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aliciawalsh2015

SpeEdChange: The Toolbelt and Universal Design - Education For Everyone - 108 views

speedchange.blogspot.com.au/...blog-page_2046.html

shared by aliciawalsh2015 on 01 Mar 13 - No Cached
  • Humans are tool makers and tool users. It truly is our most significant distinction among the species on the planet.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      Tool use defines human beings? So, the on-going development of tools and their use is central to who we are? What are the implications for teaching?
    • Michelle Thompson
      Michelle Thompson on 01 Mar 13
       
      Wow! ICTs are tools and they can define us? I think I have heard of this comment before but its application to ICTs is great in that it just confirms the need to use tools in this digital generation.
    • mrs parry
      mrs parry on 03 Mar 13
       
      I agree David and Michelle and a great example is being able to post this annotation after just watching the "how to" video.
    • Melissa March
      Melissa March on 05 Mar 13
       
      What a great reason to use ICT tools in the classroom.
    • fiona thrift
      fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
       
      In my opinion, if the on-going development of tools and their use is central to who we are then the implications for teaching are that if we do not maintain an understanding and knowledge of these tools and use them to teach then we will fall behind, as will our students.
    • Nicole Didlick
      Nicole Didlick on 07 Mar 13
       
      Humans as tool makers and tool users is a very powerful statement. Just like the use of any tool, it is important to choose the right tool for the job. So choosing the right ICT is important when teaching children and not just a one fits all approach.
    • Kellie Quirk
      Kellie Quirk on 10 Mar 13
       
      Tool Makers and Tool Users.... This is quite a significant staement for teachers and the importance of integerating ICT's and providing students with the opportunities to develop the skills needed to use tool effetively.
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      I think we need to be careful about making comment such as 'tools define us'.  I think it is more what tools we create and how we choose to use them that defines us.  Tools can be used for both positive and negative purposes and as educators we need to carefully choose which ICT tools are relevant and critically analyse why we will use them - what will they contribute to learning - not just use them because they are there. 
    • Jackie Litwinczuk
      Jackie Litwinczuk on 16 Jul 13
       
      I agree with Nicole that if teachers aren't using updated tools with their students that those students will fall behind. In this time and age children grow up around technologies, it is part of their culture. To connect and engage with them these ICT's need to be present. Now I also agree that the tools used need to be analysed and questioned. I also want to point out that using these ICT's shouldn't replace the educators role, it should enhance their teaching.
    • samantha bourke
      samantha bourke on 22 Jul 13
       
      "Tools define us" i think tools define the generations and it is our job as educators to teach the current generation about the current tools. i know i personally have fallen behind in the ICT world in the last few years due to the rapid change in what is current and what is classified as 'old school'. I know that working with school kids outside of hours they are a lot more technologically capable then I am. Does that make me an out of date teachers? Or does it make me still a student?
    • Michelle Newton
      Michelle Newton on 24 Jul 13
       
      Tool use defines human beings? I think the important thing to remember is that the tools are available to everyone but they are useless if we don't know how to use them effectively.
    • Amanda Condren
      Amanda Condren on 25 Jul 13
       
      I love learning new tools to be able to teach and pass on to children and adult students in and outside the classroom.
    • Billy Green
      Billy Green on 25 Feb 14
       
      I agree that humans are tool makers and tool users. Just like any tool it needs to be used correctly because afterall who uses a hammer to take out a screw?
    • Lauren Torr
      Lauren Torr on 26 Feb 14
       
      I also agree that humans are toolmakers-studying another course related to civilisations prior to 1500 C.E. they mention many tools that humans used in a multitude of civilisations. Each of the tools created were able to be adapted to eventually form what we know as ICT's
    • Isabella Irvine
      Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
       
      why dont all humans use these tools but?
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      This is a great tool to share ideas with class members and teachers. Using a range of ICT tools that suits the context helps us become competent users of technology. I am excited that it was quick and easy to learn.
    • Kim Hatfield
      Kim Hatfield on 04 Mar 14
       
      Great statement. 
    • Maria Kaffatou
      Maria Kaffatou on 05 Mar 14
       
      ''Those tools, in turn, actually change who we are, as they alter our capabilities.'' I wonder if it really is that alter our capabilities. It looks to me that the human spirit is constantly looking for the next step once we have reached a goal and understood the power that a tool can provide. I believe that this is the drive behind the alteration of our capabilities
    • Jacqueline Klaassen
      Jacqueline Klaassen on 06 Mar 14
       
      Completely agree with this statement. For thousands of years humans have created/used tools to make life easier. However, moving away from the primitive tools of that time, we are now inundated with a vast array of tools, so much so that many of us don't know how to use them, specifically the many online tools.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 08 Mar 14
       
      Completely true. Whether we used sticks to start a fire to google to find information we have always found some sort of tool that make life easier. As we gain more knowledge our tools become more advanced.
    • Stella Leotta
      Stella Leotta on 08 Mar 14
       
      Therefore, humans are tools makers - ICTs - which generate knowledge for humans - Google, YouTube - so that we as humans engage with the world in new ways - new experiences with ample opportunities.
    • Yasmin Gough
      Yasmin Gough on 12 Mar 14
       
      I couldn't agree fiona thrift.  That is why I'm so glad to be taking this course.
    • lucylue
      lucylue on 25 Jul 14
       
      I agree with Kate Perry. The human race has made and used tools for some very destructive purposes so I don't believe the mere ability to create and use is what defines us. I think the way in which they are used says far more about a generation of people that just the ability to create them. This holds true to teaching as well. The more we consider why we are using any tool the better the outcome of using the tool will be.
    • liv1609
      liv1609 on 25 Jul 14
       
      this is a vitally important learning aspect in learning for humans.
    • ltodd91
      ltodd91 on 24 Feb 15
       
      The use of tools is not only useful for survival, students need tools, for example, to decode words which they do not know or learn to spell words which they haven't yet learnt.
    • asmith79
      asmith79 on 01 Mar 15
       
      Wow... what a descriptive way of showing how humans have taught themselves for thousands of years, by developing new tools and new understandings to evolve through the ages. As teachers different teaching pedagogies will evolve and with them come new methods and understandings, ICT is the next step in a way of processing teachers, parents and students understandings of the tools they have to learn to move through the next stage of development, and without it they maybe left behind.
    • Natasha Taylor
      Natasha Taylor on 08 Mar 15
       
      Now more than ever we need to stay in touch with the tools and how we can use them. Technology is changing rapidly and we need to ensure that our students are confident in the use of these tools in order to function successfully in society now and as adults. To do this surely means that although we are their teachers, we are also students ourselves, learning to use digital tools so that we can support our students. I work in a school in a low socioeconomic area and find that there is a vast difference in the abilities of some children compared to others when using ICTs. Some of our students are not confident in the basic requirements such as being able to log onto the EQ system. We need to work on these skills to build on their abilities and confidence in using ICTs.
    • s4_kelly
      s4_kelly on 04 Aug 15
       
      Creating and using tools are the artefact or symbolic representation of what actually has propelled the survial and development of  "humans" today - our intelligence & capacity to adapt using culture.  Tools are only one aspect of cultural adaption.  Supporting children/students to develop critical and creative thinking skills, to understand core concepts in order to engage in more abstract & complex thinking is fundamental.  Providing opportunity to select "the right tool for the job" or create a new tool if required.
  • If you are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      Teaching your students the tools, doesn't have to be explicit (though there's space for that). If we learn by what we do, what are your students learning through the tools they use in your classroom?
    • Michelle Thompson
      Michelle Thompson on 01 Mar 13
       
      Digital technology is a tool of this moment and we need to keep up with current trends and tools in order to allow society to move forward. I like this quote!
    • David Martin
      David Martin on 02 Mar 13
       
      And this is exactly the mindset we, as lecturers, must have as we facilitate pre-service educators technological pedagogical content knowledge. We muct prepare them for ICT which is yet to come.
    • sarah wittman
      sarah wittman on 03 Mar 13
       
      This is a fantastic quote for sure
    • mrs parry
      mrs parry on 03 Mar 13
       
      And being digitally literate.
    • Felicia Van Der Meer
      Felicia Van Der Meer on 06 Mar 13
       
      This is such a powerful quote! Without adapting and changing the way we teach we are effecting our students in a negative mannor. We need to prepare them for the future not get stuck in past.
    • Tamara Werne
      Tamara Werne on 06 Mar 13
       
      My favourite quote from the article!!! Brings to my mind the aim of people to become life-long learners, and brings home our responsibility as future teachers to help our future students become such.
    • Kyle Lacko
      Kyle Lacko on 07 Mar 13
       
      This is why the students of today are part of the technological generation, because we're assisting them in moving forward with the ICT's that are developed today and being developed for the future.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 08 Mar 13
       
      Some tools of the past should be preserved for artistic or historical sake.
    • Deborah Liang
      Deborah Liang on 08 Mar 13
       
      It is clear that many young children develop significant competence with technology at home  well before they  attend an early years setting or school.
    • Kellie Quirk
      Kellie Quirk on 10 Mar 13
       
      Developing the skills of students to use the tools of today is so important, however it is equally important to ensure we equip them for the Digital future and provide them with the knowledge and skills needed for their future
    • Teresa Morgan
      Teresa Morgan on 11 Mar 13
       
      But I feel there needs to be a balance. If you tend to go too far one way, you might not grasp skills needed for other areas. For example calcualtor use VS mental computations. I agree with not staying in the dark ages, however there are still some vital things we can use in our lessons. I'm not saying down with ICTs, I'm just saying there needs to be a balance.
    • Jasmine Smith
      Jasmine Smith on 17 Jul 13
       
      I feel that it is important to teach students the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to use the next set. However, without an understanding of the background of the tools ie. where they came from, or how they were created, will students be able to create and or/source new tools, or will they be stuck using the same tools without giving thought to progress?
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 23 Jul 13
       
      To teach the students what and how to use the tools of the moment we as future teachers need to not be afraid of technology, if this is the attitude we adopt we can promote the correct ways to engage with ICTs and its many tools.
    • Billy Green
      Billy Green on 25 Feb 14
       
      Totally agree with this.
    • katrina carpenter
      katrina carpenter on 26 Feb 14
       
      The language used here is a little contentious for me. If we are expected to 'teach' students all the current tools as of this minute there would be no time for planning and assessment development. Perhaps it could be said that the teachers role is to give our students the skill set and confidence to be able to learn and understand new technologies and to do this is in an active way. We can guide them to navigate for themselves as we are often even less equipped then they.
    • Allison Austin
      Allison Austin on 02 Mar 14
       
      Katrina  You make a great comment here about the teacher's role. I totally agree with your comment.  
    • Isabella Irvine
      Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
       
      agree with this so much we cant let our students fall behind!!
    • Donetta Karlen
      Donetta Karlen on 03 Mar 14
       
      I just came across the term 'anachronistic' in reference to teaching without having kept up to date with current ICT tools and capabilities. This is indeed apt and highlights the imperative to travel with "the times", continually keeping abreast of advances in technology for comprehensive and enhanced pedagogy.
    • Melissa Messenger
      Melissa Messenger on 04 Mar 14
       
      As long as we do not get bogged down on teaching the tools when it is the content that is important. The tools just make it easier to teach students. We should not sacrifice time spent on content knowledge by teaching about fancy tools and gadgets.
    • Tanya Carter
      Tanya Carter on 04 Mar 14
       
      It's not only the focus on students learning new ICT tools but also teachers/teachers' aide. ICT Personal Development sessions are offered once a week to our teacher aide team at my workplace and the confidence that is growing while we explore and utilise the ICT tools and programs is amazing. I feel these PD's are very beneficial and will help assist the students learning. Confidence is the key.
    • Marina Downey
      Marina Downey on 05 Mar 14
       
      This statement is great. Each day technology advances. As scary as it is, we all must keep up with it.
    • Maria Kaffatou
      Maria Kaffatou on 05 Mar 14
       
      Within a constantly changing world, what I am struggling to learn today in terms of ICT will be old news to my students in 5 years time! The tricky part for us will come after we graduate: - How will we stay motivated to keep on learning? - How can we update/ upgrade our skills?
    • Karen Smith
      Karen Smith on 06 Mar 14
       
      This statement is very powerful. I am still unsure of my viewpoint as I can see that in order to move forward, we need tools of the moment. However the tools of yesterday are so very important also and I'm not sure if they "prevent" society from moving forward. Still pondering this one....... :)
    • Jacqueline Klaassen
      Jacqueline Klaassen on 06 Mar 14
       
      Our world is forever changing and technology is just constantly becoming more and more advanced. It's a struggle to keep up with it all but is more or less essential!
    • Stella Leotta
      Stella Leotta on 09 Mar 14
       
      Our profession as teachers is to engage and support students to develop to their full potential. Then the tools to achieve this should not be denied to these students but to be taught to them.
    • Edna Strange
      Edna Strange on 09 Mar 14
       
