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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
Janice Wilson Butler

Change has NEVER been easy! - 27 views

youtu.be/pdkucf6wxU4

change change-process integrating technology butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 10 Jan 12 - No Cached
Maria De Leon liked it
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 10 Jan 12
     
    As you can see from this video, people have always been resistant to new technology innovations. If we can all learn to laugh our way through and be patient when others are trying to figure out a new technology, then change seems to happen more quickly.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • Juanita R. Martinez on 29 Jan 12
     
    This kind of reminds me of my students, when teaching a new technique some just can't seem to grasp it. As do some teachers learning new technology. Todays MTTs need to understand this and realize that for some teachers it might be harder for them than others. I am lucky to have grown up using computers and being able to understand them. This has allowed me to grasp the 2.0 tools rather quickly. We need to be able to be patient and make sure that when we teach these tools to the other teachers they will be able to understand suffieciently to feel confident using them in class with their students. Despite access to technology and despite the fact that novice teachers are entering the classroom with far more advanced technology skills than their counterparts of an earlier age, only 39 percent of teachers report "moderate" or "frequent" use of technology as an instructional tool (Grunwald Associates, 2010). And that is because teachers are consumed with standardized state exams and need to make teaching creative and fun again.
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 05 Feb 12
     
    Very perceptive and a good analysis of what is going on. The harder part is figuring out what we can do about it - and that is REALLY the huge challenge. Will be interesting to see what occurs in the classroom in the next 5 (or so) years and how you MTTs make it happen.
  • Salina V on 13 Feb 12
     
    I know that this video was a comedy bit, but I never stopped to realize that many people struggled, or wished not to learn about new items that were coming about with time. What I liked about the video was that the "help desk" did not get frustrated with the person who was asking what many of us would think as silly questions. Many of us have trouble with wanting to teach technology, or integrate it into our lesson because we feel it would be a pain having to teacher a class of 20+ students how to use it. I know that at times, I find my self getting a bit stressed out when my mom asks me how to do a function that I think to be easy on the computer. I have to stop my self and remind myself that what I might think is easy, is new to others, such I am sure is the same when I don't know something and some one has to teach me.
  • Michelle Salazar on 19 Mar 12
     
    Lol, the video was very funny. Had me laughing the whole way through. I can't believe how far we have come. I remember going through my blocks in UTPA, when I returned back to the classroom after finishing my 12 in school my self and seeing the NEW projectors, the elmo, and smartboard in the classroom and thinking, "Wow, look where technology has taken us to from chalkboard, to overhead projectors, to smartboards. A board that you touch the screen on and it moves, changes, and recollects information. I was amazed and engaged myself. I laugh every time my co-workers think I am so young because this year is my 10 year reunion and yet the classroom has changed so much!
Janice Wilson Butler

Shaping Tech for the Classroom | Edutopia - 30 views

www.edutopia.org/adopt-and-adapt

technology education teaching edutopia prensky integration 21stCenturySkills literacy classroom integrating techlearning butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 15 Jan 12 - Cached
    • Janice Wilson Butler
      Janice Wilson Butler on 15 Jan 12
       
      I think this is the most common place in which we all tend to get stuck. Often, we get excited about trying something new in the classroom, but when we try it the first time, we run into glitches. That is when we go back to the old "safe" ways. We need to find ways as MTTs to help others overcome the fear that we feel when we first fail.
  • Doing old things in old ways
  • This trend is important, but it's hardly new -- it will be new only when those courses, curricula, and lesson plans are very different and technology influenced, when they are set up so they can be found and mixed and matched easily, when they are continually iterated and updated, and when the kids have a big say in their creation.
  • ...5 more annotations...
    • Janice Wilson Butler
      Janice Wilson Butler on 15 Jan 12
       
      This is really important. If teachers just use the technology to teach the same way they have always been teaching, then we will not see much change in the way that students feel about school. Technology needs to transform the way we teach!!!
  • So, let's not just adopt technology into our schools. Let's adapt it, push it, pull it, iterate with it, experiment with it, test it, and redo it, until we reach the point where we and our kids truly feel we've done our very best. Then, let's push it and pull it some more. And let's do it quickly, so the 22nd century doesn't catch us by surprise with too much of our work undone.
    • Janice Wilson Butler
      Janice Wilson Butler on 15 Jan 12
       
      This is certainly not going to be easy to do - but with the changes you are already starting to feel through this program, YOU can be instrumental in making it happen!!! How can you do this/
  • working together in self-formed teams in multiplayer online role-playing games;
    • Janice Wilson Butler
      Janice Wilson Butler on 15 Jan 12
       
      This is really rather an important concept. Think about this. We have so much trouble getting kids to work in teams - and here they are self-creating teams and working together to reach a common goal. How can we take this and integrate it into the classroom? Is PBL a way to do this?
  • Corina Carmona on 30 Jan 12
     
    At our school district, students log onto the network using their own account on any terminal within the district, in which they can keep individual files. Although they can't permanently personalize any computer I do always see them changing wallpapers every now and then. Integrating technology into the classroom will have to be more than a method or means. It must go beyond access and utilization. I believe students will have achieved true integration whey they have created something or honed a skill using technology as a tool.
  • janie martinez on 31 Jan 12
     
    In the article Shaping Tech For the Classroom, it lays out a visual representation of what is happening in our classrooms throughout our district. While we are trying to keep up with the latest technology, it seems that most teachers are still at a loss as to what should be happening in the classroom with the technology available to us. At the moment, many teachers at our campus have a smart board, student computers with internet access, class response clickers, projectors, EKI machines, digital cameras and new gadget called KINEO that our district Migrant department has provided to our Migrant students. This apparatus is supposed to help our migrant students in leveling their knowledge of math, reading and science skills throught the program WEBACHIEVER. We have had this gadges in our library for about two months and have been used only once because no on has been trained as how to use them. I can say that Donna ISD has done a very good job at providing opportunities for us teachers to get technology savvy but unfortunate, not many have taken that opportunity. We have even had the opportunity to complete technology staff development in our pajamas. As a result of these initiatives by our district, it is safe to say that our district is in the right direction as far as providing us the technology and advancing software that is available to students and teachers. Through MTT Donna right Technology Grant, more teachers will become masters at providing the right tools so that teachers can change their attitudes towards technology. However more training and accountability needs to be in place in order to assure that the technology is being used correctly so our students can compete in the real world.
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.
Janice Wilson Butler

Web 2.0 Guru - Tools By Subject - 23 views

web20guru.wikispaces.com/Tools+By+Subject

Web2.0 resources butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 10 Jan 12 - No Cached
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 10 Jan 12
     
    Some really great ideas for different Web 2.0 tools in a variety of subject areas.
  • ...4 more comments...
  • Shannon Reynolds on 30 Jan 12
     
    I found a few on my own too. I absolutely love it when people make great lists of great web tools. Here is are a few places I've found. Web tools for Teachers http://oedb.org/library/features/101-web-20-teaching-tools http://www.smartteaching.org/blog/2008/08/100-awesome-free-web-tools-for-elementary-teachers/ Google tools for Teachers http://www.google.com/educators/tools.html Apple Apps for Teachers http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/main/100-apps-for-teachers/
  • Corina Carmona on 30 Jan 12
     
    Web 2.O Guru, tools by subject, has a plethora of resources in any subject that teachers may find easy to use in the classroom. Teachers can certainly find a tool to incorporate into any lesson at any grade level on this useful sight. The "iGeneration", defined as born into technology, are master multitaskers, social networkers, and electronic communicators (Rosen 2). Using Web 2.0 tools in the classroom or to teach a lesson will be building off of their background knowledge. The lesson can be delivered in a method that is familiar and positive to them, thus improving knowledge retention. Rosen, Larry D., Mark L. Carrier, and Nancy A. Cheever. Rewired: Understanding the IGeneration and the Way They Learn. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan, 2010. EBook Collection (EBSCOhost). Web. 29 Jan. 2012. .
  • Delia Torres on 06 Feb 12
     
    The web has an abundance of resources in Web 2.0 tools for teachers or students. Check this out: http://www.protopage.com/web2point0forteachers#Web_2.0_For_Teachers/ These two are giving me problems in converting them into hyperlinks. What am I doing wrong? http:/edudemic.com/2011/11/best-we-tools/ http://edudemic.com/2010/07/the-35-best-web-2-0-classroom-tools-chosen-by-you/
  • Michelle Salazar on 19 Mar 12
     
