, especially if administration is committed to support the teachers.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 17 Feb 13
       
      I read somewhere in the article, where we must move beyond the old textbook and worksheet type of teaching and have more problem based lessons that are more relevant and meaningful to our students lives. I teach 2nd grade and I use a lot of graphic organizers and the students seem to remember the vocabulary words when we incorporate hands on by drawing pictures and giving them time to write their own sentences. Problem based learning is much like a few years back where thematic units were part of the curriculum. It will be a lot of work for the teachers to come up many activities, but I think the students will better benefit from this type of instruction.
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 18 Feb 13
       
      I agree with Cristina and Isabel. Integrating PBLs can be challenging but they are so beneficial. I think it goes back to expectations. Students will do what they are expected to do. If we expected them to merely read a book and answer some questions, then that is what we will get. If we expected them to think critically and produce an end product, then that is exactly what we will get. We have to take our students to the next level by setting the bar high (even if we have to step away from our comfort zone)!
  • You can have high expectations for all your students. You can involve presentations and critiques and involve students in work that real adults do. There are no barriers to that, only perceived barriers."
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 14 Feb 13
       
      Are you willing to treat your young students as adults, and give them such responsabilities, even if you are teaching elementary or middle school?
    • Lupita Sanchez
      Lupita Sanchez on 17 Feb 13
       
      Students need to be prepared to face real world situations. All of our district campus are not equip with the correct technology. However, it is not impossible. Teachers can prepare PBL lessons to allow students to think critically and engage students with real world scenarios and hands on activities. Nice article.
    • Adam Hovde
      Adam Hovde on 18 Feb 13
       
      One of things I alwys tell parents is that we are raising our kids to be adults. I teach high school and when parents ask me why I give students so much responsibility I always answer with how much is too much responsibility? My students are 11th and 12th graders and they are going off to college in a year when should they start being academicaly responsible? I push my students because I now in college it will be hard transition and I do not want the academic responsibility to be part of the transition they have to go through. Many students come back and thank me for the challenge I gave them in class. It does not always work with every student but I try and challenge every student in my class to take responsibility for their own education.
    • April Canales-Perez
      April Canales-Perez on 25 Feb 13
       
      I believe this will be an adjustment for some teachers including myself. I think with more practice and the proper training it will be easier to let students run on their own and be responsible for their own learning.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 14 Feb 13
     
    It is a very difficult move for many educators,especially with so much at stake with testing and higher expectations; however, pbl is the implementation of life skills for students. Technology does not have to be a part of it all at once. Teachers can build up with mini PBLs, then gradually add devices, and expand on the choices of projects. Once the students understand the process, then give them more options. Preparation and professional development must be in place. TEs have mini pbls, so designing can happen later, when teachers feel comfortable.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • Cesar Mata on 18 Feb 13
     
    I recently had an opportunity see a presentation on project based learning at TABE and was surprised to see that administrators at schools here in the Valley were encouraging its use. From what I could tell, PBL was something that teachers were trying to incorporate. It's nice to know that administrators are jumping on board too instead of requiring teachers to "teach the test." It seems like all of the educators in the video are thrilled about PBL in the classroom. I would like to see that enthusiasm in more districts across the valley, especially mine.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 23 Feb 13
     
    PBLs are a reflection of real life. Groups consist of different personalities collaborating to reach the same goal. The driving question is one that solves a real life problem, and is also be presented to a live audience. Students will be responsible for their portion of work after they sign the contract. Teachers guide students, but don't getme wrong, careful planning must be done in order to implement this successfully. I agree with Lupita, we need to make our students more independent, especially at the foundation level (elementary and middle school). That has always been the objective in my classroom, and I can see the benefits five years later.
  • albert rodriguez on 24 Feb 13
     
    I disagree with this statement as well. I think overall schools have everything, and then some, of the necessary technology accessibility, resources, and personnel to make make education a wonderful endeavor. Personally, I think schools sometimes give issues unrelated to learning too much attention and focus is sometimes lost. I think the same goes for parents and even the students. There has to be purpose in what we teach and in what students learn and until then -- good luck.
  • Brian Martinez on 25 Feb 13
     
    I like how at the end they remind us that there is still room to improve. Technology is nothing if not dynamic. We need to remember that as soon as we have learned something new, to go back and find something else and never be complacent.
Janice Wilson Butler

What are the stages of the change process? - 45 views

soc.li/W99AVvO

tech classroom change change-process integrating technology

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 08 Jan 12 - No Cached
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 08 Jan 12
     
    In the edutopia blog article, Shaping Tech for the Classroom, linked above, Marc Prensky - the "creator" of the digital immigrant/digital native labels, describes the typical process of technology adoption. How accurately do those steps define what is happening on your campus with regard to technology adoption? On average, where in the process is your campus? Have you seen any "movement" through the process in the last 2-3 years? If yes, to what do you attribute these changes? If no, what can you do to move the campus forward? Click on "Comment" above to respond to the article and to your peers. Please post at least one link in this group that is relevant to your discussion. Be sure to tag your link and your discussion.
  • ...10 more comments...
  • Adriana G Hernandez on 29 Jan 12
     
    I am the librarian at our school and I have only been there a few moths. However, I think that our school has teachers that are experts in using SMART boards and other projectors and such along with many Web 2.0 tools, but we also have teachers than use minimal technology. As far as the why, I'm not sure about every teacher on campus, but a lot of the teachers I talk to don't use technology as much as they like because they feel pressed for time. They are desperately trying to plan lessons, evaluate students' work, and address the students' weaknesses. I think in order to move forward, MTT's need to mentor as many teachers as possible, the administration needs to think outside the box so that teachers have time to plan for technology integration. This link http://www.ejmste.com/v5n3/EURASIA_v5n3_Bingimlas.pdf is for an article that discusses the barriers to technology integration. It would be beneficial for teachers to read and discuss what is holding them back so we, as a campus, come up with a plan to ensure everyone gets on board.
  • Elva Mendoza on 29 Jan 12
     
    I am a 5th grade teacher at Adame Elementary and Marc Prensky description of technology integration in education describes my campus. I agree with Adriana when she says that teachers are pressed for time, especially with the STAAR test. There is a total of three computer labs at my school that are rarely used for integrating technology with the curriculum. It seems that the only technology on our campus being used is tutorial programs to enhance test scores. In the four years that I have worked at my campus I don't think we are any closer to the movement of technology integration. Unfortunately, I blame the pressure brought upon our education system, which is test driven. During the President's State of the Union Address on Tuesday he stated, "In return, grant school flexibility: To teach with creativity and passion: To stop teaching to the test :"(West Seattle Herald, Jan. 29, 2012). I think Donna ISD is heading in the right direction with the MTT program. As an MTT I will need to start sharing my knowledge with the staff through staff development and show them how enthusiastic students are to learning when given the opportunity through technology. It worries me that my students will not be prepared for the 21st century if our education system continues to be test driven, rather than technology driven. The link http://www.westseattleherald.com/2012/01/27/news/local-educators-say-obamas-state-union-address-hi is the President's State of the Union Address.
  • Paul Edward Mendiola on 29 Jan 12
     