      I agree technology is essential to learning. Students should use the tools they have to progress further with their knowledge in this area. The question remains on how the teacher can stay ahead of that knowledge in order to teach it when a student appears to 'absorb' the tools of technology without difficulty.
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 10 Mar 14
       
      Oh I couldn't agree more with this statement. However, I beleive that the tools from the past are also essential tools. Just because they are 'yesterdays' tools it doesn't mean they are not effective.
    • lucylue
      lucylue on 25 Jul 14
       
      Teresa I agree, ICT's are certainly important but if we venture into the social and emotional wellbeing of our students then what Deborah Liang says is of great importance. In this digital age the ability for humans to use their minds for simple things like calculator Vs mental computation for instance has the potential to create a generation and future where computers and digital media is all we know how to use. With ICT balance is the key I think.
    • liv1609
      liv1609 on 25 Jul 14
       
      over the course of my studies i find this statement very predominate in regards to our pedagogy especially in relation to ICT. we need to constantly update our knowledge and skills to meet the everchanging needs of society.
    • Kylie Johnson
      Kylie Johnson on 28 Jul 14
       
      Couldn't be more spot on and correct!
    • catherinelwilson
      catherinelwilson on 02 Aug 14
       
      I agree that balance is the key. We need to ensure that we are preparing students for the technological world outside the classroom so that they are not disadvantaged.
    • asmith79
      asmith79 on 01 Mar 15
       
      This statement should be made into posters and put in ever classroom around the world, it is so true.
    • teegz87
      teegz87 on 06 Aug 15
       
      Digital technology is the here and now. If we as educators can not effectively integrate them into the way we educate our students then we are the ones standing in their way.
  • This began as an idea for allowing students with “disabilities” to learn and choose their own Assistive Technologies.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      We'll be coming back to assistive technologies and related issues in Module 3.
    • mrs parry
      mrs parry on 03 Mar 13
       
      I agree with this idea and see the value of children utilising different tools to assist their learning needs.
    • Melissa March
      Melissa March on 05 Mar 13
       
      I think this is a great point... I see my concept map growing by the minute.
    • Colleen Lenehan
      Colleen Lenehan on 23 Jul 13
       
      How clever, that we include the students in the decision making processes for which technology to use for their betterment. We are meant to follow the interests of the students when implementing lesson plans so why wouldn't we do that when deciding on the technology utilised for the lessons.
    • katrina carpenter
      katrina carpenter on 26 Feb 14
       
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u45RmwAI8jI heres a short video of negotiated use of assistive technologies used to help a 6yr old boy with Autism.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      Motivation is the key. It doesn't surprise me that the success we have using Icts with children that have special needs can also help others. Whether it be audio or visual bring it into the mainstream classroom and see what happens!
    • liv1609
      liv1609 on 25 Jul 14
       
      allowing children the opportunity to make choices in their learning regardless of their needs and abilities is essential for them to grow and learn utilising strategies and tools that they can adapt to as well as building the development of their own independence.
  • ...91 more annotations...
  • I was frustrated when some “school-based team” would pick a single technological solution for a student’s “disability” which the student was expected to use no matter the task, no matter the environment, no matter how the student was feeling that day.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      I get frustrated when Universities and school systems assume that a single tool (e.g. Mahara or Moodle or the same sort of tablet/laptop) is appropriate for all students.
    • David Martin
      David Martin on 02 Mar 13
       
      It would be best if school systems would take the approach that their ICT systems need to remain fluid and always ready to expand and change.
    • Leah Drury
      Leah Drury on 02 Mar 13
       
      One tool 'suits all' for every student in every learning experience does not apply.
    • Holly Hawkings
      Holly Hawkings on 03 Mar 13
       
      It's so important for all students to be able to use and rely on different tools so they can be more independent and help themselves before asking for help. 
    • Amy Jones
      Amy Jones on 04 Mar 13
       
      I see so many kids (my own included) who struggle to problem solve. Having many different tools available to students would be of benefit to aid in their own independent problem solving skills.
    • fiona thrift
      fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
       
      Recognition that again - WE ARE ALL UNIQUE, requiring our own set of learning tools to get the job done. Do you agree though, that in pushing our boundaries, our educators are bettering our capabilities that we didn't know existed prior to being pushed?
    • fiona thrift
      fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
       
      Recognition that again - WE ARE ALL UNIQUE, requiring our own set of learning tools to get the job done. Do you agree though, that in pushing our boundaries, our educators are bettering our capabilities that we didn't know existed prior to being pushed?
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
       
      There is definitely merit in the above comment. Pushing the boundaries is often the only way to inch forward. Once I have shown a child that a crayon leaves marks on paper, they then push the boundary to holding the crayon the best they can to make their own marks, then they inch forward as they learn to control their markings and make marks with a purpose, for example writing their own name and so on. Knowledge and understanding is constructed through a process of 'pushing our boundaries.
    • Deborah Liang
      Deborah Liang on 08 Mar 13
       
      Each child is unique and they have their unique ways of learning. ' One size doesn't fit all " is my concern regarding to education.
    • Tyahnie Wilson
      Tyahnie Wilson on 16 Jul 13
       
      When walking into the SEU building on a previous prac I was delighted to find that the teachers were using all manner of technologies to help create an inclusive environment which I think we should all strive to emulate
    • Jasmine Smith
      Jasmine Smith on 17 Jul 13
       
      This idea that one tool does not suit all seems to echo of the theory that not every student has the same learning style, therefore will not need the same set of learning tools in our individual toolbelts
    • Ornella Whelan
      Ornella Whelan on 21 Jul 13
       
      Just as a chef has a multitude of tools for their trade - selecting the most effective for each task. Students (including university students) require a multitude of tools for their trade (learning) and it is our job as educators to equip them with the skills to efficiently and effectively use those tools.
    • Isabella Irvine
      Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
       
      what ever happened to catering for students needs?
    • Anne Merton
      Anne Merton on 06 Mar 14
       
      One tool is not always suitable for the job and giving students a variety of tools to choose from will make their learning more applicable and independent.
    • Margaret Johnson
      Margaret Johnson on 06 Mar 14
       
      Also by having the choice as to which tool to use give them greater independence and ownership of work
    • Lisa Rose
      Lisa Rose on 06 Mar 14
       
      Insert graphic "use ALL the tools!"
    • watersigns74
      watersigns74 on 03 Aug 14
       
      I am a TA at a Specialist School.  I have had this very discussion with the head of IT at our school.  The conversation came about as a school I know has a list of apps all students are to have on there iPad.  He thought this was restrictive.
    • michelleajackson
      michelleajackson on 03 Aug 14
       
      I believe this is where we need to individualise our teaching as much as possible and learn as much as you can about each student and teach in ways that they can learn effectively.
    • asmith79
      asmith79 on 01 Mar 15
       
      There is no such thing as a one size fit all approach to learning or teaching and no individual student or teacher should stop talking an dworking out better ways of learning and teaching together.
    • teegz87
      teegz87 on 06 Aug 15
       
      It is frustrating as a pre-service educator to step into a classroom that has this mindset yet we learn over and over again throughout our studies much like those educators did that every child is different. Every learner learns different, so how can we expect them to use one form or tool?
  • We, as humans, differ. Our tasks differ. Our environments differ. Our circumstances differ. And we pick the appropriate tool.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      In terms of studying for EDC3100, what tasks do you have to complete? What environments do you have perform them within? etc
    • fiona thrift
      fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
       
      For the first time this year, I am grateful that I am currently unemployed, as I do not believe I could dedicate the amount of time I feel is necessary for me to complete the tasks and material in this course - again our circumstances differ, but time or time management plays a huge role in our ability to learn
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
       
      Having recent hand problems and surgery, I am very grateful to using an IPad to type notes as I complete the tasks etc of this course. I am gradually changing my perspective of paper and pen as I have discovered a tool that suits my needs much better!
    • Troy Brunner
      Troy Brunner on 18 Jul 13
       
      This is a great point and I think is in line with my belief that students in Secondary School should have input into the subjects they choose(to a degree).
  • There are just humans and the tools they need
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 01 Mar 13
       
      What tools do you need for this course? For your teaching?
    • dayitd
      dayitd on 01 Mar 13
       
      Know how and where to effectively search for answers. 
    • Teresa Morgan
      Teresa Morgan on 11 Mar 13
       
      A willingness to try something different and to venture into the unknown and not be ashamed of failing. Acutally it's not really failing, it's learning.
    • Anne Merton
      Anne Merton on 06 Mar 14
       
      Very true, it is just a case of different people needing different tools to gain similar results. 
    • jadieleigh
      jadieleigh on 23 Jul 14
       
      The ability to learn and search for the tools required.
    • dayitd
      dayitd on 01 Mar 13
       
      So we really need to just be able to teach our students how to google effectively??
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 03 Mar 13
       
      Google is perhaps a part of the answer. But there's more to it. Being able to evaluate the information Google presents, having the self-awareness to judge what is appropriate for you, being able to compare/contrast competing view points etc.
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
       
      We need to enhance students' ability to think creatively in order to problem solve. Our style of pedagogy has a huge effect on students' achieving a level of competence and confidence to take risks and experiment with technology etc. 
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      I think it is definitely more than Google.  It is about having the right min set to learning; being an active participant and looking for solutions.
    • Tyahnie Wilson
      Tyahnie Wilson on 16 Jul 13
       
      It is not only making our students effectively use ICT but ourselves as well because without our own understanding how can we hope to create effective learning environments for our students
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 23 Jul 13
       
      We know ourselves if we google something we don't always get an authorative answer to what we want to know.
    • Amanda Condren
      Amanda Condren on 25 Jul 13
       
      I defiantly agree with the above comments Google does not always give us the correct answer so we need to teach out students to problem solve and search deeply into their findings to know if what they are search is correct.
    • Nicole Hunter
      Nicole Hunter on 25 Jul 13
       
      Plus - these days google places adds at the top of the page - so you need to know what you are looking at.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      Before google what did we do? We need to teach students to think, plan, see then do! They will need skills to choose the right sources of information that will help them to achieve their goal.
    • Sophia Duong
      Sophia Duong on 04 Mar 14
       
      I agree. After planning, students also need to be equipped with the (critical thinking) skills to be able to analyse and evaluate all sources in order to select information that is relevant, reliable, not biased, accurate, credible etc.
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 10 Mar 14
       
      I believe our students are already more than willing to take risks with ICT's... the big problem that needs to be addressed is how to monitor what they are doing. Sure, students need to learn to be responsible for their digital footprint - but - this is a big ask for kids who are trying to find their way/place in the world socially. Does there therefore need to be some moral guidance provided? and if so how much? where is the line? And, should parents have a say in what their child has access too? I embrace technology and tools that will facilitate learning for all, but there are quite a few grey areas that need to be address I feel.
    • Rachael Young
      Rachael Young on 10 Mar 14
       
      Agree about the google thing - I always say "just google it" but I am educated, I can pick which websites are perhaps the more factual. It is SO important to let students know that not everything they read online is the truth. Giving them access to different technologies and encouraging them to use them will help this.  Parents and teachers need to work together to determine what students should and should not have access to. ICT in the classroom has opened up a whole can of worms, at my last prac there was an afternoon where we had to chat and answers questions about the appropriate use of ipads in the classroom with the students as there were messages being sent to others and kids who were too young already on Facebook. It is a learning curve for all of us I think.  That's where the ability to be flexible and adaptive is so important in a teacher I feel. 
    • dayitd
      dayitd on 01 Mar 13
       
      Now that's a workshop! The school I'm doing my prac at has just purchased a 3D printer so it will be interesting to see it working and how it can be used in the classroom.
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
       
      My son in year 10 would sleep in this workshop! given the chance to enter it I could not see him emerging from its depths for a long time. Great video 
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      My son is ONLY 10 and he too would sleep in this workshop!  What this video tells us is that it is the way we view tools that limits us or inspires us.
    • Troy Brunner
      Troy Brunner on 18 Jul 13
       
      WOW! This looks a little different to the manual arts classrooms I remember.
    • Troy Brunner
      Troy Brunner on 18 Jul 13
       
      What a great line"Why let your imagination be limited by tools".
    • watersigns74
      watersigns74 on 03 Aug 14
       
      OMG I want to go there!! My own kids and Hubby for that matter would love this place!
    • sarah wittman
      sarah wittman on 03 Mar 13
       
      humanity it says is defined partly by refining and using many tools, ICTs are one of those tool, refining requires use. 
  • Our societies are defined by our tools. Our first complex tool is our language, which allows us a huge communicative advantage over most species with which we compete
    • sarah wittman
      sarah wittman on 03 Mar 13
       
      digital communication is part of our language use
    • Faeza ms
      Faeza ms on 03 Mar 13
       
      Indeed, and if audited, it would be amazing how much of our communication is done through digital tools- email, SMS, phone calls, chat, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, reminder and list apps (communicating with our selves). Language has been our first complex tool and as humans, we keep refining and creating more inventive tools to further communication.
    • Holly Hawkings
      Holly Hawkings on 03 Mar 13
       