    I found cool web 2.0 for teachers and students to use. As I stated in the other question, veteran teachers don't like to use technology and these websites can help them and their students incorporate technology Created by Lenva Shearing http://cooltoolsforschools.wikispaces.com/ Created by Sue Summerford http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/fil/pages/listweb20s.html
  • Esther Sauceda on 29 Mar 12
     
    This is one of my favorite websites. All you have do is click on one any of the icons and it will direct you to the page. Also, The Bloom's Digital Taxonomy provides the types of technologies for the appropriate learning domains. Bloom's Digital Taxonomy Created by Samantha Penney http://www.usi.edu/distance/bdt.htm
  • Elva Mendoza on 14 Apr 12
     
    I had heard about this website zooburst and I just signed up it is great. I can't wait to share it with my students. I want them to create a book on a favorite science topic they learned this year. http://www.zooburst.com/index.php?state=login&invaliduser=1
Sergio Perez

ALA | Great Web Sites for Kids - 13 views

www.ala.org/gwstemplate.cfm

shared by Sergio Perez on 24 Sep 12 - Cached
  • create your own. Many games and activities are included
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 24 Sep 12
       
      Very cool site! I like the animations! Very engaging for children and adults, this can be used as a history lesson, or as an enrichment activity.
    • Sergio Perez
      Sergio Perez on 01 Oct 12
       
      It was quite interesting to see that the National Security Agency had a website for children. I learned the difference between a decipher and a code. The characters used on the website made it more kid friendly.
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 25 Sep 12
       
      I tried this website but it did not work. If anyone is able to load it let me know how.
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 30 Sep 12
       
      OK, thanks for the information
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 25 Sep 12
       
      www.Invention at Play.org - I personally liked this website because it allows students to use their critical thinking skills and their imagination. Even I had fun palying with it.
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 30 Sep 12
       
      I like this website too! It was very interesting.
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 01 Oct 12
       
      We also need to have fun. What an excellent way to have student engagement and at the same time learning.
    • Sergio Perez
      Sergio Perez on 01 Oct 12
       
      I also had fun as I played some of the games on the website. It was interesting trying to create a cloud and then seeing it in the "sky".
  • ...4 more annotations...
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 25 Sep 12
       
      I liked this website because it is very descriptive in the steps you need to accomplish in order to create your own website. I think any teacher could create their classroom website even if their tehnological side is not that good.
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 30 Sep 12
       
      Can you see yourself, sharing this site with others? So many teachers would like to use something like this, but are not sure where to start
    • Sergio Perez
      Sergio Perez on 27 Sep 12
       
      Zoom Inventors and Inventions is an interesting website for having your students discover who invented certain items. One interesting fact I learned is that the reflectors that we find on the edge of the road were originally called "cat's eye road reflector". This website states that the inventor came up with this invention because the reflection of a cat's eyes at the side of a road kept him from driving off a hill at night..
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 30 Sep 12
       
      Cool, we can learn from each other. Thanks for your comment.
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 28 Sep 12
       
      I like the Building a School Website. I found it easy to follow for teachers and students. I'll be sure to use some of this information on my Study Guide for Competency 003:B. Thank you for sharing. This will most definitley help teachers hesistent to try new things. =-)
    • Valree Martinez
      Valree Martinez on 30 Sep 12
       
      Cool! Glad you liked it.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 01 Oct 12
       
      I liked this link also because it helps in building a school website.
    • Joshua McDonald
      Joshua McDonald on 01 Oct 12
       
      The Carnergie Cyber Academy is a great resource for campus that are implementing Cyber Safety programs. I believe my campus is actually working it into an elective class. I will definitely use this as a resource since I am based in a computer lab.
  • R. Palomares on 24 Sep 12
     
    Valree, this website has many great resources for teachers. I specifically liked the website link titled, "Building a school website". It's basically step by step instructions on creating your own school website. I liked this link because some educators want to learn how to create their own website but don't know how. We can share this website link so that they can access it and learn how. Thank you for sharing.
  • ...5 more comments...
  • Melizza Garcia on 25 Sep 12
     
    I like how each link showed what grade level it was for and there were so many to choose from too. The Building a school website was good and so is the Typing one its nice to have a varity in a keyboarding class.
  • Marivel Garcia on 27 Sep 12
     
    I was able to explore the website it's really nice, I especially like how the learner can create a story and allow others to add or help continue the story.( invention at play ) Basically, by allowing the learner to invent and think critically it will open up the doors to life time learning. http://sciencenetlinks.com/lessons/ Try this website, it also has an enormous collection of Science lessons that use the method above to enhance critical thinking. It reflects on the studies done about how learning is ensured through exploration and creativity. It is a great website that follows something similar to the PBL model. The lessons pose a question and require being inventive and exploring possible solutions.
  • Sergio Perez on 27 Sep 12
     
    Zoom Inventors and Inventions is an interesting website for having your students discover who invented certain items. One interesting fact I learned is that the reflectors that we find on the edge of the road were originally called "cat's eye road reflector". This website states that the inventor came up with this invention because the reflection of a cat's eyes at the side of a road kept him from driving off a hill at night..
  • Diana Cedillo on 28 Sep 12
     
    Yes, i just viewed this site on someone else's comment. I honestly enjoyed the one about building a school website. It appeared to be very user friendly and perfect for teachers transitioning into the use of technology.
  • Saul Mendiola on 30 Sep 12
     
    This is a great website. I like that it has a collection of different websites tha have learning activities for students. I really liked the Dance Mat Typing website. It introduces and shows the students the correct way to type. thanks for sharing!
  • Lourdes Beltran on 01 Oct 12
     
    Valree, It looks like a good website, but I was not able to go to this website. I'm very interested in finding out if it has resources for 1st grade social studies. Does anyone know of a good website for social studies (1st grade)?
  • Mario Ortiz on 22 Oct 12
     
    It's an awesome page with a lot of interesting links. I was trying the "Dance Mat Typing" link. It's a great activity for those students that are learning how to type. And also for those who want to practice their typing skills.
Jaime Villarreal

TechLearning: Involve, Prepare, Apply, and Develop: iPads in the Classroom - 14 views

www.techlearning.com/...47763

shared by Jaime Villarreal on 27 Sep 12 - No Cached
    • Jaime Villarreal
      Jaime Villarreal on 27 Sep 12
       
      I can see how ipads in the classroom and assist teachers in differentiating instruction to meet individual student needs and allow for a more in depth understanding of skills and concepts building from each students different levels of mastery in certain skills.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 01 Oct 12
       
      I agree with you Jaime, Ipads in the classrooms can be very beneficial.
    • Joshua McDonald
      Joshua McDonald on 06 Oct 12
       
      Jaime, I was actually given the chance to use a classroom set of iPads in the classroom last year as part of the pilot program. I can say from experience that it can be used for differentiated instruction, and it increases student engagement with the material. One thing the teacher has to make sure they do is actively monitor...the students are to good at getting to websites they are not suppose to be at if they know the teacher is not paying attention.
    • Sergio Perez
      Sergio Perez on 07 Oct 12
       
      Jaime, this is a very interesting article in how the iPad can be used for the special needs student. There are so many different apps available to help our students. It is important to make sure that the student is engaged with the lesson so learning can take place.
  • vincent briseno on 30 Sep 12
     
    I am also a big supporter of tablets in the classroom, but I have yet to justify the cost of purchasing an ipad at $500 a piece. With budget cuts as wide spread as they are now, I would think a kindle, nook or even a nexus tablet for around half the price would work just as well. What students need is a dedicated e-reader and access to the internet to look up any information on the spot. Any of the above mentioned tablets could perform these skills without the premium price tag. Since most apps are now available on both the ios operating system and the android operating system, I would imagine the apps developed by speech and language experts are also available across platforms. The second issue in dealing with ipads is the familiarity with the product. Apple is the most successful and profitable tech company in the U.S. right now, but 90% of the computers in the classroom are windows based. Teachers will be more willing to utilize a tool if it integrates easily with the technology already found in the classroom. Ipad is a name. It is the most trusted and used tablet on the market. If, however, students can receive the same benefits of an ipad at half the price, I see no reason to limit the inclusion of tablets in the classroom to an ipad. Check out this article. It has some interesting comments by Bill Gates. http://macdailynews.com/2012/06/27/bill-gates-tablets-in-the-classroom-have-really-horrible-track-record/
  • ...8 more comments...
  • Victoria Lopez on 01 Oct 12
     