    I am one of the Math teachers in Donna high school and technology integration in our campus, atleast in our department, I could say that we are still a little behind. Technology is in place but integrating them in our day to day lessons is still missing. It may not be because we have no idea to inlcude them in our curriculum but I trully believe that some of our teachers still need to be reminded that technology integration should be considered as a tool to provide effective learning experience and success for our students, connecting with them in ways they are native to. And as "digital immigrants" that we are, change is still something to be accepted. "Everybody is talking about technology integration, but few practicing teachers profess to know exactly how to proceed. The fact is that real integration requires change. . . . However, what seems to be lacking is a model that teachers can use to guide them through the necessary changes they will need to make to be successful in integrating new technology into their classroom" (Johnson & Liu, 2000, p. 4). In regards to the question on where in the process we are in our campus i should say we are still in between stages "doing old thing in old ways" and "doing old things in new ways". I do have seen some movement in our technology integration for the past 2-3 years. Student terminals, smartboards, internet access for our students, clickers, are are just some of the technology tools that we are using but integrating them are still in the works I believe. As MTT mentors in the future, I trully believe that we should have the burden to share our ideas and teach our colleagues what we have learned and be an instrument of change, genuine change in our classrooms. http://www.techlearning.com/article/41670
  • kate Binns on 30 Jan 12
     
    This article neatly summed up many of the barriers facing true technology integration. Several issues resonated with my own experiences. As Elva and President Obama stated above, often teachers primary worry in the classroom is preparing students for state examinations. Third graders spend entire lessons learning how to analyze a multiple choice question and answer it! If students do poorly on a district wide test, teachers go into immediate action to fix the problem. This pressure comes from administration, school districts, and states. In the end, teachers need to produce good to excellent test scores or they end up losing their positions. It's not that teachers don't want to integrate the technology, but at the end of the day, their performance assessment will reflect more heavily upon how their students scored on a test and not how frequently the SmartBoard was utilized. That being said, fully embracing technology could greatly enhance test scores. It will take time. There will be big failures. There will also be big successes! According to Peter Kent's "SmartBoards: Interactive Whiteboards in the Classroom", "The catch phrase 'it is not the technology, it is the teacher' has never been so true as it is with interactive whiteboards. An even truer phrase however would be 'it is not just the teacher, it is the school'." Smartboards are just one example of technology that can be utilized in the classroom to increase test scores. However, whenever trying something new there will be failures. Teachers and their administration must understand that and be willing to reevaluate what they are doing. It takes our students multiple tries to master a new concept; we should allow ourselves the same time to master new technology. Works Cited: Kent, P. (2003). Smartboards: Interactive whiteboards in classrooms. In Retrieved from http://www.lhric.org/
  • Olivet Castillo on 30 Jan 12
     
    I can definitely agree with Marc Presnsky's article when it comes to the barriers that prohibit technology integration to occur. I think the first step in moving forward with this concept is the teacher. Prensky writes, "..the teachers and administrators famously resist change." "...such shifting certainly initially means more work and pressure on educators, who already fell overburdened." I think with most teachers, it is fear that is hindering them from fully embracing technology. If teachers are not comfortable or are familiar with the integration of a Web 2.0 tool, then they will definitely not be comfortable teaching/integrating it into their classrooms. As far as my campus, Veterans Middle School, I believe some progress has occurred within the last 2-3 years, it has been a slow paced progress with one or two teachers slowly embracing it. This can be attributed part to Technology Trainings provided by the district as well as the Master of Technology Teacher Program that has been provided to the entire district. Those few teachers who have chosen to participate in the program are getting the skills and confidence, so they in turn will mentor other teachers. The only way to move forward is to collaboratively work as a District and as a campus with technology integration in mind. The following article/blog provides eight simple steps to help the classroom teacher integrate technology. "Implementing Effective Technological Change: What a Classroom Teacher Needs." April 2011 by Greg Swanson. http://edtechtoolbox.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-to-support-teachers.html
  • Leticia Mendez on 30 Jan 12
     
    I am a BIM teacher and I guess it is easy for me to integrate technology because if I'm not using it then I am really not doing my job, because it is expected as a technology teacher. I have heard all kinds of barriers that teachers complain about, one is not enough computers or not enough training but in fact there is training and the bottom line is the change, some people find it hard to change but once they decide to give technology a try and they become consisted with using it the technology starts working for them or at least they will see it that way. Time will always be an issue and we are in education so we must make do with what we have and in our school just about everyone has a smart board and that is a step up from a regular chalk board which is an easy tech tool to engage students. The support must be there after the training because a teacher needs some one there to follow up on their training just to make sure they are implementing the technology correctly in their lessons and of course integrating other applications as well. (Dragula, 2005) Persistance and consistency is the key to integrating technology and not staying behind with the dinosaurs. Dragula, M.ED, J. (2005, April 1). How to Overcome Technology Integration Barriers. Retrieved from Tech & Learning: http://www.techlearning.com/article/42541
  • Esther Sauceda on 30 Jan 12
     
    The campus has shown much improvement integrating technology into their curriculum. More teachers are becoming familiar with Web 2.0 tools, licensed software and diverse hardware devices. Teachers want to integrate technology however face many challenges such as time to learn the skills and to integrate them into their curriculum, technical support, funding, and software/hardware. Some teachers become discourage and impatient when they encounter technical difficulties; thus, classroom computers become unused. According to Great Schools, many schools are now providing each student a laptop to access classroom curriculum, elementary schools are utilizing blogging a vehicle to collaborate and improve writing skills. Many schools are now using Web 2.0 tools to engage students and enhance student learning. Implementing any change becomes beneficial if done properly. Integrating technology becomes possible when teachers are adequately trained, software and hardware are available, provided continuous support is provided and ample time is given to implement the skill Great Schools. Technology in the classroom: Fad or foundation for learning? Retrieved from: http://www.greatschools.org/students/media-kids/130-technology-in-the-classroom-fad-or-foundation-for-learning.gs
  • Delia Torres on 01 Feb 12
     
    Since the implementation of the Master Teacher Technology Program (MTT) in our school district, I have seen a strengthened professional development in the use of technology for classroom instruction. The MMT program has been vital in creating networking connections with other teachers so that we are not working in isolation in the integration of technology. These small teacher groups are gradually moving forward to demonstrate technology integration in their classes to other teachers that are hesitant or fear it. We are learning from each other and becoming a buddy to someone else in our campuses. By networking, we overcome the fear of the unknown in technology usage and work with what we have in the classroom. Adaptation is critical, since most classroom teachers in our school district only have four computers for student usage, whiteboard, projector, and teacher instructional computer. Boss, S. (August 2008). Overcoming Technology Barriers: How to Innovate Without Extra Money or Support. Retrieved from www.edutopia.org: http://www.edutopia.org/technology-how-to-implement-classroom
  • Lisandra Medina on 03 Feb 12
     
    My campus has shown improvement in the past couple of years. Every classroom has a document camera and a smart-board! Almost every class has about 4 class computers for the students to use. The computers are not just for programs now. The computers are used for so much more now. The students have the knowledge on how to use the internet as search engines for research. The students know how to use social networking, which sometimes is not a good idea, but they know how to use it. Some times the students know how to use the computers better than the teacher. But we are always learning because technology is always changing. This is awesome because the students get to be more involved and teachers see how the technology helps the students understand the subjects better! I don't agree with this quote from a Maine teacher "You can mourn the passing of handwriting if you must; the kids certainly won't. If they are writing better and more detailed papers, yes, there has been progress." I think that technology is great but sometimes because a computer has spell check students don't know how to spell. Handwriting should still be taught as well as grammar and spelling. Sometimes these subjects are left behind do to computers. I know that in the future handwriting may be obsolete due to technology but it shouldn't!!!! http://www.edutopia.org/adopt-and-adapt
  • Karina Arias on 03 Feb 12
     