      It's amazing isn't it, that digital communication has become such a huge part of our identity as humans, I believe this is why it's so important to include ICT into our classrooms!
    • fiona thrift
      fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
       
      I would also note that our language has evolved to include a refined version of the terminologies used within these tools eg abbreviations and emoticons...further evidence of humanity being defined by the tools we use
    • Kyle Lacko
      Kyle Lacko on 07 Mar 13
       
      I find it hard to remember life before Facebook, Twitter or any blogging technologies... I remember when I thought that Microsoft Office (Powerpoint, Excel) alone were amazing! It is true that with all of these new ICT's we learn to adapt to how we use them.
    • Teresa Morgan
      Teresa Morgan on 11 Mar 13
       
      It certainly makes you wonder if we should be incorporating a digital dialect into our English lessons and raising questions about adapting text talk into the curriculum as well. Is there even a place for text talk in our classrooms? Should we be encouraging students to speak traditional English, or are we holding back changes by doing so?
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      It is interesting to compare language development and ICT.  While ICT seems to change more rapidly than language, it too undergoes regular changes that some find it difficult to adjust to.  Who has heard the comment "young people today don't write or speak properly"?  Do even those people still speak like Shakespeare?
    • Jackie Litwinczuk
      Jackie Litwinczuk on 16 Jul 13
       
      I find it fascinating how students at the age of 4,5 & 6 know what the facebook, twitter, instagram and pinterest icons look like. I walked into a classroom the other day where their display board were full of the 'llike' button and comment bubble speeches that were going to be filled in for the term.
    • Kate Dugdale
      Kate Dugdale on 16 Jul 13
       
      Interestingly, our language system has expanded and evolved as ICTs have.  New ways of writing words, emoticons and the ever changing meaning of text is a real part of our, and our student's world.  
    • stacey79
      stacey79 on 27 Jul 13
       
      Oh how times have changed. Over the past 13 years working in early childhood I have noticed the changing times through the chidrens play scenarios - going from using a telephone in home corner to ring and speak to our friends compared with todays play scenarios of "I will send you an email" and this is from 3.5 year olds. We have to move with the times and the technology.
    • Sharna Cauchi
      Sharna Cauchi on 07 Aug 13
       
      While I agree we need to incorporate ICTs into education and "move with the times" with regards to technology.  I do think it is a concern that our students ability to engage in appropriate English and write legibly seems to be becoming worse with each generation.  It would be terrible to see the written word as most of us would have known it, to be reduced to typed words on a computer screen.  Further, it seems that students are very poor spellers these days which could be due to technology as they continually use abbreviations and shortcuts to communicate.  Will we see the day where handwriting, spelling and English are removed from the curriculum?
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      A balanced approach is always best. We need to ensure communication skills are developed through the written word and through computer skills and not replace everything with icts. After all we are preparing students to enter the workforce that expects students to have the skills to communicate effectively by handwriting clear messages, spelling correctly and speaking with proper English rather than jargon language. I have ensured that when I text I spell the word correctly to avoid the sneaky habit of being lazy in spelling. I dont think its good for students to use code all the time, but again everything in balance. We need to teach our students good habits to enhance their skills not diminish them.
    • Rebekah Rae
      Rebekah Rae on 06 Mar 14
       
      It crazy for me to think of going a day without my texting and social media. I do believe this has effected my handwriting and spelling skills. Just adding to Michelle Brown's comment I do see the handwriting, spelling and English are removed from the curriculum but I not sure if this is a good thing, I am yet to decide. I think a balanced approach mentioned above is the way to go by learning skills in both written and ICT skills.
    • Shannyn Dwyer
      Shannyn Dwyer on 08 Mar 14
       
      I agree Michelle, I also ensure that I use the correct spelling and punctuation with my text messages and emails. I wonder if the dictionary function on ICT's may be a useful tool for teaching spelling skills as you are constanlty reminded of the correct spelling? Or would this infact foster laziness? As for handwriting, how many of you changed your handwriting after or during school? i must admit that when i was in school it became the fashing to write our "a's" just as you would see them on a computer screen. balance is definitely the key in this technology driven era.
  • The Information Age.
    • Kellie Quirk
      Kellie Quirk on 10 Mar 13
       
      Key term to keep in mind. We ARE in the Information Age and we need to keep this in mind when planning what and how we will teach in the classroom.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      Keeping up with the latest technology is the biggest challenge so students stay engaged.
    • Deb Mac
      Deb Mac on 04 Mar 14
       
      We also need to realise that we cannot know about the technology we need to learn about the latest technology from our students also - they can be the best teachers when it comes to how to use it.
    • Margaret Johnson
      Margaret Johnson on 06 Mar 14
       
      I was actually thinking we were in the Technological age, or Technological Information Age?
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 25 Jul 14
       
      I interviewed a head of school (alternative learning setting) and he said we are pushed to teach literacy but we need to be teaching literacy for the 21st century and that needs to have technology embedded. That has stayed with me since that time.
    • brighid87
      brighid87 on 18 Mar 15
       
      the 'google age'
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world.
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      What an inspiration for teachers.  I would love to be able to inspire that level of excitement in learning and like Tech Shop it is about students seeing value in the tools they are using.  That starts with the teacher seeing value in those tools.
    • Donna Schlatter
      Donna Schlatter on 19 Jul 13
       
      It is unfortunate though that schools do not have sufficient funding to keep up with the demand of new technologies, for example the high school that my girls attend their manual arts department still uses quite dated tools - whilst they are good and do the job (right tool) they are not what they will properly be using outside in the big wide world.
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 23 Jul 13
       
      I Love this thought of a school as a tool shop! I am so fortunate to work in an child care centre where we make so many tools available to the children who attend there.
    • Michelle Newton
      Michelle Newton on 24 Jul 13
       
      As educators, we really need to be offering our students the full range of tools available to help them maximise their learning.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      I agree the teacher needs to see value in a variety of tools that suit individual needs. Keeping up to date will be a challenge for the future so being creative with what we have available to us will be another skill teachers will need.
    • Marina Downey
      Marina Downey on 05 Mar 14
       
      I like this analogy. Schools are like a tool shop. We must give them the tools and information they need to help them get through life itself, not just in the ICT world.
    • Margaret Johnson
      Margaret Johnson on 06 Mar 14
       
      love this phrase, its something i would put up on my wall
  • If you are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set.
  • ked ab
  • Our first complex tool is our language
  • Our first complex tool is our language
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
       
      Very similar to unpacking an assignment task!
  • assist them in their interactions
    • sarahbenvenuti
      sarahbenvenuti on 06 Mar 13
       
      Great phrase to put into my concept map on why use ICT in the classroom! 
    • Isabella Irvine
      Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
       
      wow this is so true!!
    • Margaret Johnson
      Margaret Johnson on 06 Mar 14
       
      Love this phrase, we tend to think of diversity within classrooms as those who experience special needs, yet we all have needs to be met
    • nadynem
      nadynem on 21 Jul 14
       
      Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses and different learning and thinking styles. Everyone will need /choose different tools to get the job done. Unfortunately if the tool you need is in the minority, then you are seen as different or having a disability.
  • Sure, many animals use a few basic tools, but no other creature uses as many tools, or constantly refines those tools, or continuously invents new tools. It is almost a definition of “humanity.”
    • Sally Nichols
      Sally Nichols on 06 Mar 13
       
      we as humans are constantly changing but also the tools that are available to us are changing so we as educators need to develop the tool set to keep up with the technologies and tools made available to us.
    • Jackie Litwinczuk
      Jackie Litwinczuk on 16 Jul 13
       
      I think Personal Development sessions need to be put in place to inform and teach those who don't feel as comfortable to explore with these new tools.
    • samantha bourke
      samantha bourke on 22 Jul 13
       
      i totally agree that PD sessions need to be available to any one looking at introducing or learning an new ICT tool
    • Allison Austin
      Allison Austin on 02 Mar 14
       
      Sorry Jackie and Samantha I would have to disagree. ICT is a part of our job (plus personal use) as future teachers and I think it is our responsibility to keep updated with the current and new ICT tools  presented to us. Why do we need PD? Do we attend PD sessions for our recreational use? My answer to that is no, I just use Google and usually there is an answer or video there to help you.  
    • Isabella Irvine
      Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
       
      i have to agree with allison too. What if we didn't have PD? what would we have to do?
    • Fran Gemmell
      Fran Gemmell on 04 Mar 14
       
      Tools are always used to serve a purpose, not as an end in themselves.  ICT should not be viewed as an end in itself - that is the goal of using ICT is not just to use ICT. The reason we use various tools is because they help us achieve a particular purpose and ICTs are no different.  If we don't know what purpose we are trying to achieve it doesn't matter what you know about ICT.
    • Tamara Smart
      Tamara Smart on 04 Mar 14
       
      Maybe there could be an incorporation of both PD and a bit of self-teaching. If there is to be a particular ICT introduced to teaching staff, they coud be given a brief idea of what it is and what it is for, send them away to play with it and learn what they can, then come back together for "PD" to share what was discovered, what was difficult and what they did to try to solve their problems. This kind of format, in my opinion, would be much better than the transmission of information/how-to/step-by-step approach
    • Robert Thomas
      Robert Thomas on 04 Mar 14
       
      It's evolution. The evolution of tools is due to the evolution of man.
    • miss smith
      miss smith on 24 Jul 14
       
      In an ever changing environment where new tools are being upgraded constantly, it is vital for teachers to be updated in their knowledge of the tools and how to effectively use them. Our students need for us to be able to respond to the necessity to constantly update our ICT skills including the use of tools. I have enjoyed students assisting me with operating various technologies including the interactive white board and phone translation applications for English students. Students are using the tools and we can learn a great deal from their knowledge and skills.
    • marianasdiigo
      marianasdiigo on 06 Mar 15
       
      I don't see the harm in a PD. If it wasn't for this course and others like it I would never have used ICT. I did not have the slightest interest in ICT and now look at me. I cannot believe what I am doing and I like it. Sometimes you need to be pushed. Sometimes someone needs to show you. It would help a lot of teachers get past their time freeze and not be afraid of what more is out there.
  • So: Task – Environment – Skills – Tools
    • Steph Wood
      Steph Wood on 06 Mar 13
       
      This is a great reference to use in planning and reflection whilst teaching to ensure students are properly equipped for what is being taught
  • and knowing how to pick the right tool for the job and moment, how to use that tool well, and how to find new tools, is an essential survival skill
    • Julie Mellor
      Julie Mellor on 07 Mar 13
       
      Love this phrase! As teachers we will need to know how to pick the right ICT for use in lessons, how to use it and how to find new resources/ICT's. Guess that's why I'm in EDC3100!
    • Kellie Quirk
      Kellie Quirk on 10 Mar 13
       
      I agree Julie. Great phrase. Very good statement you make. And as teachers, we need to teach students these same skills so that they can locate and use tools in the future
    • Karla Black
      Karla Black on 13 Mar 13
       
      I love this too! I really like that differentiation is foundational to the ideas behind the tool belt theory. You use what you need!! A bit of a daunting task as a teacher know all the possible tools, though ...
    • Lauren Tranter
      Lauren Tranter on 15 Jul 13
       
      I agree with Karla, it is a daunting task as a teacher to know the tools, and to be able to recognise which tools will work well for which students, as well as for the teacher. I guess that's where trial and error comes into it, and once we start our teaching careers the better we will become at recognising this.
    • Jackie Litwinczuk
      Jackie Litwinczuk on 16 Jul 13
       
      Another great way to find out great tools is to communicate with the people you work with and find out what worked well for them. Use the network of people around you, even people online, thats whats great about the PLN in this subject :)
    • Emma Salter
      Emma Salter on 16 Jul 13
       
      We must be willing to expose students to a variety of tools, but also as learners be willing to engage and learn about the tools that we are not familiar with - connective learning
    • Kate Dugdale
      Kate Dugdale on 16 Jul 13
       
      So true.  If we don't know how or where to find what we need it quickly becomes overwhelming; ending any opportunity for growth or progress.  I need to remember this one for not just myself but my students too.
    • samantha bourke
      samantha bourke on 22 Jul 13
       
      i agree with Jackie and Karla, its a lot of pressure on teachers to always be up to date with all the learning tools available.
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 23 Jul 13
       
      This is why I am really enjoying this course so far, we are going to have so many great resources and ideas to take from this. Although we may feel preasured to always be up to date with tools, this toolbelt theory and network learning wil obviously be two tools to help us stay on top.
    • shukky9
      shukky9 on 08 Aug 13
       
      Yes, I do agree with this point. We really need to educate our students how to make choice out of so many useful tools available. 
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      I agree we need to encourage students when faced with a problem to ask them questions. What can you do about it? How will you get help? so they can become responsbile for their own learning.
    • Deb Mac
      Deb Mac on 04 Mar 14
       
      We need to learn to select the right tools for the right purpose, right environment, right person/student and for the right time and help others know which is the right tools for them to use and when.
    • Edna Strange
      Edna Strange on 09 Mar 14
       