    This website gives the teacher background information needed when a teacher is planning on utilizing ipads in the classroom. It also details how ipads are beneficial for students with learning disabilities. It suggests for teachers to download applications that students can refer to when in need of help for core subjects.
  • R. Palomares on 01 Oct 12
     
    Wow Jaime, this is a very interesting article about how technology is helping students with special needs learn. The IPADS has proven to be a good technology to support curriculum and instruction for all students. I liked how they are being used to enhance learning. The only state that is not using IPADS to supplement instruction in reading and math is TX but I think as more states across the U.S. are using them, we will be next in using IPADS more abundantly in our classrooms. 
  • Maribel Gracia on 02 Oct 12
     
    Yes IPads are wonderful for students to use. Students should have the opportunity to be exoposed to all type of technology equipment. Through my program, we purchased Kindle Fires for the students to use when researching information and for other content area such as reading.They really love it and learn to navigated very quickly.
  • nora garza on 04 Oct 12
     
    Great! I am certainly going to use this website if everything goes well with the grant writing. I have seen how teacher integrate their lesson and how students are totally engaged. We have to be able to keep up with all the emerging technologies and the generation of children that are in our classes. Try: http://www.interactioneducation.com/index_files/Best-Educational-Apps-For-iPad
  • Saul Mendiola on 04 Oct 12
     
    I think iPads will be a great tool to integrate in the classroom. They will be more focused in what they are doing using these type of tools in the classroom.
  • Sara Aldape on 07 Oct 12
     
    This is awesome if we had iPads to supplement instruction in reading and math as well as to facilitate communication for students with autism spectrum disorders and others who require support through the use of communication devices. Students would be more engaged and would be able to collaborate. It would be a student centered environment where the teacher would guide the learning. Read this artlicle about ipads and how they are being used in the classroom. www.nytimes.com/2011/01/05/education/05tablets.html?pagewanted=all
  • Sergio Perez on 07 Oct 12
     
    This is a great article about how the iPad can be used to help the special needs student. One of the apps mentioned in the article can help the students with their reading. By having text-to-speech, the students can practice their reading skills while they read ebooks. There are also so many apps available that the students can benefit from using an iPad in almost any subject.
  • Sonia Aldape on 07 Oct 12
     
    Jaime, the article sums it up using an appropriate acronym (IPAD) Involve, Prepare, Apply, and Develop to describe the innovating trend to expose student to technology. This technique is already being used in several states to allow students with communication difficulties to express themselves in group interaction using technology to enhance their education experiences. Very informative it puts techniques we are learning into perspective.
  • Maria L Mata on 08 Oct 12
     
    It is amazing how much technology is available to help students in the classroom. Integrating technology into the classroom enhances teaching and learning, yet it is now a necessity, even for students with disabilities. My question is, Are facilitators aware of how technology can be used in the classroom? It seems we are still lagging behind on the use of technology in the classrooms. Here is another article that touches points to consider when designing teaching and learning activities when integrating technology into the classroom: http://www.cput.ac.za/blogs/cel/2012/09/13/technology-for-inclusivity/
  • Santos Alvarado on 08 Oct 12
     
    Jaime, I believe the use of iPads and other related Tablets in the classroom is great way to engaged students in the concept being taught. I like how this article detailed how the iPad can be implemented in the classroom to help students with special needs. Article: 7 Strategies for iPads and iPods in the (Math) Classroom- http://thejournal.com/Articles/2012/07/11/7-Strategies-for-iPads-and-iPods-in-the-Math-Classroom.aspx?Page=1
Yadira Flores

My View: It's never too late to begin flipping your classroom - Schools of Thought... - 6 views

schoolsofthought.blogs.cnn.com/...-begin-flipping-your-classroom

butler allsemesters

shared by Yadira Flores on 07 Sep 12 - No Cached
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 24 Sep 12
       
      The flipped classroom is quite interesting!!!! Loved the fact that you allow students to feel supported. When you have an inspiring environment students will learn and be successful.
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 25 Sep 12
       
      Students need more than just lecture. I think that in math like any other subject you should have the ability to see how it is done a second time. I would like to be able to record my lectures and give students the opportunity to review and ask questions.
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 25 Sep 12
       
      It is very possible for all educators to become better ones if we are open to changes. Change can be good.
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 07 Sep 12
     
    Article about the flipped classroom
  • ...7 more comments...
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 21 Sep 12
     
    I read about flipped classrooms in EDTC 6321 with Dr. Corbeil's class and I found this teaching technique very useful because students are fully engaged in learning activities than lecture.
  • Sonia Aldape on 22 Sep 12
     
    Great article! I was not familiar with a flipped classroom. Although, it is a new technique for me it seems to be very interesting.
  • Ruth Garza on 22 Sep 12
     
    I feel that, as teachers, we must do everything in our power to provide our students with the most effective and innovative techniques avaible. This means that technology is no longer an option, but a necessary tool to which enables students to succeed in today's modern world of technology. Our district, Los Fresnos CISD, sent out an email to encourage us to "flip our classrooms". Check out this website: http://flipyourclassroom.einstruction.com/
  • Diana Cedillo on 22 Sep 12
     
    I agree with Stacey in helping others integrate technology; especially for teachers at the end of retirement. "Flipping their classroom" isn't as hard as it may seem. I believe with training teachers on how to incorporate technology and engage our students, we would have a higher success rate with our students mastering the content.
  • Maribel Gracia on 23 Sep 12
     
    The article is very interesting because teachers need to understand that we need to intergrate technology more often in our classroom. For example, like stacey's mom did not want to implement technology because she was used to teach the same way for many years. But when she decided to implement technology, she realized that the students enjoyed it and was more effective for her.
  • Saul Mendiola on 23 Sep 12
     
    This is a very interesting article. Stacey's mom helped her with her first year of teaching, then Stacey helped her mom to become a 21st century teacher. I like how they both were mentors at one point to each other. Sometimes that is what is needed a mentor to guide you and make you feel that you can integrate technology in the classroom.
  • R. Palomares on 24 Sep 12
     
    This article on flipped classrooms is very interesting because it clearly demonstrates how the use of technology in the classroom benefits students to increase learning and retention. The AP exam scores before and after were an eye opener because one year it was 58% and the next year using a flipped classroom, it increased to 78% of students scoring a "4" or "5" and none below a "3". In addition, using technology in the classroom created a sense of stress free environment where students enjoyed learning. I also liked that this Math instructor also helped another (her mother) to also have a "flipped" classroom. This was a great article that we can all share with others to demonstrate how the use of technology in the classroom is very beneficial to students.
  • Marivel Garcia on 24 Sep 12
     
    I really admire those math teachers especially being able to work with each other being that they were both from far ends of the spectrum when it came to the education profession. I have been hearing a lot about the "flipped classroom" and I have also been able to connect my previous course work with it. I find that being able to have all your information narrated and easily accessible for your students is a great way to reduce stress. This means that the students will be able to review the lesson at their own pace and in a comfortable environment. Even though I hear many good things, as a 5th & 6th grade Language Arts and Reading teacher I still hesitant to flip my classroom. I know it's not impossible but it will require much training and guidance for it to work effectively.. This article has really opened my eyes to where our future educational system might be or should be gearing towards.
  • Mario Ortiz on 22 Oct 12
     
    As teachers we should be open-minded and ready to accept new ideas that can revolutionize the way we teach. Always keeping in mind that everything we do is to improve our teaching.
Janice Wilson Butler

Dipity - Find, Create, and Embed Interactive Timelines - 9 views

www.dipity.com

butler allsemesters timeline web2.0 timelines tools collaboration

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 13 Sep 12 - Cached
  • Sara Aldape on 21 Sep 12
     
    Useful for Social Studies and it's free.
  • ...3 more comments...
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 21 Sep 12
     
    I can use this tool for upcoming classes related to business and technology
  • Lourdes Beltran on 23 Sep 12
     
    This is useful and more important, it's free.
  • R. Palomares on 23 Sep 12
     
    Wow, Dipity is really awesome! I was looking at the timeline for Mr. Steve Jobs and it's very well done. Dipity can be used for doing a timeline digitally instead of doing it on a poster. There are many pros to doing it on Dipity such as been saved there for other classes to see and to be used as examples. Usually when students create a timeline on poster it get tossed away towards the end of the year or gets sent home with the students. By doing it on Dipity it stays there for many years to come.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 02 Oct 12
     