    I have only been in my school for this first semester. I have not observed many teachers implementing technology in their lessons. Technology seems to be slowly creeping into our lessons. The use of document cameras and projectors are very popular, but the actual implementation with students is minimal. One of my colleagues mentioned that time is an issue, and it is. We are very focused on delivering and making sure our students understand all concepts taught that we often leave the creativity and inquiry out of our lesson plans. Nellie Deutsch mentions that educators are eager and motivated to implement technology into the classroom, but that there are many obstacles to overcome. I couldn't agree more, we need more time to practice and explore the technologies and programs that we wish for our students to use. http://www.nelliemuller.com/obstacles_to_technology_implementation.htm
  • Michelle Salazar on 19 Mar 12
     
    In my campus I have noticed that veteran teachers tend to stay away from technology. Veteran teachers didn't grow up with technology in their classrooms and have been teaching for years with out technology that they see no need to implement it now. I really see that as shameful! Now, as a MTT in training, I really want to change these teachers minds about technology and show them how easy it is to use. "With the infusion of technology into all aspects of daily life, students are becoming more and more adept at using technology as an educational resource. Many faculty, however, are not keeping pace with their students. Additionally, faculty feel increasingly unprepared to integrate technology into the classroom." Efau, J. (2005, May 4). No Teacher Left Behind: How to Teach with Technology. Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/EDUCAUSE+Quarterly/EDUCAUSEQuarterlyMagazineVolum/NoTeacherLeftBehindHowtoTeachw/157372
  • Salina V on 14 May 12
     
    I seem a bit doubtful that well working laptops can be found for almost 100 dollars for schools as this article suggest, but after looking at Project Inkwell's Web site, it seems like something that we might see in the future. Although I do not foresee my campus being able to complete the "one on one" process any time soon, I feel that it is improving with technology integration. New equipment that I have seen to promote technology integration has already been coming in to our library, which helps us get one step closer to meeting integration goals. We still face a few dilemmas with technology integration, such as lack of working computers in a classroom, or no student Ethernet hookups in the portables, but our administrators do what they can to help us with problems we face with this. There is of course however only so much that they can do, but little by little, I can see the process of technology integration in to the classrooms moving along as each year passes. An example of this movement that has been done can be seen when looking back at the year when our school's portables were first put up. It was at this time that there wasn't any internet provide to those in the portables at all. There as well were not enough SMART boards for every classroom, or any computer classes for 6 grade students. Completing a project using technology with 6 graders was really hard before they opened up computer classes for them. Now, internet, although a bit limited in the portables still, can at least be reached to them, Smart board are given to each teacher, knowledge of technology use is much better than the past 6th graders, and workshops for the use of technology are also provide from time to time. This makes it much more less time consuming for many teachers who wish to integrate technology into their classrooms, and keeps our campus moving in the right track for proper technology integration in our schools. A link, by Project Inkwell, to the prototype dev
Christine Claudio

An Introduction to Project-Based Learning | Edutopia | Diigo - 4 views

www.diigo.com/...ed-learning-introduction-video

PBL education project based Spring 2013 Spring2013

shared by Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13 - No Cached
  • Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13
     
    This is Gayle using Christine's account.... We all have learned the benefits of PBLs and have seen how they inegrate technology wonderfully, but in our test driven public schools, are they realistic? One speaker in the video says we have to forget about curriculum and explains that means we don't teach a certain thing on a certain day. He says students learn as they need to. Can we realistically do that? If so, how? Does our current system support project based learning?
  • ...4 more comments...
  • Cora Mendez on 26 Feb 13
     
    Gayle, I think that when a PBL is used in the classroom one must consider what content will be taught or integrated through it. I listened to the video,but as an educator I know better. I cannot forget about the curriculum, but I can figure out ways to imbed it into my PBLs. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for the testing grades to find time to implement PBLs. I think that the beginning of the year or after testing would be the best times to try PBLs in the grade levels where time to teach the content is so critical before the test. However, I think that PBLs help children make real life connections, and they learn things in a way that it will stay with them forever.
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 04 Mar 13
     
    Cora, I agree we can't forget about the curriculum, but like you, I think PBLs really help make those connections and there is real learning going on. After testing seems to be a great place for PBLs.
  • Isabel Cabrera on 15 Mar 13
     
    Problem Based Learning is integrated using all subjects to learn about a specific topic. You are applying research which requires reading and writing, analyzing your data in order to interpret or communicate your results. The students were engaged. One comment that one of the girls said was that their first wing was not that great, but went back and made the second wing better. They learned from their mistakes, which was just trial and error. In conclusion, I really liked that the students had to present in front of a real panel of experts of engineers to communicate their findings. It really holds students responsible to learn their material before presenting their data and findings.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 11 Apr 13
     
    I have seen it implemented in a school year round, and once teachers understand it, they can successfully implement it with the core objectives embedded as scaffodling activities. It has so many benefits, but the training must be thorough as what I was fortunate enough to experience. We cannot send ambassadors, who bring back info without exposing all teachers to the actual settings in real classrooms. So much information and experience is lost unless teachers see it first hand.
  • Heather Luna on 13 Apr 13
     
    PBL are an excellent way to get our student's learning and thinking at a deeper level. Unlike a traditional assignment or practice test, the impact of learning may not be seen immediately, but I believe the learning is what I would refer to as "TRUE learning". For example, I can teach a lesson on plant and animal adaptations and give an assignment, in which all students do well, but does that mean that they truly understand adaptations and can make connections beyond what was taught? Is the information temporary or permanently stored? PBLs promote critical thinking which will allow students to begin thinking beyond what is being taught. I agree that teachers need proper guidance and support to properly implement, but it can be done.
  • Adam Hovde on 15 Apr 13
     
    I have tried to incorporate more PBLs into my lessons. I find sometime the PBLs take a lot longer to do and some of teh students do all the work while others just "come along for teh ride". I think the PBL is a great way to teach concepts it just seems that I run out of time to truely do the PBL justice.
Noe Granado

How much do you let your students use technology in the classroom? - 12 views

I make sure technology is being used 100% of the time. Students are expected to either use Web 2.0 tools or if they have a better Web 2.0 tool they must share it with the classroom. They have acces...

started by Maria Izquierdo on 18 Apr 12 6 follow-ups, last by Noe Granado on 21 May 12
Delilah Alegria

How has becoming an MTT change you? - 45 views

When I first started the MTT program, I was a bit skeptical about my abilities to perform at a high level. I quickly realized that becoming an MTT was more of a learning experience than an assessme...

tech classroom

started by Claudia MARQUEZ on 19 Feb 12 18 follow-ups, last by Delilah Alegria on 26 Mar 12
Diana Cedillo

Technology Impact on Learning - 8 views

www.nsba.org/...tiol.html

shared by Diana Cedillo on 01 Oct 12 - Cached
  • Children did not become social isolates. ACOT classes showed more evidence of spontaneous cooperative learning than did traditional classes.
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 01 Oct 12
       
      How did technology encourage cooperative learning in this Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow project?
    • Leonila Pena
      Leonila Pena on 14 Oct 12
       