      This is the value in having a large toolkit. The more options you have to select the right tool for the right job for the right person.
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 10 Mar 14
       
      We appear to all be on the same page. Differentiation is key to creating an environment that meets student's individual learning needs but do we stop and do this with ICT's?
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 10 Mar 14
       
      The answer is yes, yes we should.
    • Katrina Beddows
      Katrina Beddows on 22 Mar 14
       
      I have to admit I wasn't sure what all the toolbelt jargon was going to be about but it finally clicked when I got to this part of the text. It makes complete sense though of course one tool is not going to efficient for everyday use. Keeping up to date with these tools and how to use them being the overarching challenge though.
    • chrismurphy3872
      chrismurphy3872 on 04 Mar 15
       
      For me this is paramount for this course and for my role as a future teacher.
  • I saw that every student needs this.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 08 Mar 13
       
      This is the concept of inclusion, not just adjusting the curriculum for the students with disabilities but providing tools for everyone for their own particular need.
    • Sally Nichols
      Sally Nichols on 15 Mar 13
       
      i think we as educators need to ensure that we provide our students with these kinds of tools not only to get by in school but in everyday situations. this concept besides being one of inclusion is one where we provide the students with teh tools to cope with their own particular needs not only in school but beyond school as well.
    • katrina carpenter
      katrina carpenter on 04 Mar 14
       
      I think it goes beyound inclusion and into the ideas behind differentiation. Yes technologies are greatly used to assist students be integrated into inclusive classrooms. The idea is that very student needs the best tool for their own learning- hence the differentiation for all learners.
    • Deborah Liang
      Deborah Liang on 08 Mar 13
       
      Every child have the right to learn =) Regardless of the disabilities of the child.
    • Justene Webb
      Justene Webb on 15 Jul 13
       
      As educators we are taught to embrace the diversity of our students. But we also need to embrace the diversity that technology brings too.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 13 Mar 14
       
      For me this really highlight to give children as many tools as we can, for example a non verbal student - they should be able or exposed to using an ipad, PECS, symbols, AAC devices, writing, laptops etc.. Any type of Assistive technology not just say PECS or IPads... And yes also totally agree, everyone has the right to learn :)
    • michellevdm
      michellevdm on 31 Jul 14
       
      I agree Deborah and Justene every child has a right to learn regardless of their disabilities and yes we as educators will teach a diversity of students therefore we must embrace the diversity that technology brings
  • It is impossible for most to climb to the second floor of a building without stairs.
    • Nicola Summers
      Nicola Summers on 08 Mar 13
       
      Isn't it crazy how much we need and use technology in daily life. It's not something you really think about as you walk down the street or drive to work. We often take all of this for granted! The need for new technologies for medcine and communication ect.
    • Justene Webb
      Justene Webb on 15 Jul 13
       
      This comment has put this theory into perspective. Technology is everywhere...
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      We live in a visual world of images and videos so why not include it in the classroom so students can learn how to manage all the information that surrounds them.
  • Every day I go into schools where students struggling with reading are left in the dark – as if we denied wheelchairs to students who couldn’t walk on the theory that being left on the floor would motivate their legs to work. Every day I go into schools where the vast majority of students struggle – and often give up – as they are forced to use antiquated tools which fit their needs badly.Teach your children well 
    • Karla Black
      Karla Black on 13 Mar 13
       
      And this is what happens if, as educators, we put our heads in the sand and don't get uncomfortable and learn new things! 
    • Donna Schlatter
      Donna Schlatter on 19 Jul 13
       
      I totally agree with this comment.  Learning is ongoing for everybody, there are always new ways and strategies to help someone who might be struggling.
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world.
  • deliberately
  • deliberately
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world.
  • “assistive technologies”
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      It is interesting to think of 'assistive technologies' in this way.  When we teach children design and technology it is all about designing and using tools to make our lives easier.  Technology isn't just ICTs.
    • Em Perri
      Em Perri on 15 Jul 13
       
      This makes me think about how before trains people lived in small villiages because that is as far as they could travel, the technology wasn't there to support them. However when trains were implemented in pre-industrial England, people started socialising and traveling with other villages. The technology assisted their ability to function in what was a fast paced world, but they would not have been able to use the technology unless someone taught them how to buy a ticket, and their observation of train etiquette. This is a great metaphor for learning and I see this way of teaching/ learning becoming more prominent as our technological future becomes increasingly uncertain. 
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 23 Jul 13
       
      I guess if someone mentioned the words 'assistave technologies' i would have wrongly assumed they meant some form of ICT that assists someone with a disability. This whole paragraph has quickly made me think how relient we are on technology that we sometimes take it for granted. I often stop to think about what it would have been like twenty, thirty or even forty years ago and how I wouldn't be able to live without all the 'tools' I use daily.
    • katrina carpenter
      katrina carpenter on 04 Mar 14
       
      It is worth considering that the tools people need to effectively engage in society today have come about from the way these have been integrated so overwhelmingly. Everything is one step more. We didn't need a postal service when there were 'message boys', or a phone call until we started to mix in larger circles. Is it a better society or more simplistically a hegemonic one?
  • Universal Design
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      UD is a powerful concept and I find it particularly relevant to education.  It is not about what children can/can't do but rather what tools they need to do the activity.  Some children may need more or different tools to others.
    • Erin Murphy
      Erin Murphy on 22 Jul 13
       
      I agree, I found that in EDX3280 when we made our Web Quest we had to think of all the different possiblities for learning within each activity and if that particular method or tool did not work for one style of learning what other tool or web based activity could we use to promote learning of different learning styles.
  • When I read I need to make similar choices. I read really slowly, really badly. But for short things I just tough it out with “ink-on-paper” (or paint-on-signs), though I have a Reading Pen with me if I’m having a very bad day - a day when no alphabetical system connects correctly in my brain. But I also use Click-Speak in Firefox for reading web pages. I use WYNN for big academic reading, and Read-and-Write-Gold – all of which convert text to audio (WYNN and Read-and-Write both highlight each word visually as it is being read aloud). Sometimes I use audiobooks – especially for novels, poetry, or great historical stuff, or I let WYNN, Read-and-Write, or WordTalk convert the text to an mp3 I can listen to in my car.
    • Kate Petty
      Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
       
      I know some of you are already familiar with these things but I have just sent this information to my father-in-law.  He has a visual impairment and as a result finds reading impossible with out help.  He has been using a projector, and audio books and these have made a big difference to what he can achieve independently.  These tools may make reading even more accessible to him - another example of how different people need different tools.
    • Emma Salter
      Emma Salter on 16 Jul 13
       
      I followed the link to Click-Speak and am going to download this tool to see if it assists my son who has Dyslexia. Will advise on the outcomes.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      When educating our students we need to consider the whole child. We all experience off days and if we need to repeat repeat repeat then have a break then thats our job to do just that.
    • Michelle Brown
      Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
       
      I have had experience with using these programs they are amazing!
  • Our first complex tool is our language, which allows us a huge communicative advantage over most species with which we compete.
  • Our first complex tool is our language , which allows us a huge communicative advantage over most species with which we compete .
    • Sally Nichols
      Sally Nichols on 15 Mar 13
       
      I also think as much as our language separates us from other species and helps with our communication skills it is also the way we communicate with other people through non-verbal gestures which can also have an impact on not only other people but our students as well
  • The Toolbelt and Universal Design - Education For Everyone Originally published at Change.org on 2009-07-17 04:00:00 UTCEducation may be understood in one of two broad ways. Either it is about teaching people a discrete set of facts they will be able to repeat – multiplication tables and The Lord’s Prayer are two examples – or it is about helping people learn how to function in the world – crossing the street, using the Dewey Decimal System, reading a map all fit into this category.The first understanding is not without value. It is important to know an alphabet, basic math facts, or what “President” means. But the second is crucial to survival. Humans, from the very start, needed to know how to hunt, how to recognize safe plants from poisonous ones, how to find their way back home.And almost as soon as humans began to function as “humans” – this process of learning to function in the world began to revolve around tools. 9Humans are tool makers and tool users. It truly is our most significant distinction among the species on the planet. 1Sure, many animals use a few basic tools, but no other creature uses as many tools, or constantly refines those tools, or continuously invents new tools. It is almost a definition of “humanity.” Our societies are defined by our tools. 1Our first complex tool is our language , which allows us a huge communicative advantage over most species with which we compete . And our languages significantly define who we are and what we know. The rest of our tools tend to define where we fall in social evolution. We describe much of our history by our tool sets: The Stone Age, The Bronze Age, The Iron Age, The Age of Steam, 1The Information Age. This progress explains an important idea to educators. 12If you are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set. Toolbelt TheoryFor the past four years I have tal ked ab out something I call “Toolbelt Theory.” 3This began as an idea for allowing students with “disabilities” to learn and choose their own Assistive Technologies . But it very quickly expanded to all students, because every human on earth needs some kind of technologies which 1assist them in their interactions . 1It is impossible for most to climb to the second floor of
    • Katherine Norley
      Katherine Norley on 09 Mar 14
       
      I think it is a good point that there are two views on education. Sure, students need the facts to be able to function in the world but schools forget to teach the basics, and some schools believe such lessons should be solely up to the parents. The use of ITCs fits into the category of helping people learn how to function in the world. Nearly every job and career involves using some form of ITCs even if it is simply to check emails or daily notices/memos.
    • Monica Cooper
      Monica Cooper on 17 Mar 14
       
      I agree with you here Katherine, Educators need to help people learn how best to function in the world. In my household my children are clearly more advance and knowledgeable when it comes to incorporating ICT's. If this process was left to me my children wouldn't be able to "fit" into todays society.
    • Kylie Johnson
      Kylie Johnson on 28 Jul 14
       
      Agree with both Katherine and Monica, education is something that everyone plays a part in. Education is first introduced by parents in relation to toilet training, tying shoe laces, use of manners etc. and then in educational organisations it is expected the educators share knowledge that will allow young adults to develop knowledge and skills that allow them to function competently in society and their respective communities. But it has to be questioned if what they are teaching in schools is really what should be taught or should the focus be on other things. As the world evolves into a more technological society, should schools now be educating students on the use of ICTs and incorporating this into the education curriculum. I see quite a lot of school students now with ipads and laptops- not a luxury I had when I was at school
    • watersigns74
      watersigns74 on 03 Aug 14
       
      Obviously (to me) education needs to be a combination of the two.  Coming from a Special ed perspective it is essential that students learn "life skills".  This is a problem within the curriculum and is more of the hidden curriculum.  ICT is practically a "life skill" in this day and age.
  • But without education, I can’t make these choices. I need to know how to know the temperatures. I need to know what transit options are open to me. I need to know how to drive and how to read a timetable. How to operate parking and train ticket machines. I need to know which way the streetcars run, and how to ask for
    • Kylie Edwards
      Kylie Edwards on 09 Mar 14
       
      Great sentence, it's going back to the basics isn't it?
    • watersigns74
      watersigns74 on 03 Aug 14
       
      and this is what life skills is all about.  So students are able to become independent to varying degrees and not only function but able to contribute to society...again to varying degrees
  • There are just humans and the tools they need
  • they must know the range of tools available to them – and how to use those tools
  • Every day I go into schools where students struggling with reading are left in the dark – as if we denied wheelchairs to students who couldn’t walk on the theory that being left on the floor would motivate their legs to work. Every day I go into schools where the vast majority of students struggle – and often give up – as they are forced to use antiquated tools which fit their needs badly
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world
    • Debbie Vince
      Debbie Vince on 08 Jul 13
       
      interesting perspective, we are all unique
    • Em Perri
      Em Perri on 15 Jul 13
       
      This article is great - I loved how it used metaphors to make you understand the theory better. 
    • Tyahnie Wilson
      Tyahnie Wilson on 16 Jul 13
       
      I agree makes it easier to follow
  • - Ira Socol
    • Kate Dugdale
      Kate Dugdale on 16 Jul 13
       
      It is so important to consider what a student can do, opposed to what they can't or what they might have found tricky one day.  Perhaps an awareness of Vygotsky's  Zone of Proximal Development needs to be expanded to include students use of ICTs.
    • marianasdiigo
      marianasdiigo on 06 Mar 15
       
      No student should be left in a position like that. Administering the right scaffolding is crucial.
  • make the tools of the world available to all, and teach them to evaluate on their own.
  • tasks will change, their environments will change, their skills and capabilities will change, and the available tools will change.
  • constantly changing tools
  • . Those tools, in turn, actually change who we are, as they alter our capabilities.
    • Kate Dugdale
      Kate Dugdale on 16 Jul 13
       
      This reminds me of an article I read for EDC1400 - The Sabre Tooth Curriculum
    • Lauren Tranter
      Lauren Tranter on 22 Jul 13
       
      It reminds me of the quote I heard about the Apple and Ipods/Ipads not sure who said it but went along the lines of they are masters at creating things we never knew we needed and now cant live without
    • Kylie Bateman
      Kylie Bateman on 04 Mar 14
       