    Totally agree for the use of Social Studies, I can use this tool for technology classes as well.
  • Mario Ortiz on 22 Oct 12
     
    Dipity is a great Web 2.0 technology to integrate in the classroom. It provides an excellent way to create timeline presentations.
vincent briseno

Ten Tips for Engaging Underperforming Students | Edutopia - 22 views

www.edutopia.org/around-student-engagement-tips

shared by vincent briseno on 07 Oct 12 - No Cached
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 07 Oct 12
       
      These are all excellent tips for every classroom. Performing all ten of these on a daily basis would be a challenge for me. Is there a particular strategy you would or have struggled with in your classroom?
    • Maria D. Martinez
      Maria D. Martinez on 07 Oct 12
       
      I believe my major struggle has been time constraint. Once I begin I keep going and going and at times I forget about the time. It flies by and I see myself running short to what I had planned for that day. It would be ideal to have more time with the students but since that is not possible, I have to go with plan B which is to allocate a certain time to every section and abide by it.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 08 Oct 12
       
      Vincent, This article is great and the ten Interactive Learning Non-negotiables strategies are great when planning the lessons. I think #4-"limited lecture" would be challenge because finding a stop during the lecture can be difficult at time. On the other hand, I believe #1 the "Essential Question" is the most important because this will guide the students towards the end goal. In addition, I liked #10-"Student Centered" because that's where you plan the use of a technology tool to make the lesson engaging and relevant. This will be a great article to share. Thank you for sharing.
    • Jaime Villarreal
      Jaime Villarreal on 08 Oct 12
       
      In my experience tip #2 has been my greatest challenge in my classroom. Implementing an activating stratetgy to activate student thinking is very crucial to capture their attention and curiousity which will then trigger learning. The challenging part is making the time and carefully planning each activity and following lesson timelines at the same time.
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 11 Oct 12
       
      Maria and Romel I know a couple of teachers who use a kitchen timer and set it for no more than 15 minutes. It is a bit crude, but it is a cheap solution and easier than setting a timer on your phone, watch, etc...
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 11 Oct 12
       
      Jaime I have issues with finding an activating strategy as well. In math, it is difficult to connect slope with something relevant to students, but sometimes we over think things. I showed a terribly stereotypical video to a group of kids on slope and they still talk about it 3 weeks later. You'd be surprised what kids will relate to.
    • Leonila Pena
      Leonila Pena on 14 Oct 12
       
      Vincent, those ten tips are great, thank you for the link. I can see how incorporating those ten strategies into your lessons on a daily basis can seem quite daunting, but if you think about it, as educators we are required to plan out our lessons based on the objective(s) that we are teaching. What I would do is use this as a guide when I plan out my lesson, maybe create a checklist out of it and use it while planning my lessons. I'm one of those that tend to over think things, I always need to write down what it is that I need to do or achieve so that I stay focused on just that.
  • Maribel Gracia on 07 Oct 12
     
    I think a particular strategy i would struggle is about time. Sometimes we go "on and on" on one concept that we forget about time especially if we are team teaching and the time frame is shorten.I like the video which explains the ten tips the teacher should follow. I am going to share this video with my coworkers in school. Very informative :)
  • ...11 more comments...
  • Victoria Lopez on 07 Oct 12
     
    These are great strategies. I love how they suggest for teachers to involve kinesthetic movement, hands on activities and providing experiences as a way to make teaching the content meaningful and easier to recall. By creating student-centered learning activities, the teacher will reach a greater population of the students through the use of incorporating several learning styles. Learning modalities need to be considered for the lesson to be effective.
  • Jaime Villarreal on 08 Oct 12
     
    In my experience tip #2 has been my greatest challenge in my classroom. Implementing an activating stratetgy to activate student thinking is very crucial to capture their attention and curiousity which will then trigger learning. The challenging part is making the time and carefully planning each activity and following lesson timelines at the same time.
  • vincent briseno on 11 Oct 12
     
    Mari I completely understand. Time gets away from even the best teachers. I am a coach and this is the issue I have most difficulty with on the field (that and yelling). I always carry my watch with me and set timers. Some teachers use simple kitchen timers to keep both the teacher and the students on task. It helps both know there is a limited amount of time to complete tasks. It keeps the class moving and students engaged.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 12 Oct 12
     
    I really enjoyed the article Vincent, I'd agree with limiting lecture because student's haven't developed a cognition level of grasping information in one sitting. So breakout sessions work best along with collaborative group work discussions. The way I've learned to keep a class engaged is use a timer system online and students are aware of how much time is left. From experience I noticed that time flys by fast.
  • Diana Cedillo on 14 Oct 12
     
    Vicente, thanks for sharing! I agree that those are ten of the basic steps we as educators can take in helping or students become successful. I believe that sometimes we as teachers are pressured in keeping up with our timeline, that we're teaching more than one lesson, making it harder for students to learn and retain what was taught. If there wasn't so much pressure in standardized testing, perhaps we would be able to better reach all our students and not feel inclined to teach the "bubble" kids. Graphic organizers are a must in my classroom. Not only does it better illustrate for all students, but it also assists those students who need the visual and have modificiations. All the other key points listed make me believe that this is geared towards PBL. I think it's great! Students will still be required to use higher order thinking while still conducting a student-centered activity. Great job Vincent. I'll be sharing these tips with my fellow co-workers.
  • Sergio Perez on 15 Oct 12
     
    This was a very interesting article about how to get underperforming students to improve. The one tip that would be a challenge for me would be the movement on a daily basis. I only teach math to my fourth grade students and I try to get my students to use manipulatives as often as possible. When they use the manipulatives I do tend to become stressed due to the movement of the students. I know it is good for them to move around and I will try to implement this tip more often in my classroom.
  • Melizza Garcia on 15 Oct 12
     
    lI like this article because it gave each step and then the author explain it futher. Making each of the step a "Non-Negotiables" is sometimes difficult. But once you practice doing them in each lesson I'm sure you can change with time making each day better and each lesson engaging.
  • Sonia Aldape on 15 Oct 12
     
    Vincent, great article I really appreciate all of the valuable tips for engaging students in the learning process, a way as to actively involve each student. I do incorporate a few of these tips with my students, and I agree that it will keep the students in control of their learning. Nonetheless, using these tips will make the students aware of the content that is expected to be learned on each subject area.
  • Sara Aldape on 15 Oct 12
     
    I really appreciate all of the valuable tips for engaging students in the learning process, and I am aware of how each can be used. However, my huge frustration is in the fact that in a self contained classroom it is so difficult to plan for each class subject in such a way as to actively involve each student. I try my best, but it really is a challenge. I do incorporate a few of these tips with my students, but I guess more time would make all the difference.
  • Saul Mendiola on 17 Oct 12
     
    I think the particular strategy that would take me longer to achieve would be limited lecture. Finding a different activity to do with them and keep them focused will be very challenging after a while.
  • Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
     
    Great article, very informative and awesome strategies to implement in my classroom. The ten interactive learning non-negotiable strategies are great when planning the lessons. I do see some resemblance to the 5-E strategies I use in my classroom, but to use all ten strategies on a daily basis might be a challenge to keep all the students engaged.
  • Alyssa Tanguma on 04 Dec 12
     
    This is what my student population consists of. Great article!
  • Ana A. Cavazos on 25 Feb 13
     
    I like the strategies, every bit of guidance and tips will defintely help us implement innovative and interactive lessons. I think we are all guilty of going on and on, because we become engaged as well. These strategies would go very well with PBL instruction.
Maria D. Martinez

More Colorado Districts Saving Money with 4-Day School Weeks | Education News - 10 views

www.educationnews.org/...-money-with-4-day-school-weeks

money school classroom resources 21stCenturySkills education

shared by Maria D. Martinez on 07 Oct 12 - No Cached
  • The savings come mainly from reduction in support staff, maintenance costs, food service and transportation which allows schools to retain teachers and academic programs that would have to be dropped otherwise
  • It is the parents who typically have the most difficulty adjusting, with most schools reporting negative parental reactions due mostly to increased child-care expenses for the fifth day.
  • In addition, after one year into the three-year experiment with the new schedule, another unexpected benefit popped up: an uptick in test scores. Webb thinks that the increased “sense of urgency” of the shortened week seems to encourage teachers and students to make every hour in the classroom.
  • Maria D. Martinez on 07 Oct 12
     
