EBTL2

This article explains how advancements in technology have enhanced the humanities. The digitization of texts combined with statistical analysis software has enabled literary scholars to analyze literature in a whole new way. The unprecedented techniques mix algorithms and written expressions to detect the frequency of word usage, nuances in the structure of sentences, and common thematic elements in and among texts. The digital analysis of literature provides a new type of lens for scholars to examine works to learn more about the cultural contexts in which the pieces were written.

I frequently find myself "defending" the impact of the Internet and technology on students' desire and ability to read and write. To me, it seems that the Internet has increased the amount of reading students do now, especially outside of school. Sure formats have changed but mostly in the direction of concision, something English teachers have been championing forever. Gone are the gatekeepers around who gets to publish (i.e., be heard, gain international attention for a cause, etc.) Never mind the access to ivy league courses...

Making Simple Sense of iPads in School

Here's a short article from NPR on a bookless public library opening in Texas. I think as we see more of this, it brings up mixed feelings and conversation. I'm wondering if this is where all libraries are headed eventually? I'm a person who has an e-reader (Nook) and loves using it, but I still like to read from an actual book from time to time. I'm wondering if the younger generations will feel the same, or if they won't know any different? To me, there's something comfortable and warm about a room, or a building, with lots of books in it. I can't picture classrooms, especially those of young children without books on the shelves, or teachers reading to kids on the rug. I wonder what other people think. Technology has definitely changed our lives and is taking us to new places all the time, but could the changes be too much, too fast?

I came across this article and found its first tip not to jump right into downloading apps especially helpful. I've found the most effective apps to use with students to be ones that can be used across subject areas to take learning to the next level and help students synthesize and share information.

I use this website and some of the videos in my freshmen advisory classes. Later we write down our questions and concerns and bring in Officer Santasky for some Q & A.

Here are some thoughts from Alfie Kohn on how it is important to be courageous in making changes for the best interest of students.

This is a very thought provoking article in the NYTimes Magazine this week that grapples with the issues that I suspect we are grappling with in class. I like the comments by Sherry Turkle. I'm curious what others think!

This is a great site for teachers to teach students about copyright and begin conversations about intellectual property.

I've been using this site with middle school student for a few years to help teach copyright. It's written in kid-friendly language (middle school) and has lots of resources for teaches who might need a refresher course for themselves. There is an interactive quiz that sparks lots of conversation around intellectual property and fair use. The site is easy to navigate though beware there seem to be a few broken links.

Thanks for sharing this Robyn, I found this site informative and I like that the language is appropriate for middle schoolers. I just took the "Copyright Challenge" quiz and ended up learning a few things! For example, I didn't realize that an essay you write is protected by copyright law as soon as you write it down because that makes it "Fixed in a Tangible Form of Expression." I understand that Fair Use is a defense to copyright infringement but I am still a little unsure about how much of a work you can use before it can no longer be defended by fair use. I guess there is no easy answer to that question because it depends on the situation. I can definitely see myself using the interactive quiz with my students.

Here are some fun things to do with children to help them learn about phonemes.

This article describes how a school district enables teachers to teach colleagues the intricacies of certain aspects of technology as part of a professional development plan that calls for "flipped" methodology.

This site was put together by Garth Holman and Mike Pennington, 2 teachers who are doing amazing work with getting the students to own the learning. I saw some of their presentations at the BLC13 Conference this past July. They are mentioned in Alan November's book "Who Owns the Learning" so it was a treat to meet them in person at the BLC Conference. Lots of great information and inspiration on their website.

Some ideas for EBTL2