      The walkman says to the ipod..."I am your father". The ipod says "noooooooooo". Our tools are always changing and evolving just as thousands of years ago the Aboriginals left behind their boomerangs and moved onto different tools to hunt, such as the spear. I like this idea of the Toolbelt Theory...a great way of explaining it.
    • Alysha von Pein
      Alysha von Pein on 06 Mar 14
       
      I love this statement! It highlights the responsibility we as teachers have to constantly keep updated with new ICTs and utilise them to engage students in connected, meaningful learning. Kate; I remember this concept was also brought out well in the Sabre Tooth Curriculum!
    • smcroft
      smcroft on 19 Feb 15
       
      Excellent linking back to the Sabretooth Curriculum. Very poignant. Interesting to note how we went from slate to books to ipads/computers. From blackboard to whiteboard to digital whiteboard. We adapt our tools to the current time and we've got the programs behind them to enable this. But when these tools are not respected, they can make education lazy, marks get worse. So these tools need to be used effectively and respected for what they are, simply a tool, not a replacement for education, which is a mistake a lot of people make. The teacher's role is crucial in the classroom as software programs do not replace good teaching. Software programs cannot understand how students arrive at their answers to quizzes, or take into account personal issues, difficulties or challenges they face (One-to-one computing: literature review, 2009, p.8). One-to-one computing: literature review. (2009) (1st ed., p. 8). Sydney. Retrieved from http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/ict/.../litreviewlaptops.doc 
  • We call this a telephone.
    • Amanda Condren
      Amanda Condren on 25 Jul 13
       
      From the telephone there are some many other new technology that has now been recognised to communicate with others Skype, face time are two that I currently can think of.
    • Kate Costello
      Kate Costello on 08 Mar 14
       
      Two more basic ways to communicate with people where ever they are in the world are text messaging and email.
  • Can they read maps on their iPhone or Blackberry so they aren’t “screaming” “I’m an unfamiliar tourist” as they walk down the street?
    • Amanda Condren
      Amanda Condren on 25 Jul 13
       
      I really had to laugh when I read this I have just been in this situation try to use Maps on my iPhone in a big city we walked about 1 klm in the wrong direction trying to follow a paper map. I then got out my iPhone and started to walk in the other direction to see which way the dot moved on the phone lol sorry had to share.
    • elleroch
      elleroch on 13 Mar 15
       
      But isn't half the fun of traveling asking for direction, engaging in conversations with locals and discovering new things along the way? I just wonder if all this technology-in this scenario will inhibit social interaction.
    • Nicole Hunter
      Nicole Hunter on 25 Jul 13
       
      I think that it is a very important comment that we need to teach them how to learn the next set - they need to have confidence that they will be able to teach themselves how to use and interact with new ICTs.
    • watersigns74
      watersigns74 on 03 Aug 14
       
      I agree with this point and I have made the connection with Ken Robinsons belief that our education system needs to change as the foundations of it was for another time.
  • teaching them how to learn the next set
  • It is very difficult for most to get to a meeting on the 25th floor without an elevator
    • Kathleen McCallum
      Kathleen McCallum on 03 Mar 14
       
      It is astonishing to think just how many ICT's there are in our world!! Before partaking in this course and viewing this page I would have never thought of stairs, an elevator or even a car as forms of Information and Communication Technologies.. The truth is that these forms of technologies, as well as the copious amounts of other ICT's in our world are so advanced, substantial, and vital for living and learning in the 21st century. 
    • teegz87
      teegz87 on 06 Aug 15
       
      Completely agree! This subject has definitely opened my eyes to the multifaceted meaning of what makes an ICT.
  • It is very difficult for most to get to a meeting on the 25th floor without an elevator. And it is perhaps even more difficult for most to get to work each day if work is 30 miles from home, unless we use a car.
    • Kathleen McCallum
      Kathleen McCallum on 03 Mar 14
       
      It is astonishing to think just how many ICT's there are in our world!! Before partaking in this course and viewing this page I would have never thought of stairs, an elevator or even a car as forms of Information and Communication Technologies.. The truth is that these forms of technologies, as well as the copious amounts of other ICT's in our world are so advanced, substantial, and vital for living and learning in the 21st century. 
  • But the second is crucial to survival. Humans, from the very start, needed to know how to hunt, how to recognize safe plants from poisonous ones, how to find their way back home.
    • Bridget Bell
      Bridget Bell on 18 Mar 14
       
      Interesting to note how times change - we no longer need to 'hunt' for our food, rather we buy it pre-packaged etc. Other, more personally relevant cultural means of survival (ICT's in their various forms) have taken their place.
    • kerryu1062001
      kerryu1062001 on 29 Jul 14
       
      Yes, I agree Bridget, it is such an old statement in this quickly changing world! As much as this statement relates to the old 'hunter/gatherer' quote, it does still apply in this century. Being able to put food on the table and stay warm/cool/comfortable is still a basic requirement for survival. :-)
  • And because we are not Socrates, we struggle to remember everything we have ever been taught without “assistive technologies.”
    • Lyn Harland
      Lyn Harland on 04 Mar 14
       
      hmmm I would disagree here. Let me explain why. Before you had your mobile phone how many phone numbers could you remember in your head 20/30 maybe more as it was required... Now I know only 3 the rest are kept in my phone..
    • dwill006
      dwill006 on 03 Mar 15
       
      I would never had remembered that many but this is a fair point 
    • Zoe Garner
      Zoe Garner on 04 Mar 14
       
      I completely agree with this statement. My Mother is always telling me I am giving my 2 kids to much access to new technology and my reply is that if I dont, they will be behind the rest of their generation and have me to blame for that.
    • Jessica Smith
      Jessica Smith on 05 Mar 14
       
      Hi Zoe, How old are your kids? I understand what you are saying but I am 26 (I don't have kids yet) and still can't believe my eyes when I see 18month olds able to unlock iPads, iPhones etc. ICT for the younger generation seems to be moving at such a fast pace. Jess ;)
    • Lisa Rose
      Lisa Rose on 06 Mar 14
       
      Interesting you say that, it's like our brains are evolving and children are being born into a world where these things exist (like cassettes were for us from the 80's) I don't think we need to be afraid of what this means, just ensure there's a balance in life!
    • Tara Bernie
      Tara Bernie on 07 Mar 14
       
      Hi Lisa, I am 21 and I am just as astonished as you when I see babies using ipads and phones. I was always against it thinking "let them be a kid, and go play outside". However, after experimenting with my 3 year old nephew I have realised that he is so much more interested in tracing his name on the ipad then tracing it on a piece of paper. It took him 2 weeks of playing on my Ipad every afternoon to learn how to write and spell his name. When i finally convinced him to TRY using paper, he new all the right movements of the letters in his name from using the IPAD and just like that spelt his name on paper the first time he tried!
    • Tegan Sinclair
      Tegan Sinclair on 08 Mar 14
       
      Hi all, I work in childcare and took my Ipad into my Toddlers room. They taught me a few tricks! I think the agae and stage the children are utilizing technology is amazing and a necessity of this era. If you can't use a computer in school you will struggle that's just the way of the world and education system but it essential to find balance to ensure a healthy lifestyle and to ensure technology isn't solely depended on.
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 25 Jul 14
       
      I am a mother of three and not a huge fan of digital play, unless of course it has some educational merit. I do limit the tech toys and encourage outdoor and imaginative play but more for the reason of not wanting technology to be used as baby sitters. I am completely guilty of turning the tv on when I need a five minute break from the kids but I have organised my children to have spaces all over the house for any kind of play, ie reading corners, musical space, permanent cubby etc. One thing that I have found in prac is that exams are still written and the one thing most struggle with are writing from being predominately taught on gadgets. its definitely about finding a balance!
  • It is almost a definition of “humanity.”
    • Robert Thomas
      Robert Thomas on 04 Mar 14
       
      It's evolution. The evolution of the tool, evolved due to the evolution of man and, if you believe science over religion, we evolved during the evolution of animals.
  • It is almost a definition of “humanity.”
    • KiraLee Barnett
      KiraLee Barnett on 05 Mar 14
       
      It certainly is we need to evolve with technology because if we dont we too will fall behind the everchanging technology. 
  • It is almost a definition of “humanity.
  • It is almost a definition of “humanity.”
  • u are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set.
  • skill set and capability position (
  • student with a reading problem might be given complex, expensive literacy software for his computer but not be able to read a menu at a restaurant or a sign on a school door
  • I need to know about these tools, and where to get them
    • Shani Fagg
      Shani Fagg on 12 Mar 14
       
      I think this is very true in the 21st century - I know even in my job as a Call Centre Operator there are a large number of tools that we use to find vast and sometimes complicated information - to ensure we meet our Average Handling Time for calls we need to be able to access the required information quickly using the most efficient tools - knowing them and where to locate them is imperative. I can only imagine it will be similar in the Education Industry. Shani
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Mar 14
       
      I love this comment. However, I wonder if too much emphasis is being put on the first, that education is about teaching people a discrete set of facts they will be able to repeat. I feel that a greater emphasis should be placed on the later, even to the point where these facts are used for learning about functioning in the world? Aggree?
    • Paul Jordan
      Paul Jordan on 01 Apr 14
       
      I think there is merit in both views, depending on the needs of the individual student.
    • anonymous
      anonymous on 16 Mar 14
       
      Slide 5: I think one skill in being able to step back and "know if I need to cut wood or join it before I start looking for a tool to use" is teaching children TO STEP BACK. I know far too many children (I work in before and after school care) who haven't been taught to 'go through their tool belt' so to speak and find out what they need to do before they panic about what step is next or how to do it.
  • toolbelts
    • Lauren Regan
      Lauren Regan on 17 Mar 14
       
      I feel we must embrace ICT's and allow every student to use assistive technologies that will individually benefit them. Fair does not necessarily mean every student gets the same. It means every student gets what they NEED.  While every student's tool belt will vary (because of different needs and characteristics), it is up to the school and teacher to cooperatively ensure that many tools of communication and a variety of learning paths are prevalent.
    • miss smith
      miss smith on 24 Jul 14
       
      In Vet training learning is usually designed to teach formal knowledge and skills. Generally speaking it is important for the teachers to be competent in passing this learning onto students who are required to become competent at tasks, knowledge and skills in their VET training.
  • school must be a tool shop
  • school must be a tool shop
  • school must be a tool shop
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 25 Jul 14
       
      Love that "school must be a tools shop"!
  • as soon as humans began to function as “humans” – this process of learning to function in the world began to revolve around tools
  • The rest of our tools tend to define where we fall in social evolution
    • Kylie Johnson
      Kylie Johnson on 28 Jul 14
       
      Interesting statement about how our "tools" define how we fall into social evolution. Do certain tools place us higher in society than other tools and their users?
    • liz_smith71
      liz_smith71 on 05 Mar 15
       
      This statement is very interesting, it makes you think about the difference between poor and rich and the availability of ICT to those that can afford it including schools and the availability to those who can not afford it. (Technology is not cheap) Is the gap widening? It would be interesting to research this further and find out the gaps that children have because of lack of access to ICT . 
    • u1017307
      u1017307 on 30 Jul 14
       
      Previous to working in the industry I always thought education was about facts and rules. But now I know first hand that it is more then that. It is providing an environment where children are able to feel safe, learn, socialise and communicate. Along the way it has made me realise that every child is different, every child learns differently it is up to educators to ensure they cater within the classroom.
    • carlee0410
      carlee0410 on 17 Feb 15
       
      I too was of the impression that working as an educator meant reciting facts and rules however since undertaking my studies i have learnt that it is the opposite. Secondary Education is about teaching learners to become life-long learners. Teaching the skills and knowledge for learners to seek and obtain their own information - this is imperative in today's world and is expected by employers that employees are equipped with these skills. The use of ICT's are vital when seeking new information and in today's world information is readily available with the use of ICT's. 
    • lucas008
      lucas008 on 18 Feb 15
       
      Teaching them strategies to be creative and critical thinkers. Not just to take the information being taught as law but to find evidence to either support or that dismisses what is taught. Teaching the students to ask questions "why" rather then accepting the response.
    • ljmusq
      ljmusq on 03 Mar 15
       
      i to agree "Secondary Education is about teaching learners to become life-long learners. Teaching the skills and knowledge for learners to seek and obtain their own information". students need to learn how to gain answers not just the answer its self
    • mareecon
      mareecon on 03 Mar 15
       
      I agree with the two 'very' broad definitions, however what struck me was - Can education also be teaching facts that people can use while being helped to function in the world. I think there is a place in education for rote learning but it needs to be backed with teaching higher order thinking skills as well as life skills as discussed here.
    • robbie1282
      robbie1282 on 26 Jul 15
       
      I agree that education is about teaching learners to become life long learners, however I feel this is being taught a lot earlier than we really think. I encourage 3 and 4 yea olds to be solving and developing skills to find answers to their questions. I believe this is a very important skill for young children to be developing and building on as they get older.
    • melissa1781
      melissa1781 on 28 Jul 15
       