    This website gives an insight of what Colorado districts are presently doing: 4-day school weeks. Are we headed that way?
  • ...12 more comments...
  • Maribel Gracia on 07 Oct 12
     
    Maria the article is very interesting. I think it can benefit our district because our district is very short on funds.We get directives of turning of the light or computers when we are not using it so the district doesn't pay too much money. In all programs, our budget have drastically gotten cut in funds so maybe if we have a 4 day instead of 5 day we can save money. Also teachers would love this because it would give them a break so they won't get burned out with all the changes in our district. Imagine it can be a three day weekend :)
  • Victoria Lopez on 07 Oct 12
     
    This is very interesting. As a teacher, I would like to move to this 4 day week schedule to enjoy a three day weekend every weekend; however, as a parent, if I were not employed by a school district and worked at a regular 5 business day week, then I would be upset at the inconvenience it causes. I would have to pay extra money for child care services as stated in this article. So although this 4-day school week has its pros its cons also have to be weighed out by those that would be affected. I guess a positive would be that it would create jobs in child care for the fifth day. As an educator, by day 5, I am out of gas. So I can see how working digently throughout the 4-day school week proves to be similar in test scores when compared to those of the 5-day school week.
  • R. Palomares on 08 Oct 12
     
    Maria D. Martinez, this article poses an interesting thought about maybe going to this measure if budget cuts continue, but I don't think were headed that way. The 4-day school week seemed to have a positive effect with this Colorado school district because their state testing scores seemed to increased according to this article. On the downside, the district only saved $150,000 which isn't very much considering the amount of time and effect one day can have on education.  I think that the 4-day school week would be an interesting challenge that everyone will adjust to easily if there's a need to implement it.
  • Jaime Villarreal on 08 Oct 12
     
    I agree with the districts that implemented the 4-day school week in order to save on the operational costs. I believe that having a short week will motivate both students and teachers to work harder and more focused on the tasks needed to be completed knowing they will have a three day weekend to get ready for the next round of intensive work days. Difficult times call for difficult measures and thinking outside of traditional methods will allow us to meet the ever changing demands of a society struggling with an inconsistent and unpromising economy.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 08 Oct 12
     
    I did read the article and this is true that the school district did save a huge amount of income for having four day school weeks. However if you decide to have a four day school week somewhere along the line school districts still have to meet about 187 days of school, so we would be taking a risk of shorter summer vacation or shorter vacations. But hey looking at the data I am for it, but just shorter vacations.
  • Leonila Pena on 14 Oct 12
     
    There's been rumors that school districts here in the RGV would do this if the budget crisis got worse, but I have yet to see it happen. There are many other ways that the school districts can reduce costs, however if they did go into the 4-day school weeks and extended the school days, then I guess there would be no difference. Like the article states, it would mainly affect the parents because of child-care expenses, but maybe this would make parents value their childrens' education more, because unfortunately there are many parents that see school as free daycare and as long as they can leave their kids there 5 days a week while they are at work they don't care about anything else. Whatever it is that school districts decide to do to reduce costs will work only if they have a good plan in place along with a good backup plan.
  • Diana Cedillo on 14 Oct 12
     
    I agree with Victoria. Viewing this article as a parent/teacher would have two different outcomes. We (the U.S.) are already behind in Education. We seem to be cutting funding in the area we are the most weak in; education. If we struggle with students learning the material in a 5 day school week and retaining the information over a two day weekend, how are we suppose to have them grasp and retain in 4 days? I don't believe having a 4 day work week will motivate teachers and students. I believe it'll make it worse. I vote NO.
  • Sergio Perez on 15 Oct 12
     
    Once in a while you will hear in the news how the students from the United States compare to those in other countries. The Center for Public Education wrote an article about how the amount of time of school affects our students. They compared top performing countries to the United States and they were unable to find a correlation between less school time and lower test scores. The article also states that some high performing countries have their students spend less time in the classroom than the United States. You can find this article at the following link: http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/Main-Menu/Organizing-a-school/Time-in-school-How-does-the-US-compare I know at my school district, teaching positions have not been filled because of the budget. Although the savings for a four-day week may be small it is still a savings. The parents that work will be having to look for daycare. Some of these parents are barely making it and this additional cost could be too much for their budget. There are many pros and cons from the four-day school week for the schools and parents. If the school has the funds then I would favor the school week to remain at five days.
  • Sonia Aldape on 15 Oct 12
     
    Maria, an article worth looking into especially with all the cuts in all departments at our district. Within the district we have been trying to conserve energy but that will only go so far. The state has really reduced the budget for our district which makes it tough therefore, they should consider the 4 day work week. Students would love this as well as teachers. On the other hand, parents would probably say NO.
  • Sara Aldape on 15 Oct 12
     
    WOW!!! Kids would be estatic, but that would mean parents would have to look for babysitters. Since parents have to work because of the economy, it would be very difficult. But for those that are stay home parents it's a plus. Do you think it would really help the districts? How do parents feel about it? Here is another article about it. http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/kids-try-to-fill-extra-day-off-with-4day-schook-we/
  • Maria L Mata on 16 Oct 12
     
    I think it is awesome that districts can think outside the box and find alternative ways to save money for the district and try so hard to keep their personnel without sacrificing the curriculum. I have been reading up on school districts that are saving money by eliminating bus routes. I think that is another great idea, not only to save money but it helps students, parents, grandparents get their daily exercise. Here is on of the articles that talks about it: http://www.activatenoblecounty.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=75:walking-school-bus-can-save-money-lengthen-lives&catid=3:latest&Itemid=16
  • Juanita Casanova on 16 Oct 12
     
    Well, I think the idea of having a four-day week has its benefits. The district would help save money by eliminating hours of energy used in the classroom. That in itself could save thousands of dollars by the district. The money saved could be utilized in other areas. Here is a link to some creative ways other districts are utilizing to save money. http://www.mamapedia.com/article/creative-ways-to-cut-expenses-in-a-school-district
  • Saul Mendiola on 17 Oct 12
     
    I think that districts here in the valley are far from moving to this 4-day school weeks. It would have to be most or all of the school districts from around here in order to work more effectively. There will be a lot of unhappy parents due to child care expenses. On the other hand, us teachers will probably enjoy it. As it is most of us already stay late hours at school everyday to finish up. The districts will have to show how much they are saving by doing this and at the same time maintain or improve scores.
  • Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
     
    I read the article and I believe the 4-day week has its benefits but as well it has its downside. I believe at the end the positive benefits will outweigh the downsides. If any district is going to implement the 4-day week, the district has to have the parents and community behind them if they want the system to work. I can see how having a 4-day week will have a positive effect on test scores, because the students and teachers will make every hour count for instructional time, knowing they only have 4 days to teach the concept within the week. I can also see improvement in attendance with students and staff, now parents and teachers can schedule their appointments on the off day during the week. Article: http://crosscut.com/2012/02/16/education/21873/The-fourday-school-week-why-less-really-is-more/ A superintendent in Oregon explains the reasons why a shift to a four-day school week works well for students, teachers, and families. Start with better academic performance.
kate Binns

Don't Pay for Technology: 25 Freebies for Students - 11 views

education-portal.com/..._25_Freebies_for_Students.html

shared by kate Binns on 22 Apr 12 - Cached
  • kate Binns on 22 Apr 12
     
    In today's economic climate, paying for technology isn't prudent, and for some students, it isn't even an option. Fortunately, there are plenty of freebies on the web that can help with document creation, research, writing, storage, collaboration, studying and more. Here are 25 free web apps and software programs that may be useful to students. I've used several of these web apps with varying degrees of success with students. Have you used any or have plans to use them in your classroom? How have they worked for you?
  • ...6 more comments...
  • Adriana G Hernandez on 29 Apr 12
     
    These are awesome Kate! The only one I have used before is GoogledDocs. I really like it when I'm working with a group. I've used it to create staff development plans, campus improvement plans, and analyzing data with my colleagues. I just set up an account for Bibme and I added it to our library website. I had been using Citation Machine, but this is different. I have some Pre-AP Social Studies classes scheduled for next week, and I'm going to show them how to use it. I also used the Flashcard maker to create flashcards for Competency 2 Vocabulary. I created them really fast. I just copied and pasted the terms from the database on Dr. Butler's wiki. I am going to share this website with our teachers too! This is so exciting! Thanks for sharing!
  • Esther Sauceda on 30 Apr 12
     
