HGSET561

A discussion on the NYT Learning blog asking whether apps are streamlining our online reading or wasting our time. It's an interesting discussion that has no one right answer. How efficient an app is likely depends on what it is for and how you are using it, but can often be effective tools.

This is the .gov web site listing PDFs of all current Education policies, research,studies and initiatives.

"How private companies are profiting from Texas public schools."

Facebook: Documenting the times of sitting on your stoop.

banned websites issues

make good use of social media

Using technology for school reform

In my opinion this use of technology in education doesn't add any value to the class. Are they are testing it to reduce the number of nursery school teachers?

Physical toys can be recognized by the iPad touch screen, utilized by free game app. The interaction (maybe requirement?) of physical toys, that must be purchased, in order to utilize a free app... curious to see if this kind of interaction will gain footing in education

Interesting report

An amazing study that asked kids 12 and under to draw pictures of what they hope to see computer and the Internet do in the future. Should this be used as a guide to create emerging technologies?

Interesting argument for iPads and tablets

It's very encouraging to know that a study shows that "Video games and TV shows can help us learn, similarly to traditional non-electronic methods."

A community of educators Collaborating To create open software That improves teaching, learning and research Please join us Organizations and individuals have come together to create, adopt, share and support Sakai.

"When and where does it make sense to institute a longer school day, and how should it be designed?"

I think a case can be made for structuring school hours flexibly, to accommodate those who engage in sports and other extra currlicular activities and also those who desire or need additional academic learning time.

From my own experience, using technology was an effective way to maintain student engagement during a longer day. As a sped teacher, I offered students the opportunity to do an extra online-based reading intervention if they came to school early. I had a surprising number of students come - almost every single day. Additionally, using technology during afternoon tutoring sessions helped my students stay on-task. I think if the standard school day was to be extended, putting a substantial focus on technology would be both an effective learning tool and a good way to help prevent students from burning out by the last bell.

"Nearly a third of children aged ten or under now have their own mobile phone, according to survey of parents. One in ten said their child was using an internet capable smartphone, such as the iPhone or Android devices." And yet, most schools make kids 'check' their technology at the door. Things that make you go "hmmmmm".

I saw this on the LabNotes today. It's pretty amazing! What could these kids possibly be using these internet ready cellphones for that isn't learning?

Interesting comments on Sherry Turkle's new book "Alone Together", a criticism on the pervasiveness of social media

The concerns about federal regulation of social media continue