      I love tlaking about life long learners. I from the age of 18 - 25 never wanted to learn ever again, but when I found a reason to "need"to learn is when my love of learning came back.
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world.
    • catherinelwilson
      catherinelwilson on 02 Aug 14
       
      I also love this phrase. I like the idea of schools sending students off into the world with armed with a toolbelt to enable them to flourish and succeed.
    • courtneytaylored
      courtneytaylored on 04 Mar 15
       
      Great phrase! It is a shame that it can be such a catch 22 though.  It's often hard to provide many tools without sufficient resources. As teachers however it is our job to provide what is needed
  • If you are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set.
  • If you are teaching your students the tools of yesterday, you are preventing society from moving forward. Rather, we must be teaching our students to use the tools of this moment, and teaching them how to learn the next set.
  • There’s not a human on the planet that doesn’t need to reach for a tool sometime
    • smcroft
      smcroft on 19 Feb 15
       
      Digital tools in the classroom, ICT, can enhance a teachers ability greatly if used properly, and somewhat sparingly, to great effect. They can act as a great scaffold for students assisting them with their work and encouraging them. Sutherland, R. (2006). Using computers to enhance learning: integrating ICT into everyday classroom practices (1st ed., p. 2). Bristol: Graduate School of Education. Retrieved from http://www.tlrp.org/pub/documents/Sutherland_RB_19.pdf
    • cazza2015
      cazza2015 on 10 Mar 15
       
      Points to reflect on
  • I need to know how to use those different tools. I need to know how to work with them
    • smcroft
      smcroft on 19 Feb 15
       
      A teacher must not just have surface knowledge of their content, ideally they should have transformative knowledge in order to be able to effectively pass this along effectively to their students. If teachers don't have a level of transformative knowledge brought about by the desire to upskill themselves to understand new tools, to utilise ICT in the classroom, to try new things, how are they going to teach students to do so themselves and what right do they have to judge students when they don't utilise their abilities as best they can (Salsich, 2012)? Salsich, J. (2012). Do Teachers Need to Relearn How to Learn? - Redefining my role: Teacher as student. Salsichteach.edublogs.org. Retrieved 19 February 2015, from http://salsichteach.edublogs.org/2012/01/02/do-teachers-need-to-relearn-how-to-learn/
    • alicefoddy
      alicefoddy on 22 Feb 15
       
      I think I mentally use this when learning and teaching ICT's anyway. I think its a good problem solving method especially when students may be undertaking new things
    • Angela Woodward
      Angela Woodward on 22 Feb 15
       
      I love this analogy.
  • It was the equivalent of breaking out a chain saw every time you needed to cut wood – even if you were trying to build furniture.
    • jwalker81
      jwalker81 on 03 Mar 15
       
      This is definitely what I have experienced on pracs
  • Or have you left them clueless in the tool store via an education continuously committed to one way of doing things?
  • “digital native
    • jwalker81
      jwalker81 on 03 Mar 15
       
      But my two year old can already hit the youtube icon on the ipad and find PeppaPig!!!!!
  • Your school must be a tool shop, where tools are demonstrated, taught, considered, respected, used, and deliberately chosen. Because we can not afford to send our students out without the toolbelts they need to function in their future world.
  • The first understanding is not without value. It is important to know an alphabet, basic math facts, or what “President” means.
    • marianasdiigo
      marianasdiigo on 06 Mar 15
       
      So I guess its all about acquiring knowledge and than applying that knowledge
    • nhiron
      nhiron on 31 Mar 15
       
      This is something I feel very strongly about.
  • make the tools of the world available to all, and teach them to evaluate on their own.
    • jocebagg
      jocebagg on 25 Jul 15
       
      I think this is essential for everyone to adopt in their classrooms.
    • jessewolfenden
      jessewolfenden on 04 Aug 15
       
      I feel this focuses on the idea of skill based learning and inquiry pedagogy, where teachers must facilitate students and provide them with an essential set of skills for active and effective participation in our society.
    • u1033821
      u1033821 on 10 Aug 15
       
      I agree that it starts as a skill and then leads into an inquiry base pedagogy. I keep hearing the saying that you need to "learn to read to be able to read to learn".
  • We, as humans, differ. Our tasks differ. Our environments differ. Our circumstances differ. And we pick the appropriate tool.
    • jessewolfenden
      jessewolfenden on 04 Aug 15
       
      In regards to the education, this relates to diversifying learning to create maximum inclusivity for all students and learning needs. 
    • aliciawalsh2015
      aliciawalsh2015 on 16 Aug 15
       
      The students need to know where they have been to then know where to move forward
  • djplaner on 01 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • ...51 more comments...
  • David Martin on 02 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Leah Drury on 02 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • mrs parry on 03 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Holly Hawkings on 03 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Amy Jones on 04 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Melissa March on 05 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • fiona thrift on 05 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Sue Day on 06 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Felicia Van Der Meer on 06 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Mitch Koina on 06 Mar 13
     
    Was very interested in this article and description of how we as 21st century learners can be assisted through everyday learning with the applications of technology. I was glad that the article still noted that we are all unique and have individual attributes which can be best nutured through the use of different tools and that as educators we still play an important role in guiding our students to discover exactly what these tools are and the most beneficial way to use them.
  • Nicole Didlick on 07 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Nicole Didlick on 07 Mar 13
     
    I really liked finding this information on the EDC3100 study desk activities in week 2. The toolbelt theory is excellent I feel.
  • anonymous on 08 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Deborah Liang on 08 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Teresa Morgan on 11 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Kate Petty on 14 Mar 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Jackie Litwinczuk on 16 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Tyahnie Wilson on 16 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Jasmine Smith on 17 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Troy Brunner on 18 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Colleen Lenehan on 18 Jul 13
     
    I agree with Kate that we need to be careful about generalities, especially when they relate to philosophies. However, every other comment I read was valid in that ICT is evolving, even as I write this, and as it is becoming more and more a crucial part in the work environment, so it also needs to be the same in the education system in order for students to be able to make the transition from school to the work force.
  • Donna Schlatter on 19 Jul 13
     
    Interesting Quote
  • Ornella Whelan on 21 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • samantha bourke on 22 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Michelle Newton on 24 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Amanda Condren on 25 Jul 13
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Billy Green on 25 Feb 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Lauren Torr on 26 Feb 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Isabella Irvine on 02 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Michelle Brown on 03 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Melissa Messenger on 04 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Kim Hatfield on 04 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Marina Downey on 05 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Karen Smith on 06 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Anne Merton on 06 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Jacqueline Klaassen on 06 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Lisa Rose on 06 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • anonymous on 08 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Stella Leotta on 08 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Edna Strange on 09 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Olivia Wirihana on 10 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Yasmin Gough on 12 Mar 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Lisa Love on 13 Mar 14
     
    I don't necessarily believe that 'tools define us', but I do believe the way we use them and what we use them for is what defines us. There are so many wonderful ICTs out there, but many people choose to use them for 'evil'. What does that then say about us. The tools haven't defined that person, it was their choice.
  • Ann Bond on 13 Mar 14
     
    Not just choosing the right tool for the job but the tool which best enables the individual to complete the task, the right tool for one person is often not the right tool for another
  • anonymous on 16 Mar 14
     
    "Education may be understood in one of two broad ways. Either it is about teaching people a discrete set of facts they will be able to repeat - multiplication tables and The Lord's Prayer are two examples - or it is about helping people learn how to function in the world - crossing the street, using the Dewey Decimal System, reading a map all fit into this category."
  • jadieleigh on 23 Jul 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • catherinelwilson on 02 Aug 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • michelleajackson on 03 Aug 14
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • ltodd91 on 24 Feb 15
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • asmith79 on 01 Mar 15
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • Natasha Taylor on 08 Mar 15
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • s4_kelly on 04 Aug 15
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
  • teegz87 on 06 Aug 15
     
    A reading from week 2 that encourages you to develop your own toolbelt to help you achieve what you need to do.
u1033821

Toronto students write, publish their own books | Toronto Star - 6 views

www.thestar.com/...e_publish_their_own_books.html

shared by u1033821 on 29 Mar 14 - No Cached
  • “Every student in the school had a voice — whether it was an ESL student who can’t speak the language, or someone who has a learning disability — everybody has a page or a book that’s their own,”
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      Inclusive practice that caters for diverse learning needs. Why? "Evaluate and revise school learning and teaching programs, using expert and community knowledge and experience, to meet the needs of students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds." - #1 Know students and how they learn. Retrieved from http://www.teacherstandards.aitsl.edu.au/DomainOfTeaching/ProfessionalKnowledge/Standards
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 03 Sep 14
       
      It is important that different platforms are found so that each individual can have a voice.
    • beclowe87
      beclowe87 on 03 Apr 15
       
      Differentiating for all students so the activity is inclusive.
  • “It made writing meaningful and purposeful.”
    • Louise Hoggett
      Louise Hoggett on 03 Apr 14
       
      It's not just about writing a paragraph of text "just because the teacher said so". There is a genuine physical goal at the end.
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      This is what learning is supposed to be about.
    • Tracey Wiggins
      Tracey Wiggins on 07 Apr 14
       
      meaningful for students, not purposeless
    • Edna Strange
      Edna Strange on 13 Apr 14
       
      authentic learning
    • Tayla Le
      Tayla Le on 16 Apr 14
       
      Yes, this way of learning is fun, personal and intentional.
    • Mike Parker
      Mike Parker on 21 Apr 14
       
      Accessing this website and book publishing tool provided a way to engage all students to the level they desired or could manage.
  • “writing came alive during this process,”
  • ...32 more annotations...
  • Why not now?
    • Richard Gerrand
      Richard Gerrand on 02 Apr 14
       
      The teacher thinking in a way that is new and exciting, and initiates further thinking and possibilities.
    • Karren Hoare
      Karren Hoare on 20 Apr 14
       
      It also seems very exciting that this teacher is supporting learning that is relevant & shows students that learning is not just for the future but opens up opportunities for them now.
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 03 Sep 14
       
      This also creates a relevance between the student and their world both in the educational sense and the personal sense.
  • Kids brainstormed ideas, wrote rough drafts, edited with classmates and teachers and created their own illustrations. Some handwrote the final draft, while others chose to type up pages.
    • Richard Gerrand
      Richard Gerrand on 02 Apr 14
       
      Students and teachers became motivated and engaged in literacy. Students were able to have a choice between typing their stories or writing them by hand. This task was also inclusive in regards to students who might have had learning difficulties. It provided a platform for these students to express themselves creatively through the use of colours, images, written text or a variety of materials such as button, beads, different fabrics that they could cut out and paste, etc.
    • emmajay
      emmajay on 15 Apr 15
       
      Collaboration between students and teachers promotes positive learning experiences and ensures all learners are involved and able to participate. Providing students with options to create illustrations, type or write their story by hand enables all students to construct their story in a way that suits them.
  • Parents were calling in
    • Richard Gerrand
      Richard Gerrand on 02 Apr 14
       
      Something to work on and talk about at home, and spend quality family time together. Parents become interested in their child's education - brings them into the school environment.
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 03 Sep 14
       
      An interesting way to get parents involved in their children's education.
  • I got so excited because I love writing stories with my friends — I love reading and writing,” said 8-year-old Zaria Gibbons
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      Sounds of a student who loves to read, create and share.
    • Mike Parker
      Mike Parker on 21 Apr 14
       
      This writing platform encouraged collaboration and participation.
  • When she shared her find at a staff meeting, fellow teachers at the Scarborough school loved the idea and they all got on board.
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      Positive sharing of 'finds' not only builds resources but creates a positive, inclusive and productive professional learning environment and builds moral.
    • Ann Bond
      Ann Bond on 22 Apr 14
       
      by sharing the idea it became a whole school activity involving the entire school community including the parents
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 28 Apr 14
       
      Teacher was able to network with others. Created a holistic and inclusive approach to the idea. Ultimately a higher chance for success as more support is there.
    • ruddsword
      ruddsword on 03 Sep 14
       
      Having an open minded and innovative staff helps, so does having the opportunity to try something different. Not all schools would have been so on board with the idea.
    • saraantcliff
      saraantcliff on 03 Sep 14
       
      Teacher provided an extension to other teachers professional learning and used networking with other peers
  • students were given a kit with instructions and pages.
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      Self-paced, somewhat self directed learning. Building confidence and indepence. Minimal imput from teacher mean students are free to express their ideas.
  • There was a sense of awe when the books arrived and they’d seen what they’d done.”
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      Positive effective and timely feedback that fosters positive self esteem and grows the desire to learn.
    • Ann Bond
      Ann Bond on 22 Apr 14
       
      producing a physical item, something tangible the student can share with others
  • holding an authors’ night for parents, grandparents, siblings — even aunts and uncles — to check out the books.
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      Engaging the students social learning network enhancing learning and building a positive view of learning.
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 28 Apr 14
       