    Thanks for sharing the article; I will add them to the resource page I created on my wiki. I agree it has become unnecessary to purchase any software. There are massive Web 2.0 tools and apps to use for free. I have exposed my students to concept mapping with bubbl.us, presentation formats (sliderocket, prezi, brainshark, slideshare), charts and graphs creation, vocabulary build up with games created on line (taxgedo, wordle) and interactive posters like glogster. Students love diverse means to present their information; they are not limited to present in a specific software.
  • Pedro Torres on 06 May 12
     
    Wow!!! I loved them!! I am amazed at the number of Web 2.0 tools that are out there. I just was told by a friend about a Web 2.0 tool called live binder and I loved it too. You place all the web pages a student may need for a research or any project you want and you waste less time on searches and the kids will focus more on the assignment goals.
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 08 May 12
     
    And even more interesting - at the bottom of the page, there is an ad for getting college credit by taking a free online course. So you go through the free online course and then you can take a test and get CLEP exam and get college credit. For $77.00 you can get 3-credits. Not a bad deal. In my spare time, I would like to go through one of the courses.
  • Elva Mendoza on 09 May 12
     
    Great website. I used http://www.bibme.org/ to do my bibliography for the technology plan. It is a lot easier than using citation machine. I can't wait to use it with my students, since they have no idea about citations. It amazes me how many free websites are out there for free. I will be going through several of the websites to see what else catches my eye.
  • Juanita R. Martinez on 12 May 12
     
    This is an awesome website, it will definitly be worth bookmarking for future reference. Students will definetly find this information useful.
  • Olivet Castillo on 14 May 12
     
    Thanks, Kate! Yes, I am still at awe at the number of results I get when I look up for tools, it's incredible! Thanks once again for this great resource.
  • Delilah Alegria on 14 May 12
     
    I wouldn't be surprised if some students already knew about this. I have not used any in class yet, but I will definately look into it.
Janice Wilson Butler

- Don't judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree - The problem with assessment - 10 views

www.techlearning.com/Default.aspx

21stCenturySkills techlearning literacy butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 29 Mar 12 - No Cached
  • Elva Mendoza on 14 Apr 12
     
    I really enjoyed the article and I will say that I agree that testing is not making our students smarter. I have been in the teaching field for 22 years and year after year I see the students so disconnected with learning. Students have been taught how to pass a test, rather than how to think creatively. I have students that can't answer an open ended question in a complete thought, but can pass a state exam. I have always refused to teach to a test, and have gotten very good results at the end. Since I teach Science my class is very hands-on, so the students love the class, but they don't have the background ability to apply it on a test. These students have been trained not to think only to answer multiple choice questions. It takes me a whole semester to get them to make the connection from the experiment and how to apply it to the test. My first year at my school the teacher who was teaching Science before me gave me boxes full of TAKS materials that she used in her class and she told me that I wouldn't have time for hands-on activities. As soon as she left my room I threw everything in the trash and my principal was surprised that I didn't want her materials. Needless to say my students became thinkers by the end of the year and grew a new appreciation for Science. Being in the MTT program I have begun integrating technology in my Social Studies class and I have never seen students so interested in learning about the American Revolution. We are getting ready to create newsletters about different topics they learned about the American Revolution. They are even getting ready to create a voki to present a part of their newsletter. I have seen technology even motivate the most reluctant learner in my class. I have students that will come in the morning and begin working on their project that they need to complete. I even have students going to the public library to use the computers. I am a true believer in integrating technology. I
  • Adriana G Hernandez on 15 Apr 12
     
    Loved this fable!! It reminded me about a book I read a few years ago titled Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell . It was a whole bunch of stories about real-life success stories such as The Beatles and Bill Gates. The one thing that all of these people had in common was that they all spent tens of thousands of hours honing in on their craft. Some of them just got lucky and had the opportunity to practice. Others had parents that knew that they had cultivate their child's passion and not force them to do things that they were just not capable of doing or that they were not interested in. This fable reminds me of what we are doing in education today. We want all of the students to be "good" at everything and never give them enough time to become great at something. If students were allowed to follow their passion, the benefits would overflow into other subjects.
  • kate Binns on 22 Apr 12
     
    I often use this analogy to encourage my students who feel that they are unintelligent because of their struggles to pass tests. Our school system tries to make all of our students fit a specific mold-- some fit, some adapt, and some give up. We've give up the ability to provide our students with the freedom to explore and be creative for a sense of security in "accountability." Sure, we need to hold schools and educators accountable for providing a quality education and yes, there have been schools in the past who have misused the freedoms allowed to them. However, I cannot and will not believe that an annual multiple choice test will sum up all of the knowledge that my students have gained. I strive to teach my students to think critically and be a part of the world around them. In my opinion, being able to think your way through a problem is going to be much more valuable to my students in the future than knowing the difference between rotation and revolution. (Unless they plan on being aerospace engineers that is). We need to focus on inspiring students to learn through their own drive and interest. Let's not kill their natural curiosity with our adult need for accountability.
Alyssa Tanguma

Best content in EDTC6343 | Diigo - Groups - 12 views

groups.diigo.com/edtc6343

shared by Alyssa Tanguma on 20 Sep 12 - No Cached
    • Victoria Lopez
      Victoria Lopez on 21 Sep 12
       
      I applied also, but didn't get it.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 23 Sep 12
       
      Check out the Math Movies Trailers! It's awesome!
    • Sara Aldape
      Sara Aldape on 23 Sep 12
       
      Thanks! I'll check them out.
  • Technology Impact on Learning
  • ...5 more annotations...
    • Diana Cedillo
      Diana Cedillo on 02 Oct 12
       
      Diigo Host Week of Sept. 30- Oct. 7 Please respond to post prior to Oct. 7
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 03 Oct 12
       
      It is not my turn to be host, I just wanted to share...
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 11 Oct 12
       
      Victoria I'm glad you liked the article. I am always amazed at how many suggestions, inventions, or books are published/created and I ask myself, 'why didn't I think of that?'. Most of the strategies are no brainers, but when you are bombarded with deadlines, standardized testing, iep's, ard's, etc... it is easy to forget the really importatnt things, the students.
    • Yadira Flores
      Yadira Flores on 15 Oct 12
       
      My sister in law had her kids in a out of state school that implemented the 4 day week and from her parent view she said it was a problem because they had to find daycare and she felt it was not beneficial for the kids. I think that like all systems it will benefit some students and harm others.
    • Alyssa Tanguma
      Alyssa Tanguma on 21 Oct 12
       
      Sorry Guys, like R. Palomares, Joshua did share this. I dont know what I did that it shows me.
  • Juanita Casanova on 20 Sep 12
     
    Is there a question? . . . I think I am lost.
  • Maria L Mata on 20 Sep 12
     
    Shouldn't there be an article and a question? I think I'm lost too.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 12 Oct 12
     
    Nice I'll check it out
R. Palomares

Phonics Word Searches Worksheets - 7 views

bogglesworldesl.com/phonicswordsearches.htm

shared by R. Palomares on 21 Sep 12 - No Cached
R. Palomares liked it
  • Short A  Easy 
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 21 Sep 12
       
      EDTC 6343, The "Short A Easy" really makes the "A" easy to teach. I like how you can download the page in a word document and then print as many as you want. 
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 21 Sep 12
       
      Check out all the other great resources provided here at the top! It's great!
  • Tania Lopez Delgado on 21 Sep 12
     
    word searches with phonics
  • ...7 more comments...
  • R. Palomares on 22 Sep 12
     
    Tania, I must say that teaching phonics using this collection of word searches can be a lot of fun. It's not only educational but it is also very fun to do. I can see how students who are struggling with their reading skills can benefit from this. I really like the other resources at the top of the page. Especially the "Lesson Plans" tab resource. Thank you very much for hosting and sharing this great website!
  • R. Palomares on 22 Sep 12
     
    IMPORTANT!!!!! Phonics Word Searches Worksheets was shared by Tania Lopez Delgado and I just commented on it and I don't know why it says "Shared by R. Palomares about 6 hours ago". It was Tania who shared it she is the host. I shared "Free printable English worksheets, wordsearches, crosswords, board games, grammar works... " after seeing this awesome website that Tania hosted. I'm not a host this week so nobody has to comment on it but I thought it was good to share since it goes right in hand with what Tania hosted this week.
  • Sonia Aldape on 22 Sep 12
     