      I believe that having access to technology whenever they needed it gave the students the ability to go beyond the walls of the classroom. They didn't have to rely solely on the teacher as their learning resource. They had the tool to explore the world from their own home and the opportunity to become creators of their own learning. Through their research they most likely found other individuals that had the same interests as they did, people with whom they could share what they knew and also learn from. Many students become more confident when they see that others have interest in their work, it makes them want to show others what they know and help others enabling them to work more cooperatively with their peers.
  • The studies showed that ACOT students wrote better and were able to complete unites of study more rapidly than their peers in non-ACOT classrooms. In one case, students finished the year’s study of mathematics by the beginning of April. In short, academic productivity did not suffer and in some cases even improved.
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 01 Oct 12
       
      According to this study, do you think that our students in our classrooms would have the same results if we presented them with computers as they did in their program? If so, what would we do or how would we follow this program with limited funding on technology?
  • Nineteen of the ACOT students (90%) went on to college, while only 15% of non-ACOT student sought higher education.
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 01 Oct 12
       
      How has technology encouraged students to pursue higher education?
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 01 Oct 12
       
      Technology encourages students to take more responsibility for their own learning. In addition, it creates a different attitude toward learning because they now act as active participants in their own learning. This is good information to share with other teachers. Thank you for sharing.
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 06 Oct 12
       
      Yes Palomares, I agree it does encourge a student-centered learning environment. A direction we all seem to be moving towards.
  • ...1 more annotation...
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 01 Oct 12
       
      Is technology making a positive impact on education? If so, how?
    • Joshua McDonald
      Joshua McDonald on 06 Oct 12
       
      I believe technology is doing what is has always done, making things happen faster, which for the most part I would say is a great thing. Specifically in education you can find a wealth of information for research in a very short amount of time, papers are easier to type then write, learning can be more individualistic, and I will stop there. So I can see lots of positive impacts in the education setting, but I can also see concerns. For instance I have noticed that for the most part my students lack the necessary skills to stop and think through a situation or a problem. If it takes to much time to solve, most of them will give up. They are used to getting things quickly. I do think the the positives outweigh the negatives in this instance.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 07 Oct 12
       
      I agree with Joshua, technology is indeed making a positive impact on education. There are more students using a wide variety of programs that motivate them to do better in school. Programs such as Stixty have given the students the opportunity to do book reports in a fun and interactive way. There are numerous of other examples that demonstrate how technology is making a positive impact on education. It's making positive impacts on how we (educators) collaborate and share relevant information through programs such as this social bookmarking website(Diigo).
    • Santos Alvarado
      Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
       
      I have to agree with Joshua and Romel, that technology does have a positive impact in the classroom. I believe technology increases the student's motivation and self esteem to learn, because they are using tools that they are use to, not just paper and pencil. It makes the students excited about coming to school. I teach 5th grade students, and when I receive the students they lack the basic knowledge how to use Microsoft word and PowerPoint, but once they leave they learn how to use stixy, and glogster for presentation purposes. I believe technology in the classroom creates a positive environment for learning and collaborating with one another.
  • Maribel Gracia on 04 Oct 12
     
    I think if the students get this opportunity to have a computers, they would have more access to get more resources for their studies. On the other hand, students need to be monitor when using computers to make they are using them effectively and not getting into websites that would get them in trouble.
  • ...4 more comments...
  • Marivel Garcia on 04 Oct 12
     
    This is a great study on the positive effects of technology. I can see how it could have been so successful, like any other type of program or project, consistency is the key aspect. Any type of technology that is going to be introduced into the learning setting will be effective if the accountability and full cooperation is clearly stated prior to making the commitment. This is something I have seen as an educator that becomes an issue because as Title 1 districts I am sure funds are available for Ipads or any other tablet that might be more affordable but the way things are implemented is a big aspect of how productive you will be. Many times we begin something and not follow through, I think that implementing any time of tablet into the learning process in our school is a great way to enhance learning as long as we set goals to meet and accomplish. Great information thank you for sharing.
  • Diana Cedillo on 06 Oct 12
     
    Marivel, I agree that districts and campuses have to be committed when introducing and executing the use of technology in the classroom. I believe errors in success occur when there's no consistency in using a technology in the classroom. Students are always more engaged. For example, this week, I did the story plot with my students in class and we retold the story of Prometheus using Toontastic ( I believe that's the name of the app) and my students were glued to the screen. It's a FREE app I encourage teachers to use. It provides the visual in the story students need so they can recall events in the story.
  • Ruth Garza on 06 Oct 12
     
    Learned alot from this study!! It's amazing how much influence technology has on students. When I read that 90% of the students who were using technology went to college compared to only 15% of the non-tech students, I was shocked. It puzzles me how many school districts are not willing to make the necessary expenses to attain this same achievement. The school drop-out rate is sky rocketing here in the valley. I posted a link to a Texas drop out report. Check it out! http://www.idra.org/Research/Attrition/
  • Marivel Garcia on 08 Oct 12
     
    Thank you for sharing the FREE app on recalling events in a story. I will try it tomorrow and hope to have great results just like you. Thank you.
  • Sergio Perez on 15 Oct 12
     
    Technology is a great way of getting our students more engaged in our lessons. It was surprising to read in this article how the students in the ACOT program were college-bound unlike the other students in the same high school. Students are able to use technology to collaborate. I feel students might feel more comfortable sharing their ideas with one another through the use of technology.
  • Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
     
    I have to agree with Joshua and Romel, that technology does have a positive impact in the classroom. I believe technology increases the student's motivation and self esteem to learn, because they are using tools that they are use to, not just paper and pencil. It makes the students excited about coming to school. I teach 5th grade students, and when I receive the students they lack the basic knowledge how to use Microsoft word and PowerPoint, but once they leave they learn how to use stixy, and glogster for presentation purposes. I believe technology in the classroom creates a positive environment for learning and collaborating with one another.
Cora Mendez

Technology and Young Children | National Association for the Education of Young Childre... - 6 views

www.naeyc.org/...technology-and-young-children

Spring 2013 Spring2013

shared by Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13 - No Cached
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13
       
      The video is at the bottom of the page. I know it is long, but you can skip ahead by clicking on the arrows. Very good information for early childhood teachers. Make sure to listen to slides 27and 28.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13
       
      There is a Pdf document if you wish to read instead of listening to webcast.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 25 Mar 13
       
      I went ahead and viewed the whole web cast and it was so good to see Mr. Rogers. I remember watching him all the time as a young child and I was always so excited to see what he was going to teach us about next. He educated us about train stations, using videos. He did role playing with his puppets to engage us by asking and answering questions. He was one of the founding fathers of integrating technology for early childhood learning. The NAEYC is right about integrating technology in preschools but doing it in an effective way to educate children not just for passive entertainment purposes.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 26 Mar 13
       
      Isabel you are right Mr. Rogers was one of the first to integrate technology in early childhood through his show. Children loved it. I remember watching it with my kids. Most of the programs they have in the computer labs for early childhood now a days don't challenge our prekinder and kinder students. We need to move away from that. My prek students use Twiddla in the classroom, and they will ask me to share the screen so they can collaborate with their partner on another computer. These little ones are like sponges, and they will learn just about anything especially technology.
  • When used intentionally and appropriately, technology and interactive media are effective tools to support learning and development.
  • Intentional use requires early childhood teachers and administrators to have information and resources regarding the nature of these tools and the implications of their use with children.
  • ...1 more annotation...
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13
       
      For years I have heard people go back and forth about whether using technology with youg children is good or bad. I was glad to finally learn the answer from NAEYC.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 25 Mar 13
       