      Positive relationships between all stakeholders. Community involvement and enhancement of student learning.
  • ents were asked to write about world issues, so Pauline Manuel wrote “Courageous Ezra,” which she dedicated “to all children affected by war.” We value respectful and thoughtful discussion. Readers are encouraged to flag comments that fail to meet the standards outlined in our Community Code of Conduct. For further information, including our legal guidelines, please see our full website Terms and Conditions. Commenting is now closed. Login | Signup 0 Comments powered by: Follow Newest Oldest Most Liked Editor's Pick Most Active Most Replies ← View all comments Show More document.write(''); no
  • lder students were asked to write about world issues, so Pauline Manuel wrote “Courageous Ezra,” which she dedicated “to all children affected by war.” We value respectful and thoughtful discussion. Readers are encouraged to flag comments that fail to meet the standards outlined in our Community Code of Conduct. For further information, including our legal guidelines, please see our full website Terms and Conditions. Commenting is now closed. document.write(''); document.write(''); <div c
  • Older students were asked to write about world issue
    • Jenny Entsch-Keith
      Jenny Entsch-Keith on 03 Apr 14
       
      This activity challenges student to investigate and reflect on 'real world' events promoting a deeper understanding of what happen around them and international and how they feel about what they discover.
    • chrismurphy3872
      chrismurphy3872 on 06 Apr 15
       
      Personally I would prefer students be given choice of topic, as dictating the topic seems to contradict the impetus for the project which was to foster a student driven passion for writing.
  • -year-old Zaria Gibbon
  • e reading and
  • 1I got so excited because I love writing stories with my friends — I love reading and
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      Sounds of a child who loves to read, create and share.
  • “My family was really proud of m
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      Looks like the student is receiving support at home for their efforts at school.
    • Natasha Taylor
      Natasha Taylor on 17 Apr 15
       
      I love how this seems to have involved the families too. I feel parents are becoming increasing less involved in the classroo, for various reasons, so it's fantastic that this has sparked their enthusiasm as well as the student's.
  • My Amazing Book of Poems.”
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      Self belief.
  • “It wasn’t just something they did and handed in to the teacher.”
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      This is what I would love to say!
    • sharonbatchelor
      sharonbatchelor on 02 Sep 15
       
      Yep, that's 'authentic learning'.
  • The school made a big deal of the young writers
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      School wide support, how exciting and uplifting for the students to be recognised in front of their peers.
  • ‘Have you finished your draft yet?’ ” said principal Denise Canning.
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      The students must think it is awesome that the principal is interested in their work.
  • 1“It made writing meaningful and purposeful.”
  • even those in kindergarten — contributed a page to a class book.
    • Stephen Druery
      Stephen Druery on 03 Apr 14
       
      Shows how it is possible for all age groups to contribute and participate in learning.
    • chrismurphy3872
      chrismurphy3872 on 06 Apr 15
       
      Hopefully those students with a passion for writing in the "younger" grades were given the opportunity to create their own book if they wanted to.
  • It also got the school buzzing
    • Amber Nottage
      Amber Nottage on 11 Apr 14
       
      Having the whole school talking about something as positive and exciting as literacy is a great reason to do something like this! It shows how excited the students are about creating their own work - love it.
    • Edna Strange
      Edna Strange on 13 Apr 14
       
      Great collaboration
    • corinnawest
      corinnawest on 17 Aug 15
       
      great idea to get the students to feel good about learning and they get to take something away from it that they can be proud off. Great concept and great on the school part to adjust their teaching and assessments
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 28 Apr 14
       
      This provocation from the students allowed the teacher to use the interests of the children to make learning more engaging and meaningful.
    • jramage3
      jramage3 on 30 Aug 14
       
      The teacher showed respect for her students and let them have a voice, therefore allowing them to be apart of the learning process.
  • students could read aloud.
    • Olivia Wirihana
      Olivia Wirihana on 28 Apr 14
       
      Children took ownership of their work and shared it with others.
  • While searching
    • staceymkruse
      staceymkruse on 18 Aug 14
       
      The dog wagging the tail - the teacher didn't just use ICT based literacy programs because the existed. She searched for one that met the needs and goals of her students. Even better then she shared with her colleagues.
  • students of mine for the past three years,
    • digordon
      digordon on 17 Apr 15
       
      Wonderful that this teacher has been able to follow her students for that length of time. The benefits this must have for special needs students are immense
  • she said.
    • digordon
      digordon on 17 Apr 15
       
      This reminds me of a student with ASD at a school I am aware of that wrote his own book about the struggles of making friends. It was an amazing experience for this boy, his twin sister illustrated it for him and his best friend assisted. He performed readings of the book for all the classrooms. Such an amazing experience for the child and the school.
    • Natasha Taylor
      Natasha Taylor on 17 Apr 15
       
      Upon having a look atthis site it seems to be limited to the USA. Does anyone know of a similar site in Australia?
    • Angela Woodward
      Angela Woodward on 18 Apr 15
       
      How cool would it be to organise this at a school we work at in the future. I would love to do this- especially an author night.
    • debgran
      debgran on 28 Aug 15
       
      A great resource to use to encourage writers. Many children seem to struggle with the writing aspect of literacy.
    • debgran
      debgran on 28 Aug 15
       
      A great resource to use to encourage writing. Many students struggle with this aspect of literacy.
  • kids would get off the bus carrying their package of materials and talking about it
    • Suzanne Usher
      Suzanne Usher on 01 Sep 15
       
      Another awesome result of this activity is that it makes literacy possible and enjoyable for all  students. Not all students enjoy or succeed in reading, but show far more engagement with writing, especially when given freedom of expression, and encouraged to write about something relevant and enjoyable to them. 
    • u1033821
      u1033821 on 05 Sep 15
       
      School on board with expanding the programme so that others may benefit. This also show that the teachers are in support of the programme. Domino affect.
  • djplaner on 29 Mar 14
     
    What happens when teachers from across a school encourage their students to write and publish their own books. Can you identify some of the educational reasons why this was a successful project? This is a week 5 activity.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • megan lawton on 18 Apr 14
     
    Reasons as to why I thought this was a good idea: - students and parents are involved - everyone in the class, all learning abilities, got involved - it gave writing a sense of purpose for the class - students could relate it to interests and real life concepts. - students took charge of what they are going to write
  • Kerri Richardson on 29 Apr 14
     
    Kids brainstormed ideas, wrote rough drafts, edited with classmates and teachers and created their own illustrations. Some handwrote the final draft, while others chose to type up pages. 1 "Every student in the school had a voice - whether it was an ESL student who can't speak the language, or someone who has a learning disability - everybody has a page or a book that's their own," said Remedios. 6 "It made writing meaningful and purposeful." 2 It also got the school buzzing.
  • debgran on 28 Aug 15
     
    A great resource to keep in mind to encourage writers.
  • Suzanne Usher on 01 Sep 15
     
    An awesome way to get kids involved with books - by creating thier own. Come to think of it, it worked for Kai too back in Yr 2.
Anna Murphy

School Writing - the Must-Have App for all schools | On Sarah's iPad - 0 views

onsarahsipad.wordpress.com/...-must-have-app-for-all-schools

school writing app schools ipad

shared by Anna Murphy on 30 Mar 14 - No Cached
  • Anna Murphy on 30 Mar 14
     
    "School Writing - the Must-Have App for all schools"
Leigh Campbell

What are ICTs?: A Queensland View - 10 views

usqstudydesk.usq.edu.au/...view.php

shared by Leigh Campbell on 08 Jul 13 - No Cached
  • technologies that are used for accessing, gathering, manipulating and presenting or communicating information
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 08 Jul 13
       
      Again a list of operations that can be done with these technologies. How many of these operations are used in learning and teaching?
    • Justene Webb
      Justene Webb on 17 Jul 13
       
      For me personally I have seen many of these technologies being used in learning and teaching. Eg - The use of Ipads and computer labs, using the smart board to do internet searches as a whole class by encouraging the students to think about key words relating to what they are researching, and using a software application called Tux Paint to re-create a story scene as an extension from an English project.
  • ICT tends to mean computers and their peripheral devices
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 08 Jul 13
       
      This is no longer the case. Mobile phones, tablets, bee bots and the integration of ICTs into a range of devices is moving beyond just computers
    • Donna Schlatter
      Donna Schlatter on 20 Jul 13
       
      I totally agree.  Children are using technologies like vados, easispeaks, iTeddies, digital cameras to achieve required outcomes and assessment tasks.
    • Colleen Lenehan
      Colleen Lenehan on 23 Jul 13
       
      I thought that was the old definition of ICT and that its new definition embraced anything that was available for communication purposes, storing data, gathering it, sharing it, etc. as seen in the Hello Kitty video. I fully support the idea that ICT is not regarded as a piece of equipment but it should be a way of life where it is a/any tool used for whatever is required so rather than thinking how we can incorporate ICT into the school curriculum, it should simply be one of the avenues used by students to achieve what they want to achieve.
  • what, in fact, is critical is “how” the technologies are used (Reimann &amp; Goodyear, 2004).
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 08 Jul 13
       
      It's important how technology is used. What impact it has on learning. Using technology is not enough
  • ...4 more annotations...
  • While the computer is itself not a catalyst, its valency as a conduit for communication, collaboration and knowledge building has the potential to transform learning.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 08 Jul 13
       
      The ability of ICTs to support communication, collaboration and knowledge building are important. Have you used ICTs for any of these?
    • Donna Schlatter
      Donna Schlatter on 20 Jul 13
       
      Yes, the classroom that I work in has a little down syndrome girl who uses an iPad for communication.  I know of another class who has a student diagnosed with dyslexia and he uses a computer for typing up all his work.
    • Michelle Newton
      Michelle Newton on 24 Jul 13
       
      What a great example of differentiation and inclusion.
  • a similarly disparate and motley collection of machines of different capacities and configurations may be being used by students and be constituting the learning environment
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 09 Jul 13
       
      It is 8+ years since Lloyd wrote this piece. In very recent times we've seen the Digital Education Revolution - where many students were given laptops - but that is now slowly moving onto the BYOD (bring your own device) era. An era where students are allowed (of if they are not, they still do anyway) their own devices (phones, tablets, computers). It's likely that BYOD is likely to end up with "a similarly disparate and motley collection of machines of different capacities and configurations", what are the implications for teaching?
    • Colleen Lenehan
      Colleen Lenehan on 22 Jul 13
       
      Surely this would encourage discrimination between the students with everyone knowing who had expensive/cheap computers with out of date/the latest versions of software packages. That being the case then it will increase the difficulty of the teacher to both teach ICT and allow the students to use their own forms of ICT. Firstly, because more recent software packages allow greater flexibility (usually) so some students will be physically capable of more complex software usage and also it would be a lot harder to guage what all students are doing on their ICT equipment as a quick glance will not necessarily let the teacher know where each student is at with their work.
  • The configuration of computers in schools may range from individual machines, to distributed models, and to sophisticated networks
    • Kate Dugdale
      Kate Dugdale on 20 Jul 13
       
      I work in a school that has recently rolled out Samsung slates to all students in grades 4-6.  Next year they are going to roll them out from grade 7-12, and then, the year after in grades P-3.  They have also commenced using a program called D2L (Desire to learn), to deliver the content to students.  It has been very interesting to see how different teachers have coped with the changes.  Some embrace it and have done an amazing job of incorporating it into their teaching, while others have resisted the changes and really struggled with incorporating it into their classrooms.  No matter what ICTs the school has available it seems, to me anyway, that the teacher will be the crucial factor as to whether these ICTs are used successfully and appropriately.
    • Colleen Lenehan
      Colleen Lenehan on 22 Jul 13
       
      I agree with you, Kate. When people resist what has to be done, then there is no creativity or extensions or allowing the students to be risk takers themselves. This is borne out by Toomey (2001) when part of his definition of ICT actually includes "manipulating" and "communicating".
  • There is no standard school configuration of machines
    • Donna Schlatter
      Donna Schlatter on 20 Jul 13
       
      How true is this... I have been to a few schools for prac and each school has a different focus on ICT.  One school I attended had a computer lab, put the screens were the good old huge dinosaur ones.  Then another school I attend had two computer labs full of up-to-date computers with flat screens etc.  It's a same that schools aren't all the same.
    • Leigh Campbell
      Leigh Campbell on 24 Jul 13
       
      I agree Donna, unfortunatley that's where funding and grants come into it as well as the hard work of the fundraising activities, sometimes the budget focus is on other areas as well. Access and equity in relation to current technology is a major issue in educational equality and very topical too.
  • djplaner on 08 Jul 13
     
    Semester 2, 2013 reading - Week 1. Defining ICTs.  
djplaner

Safe Schools Hub : School Audit Tool - 0 views

school-audit-tool.safeschoolshub.edu.au/Dashboard

dcpolicy audit

shared by djplaner on 02 May 16 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 02 May 16
     
