Group items tagged

A description of the 1st one-to-one laptop program in the world (at a Melbourne-based private school). The important aspect of this is the purpose behind this program and how that differs from what has happened since. Arguably, how computers and computing devices are being used in schools has radically decreased even though the capability of the technology has radically increased.

I found this article really interesting after an experience in two year seven classes a few weeks ago. I was asked to help two grade 7 classes for the first 2 periods for three weeks. In that time, I wandered around quietly paying particular attention to what the students were actually doing on their laptops. I noticed on many occasions, several of the children were actually entertaining themselves by just "pottering" around on their laptop, even while the teacher was explicitly teaching. I was really curious to know how much the majority of students were actually learning. The class environment was relatively quiet compared to schooling in my day (in the '70's and '80's) but I had the thought, if laptop programs are NOT successful, we have a big problem that may not be confirmed for a decade or so. The other thing I found interesting is that the majority of the year 7's had done extremely poorly on their ICT exams.... interesting...

Great app for young students to create their own digital texts with.

This is a great app when I was on a placement I saw this in use it was a wonderful tool and the students were very engaged creating some amazing work.

Thanks for the share. What an amazing app for students. Can't wait to show this to my upcoming placement mentor to see if we can implement it into a lesson :) Cheers, Shaz

A $99 lamp that also contains a computer and a accelerometer so you can program it to change colour, turn on/off etc. An example of the potential of the "Internet of things". Where computers are increasingly embedded in appliances.

A summary of a get together of knowledgeable people about the future of education. Framed as a series of "wicked problems" for education. We may revisit these in later weeks in EDC3100

A great site for Early Childhood interactive games over a wide range of curriculum domains.  Yes it does cost but have a go at the free trial and see what you think.

An overview of some of the extra features Google provides for searching.   Like limiting a search to a particular site e.g.      "site:usq.edu.au uconnect"

An interview with a man responsible for most of what you see in personal computers talking about why the computer revolution in schools hasn't happened yet. We may be using this during the Week 2 learning path.

Yes, Seymour appears to be confirming what the Government has promised over the next year, to put a laptop per student in every classroom.

A game where you have to guess using a Google map where in the world a particular photo is taken.

"Over the years, I have seen "the fear" many times. A popular idiom used here in the USA is to compare the signs of that fear to "deer in headlights" The eyes of the technophobe are widened and a form of paralysis sets in as soon as I approach. Although, I emphasize modern teaching, learning and pedagogy, I am perceived as a "technology guru", justifying the terrified look (How could an educator have fear of teaching, learning or pedagogy?)"

A little questionable - but positioned as a science/learning tool. Especially around neuro-science.  

Announcement of a new book written by a primary teacher about why/how students in K-3 should be connecting to others around the world.  Includes a link to the book and to the author's blog.

Post that includes a video showing how to add voice comments to a Google doc - e.g. feedback on a student assignment.

#blogsync is a project/movement/approach where educational bloggers all write around a common question/topic. Billed as a slow version of Twitter chat.  This example address the question "Wasted investment? Why do so many teachers leave the profession in the first 5 years?".  It's origins are in the UK.

A 2012 blog post from a Melbourne teacher with a range of examples (prior posts) about how technology has been integrated into learning.

A presentation that gives four useful steps for building the right sort of online/digital presence (footprint). It's not just about protecting your personal information. It's also about building and maintaining a positive public presence.

A summary of work done by a World Bank supported group. Attempts to summarise what is known about the use of ICT in education -- original shared by Lisa Stewart

what do we know about successful pedagogical strategies?

An #edc3100 student's description of the process of creating a concept map as part of the week 2 path.  Highly recommended in terms of demonstrating a process to follow and as an example of a learning journal post. Be sure to take part in the survey toward the end.

the site automates the study of word lists for spelling and vocabulary. You can enter any list and VocabSpellingCity.com provides the sentences and definitions for the 20 different learning activities, including a WordSeach, HangMouse (think hangman), WordUnScramble, SpellingTest, VocabularyTest, WhichWord, MatchIt, Alphabetize, SpeedySpeller, Word-O-Rama, digital and printable flashcards, and more. Many teachers also use the site as a way to generate printables, since all of the games can also be delivered as printable worksheets

This site is really handy for help with children's spelling homework. Each week when my children get different spelling words I simply type in each word to create a list and the kids can choose from a number of different games to help them learn their words. Phiona

This site was used during my last practical experience. The teacher would create the different spelling lists and during spelling groups the students would have a chance to work on there lists at different days of the week. A very handy resources.

A survey from the Safe Schools Hub intended to help review/audit the policies and practices a school has undertaken to create a safe school environment. An idea that extends beyond just the safe, responsible and ethical use of digital technologies into areas of behaviour management etc.