    Great educational website! It is definitely another resource for my treasure box. I really enjoyed the different types of worksheets. Especially the way it is set up with all the categories used in phonics programs.
  • Diana Cedillo on 23 Sep 12
     
    I think this is a great website for our ESL or Bilingual students. I do like how the worksheet is ready for print. The pictures are great too, especially for our ELL students learning the English language.
  • Maribel Gracia on 23 Sep 12
     
    I liked and enjoy navigating throughout the different worksheets that were in the website. They are very useful because it starts with easy to normal levels that will meet student's needs. In addition, these worksheets contain images that will help students connect with the words.
  • Lourdes Beltran on 23 Sep 12
     
    Wow! This is a fantastic website. It is a great website for ESL or Bilingual students. I love the fact that these worksheets are free. The Bilingual students can also benefit from the interactive games online. I think this is awesome. They actually would have the opportunity to practice their phonics in many different ways. With interactive games and fun worksheets. Also, one website that I found to help with phonics www.cookie.com.
  • Saul Mendiola on 23 Sep 12
     
    This is a great website. The pictures will definitely help the bilingual students learn some of the concepts that are introduced in class. I will share this website with my colleagues.
  • Mario Ortiz on 21 Oct 12
     
    This is an excellent link to use in the classroom. One of the things that I like is that it provides different resources. I am going to introduce this to my students so they can have fun learning new vocabulary. Also, I would like to implement some of the prompts that are given, great for ELL's, ESL and Bilingual students.
  • Santos Alvarado on 03 Dec 12
     
    Great website, downloadable free worksheets, will always get thumbs up from me. This is great for ESL and Bilingual students to help them phonically.
Janice Wilson Butler

TechLearning: 21st Century Student Handbook: Teaching Today's Web-Centric Kids - 9 views

www.techlearning.com/...52260

21stCenturySkills edtech collaboration web2.0 edchat techlearning literacy technology classroom integrating butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 29 Mar 12 - No Cached
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 29 Mar 12
     
    21st century literacy
  • ...1 more comment...
  • Corina Carmona on 02 Apr 12
     
    Internet technologies may be a good way to teach computer literacy and content, but it may be easy for students to skim through information. In a traditional classroom lecture, the listener may only retain twenty percent of the lecture. When we have our students using online resources, can we be sure that they are thoroughly learning the content. Even in class our instructors reiterate thoroughly reading the materials, because they know we tend to skim the material and miss important information. More on the way we are learning now. We have a new category of learner rather than traditional, according to Dr. Michael Herbert, whom conducted a study of of content retention and course satisfaction at the college level. It is useful to note the five reasons why adult learners drop out of online learning programs: "poor design, failure to understand the new medium, lack of consideration for a variety of learning styles, lack of support systems and ignoring the self-selecting content need of learners." All of these reasons are the same reasons our students may struggle with internet technologies and online learning. Herbert, M. (2006, Winter). Staying the Course: A Study in Online Student Satisfaction and Retention. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from http://www.westga.edu: http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/winter94/herbert94.htm
  • Corina Carmona on 02 Apr 12
     
    Internet technologies may be a good way to teach computer literacy and content, but it may be easy for students to skim through information. In a traditional classroom lecture, the listener may only retain twenty percent of the lecture. When we have our students using online resources, can we be sure that they are thoroughly learning the content. Even in class our instructors reiterate thoroughly reading the materials, because they know we tend to skim the material and miss important information. More on the way we are learning now. We have a new category of learner rather than traditional, according to Dr. Michael Herbert, whom conducted a study of of content retention and course satisfaction at the college level. It is useful to note the five reasons why adult learners drop out of online learning programs: "poor design, failure to understand the new medium, lack of consideration for a variety of learning styles, lack of support systems and ignoring the self-selecting content need of learners." All of these reasons are the same reasons our students may struggle with internet technologies and online learning. Herbert, M. (2006, Winter). Staying the Course: A Study in Online Student Satisfaction and Retention. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from http://www.westga.edu: http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/winter94/herbert94.htm
  • Paul Edward Mendiola on 09 Apr 12
     
    What really caught y attention in this article was the part where it says: Make it personal - Passion-driven learning. Teaching mathematics in the seconday level is no easy task. Having to teach probably the least favorite subject of high schoolers is such a big challenge that most teachers prefer to teach the subject in a traditional way. Quiet classroom, teacher in the front, books on the table and students quietly listen to to the teachers dicussion. This method is widely opossed nowadays and classroom collaboration many believe is the most effective way of learning. Technology helps this goal to be achieved. Passion driven learning is one of the ways that I truly believe could work in a math class. Online resources such as the Gallup Poll's web page http://www.gallup.com/home.aspx - offers information on how they use data and other information to predict outcomes and verify results. The site is loaded with graphs, data and other information relevant to mathematics in the real world setting. If we could spark that passion in our kids, they themselves, on their own will search for other resources and learn along the way. Dyck, B. (2005, winter). Meridian: A Middle School Computer Technologies Journal; When Technology Integration Goes to Math Class, from http://www.ncsu.edu/meridian/sum2003/math/index.html
Ruth Garza

Students Using iPads for Education | KRGV.com | CHANNEL 5 NEWS | Breaking News Breaking... - 6 views

www.krgv.com/...ents-using-ipads-for-education

technology classroom

shared by Ruth Garza on 30 Sep 12 - No Cached
    • Ruth Garza
      Ruth Garza on 30 Sep 12
       
      I agree Jaime!! Students need to have the necessary technology, like ipads or diifferent kinds of tablets/readers, to take advatage of the benefits of the many applications students may use. Principal Martinez, of Stillman Middle School in Brownsville, understands that students are living in a new era of technology. Students are responding well and feeling optimistic about their future. Ipads are definitely useful tools and allow students to collaborate and discover new ways of learning. Many educational sites for tutoring and wonderful videos may be the key for their success. I'm glad that a school here in the valley is taking the initiative to make a difference in the students' lives, regardless of all the misconceptions or negative responses that many people, including teachers that are stuck in their ways, may have. Check out the news report from Channel Five!
    • Alyssa Tanguma
      Alyssa Tanguma on 01 Oct 12
       
      LOVED this article. So many people are against iPads in the classroom. They haven't taken the time to fully view and do their research on the benefits it can provide. I would love to get a class set. I am an inclusion teacher and we are going to be reading a book as a class and it would be great to have the kids read on that instead of the traditional book.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 22 Oct 12
       
      Wow, This is great news for Stillman Middle School students in gear up. The IPAD has many features that I know the students are going to love to learn and use. This partnership between Apple and Region One was a great opportunity to help students expand on their knowledge using Technology. They will also be better equipped on their knowledge of technology tools.
  • Ruth Garza on 30 Sep 12
     
    Stillman Middle School students were issued ipads as part of the GEAR UP program.
  • ...5 more comments...
  • Marivel Garcia on 01 Oct 12
     
    This is a great way to teach, being able to have all your students working interactively while you teach. I am still hoping we get some in our district. I feel this will really help my students get motivated in their reading which will eventually help their comprehension.
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 02 Oct 12
     
    I enjoyed reading the article of Mcallen I.S.D using IPADs in their classrooms. I was a permanent sub at a middle school in McAllen and the middle school did not have IPADs but other campuses did for edcuational purposes. I heard students would log into edmodo for school assignments using their IPADs. However I also heard of numerous stories of students pawning the IPADs for money and parents being involved with the pawning scam. It's a huge risk to take investing in IPADS for students to use because of parents and students that might misuse the device.
  • Mario Ortiz on 22 Oct 12
     
    I agree with Mr. E.J. Martinez, Principal of Stillman Middle School. Technology is a very powerful tool. If used properly in the classroom it can catapult participation, learning and creativity. It will give students the opportunity to access information and visit virtual places. The possibilities are endless and the sky is the limit.
  • Maribel Gracia on 29 Oct 12
     
    WOW, thats great that Stillman were issued IPADS. IPADS or any other equipment such as KINDLE FIRE are very useful for our students in our district. Like it was mention before, technology is a powerful tool so our students need to have the access of any equipment that is out there for them. Great News!!!.
  • Santos Alvarado on 29 Oct 12
     
    Its great to see that more and more schools are implementing technology into the classroom. It would be great if every district had enough money to issue out educational technology tools to the students (iPads, tablets, iPods) as an instructional resource in the classroom. Here is a link to how Weslaco is providing teachers training in technology to help 21st Century learners excel with the technology they're already used to: http://www.themonitor.com/mvtc/news/article_1f614f22-122c-11e2-83e4-001a4bcf6878.html
  • Diana Cedillo on 29 Oct 12
     