    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.
Nicole Hunter

SpeEdChange: Changing Gears 2012: rejecting the "flip" - 2 views

speedchange.blogspot.com.au/...gears-2012-rejecting-flip.html

shared by Nicole Hunter on 10 Aug 13 - No Cached
  • From the 1890s until World War II homework was consistently highly controversial, with laws against it (California 1901 among many others),
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 10 Aug 13
       
      For me, this is an illustration of "technology becoming mythic". i.e. today, many parents/teachers assume homework is a given.  And yet 100 years ago there were laws against it.
  • omework is a link from school to home that keeps parents informed about what the school is teaching, gives them a chance to participate in their children's schooling, and helps to keep the schools accountable to parents. Not to assign homework is to exclude parents from playing an active role in their children's academic development."
    • Jackie Litwinczuk
      Jackie Litwinczuk on 12 Aug 13
       
      I hear this quote so often but I really believe if the parents want to be involved in the children's learning, they need to spend time in their child's learning environment.
    • Justene Webb
      Justene Webb on 13 Aug 13
       
      Here, here, I so agree with you Jackie so often parents only find themselves in school to make a complaint or the like never have I seen a parent just wanting to spend time in their childs classroom just to see. It would be beneficial for all if there were time when this could happen.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 13 Aug 13
       
      Connections with parents is important. In fact, it's one of the AITSL professional standards. But I wonder why parents don't spend more time in their child's classroom? I'm sure there would be many parents (but perhaps not all) who want to be more involved with their child's education, but who can't for various reasons.  I wonder if we can make it easier for them to be involved?
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 13 Aug 13
       
      Actually, entirely by accident I came across this post from Nicola's blog http://nixxuni.wordpress.com/2013/07/24/using-technology-to-inform-parents/
  • Our students deserve more imaginative thinking than that. And all of our students deserve an educational environment which moves us toward equality of opportunity, not further away from that.
    • Justene Webb
      Justene Webb on 13 Aug 13
       
      Equality is something that would be missed in a flipped classroom. With the cost of living increasing not all families are going to afford the technology that a flipped classroom requires students to have access to at home.
    • Colleen Lenehan
      Colleen Lenehan on 14 Aug 13
       
      Wouldn't lack of equality be bridged if the students who didn't have access to the internet went to school early or stayed back a bit later to listen to the videos. If there was supervision, what difference would it make being at school or at home for the video presentation?
    • Nicole Hunter
      Nicole Hunter on 18 Aug 13
       
      I agree with a comment made above too, that maybe the school day needs to be re-arranged if a flipped classroom pedagogy is going to be introduced - give students time during normal school hours to watch the videos then have the classroom discussion
  • djplaner on 10 Aug 13
     
    A reading for week 5.
djplaner

The National Safe Schools Framework | Department of Education and Training - 0 views

www.education.gov.au/ional-safe-schools-framework-0

dcpolicy policy government

shared by djplaner on 02 May 16 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 02 May 16
     
    Background on the Australian Government's National Safe Schools Framework that is designed to help school communities "develop positive and practical student safety and wellbeing policies". i.e. much broader than just digital technologies. Includes a pointer to the Safe Schools Hub that provides much more background information and a range of useful resources.
djplaner

Learning with 'e's: Education, schooling and the digital age - 0 views

steve-wheeler.blogspot.ca/...schooling-and-digital-age.html

digitalage transformation samr transform

shared by djplaner on 02 Apr 14 - No Cached
  • Schooling is where structures are imposed upon learners to make the process more manageable. Behaviour is synchronised, curricula are standardised, and criterion referenced assessment is imposed to quantify achievement.
  • Schooling is where structures are imposed upon learners to make the process more manageable. Behaviour is synchronised, curricula are standardised, and criterion referenced assessment is imposed to quantify achievement
  • djplaner on 02 Apr 14
     
    The view of one UK-based teacher educator about the nature of the digital age, the requirements of education in such an age, and the mismatch between those requirements and schooling. It points to some of the tension between the rise of standardised curricula (e.g. the Australian curriculum) where all learning is predefined and the characteristics of the digital age. In particular, suggests some challenges when working within the existing schooling system and attempting to use ICTs to transform student learning.
Donetta Karlen

Moving at the Speed of Creativity | Clear Signs of Digitally Connected School Leaders - 0 views

www.speedofcreativity.org/...tally-connected-school-leaders

digital leader. technology in schools. follow his blog. worthwhile and innovative suggestions. connected school creativity

shared by Donetta Karlen on 27 May 15 - No Cached
  • Donetta Karlen on 27 May 15
     
    Are the leaders in your school and/or school district digitally connected? Being a connected educator today is one of the most important hallmarks of effective twenty-first century leadership. How ...
Tanya Little

The Tail Wagging the Dog - Again! | Where 2 Now? - 6 views

where2now.wordpress.com/...the-tail-wagging-the-dog-again

shared by Tanya Little on 14 Mar 13 - No Cached
  • Once this program has been implemented, how do we measure our success?
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 14 Mar 13
       
      How will you measure the success of any attempt you make when integrating ICTs into your teaching?
    • Faeza ms
      Faeza ms on 18 Mar 13
       
      Perhaps by reflecting on the way ICT has transformed the learning? In what ways has ICT integration improved the quality of the learning experience?
    • Matthew Clarke
      Matthew Clarke on 19 Mar 13
       
      Going on the last comment, I guess it goes back to 1 of the Postman's theory, about there being two sides to a story. For every advantage there is always a cost involved. How do you measure the success of ICT and what is the cost involved?
    • Brooke Clark
      Brooke Clark on 20 Mar 13
       
      I believe that you have succeeded in incorporating ICT's in your pedagogy when students are able to achieve outcomes that they may have otherwise struggled to achieve and when the ICT component adds to the learning experience rather than deducts from it.  When you make ICT the tool rather than the lesson.
    • Sue Day
      Sue Day on 20 Mar 13
       
      well stated! I agree on the importance of the ICTs being the tool!
  • Will any student learning objectives have even been considered? Eventually, maybe. But not until after the die has been cast, defining the hardware and software parameters that will make up “the solution”.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 14 Mar 13
       
      This is the "technology tail" wagging the "education dog".  Technology first, learning second.
    • Teresa Morgan
      Teresa Morgan on 02 Apr 13
       
      I'm confused by this statement. Shouldn't learning come first and then technology to enhance the learning? I might just have to go back over and read this section again from week 3.
    • djplaner
      djplaner on 02 Apr 13
       
      "Tail wagging the dog" is meant to indicate that it is the wrong way around. In theory education should come first.
  • One would expect that any educational organisation whose primary purpose is the delivery of education, would have learning outcomes at the heart of any planning process considering the distribution of such a large allocation of money.
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • Why can’t we build our school ICT infrastructure plans around the learning needs of students, and create a quality teaching environment and professional development program that supports these needs, rather than the other way around?
    • Matthew Clarke
      Matthew Clarke on 19 Mar 13
       
      I'm a little confused? isn't this supposed to be what we are trying to do. If using the tool belt theory, aren't we meant to TEST, whether our ICT's are applicable and most appropriate?
    • sarah wittman
      sarah wittman on 22 Mar 13
       
      hear hear for the last highlight in this article
  • djplaner on 14 Mar 13
     
    Another "EduDoggy" example. This time in the context of NSW schools and the Federal Government's recent "Digital Education Revolution".  This is only of interest to make the EduDoggy point and will be pointed to (maybe) during next week's content.
  • ...2 more comments...
  • Matthew Clarke on 19 Mar 13
     
    Another "EduDoggy" example. This time in the context of NSW schools and the Federal Government's recent "Digital Education Revolution".  This is only of interest to make the EduDoggy point and will be pointed to (maybe) during next week's content.
  • Brooke Clark on 20 Mar 13
     
    Another "EduDoggy" example. This time in the context of NSW schools and the Federal Government's recent "Digital Education Revolution".  This is only of interest to make the EduDoggy point and will be pointed to (maybe) during next week's content.
  • Sue Day on 20 Mar 13
     
    Another "EduDoggy" example. This time in the context of NSW schools and the Federal Government's recent "Digital Education Revolution".  This is only of interest to make the EduDoggy point and will be pointed to (maybe) during next week's content.
  • Teresa Morgan on 02 Apr 13
     
    Another "EduDoggy" example. This time in the context of NSW schools and the Federal Government's recent "Digital Education Revolution".  This is only of interest to make the EduDoggy point and will be pointed to (maybe) during next week's content.
djplaner

Cybersafety in Queensland state schools | Education and training | Queensland Government - 0 views

www.qld.gov.au/...cybersafety-qss.html

dcpolicy

shared by djplaner on 02 May 16 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 02 May 16
     
    The Queensland Government's page on cybersafety in state schools. Includes pointers to a range of information and resources, including information about the web filtering process at Queensland State schools.
djplaner

Blogging with Elementary School Students | Langwitches Blog - 1 views

langwitches.org/...ith-elementary-school-students

blogging students primary

shared by djplaner on 18 Mar 12 - Cached
  • djplaner on 18 Mar 12
     
    "How to" article for blogging with primary school students. From a teacher at a primary school where all the teachers maintain their own classroom blog
u1044820

Building Parent-Teacher Relationships | Reading Rockets - 24 views

www.readingrockets.org/...g-parent-teacher-relationships

shared by u1044820 on 07 Mar 15 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 07 Mar 15
     
    Page from the American Federation of Teachers describing the benefits and some approaches to building parent-teacher relationships. The artefact for assignment 1 is intended to be something that helps build a parent-teacher relationship.
  • u1044820 on 14 Mar 15
     
    Parent Benefits Positive parent-school communications benefit parents. The manner in which schools communicate and interact with parents affects the extent and quality of parents' home involvement with their children's learning. For example, schools that communicate bad news about student performance more often than recognizing students' excellence will discourage parent involvement by making parents feel they cannot effectively help their children.
  • elleroch on 16 Mar 15
     
    Reading Rockets is a great resource, I remember using this for an assignment quite some time ago. Thanks for bringing it back to my attention.
djplaner

Reflecting on the 2013-2014 School Year | EA Pre-K to 2nd Technology - 3 views

mpowerstech.edublogs.org/...g-on-the-2013-2014-school-year

ictexamples earlychildhood

shared by djplaner on 02 Jun 14 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 02 Jun 14
     
    An infographic summarising/reflecting on all the ICT based experiences a primary school with early years classrooms had during the 2013/2014 (North American) school year.
djplaner

(25 Years Ago) The First School One-to-One Laptop Program - 3 views

hackeducation.com/...irst-one-to-one-laptop-program

edc3100 history

shared by djplaner on 15 Jul 15 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 15 Jul 15
     
    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.
  • Lorraine Lewis-Smith on 15 Jul 15
     
    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...
tamarasteinhardt

NAPLAN - 11 views

Hi It will be interesting to see. For one of my children it will be a reality in a very few short weeks. Her highschool is a pilot school for NAPLAN testing online using their BYOD (an iPad). Will ...

started by lottie01 on 04 Apr 17 2 follow-ups, last by tamarasteinhardt on 18 Apr 17
Katie Reed

ICT in the Middle School - 1 views

www.scribd.com/...ICT-in-the-Middle-School

middle school ict EDC3100 FFF education lesson ideas

shared by Katie Reed on 14 Mar 13 - No Cached
  • Katie Reed on 14 Mar 13
     
    Links to apps, websites, technologies that can be used in Middle School. 
emlove

Technology in schools - Justin Tarte - YouTube - 1 views

www.youtube.com/watch

FFF education technology EDC3100

shared by emlove on 10 Mar 13 - No Cached
    • emlove
      emlove on 10 Mar 13
       
      This is a great eye opener, after reading all these different comments and views based on technology in schools you can see as the viewer that students are appreciating technology within schools and want more of it. I would love to do an activity like this, and find out what my students are loving and what else they would like to explore within the classroom.  
  • emlove on 10 Mar 13
     
    Students perspectives on technology in school / education  
djplaner

High School Student, Jeff Bliss gives a lesson to his teacher at Duncanville, TX - YouTube - 1 views

www.youtube.com/watch

digitalcitizenship teaching

shared by djplaner on 10 May 13 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 10 May 13
     
    A video doing the rounds in which a US high school student complains bitterly about the teaching approach used. i.e. hand out packets, read. He wants the teacher to teach, to engage the students. A lesson there about what's acceptable teaching strategies. But more broadly, there's a lesson here about the spread of smart phones with video. What happens in your classroom can be recorded and made public.  The classroom may not be as private as you think. A typical knee-jerk response may be to ban the use of device. What are the chances of that actually working? How well has it worked in schools today? What about using these tools as part of student learning?
djplaner

Safe Schools Hub - 0 views

www.safeschoolshub.edu.au

dcpolicy resources

shared by djplaner on 02 May 16 - No Cached
  • djplaner on 02 May 16
     
    Funded by the Australian government this site is intended to support the National Safe Schools Framework. It provides a range of resources for parents, students, schools, and teachers. Including information specific to cybersafety and professional learning modules.
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