      Now I think technology is more kid friendly than before. I see children more often exposed and engaged to technology through the use of IPADS. The applications are easy for kids to download and play. Even with the use of these new smart phones, kids take them away from their parents and play games. I remember my son being 2 years old and learning how to work the vhs/dvd player to view his favorite Disney cartoon, "The Lion King." He learned so fast that he would turn it on so early in the morning by himself. I was so amazed.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 01 Apr 13
       
      Isabel, you are right. Children learn how to use technology very quickly. Just like your son. If it is something that intrigues them, they are quick to learn it.
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 15 Apr 13
       
      I totally agree that technology has change tremendously and is more user friendly nowadays, specially for kids, but I agree that sometimes certain hands on activities go better without the use of technology, for example, I have seen some applications for painting where the student has to select the colors and type of brush, I rather have my kid experiencing this activity with water painting than with an ipad for example. Therefore I believe that depending on the purpose of the lesson I would think about using or not technology.
  • Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13
     
    If you have ever wondered what NAEYC stand on use of technology and early child hood education is, you must listen to this webcast. Have you wondered if using technology in early childhood was DAP(developmentally appropriate practice)? Listen to find out.
  • ...11 more comments...
  • Cora Mendez on 25 Mar 13
     
    Lower grades are always the last ones to get new technology if they do get any at all. Why do districts or administrators think that the upper grades are priority? Is it because they are the testing grade levels? Don't you think that if we were to teach children how to use technology since they were in pre-kinder, then they could do so much more in depth projects when they were in the upper grades instead of learning how to use it in the upper grades. What is your take on this topic?
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 31 Mar 13
     
    Cora, the bottom line is that the upper levels get tested, and the results dictate our very jobs. If there is anything I have understood is that "we" are all important components of a school, but when it comes to testing and results, step aside because the upper grades are priority. It is what it is, but as a teacher, I know that every grade level lays the foundation....and a strong foundation is important.
  • Heather Luna on 31 Mar 13
     
    Cora, I think the lower grades should have access to technology, just as the upper grades. I recently read an article that concluded that children as young as two can utilize an iPad as an educational tool, much like they use blocks and play dough. Touch screen technology has eliminated the need for children to "have" to learn to manipulate a traditional keyboard and mouse. In addition, young children are "sponges" that can absorb and achieve much more than we give them credit for. I see how the focus tends to be on the upper elementary, and primarily because of testing, but I have learned that as educators, we have to learn to be more proactive as opposed to reactive.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 01 Apr 13
     
    Heather, I agree with you, and I include our early (PK and K) childhood in all iPad activities, and they all get to handle one by themselves with help if needed. They can at least get the manipulation and navigation under their belt, by the end of the year, they are savvy. Children cultivate 85 percent of their intellect, personality and skills by age five. This is what crosses my mind when I meet a child who has never been read to or even talked to. They have so much to learn. See the article below. http://www.wccf.org/pdf/brain_dev_and_early_learning.pdf
  • Cesar Mata on 01 Apr 13
     
    I like the point that Roberta Schomburg makes about how technology integration is everywhere today. It's not just confined to the computer labs anymore. The students should have access to technology in the classroom on a daily basis. I wish I could say that this is a reality in our campus but it is more of a rarity.
  • Cora Mendez on 01 Apr 13
     
    Heather, I totally agree with you that young children are like sponges because I get to see it everyday this year in my pre-kinder classroom. Unfortunately in my classroom we only have one teacher iPad, but I let my little ones use it every chance I get. When I first got the iPad, I was surprised that they knew more about it than I did. I teach them how to use something on it, and they pick it up write away. I am always looking out for my little ones and asking for more technology whenever I can. When I moved into pre-kinder this year I asked for a document camera and projector. Last years teacher did not have one, but I was going to make sure my kids had access to the use of those tools. My children enjoying using them. I have one little boy who says, "Mrs. Mendez I want the scream." He means to say he wants me to project something onto the screen like a game, movie, book etc. They enjoy using technology. It makes things more engaging and fun to learn.
  • Cora Mendez on 01 Apr 13
     
    Ana, that is so awesome that you allow PK and K to use ipads. In our school only 5th graders got one and one for every teacher. You are right if you teach them the basics when they are young, they will have that under their belt and can progress from there in another grade level. Thank you for sharing the article. It is a good reminder of how critical their first 5 years are for learning. This is why I don't understand why they make PK only available for low income people in so many places. How does this affect our middle income and high income children when in comes to them not receiving a whole one year foundation on the basics of learning. I would never have believed that Pk students are capable of so much learning if I had not seen it and experienced it for myself. They are amazing learners.
  • albert rodriguez on 01 Apr 13
     
    Mr. Rogers; I loved his show, although it was right on for that era, this newer generation requires a different approach which is the use of today's technology. They seem to on board and very knowledgeable with iPads, apps, and games out there. Although I have very little experience with Pre-K and Kinder, I am aware that they are an even better target to incorporate technology with. I think as teachers, we might want to set our standards a little higher with our students, especially the little ones and be ready to be surprised on what they know and can do.
  • Christine Claudio on 01 Apr 13
     
    I can understand the concern over age, but we witness the use of technology from our Pre-K and Kinder on a daily basis. I firmly believe, that technology enhances children's cognitive and social abilities, when used appropriately. Especially when we set the goals and introduce digitial citizenship early on.
  • Juan Betancourt on 01 Apr 13
     
    From a technology standpoint, there are more apps available for students in the lower grades than for the higher grades. From a personal stand point, even my three year old can use the ipad and iphone for seeing videos and playing games. If I were an administrator, I would start deployment of an Ipad/Ipod program in the lower grades.
  • Cora Mendez on 02 Apr 13
     
    Juan I wish more administrators would think like you. I think that technology integration in the lower valley is still in its early stages, so in time I think lower grades will get more technology and more programs will be available to to cater to lower grades. I know the apps are there, but we the the hardware. My document camera and projector were borrowed because they needed it to tutor the upper grades for STAAR. I have had to manage without it. I have two desktops and my laptop and my ipad in my classroom as far as hardware goes.
  • Adam Hovde on 03 Apr 13
     
    I love Mr. Rogers. I have shown my son many of the episodes when he was younger. I can definetly see how technology could be used with the young in teaching. I can also so how, like many of us, technology is not always in teh classroom to help when it is needed. I would like ot see more uses for technology with smaller children and how they learn from it. We have years of data on teh old way of teaching children maybe someone can come up with research on how technology is enhancing or hindering education in children.
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 15 Apr 13
     
    The video was long, but very informative. The word intentional kept coming up in the video and you used two quotes that included the word as well. Intentional use is so important. I've mention on other posts the use of sites the District subscribes to. The students enjoy these and they benfit from them; however, I feel there could be more intional uses that are much more benficial. The position statement clearly outlines the benefits of integrating technology not only in schools, but in every day life. The statement presents this in such a way that really shows the resposibilty (tremendous challenge) educators and care givers have to young children in order to empower them with this knowledge and skills and nuture the whole child. I agree more administrators and teachers - educators in general - don't emrabrace the importance of technology. Perhaps this position statement would help them.
Betsy Vela

3D Printing Pen Turns Doodles Into Objects - PSFK - 8 views

www.psfk.com/...3d-printing-pen.html

printing pen Spring 2013 Spring2013

shared by Betsy Vela on 14 Apr 13 - No Cached
    • Betsy Vela
      Betsy Vela on 14 Apr 13
       