    I don't believe people are completely against it, i believe it's the fear of NOT KNOWING how to use it in the classroom. I'm totally up for using the ipad. I've currently started using REMIND 101. WOrks awesome. One way communication that's safe from teacher to student/parent that reminds them about certain activities or important reminders. Check it out!
  • Marivel Garcia on 03 Nov 12
     
    We recently were asked to fill out a survey within our district explaining why or why not to implement the use of IPADS in the classroom. Of course, I am all for it but I was surprised to see the many educators who are reluctant and don't feel it is necessary. I am already planning what to do with mine if the district decides to suit us with a class set.
Janice Wilson Butler

- 50 Sites in 60 Minutes, Volume Three - 7 views

www.techlearning.com/Default.aspx

Links to tools apps technology education elearning butler allsemesters

shared by Janice Wilson Butler on 06 Mar 12 - No Cached
  • Janice Wilson Butler on 06 Mar 12
     
    Lots of Apple stuff here - but other stuff is available for us Non-MACS.
  • kate Binns on 11 Mar 12
     
    Wow! That is a ton of information! I feel like I need to slowly go through each one. I am a Mac enthusiast, and I wish that our district would convert. I feel like we would be able to accomplish a lot more with the different interface. It's much more user friendly--- hence all of the copycats. THank you for sharing such a wonderful list of options!
Ruth Garza

IDRA - Attrition and Dropout Rates in Texas - 6 views

www.idra.org/Attrition

shared by Ruth Garza on 06 Oct 12 - No Cached
    • Ruth Garza
      Ruth Garza on 06 Oct 12
       
      We are losing way too many students because 1 of every 4 students are dropping out of school.
    • R. Palomares
      R. Palomares on 07 Oct 12
       
      Ruth, these drop out rates are alarming. I specifically found interesting but alarming the information that mentions that Texas schools are losing 13 students per hour. Wow, that means that in an average day, 91 students drop out. I think that we have a great job ahead of us in developing ways to diminish those drop out rates and create classrooms where students feel the need to want to stay in school.
    • Santos Alvarado
      Santos Alvarado on 29 Oct 12
       
      Ruth great article, its very shocking to see the drop out rates in Texas alone, and to know that another 2.8 million students are going to dropout in the next 25 years. I would like to know how Texas stacks up against other states, even though we have more schools and larger population, do other states have a similar rate/avg as our state.
    • vincent briseno
      vincent briseno on 04 Nov 12
       
      My daughter and I were just talking about this the other day. She was writing a paper arguing for year round school. Here is a similar article she used as a resource. The information is very eye opening. http://www.texastribune.org/texas-education/public-education/prepaing-texas-student-college-struggle/
  • Maribel Gracia on 07 Oct 12
     
    Hey Ruth I was shocked to read about the dropouts rates for Texas. I ask myself, why are so many students dropping out every hour in Texas? We need to make learning fun for these students not to drop out and graduate from high School. Alot of these students get to much pressure of the state test that it turns them off from reaching their goals and graduating.
  • ...6 more comments...
  • Alberto Gonzalez on 08 Oct 12
     
    At my school district. Edinburg has a campus that helps students graduate from high school because of increasing drop out rates. Majority of students drop out because of numerous reasons, examples; pregnancy, parents, jobs, peer pressure, jail ect. School districts should open up a campus that help students graduate on credit recovery. Even getting a G.E.D is better than nothing, but yes I do agree the drop out rate has increased over the years.
  • Sara Aldape on 29 Oct 12
     
    It's so sad that lots of kiddos are dropping out. Many of them give up because they can't pass the state test and many of them just don't have the support at home. It's amazing how many students we are losing.
  • Santos Alvarado on 29 Oct 12
     
    Ruth great article, its very shocking and sad to see the drop out rates in Texas alone, and to know that another 2.8 million students are going to dropout in the next 25 years. I would like to know how Texas compares to other states, even though we have more schools and larger population, do other states have a similar rate/avg as our state.
  • Marivel Garcia on 03 Nov 12
     
    This article is so scary, why are we losing so many kids and why don't they see the tremendous challenge they have ahead without an education. I personally see some of my students that have fallen between the cracks and unfortunately I can make a prediction that he/she will probably choose the wrong path. It's really sad but I believe our education system doesn't allow us to teach anymore and therefore we have lost track of the purpose of learning. The majority of our students are economically disadvantage and it seems like school has become a burden because all we talk about is the importance of passing those test.
  • Diana Cedillo on 05 Nov 12
     
    It's hard to fathom the drop-out rate of our students. From my observations, it's around the middle school level where students lose internal motivation. Many students already know the system and what grade level they have to make it to for their parents to be okay with. I believe it may be a mixture of their hormones and the choice of poor friends that lead them down the wrong path. As an educator, it's hard to motivate these students when we're up against their family telling them, don't worry, do what you want, I don't care. I'm not saying all parents...just a few of the parents who don't care themselves. If they don't care to better their lives, why should their kids? It's hard. We're faced with the parents who are receiving assistance and their kids know that all they have to do is get through 8th grade. After that, they too can stay at home and receive assistance.
  • Blanca Pena on 08 Nov 12
     
    Great article to read and digest in everyday that we send our kids to school to get an education. The drop-out rate speaks to the high volume of students that lack guidance and motivation to succeed in life. I am proud to be a part of a program at my campus that offers an alternative for students to regain their credits. The program we use is the A+Plus program where students are placed to a lab classroom environment and are given the opportunity to regain their credits. This program has helped our campus reduce the drop-out rate and increase graduation ratios. Thank you for the article. Blanca.
  • Mario Ortiz on 11 Nov 12
     
    I agree with the comments that other students are making regarding this alarming situation. We need to make learning fun and engaging, but how can we do this? If every time we try to incorporate technology in the classroom we are reprimanded because they think students are just playing.
  • Crystal Martinez on 12 Nov 12
     
    Great article...It is very alarming on all the information that was given. I have incorporated technology into my everyday lessons so I could keep my students engaged and wanting to learn more. Teaching should be fun and unfortunately due to state tests some teachers just teach to the test and put the pressure to the students to pass the state tests.
Delia Torres

The Future of College Education - 6 views

www.youtube.com/watch

online education

shared by Delia Torres on 22 Apr 12 - No Cached
  • kate Binns on 22 Apr 12
     
    The cost of higher education has grown exponentially in just the six years since my undergraduate days. However, the options that are available are incredible! I was amazed to find out that you can take classes online through MIT for FREE. What an amazing way to use our time on the internet? Are we preparing our students to be self-guided learners who are ready to work their way through an online course? I know that it's been a difficult transition for me, will our students be able to make it? Are they better equipped than the older generation to make the transition because of their technology infused lives or will it be more difficult for them to focus?
  • ...1 more comment...
  • Corina Carmona on 23 Apr 12
     
    I believe students will be able to maneuver through an online course as if its second nature. Schools are striving to implement online learning, being that it a focus area in the Texas Long Range Plan for Technology. As far as student focus in online learning, "online learners" is a fairly new type of learner that may struggle with content retention. Herbert, M. (2006, Winter). Staying the Course: A Study in Online Student Satisfaction and Retention. Retrieved April 1, 2012, from http://www.westga.edu: http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/winter94/herbert94.htm http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=5082&menu_id=2147483665
  • Juanita R. Martinez on 12 May 12
     
    Wow, this was very scary. I have three children and I have instilled in them the importance of furthering their education. Seeing this makes me wonder, if Im gona have to rob a bank to help them on thier educational journey. The price of college has risen significally now, but I will try my best to stay afloat and continue and hopefully succeed without a ton of debt.
  • Delia Torres on 13 May 12
     
    Yes, post-secondary education is becoming more expensive to prepare our sons and daughters at the actual schools of learning for their future. More the reason(s) that we must prepare students K-12th to be 21st century learners that can collaborate, communicate, use critical thinking skills and problem-solving skills that will enable them to be independent and self-motivated for online learning. By taking on-line college courses, the students will be able to save money in tuition fees, textbooks, housing, transportation, and other types of expenses. In spite of the high expense it will cost me to educate my daughter as a biology major and to attend medical school, I want her to be prepared to become a medical doctor--thank goodness I only have one!!
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