      3-D technology appeared many years ago in movie theaters and has reached out and touched our hands in the forms of televisions, projectors, printers and gaming systems. PSFK.com is one of the websites I most refer to when I want to know what's being explored throughout the world with new technology. I was floored when I came across both of these links months ago: The 3-D printing pen and the 3-D paper printouts. The possibilities are endless for education. How would you integrate these tools in an educational setting? Paper-Kit.com http://www.psfk.com/2013/01/3d-paper-head-shots.html 3D Pen http://www.psfk.com/2013/02/3d-printing-pen.html Be sure to watch the video. It is amazing! I see so much future in this tool being used in education. Ideas would come out in a tangible format.
    • Edna Orozco
      Edna Orozco on 15 Apr 13
       
      We use 3D printer for my design class, I like this idea of the pen, because before students actually print something, they need to sketch their drawings, and this would be a helpful way of using 3D drawing, because sometimes it is difficult for students to visualize 3D in a piece of paper. I will totally look forward this piece of technology for my Computer Aided Design Class
  • doesn’t require any software or computers,
  • create 3D objects by just drawing them.
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • start drawing within minutes.
  • A pledge of $75 gets you a 3Doodler pen and two bags of mixed color plastic.
  • Adam Hovde on 15 Apr 13
     
    I really, really really want a classroom set of these. I can think of so many things I could do with my physics classes. I think I might have to write a grant this week to get these for my class.
  • ...10 more comments...
  • Gayle Curry Robinson on 15 Apr 13
     
    This tool looks really cool. The model of the Eiffel Tower and the portrait really shows the possibilities. I would integrate this tool in math when teaching and practicing/reviewing geometry - 3 D figures, 2 D shapes, etc. The students could greate their own 3 D models instead of creating the traditional paper models. The students would love it! I wonder how much the plastic refill is.
  • Juan Betancourt on 15 Apr 13
     
    I can think of several uses that I could give this device, like creating 3 d models of network installations, designing a computer, and other projects.
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 15 Apr 13
     
    Architecture, Geometric shapes, anatomy of animals, characters for storytelling, parts of a plant, sketch of a historical figure...the possiblities are endless. I am glad you shared this tool, what an awesome invention. I, too, wonder what the cost for the refill plastic is, and whether it heats up at a high or low temp. Thank you for sharing.
  • Isabel Cabrera on 15 Apr 13
     
    I can see how some students may use their creativity using the 3-D writing pen. It would be amazing to see what some people could come up with. The 3-D printing paper is amazing how with just a few photos the computer can print out a paper that can be assembled into a 3-dimensional object. Thanks for posting this, this are very interesting and advanced technologies!
  • April Canales-Perez on 15 Apr 13
     
    This is such a neat tool to incorporate in the classroom. I would like to use this tool in my math class to reinforce geometric vocabulary words and figures. Students will be able to create their own 3-d figures and get a feel for what a vertex, edge, and face look like instead of drawing flat on a paper. This would be a great tool for our early college which does a yearly math project of creating a scale model of a famous building or structure. Students will be able to create the whole model using this pen.
  • Cesar Mata on 15 Apr 13
     
    What a marvelous find Betsy. The possibilities do seem endless. Like Gayle and April said already, my first thought was 3D figures for math. This would make it extremely easy to teach vertices, faces, and edges in math. My favorite part of the pen was actually the ability to repair plastic things. How much does it cost?
  • Georgina Salas on 15 Apr 13
     
    Amazing!! As soon as I saw this I thought of so many things my 1st graders can do with this pen. The students would have so much fun with it. They would be able to see that learning can be fun and it will help remember so many things because they actually created it with this 3D pen. I could use this pen for all the subjects I teach.
  • albert rodriguez on 15 Apr 13
     
    I'm going to do my best to get one of these pens for my classroom. I was blown away; imagine what it would do for the students. Once again, the possibilities are endless and what a cool piece of technology.
  • Heather Luna on 20 Apr 13
     
    Wow! These are very cool. I can see how these would enhance and enrich a geometry lesson on 3-dimensional figures and/or measurement (e.g. volume). I agree with Adam, a class set has endless potential.
  • Lupita Sanchez on 22 Apr 13
     
    This is a real cool pen, I can only wonder what the next generation will be like. If this is just the first version; it next will be even better. Students would go crazy using these tools. Like Heather and Adam stated the potential use is endless. Using the pen for science and math would be great. The electives classes would also benefit from using the pens. Now, getting a hold or purchasing them is a totally different thing. Our district is cutting back once more and our budget is already gone. Looking for a grant would be the next best thing.
  • Cora Mendez on 25 Apr 13
     
    Wow Betsy, these tools are very neat. I see how the 3d pen could be used in the classroom to show students 3d models like for 3 dimensional shapes. I agree with everyone else who says that a class set would be a great thing to have in the classroom. Thanks for sharing these tools Betsy.
  • Conrado Gonzalez on 01 May 13
     
    I've seen it and honestly I think that even though it is really cool, that for the most part they are a gimmick. Sorry to be so pessimistic but I just don't what is so cool about them. Anyway, if my assessment is flawed and I am proven wrong, I'll be the first one to admit it.
Heather Luna

Fun Technology - YouTube - 15 views

www.youtube.com/watch

shared by Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13 - No Cached
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13
       
      Even parents are beginning to consider available technologies as more than a "toy".
    • Juan Betancourt
      Juan Betancourt on 14 Feb 13
       
      Seeing this video, and the previous one, makes me feel like i'm underusing my computer lab. It makes me want to do more with my students. I need to borrow some of the information on both.
    • Isabel Cabrera
      Isabel Cabrera on 17 Feb 13
       
      It is great what they are doing at North Side ISD. The students were engaged as they were communicating to their pen pals using Skype. They are learning and sharing things with each other. Great video!
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 18 Feb 13
       
      Juan, I am glad to see that the video has inspired you to utilize your campus computer lab. The computer lab can offer endless oppurtunities for your students. How do you think you will use the lab in the coming weeks?
    • Juan Betancourt
      Juan Betancourt on 19 Feb 13
       
      This week for one of my classes we are creating a basic personal wiki for the students and incorporating a voki as part of the introduction to the wiki. For the last six weeks, I plan to incorporate whyville.com the way it was showcased in class by exploring and collecting clams then, making a clam scale for the grade in one of my classes.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 20 Feb 13
       
      Wow Juan sounds like the video has inspired you begin some great projects with your students. The students will love using voki and I am sure that they will be thrilled to play whyville for a grade. Sounds like lots of fun. They will be totally engaged.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 20 Feb 13
       
      Great video Heather. They are incorporating interactive technology at that school. The students were really excited to meet their pen pals through skype. The concept of seeing people that are far away projected in their classroom live is pretty amazing to children. I remember when I did the lesson through NASA space center last year with my 1st graders. They were so excited to see that a live person was on the other side talking to them.
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 22 Feb 13
       
      Cora, I am glad you were able to use the NASA lesson last year. Do you anticipate incorporating a distance learning lesson in your classroom this year?
    • Dara Cepeda
      Dara Cepeda on 25 Feb 13
       
      Wow This school is a great exaple in using interactive Technology in education. I have seen how the kids get engaged with technology in their hands. I'm so happy and excited to see this video because it just reminds us of some of the many possiblities in using technology. I just had a technology meeting with my school district and found out that very soon we will incorporate the "bring your own device" to use it in the classroom. I'm very excited about this!
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 25 Feb 13
       
      I am not sure Heather?
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13
       
      Self-guided learning! Amazing! Challenge students and teachers simultaneously. 
    • Jessica Burnias
      Jessica Burnias on 11 Feb 13
       
      This video was amazing how it should all the different levels of engagement through the use of technology. I believe that technology used properly can definitely be used to engage the learner. Through the use of technology, as an educator we are able to engage all types of learners. For example: kinesthetic, visual and auditory.
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 12 Feb 13
       
      Jessica, thank-you for your comment. The video does reflect the varying levels of engagement. I agree that when used correctly, technology provides an opportunity to reach all learning modalities.
    • Diana Arcaute
      Diana Arcaute on 13 Feb 13
       
      You know I really did enjoy this video. I love how the school uses a Wii system to get students motivated and ready for the day!
    • Adam Hovde
      Adam Hovde on 13 Feb 13
       
      I really liked the video. It is good to see more and more schools adopting technology into the classroom. My school district has a BYOT set up but we are struggling because our infrastructure can not handle that many electronic devices. As a teacher I am wanting to use more technology but many times when I try and use it we get bogged down because the network is too slow. I am glad some schools out there are able to use the ipads and nanos hopefully all schools will have the infrastructure necessary to run these devices. Great choice for a this diigo group.
    • Diana Arcaute
      Diana Arcaute on 13 Feb 13
       
      Adam, I think you have a great point about all schools hopefully one day having the same infrastructure necessary to run the tools. Often, some schools are left behind to fend for themselves, while other schools within the same district advance. It blows my mind that students are not given the same opportunities for growth yet, they all take the same state test.
    • Jessica Burnias
      Jessica Burnias on 18 Feb 13
       
      Adam, I know exactly how you feel at our campus we have the BYOD and we have the same problem. They are hoping to work out the kinks and for next year they are hoping the whole district will be BYOD right now it is just our high school and 9th grade campus.
    • Cora Mendez
      Cora Mendez on 20 Feb 13
       
      Diana, I liked the idea of using the Wii too. I liked that they are getting the whole school motivated to exercise, and they are doing it in the morning which is the perfect way to start the day.
    • Heather Luna
      Heather Luna on 22 Feb 13
       
      Diana, I agree with your comment. It is discouraging to see that schools within a district have such different infrastructures. All students should be provided with equal opportunities for learning. I too would like to see how the infrastructures change and develop over the course of the next few years.
  • Heather Luna on 11 Feb 13
     
    Northside ISD is using technology to keep there students engaged.
  • ...7 more comments...
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 14 Feb 13
     
    Love the autonomy that these children have when using the ipods to listen to the video at their pace! The lesson is guided with the questions and they control the playing of the video. Everyone wins! Diana, I agree with your comment, it is often unfair how one school can offer so much, yet another in the same district cannot, and we are the ones to make sure we give our students the best. Many times we don't give our all because of the support we have, whether with infrastructure or to in bringing our visions to life. We must not forget that we have the BYOD option as well..we need to do whatever it takes to motivate learning.
  • george saenz on 15 Feb 13
     
    I really like the way the school is using the technology in the classroom. Many schools are bringing in the itouch and iPad but are not showing the teachers how to use them and that is a sham. I really like that the students have controll of how they listen to the information they can pause or replay as many times they need until they understand without the embaracement of other knowing how long it took to get it.
  • Brian Martinez on 18 Feb 13
     
    It is great to see success with technology. It is disheartening to see how so many school get stuck in infrastructure problems such as what Ana was mentioning. Because of that, the teachers never get to flesh out the ideas they have for technology. Hopefully more success stories can motivate existing districts and campuses to make more investments to properly support BYOD and technology investments.
  • Georgina Salas on 18 Feb 13
     
    I love what Northside ISD is doing with technology. Districts need to start taking technology serious and realize that it is how most of our students learn these days. My little first graders learn so much from the technology that I use. I sometimes feel like I am doing something wrong on a day that I do not use technology.
  • Cesar Mata on 18 Feb 13
     
    Great video Heather! It's amazing to see what these iDevices are capable of in the right hands. I see iPods in a whole new light now. I especially liked the one where they're learning a math concept from the iPods. Students might be more interested in math if they are able to use technology to learn it.
  • albert rodriguez on 18 Feb 13
     
    Thank Goodness that I don't have to say anymore, "I wish I could do that in my case." I have a classroom set of 23 I-Pads with a cart to synchronize them all, and we do some really cool things on them in language arts. I really like the Wi system and its purpose from the video. I'm going to mention it on Tuesday at my digital classroom monthly meeting and see if they can do anything providing us with one. That might be wishful thinking.
  • Christine Claudio on 18 Feb 13
     
    Heather, After viewing the video, it is apparent that an additional computer lab is needed at our campus. Our district is currently using ours to implement a new mandatory 45 minute program. The alloted times for grade level 1-5 has taken away the ability to use it for other purposes. Writing grants for C.O.W. and Ipads is a necessity to ensure other applications are being utilized.
  • albert rodriguez on 18 Feb 13
     
    I think our STaR Chart results, key area IV, portray why anyone would think that I-Pads and I-Pods in a classroom would be used to play, for fun, or to distract. Most schools don't meet or are even come close to having a 1:1 ratio when it comes to internet connected device per student. For that reason, many people don't fully understand their potential.
  • April Canales-Perez on 25 Feb 13
     
    What an awesome video! I liked how the students were learning math concepts through the use of the ipod! I totally agree with Cesar, maybe if we allow students to use the technology to learn math they will be more accepting and interested in learning math.
Christine Claudio

An Introduction to Project-Based Learning | Edutopia - 2 views

www.edutopia.org/ed-learning-introduction-video

shared by Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13 - No Cached
  • Get Video Credits
  • Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13
     
    This is a duplicate - sorry. Please see posts below.
Christine Claudio

An Introduction to Project-Based Learning | Edutopia | Diigo - 0 views

www.diigo.com/...ed-learning-introduction-video

Project based learning PBL education

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  • Christine Claudio on 25 Feb 13
     
    Duplicate
Salina V

Technology In Your Classroom - 19 views

I think my class has become more tech savy. I think it could be much more, but with this being the first year of STAAR testing and having a really bad internet connection in the portables where I ...

started by Lisandra Medina on 10 Apr 12 9 follow-ups, last by Salina V on 14 May 12
Elva Mendoza

21st-Century Skills Are Not a New Education Trend but Could Be a Fad - US News and Worl... - 2 views

www.usnews.com/...ation-trend-but-could-be-a-fad

shared by Elva Mendoza on 21 Apr 12 - No Cached
    • Elva Mendoza
      Elva Mendoza on 21 Apr 12
       
      http://diigo.com/0q35s I came upon this great article about teaching 21st century skills in our schools. I highlighted some interesting points about the implementation of 21st century schools and I added several sticky notes that you can comment on. How do you incorporate 21st century skills in your classroom?
  • giving all students a common framework of knowledge is a key strategy for increasing civic equality.
  • Unfortunately some 21st-century skills proponents believe these skills should replace the teaching of content. They believe that because so much new knowledge is being created, students should focus on how to know instead of knowing.
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • most states are ill-equipped to implement such assessments today and too many teachers are not prepared to use them or teach this way today.
  • Adriana G Hernandez on 21 Apr 12
     
    Very interesting! I agree with the writer of the article. There needs to be a balance between teaching the 21st century skills and the content. There also needs to be a balance with how much time is spent on learning content and how much time should be spent on learning how to find the information. Back in the day, there was less history to learn, less scientific facts, etc. Since the Internet era began, we have way more facts than we can possibly remember. I think that teachers can do this, so that it's not a fad. As a librarian, I'm trying to focus on communication. I have a wiki and a library web page that helps me communicate with students the different resources that are available to them. I am always sharing with them what is available so that they can use their creativity.
  • kate Binns on 22 Apr 12
     
    Thank you for sharing this article Elva. It really resonated for me. The author's final statement , "If they want to genuinely transform teaching and learning, proponents of 21st-century skills must be as deliberate about how their idea is approached and implemented as they want schools to be about teaching these skills", especially resonated with my feelings regarding our rush to implement 21st Century skills. I firmly believe in backwards planning, but often what I observe is a rush to buy new "toys" and then there's no plan for their use. School districts must take the time to make the end goal and then create the steps needed to arrive at that goal. This will require time, effort, and yes some money. However, if you take the time to plan ahead for implementation you will save money in the long run by avoiding costly missteps. Additionally, these 21st Century Skills are simply skills to apply to knowledge. We must take the time to teach them but it cannot be in determent to the content areas. If students learn a concept better using scissors and paper over a Prezi, then it should be the method of instruction in my opinion. Ultimately, teachers and school districts need to embrace the new technology but view it as a tool for instruction and not the solution to all of our educational struggles.
  • Salina V on 14 May 12
     
    I try to incorporate 21st century skills by having my kids use more technology with their projects. many of them are so use to having the pen and paper assignment that they are surprised when they get to use technology to create a project. While there may be some issues that make it hard to use technology most of the time because of lack of computers of items, having some group work for using these technology can help. I know I can be doing more so when I plan I need to make sure to keep in mind that it is our jobs as teachers to teach these students into becoming 21st century learners.
Sara Aldape

50 Education Technology Tools Every Teacher Should Know About - Edudemic - 7 views

edudemic.com/...very-teacher-should-know-about

Teaching tools education

shared by Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12 - No Cached
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
       
      What tools have you used or would like to use to engage students in social learning, so that teachers can be able to connect together through social media?
    • Santos Alvarado
      Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
       
      I'm in the planning stages on creating a Edmodo account for my classroom. I see the benefits of using Edmodo, having the students work online, and communicate with one another makes it much more engaging.
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
       
      What educational tools have helped you or are interested in using to help you make lessons fun, interesting, and more effective?
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 11 Nov 12
       
      I've used Edmodo and it has served me well. I haven't incorporated the website into everyday learning, but I use it over Thanksgiving, Xmas, and spring breaks. I assign everything from quizzes to extra credit assignments and I am able keep in contact with students.
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
       
      Excellent!!! Vincent thank you for your feedback. Students will have fun staying connected with the teacher.
    • Santos Alvarado
      Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
       
      I have used stixy, and glogster to help students create class presentations. Students love to be creative and this helps students teach one another
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
       
      What useful tools have you used or have helped you stay connected, organized, and increased the ease of building multimedia lesson and learning tools in your classroom?
  • ...9 more annotations...
  • hese tools can help
  • Useful Tools
  • you to stay connected, organized, and increase the ease of building multimedia lessons
  • nd learning tools
  •       ← The Current State Of Mobile Learning In Education Could Groopt Be Your Next Classroom Management Tool? → Tuesday, August 21, 2012 7:30 am, Posted by Guest Writer 22 | Tools 50 Education Technology Tools Every Teacher Should Know About Topics: best of, classroom, edmodo, edtech, grockit, How To, tools inShare232 (function() { var li = document.createElement('script'); li.type = 'text/javascript'; li.async = true; li.src = window.location.protocol + '//platform.stumbleupon.com/1/widgets.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(li, s); })(); The following is a cross-post from our content partners at Online Degrees: Technology and education are pretty intertwined these days and nearly every teacher has a few favorite tech tools that make doing his or her job and connecting with students a little bit easier and more fun for all involved. Yet as with anything related to technology, new tools are hitting the market constantly and older ones rising to prominence, broadening their scope, or just adding new features that make them better matches for education, which can make it hard to keep up with the newest and most useful tools even for the most tech-savvy teachers. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the tech tools,
  • Social Learning
  • These tools use the power of social media to help students learn and teachers connect.
  • Learning
  • These educational tools can help you to make lessons fun, interesting, and more effective.
  • Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
     
    I am one of the Diigo Host assigned for the week of Nov. 5-11, 2012. This website was very interesting to me. It had different tools to be able to use as an educator. Check it out!
  • ...8 more comments...
  • Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
     
    I have added 3 stickies in the site: http://edudemic.com/2012/08/50-education-technology-tools-every-teacher-should-know-about/ I would like your feedback on what tools have been useful to you in your classroom? How have they worked for you? Or have not worked for you? Have fun navigating through the 50 Education Technology Tools!!!!!!
  • Sara Aldape on 11 Nov 12
     
    Watch this you tube video on how the Secretary of State announces the Education Technology Plan and back in 2010 invited educators to post how technology has impacted their classroom. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR_lBt4jjow ENJOY!!!! Technology is evolving in this world at a fast pace, we just have to keep up with it. Have an AWESOME week!
  • R. Palomares on 11 Nov 12
     
    Sara, I liked the organization of this page! These 50 educational tools are essential. I must say that I really liked the "Social Learning tools" and the "Useful Tools" because I have used many of them before and they work very well. It's great to have a page like this as a resource when deciding on what tools use. Thank you for sharing!
  • Victoria Lopez on 12 Nov 12
     
    Sara, I have used several of these educational tools to present new materials to my studends and to compliment my lessons. However, since my students are kindergarteners, they are not able to fully manipulate these tools to create their own work. I feel that by exposing my students to these tools that I am doing my part to educate them and be computer literate. This composite of websites is a great list for teachers to explore. Thank you for sharing this website.
  • Blanca Pena on 12 Nov 12
     
    Hi Sara, I use Prezi to engage the students in a new form of presenting information to the classroom. It's fun to use and it offers so many different elements that Powerpoint does not. I also did a prentation for the campus teachers on how to use Prezi in their classroom and the results of the training were very sucessful and eye-opening. The teacher were happy to learn a new tool they can implement into their classroom curriculum to help keep student learning fun and engaging. I think it's a great tool to use in any classroom. Blanca
  • Crystal Martinez on 12 Nov 12
     
    I have used several of the tools that are listed on this website and it is great to have them on one major site. I have used Prezi and Edmodo. These tools have been great to use for my students. They benefited and enjoyed the interaction that they experienced from both of these web 2.0 tools.
  • Marivel Garcia on 24 Nov 12
     
    This is a great way to organize all these tools, through our program I have had the opportunity to utilize most of them but I have not yet exposed my students to all of them and I am really looking forward to being able to enhance their learning. Thanks for Sharing....
  • Diana Cedillo on 25 Nov 12
     
    This is a great site! I've bookmarked it and already started going through my mental checklist of what I have used and what I'd like to use. It's a great way to see what's out there and how I can better use those tools in the classroom.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 29 Nov 12
     
    I use edmodo and slide-rocket in my classrooms for web 2.0 tools also gotten into prezi but the lagging of my network campus tends to drag. but great tools I use.
  • Alyssa Tanguma on 04 Dec 12
     
    I posted something similar to this. I love learning and implementing new tools. There are SOOOOOOO many out there!
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