Could the College Campus Go the Way of the Bookstore? - Anthony Flint - The Atlantic Ci... - 1 views
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Class, As I was reading this article I began to think about my experience as a student and a teacher. As a teacher I have utilized a couple of web 2.0 tools that have enabled the learner to think outside of the box. I have also created an atmosphere for creativity and engagement. As a student I have the online experience has led me to endless environments and tools. For college, as a student, I hardly utilize the library for learning. Most of my learning is done in my house, the car, outside patio at the campus (waiting for a study room), but most of it is away from the campus. I ask myself whether we really need all that infrastructure with classrooms? I can see class being conducted outside in a patch of grass. Most students have smart phones and a laptop/tablet where they can produce collaboration and work. Simply, I think the college campus will remain the same for most part but change should come. A majority of the students are still not very comfortable with taking classes online so I don't see a major shift. I do believe that some college's will move faster and make drastic changes.
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Chris, I can't remember the amount of hours I spent in the library studying, cramming, or just finding a good book in my younger years. It really is a shame that so many of the current generation won't be exposed to the joy of cracking open a good book, or even putting together a research paper at the last moment by using physical books and encyclopedias (remember those?). Now it seems that we can do almost anything from the comfort of our own homes (conduct research, buy almost anything, and complete a graduate degree). However, I would caution all those saying that MOOC's are the wave of the future, and colleges will disappear as we know it. I do agree that classes can be conducted almost anywhere; however, I know I learned so much in my undergraduate and first graduate degrees on the college campus. Now that I'm older and have too many distractions, the online option is ideal. However, I know I would hope that my own children would have an opportunity to shape their young minds on a university campus. Then they could progress to a fully online environment. Or even a happy median where they could both attend physically for some courses, yet then get the opportunity to take fully online courses, too. I just know that online course require a great deal of discipline, so if you are unaccustomed to setting your own schedule, keeping deadlines, and making sure your assignments are done, it can be a pretty unforgiving experience. Thus, my suggestion for the campus introduction first. Regardless, I do see the need for infrastructure with classrooms. While having the online option available is great, I think students having the ability to have a physical classroom will be helpful in the formative years.
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Rise of the Super-Digital Native | Marcus T. Wright - 12 views
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Everything starts with the digital natives of today.
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If we can set them up for success, that will bring us one step closer to those super-digital natives who will flip this world upside-down with what they will have to offer.
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The great thing is that the digital natives of today will teach the next generation. That generation will learn from today's digital natives and practice better ways to critically engage in technology for teaching and learning.
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I think we must teach our current generation to sift through the multitude of Apps and critically assess there value added. What do you think?
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I agree but the process obviously needs to have some sort of structure. Aside from that when are we to teach them this material? How are we to teach them? I think it is a great idea that a shift needs to take place but is it really needed for some? Some of the younger learners have adapted well and could possibly not need a shift because they make those modifications on their own. What do you all think?
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I do not think we need to teach this technology application skill in an isolated teaching moment. All teachers need to understand the technological environment these students will face and help them develop skills that will help them sort though the multitude of applications that are out there and apply them to solve real world issues.
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I think we need to walk a fine line between the old and new, when it comes to technological advances. We have those that are completely opposed to technology, then we have those that are 100% using all technology available. From what I have been seeing more and more, these super-digital natives might sift through all technologies with ease, but they are lacking in basic life skills (face-to-face communication, effective writing skills other than abbreviated text garbage, and other similar issues). A prime example is my coworker's college son is an absolutely brilliant computer programmer, but the young man can't construct a sentence in front of people to save his life. I'm concerned that we might be shifting too far too fast into technology, yet letting other necessary skills (that might not be tech-driven) fall by the wayside. Hopefully, teachers can help them walk that fine line before it's too late to learn these skills. Okay, my old man "back in my day" rant is over...
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If you were to ask any digital immigrant perspective about growing up with no computers, cell phones and no high speed internet connection. I do not think they would feel disadvantaged teaching the super digital natives. Grant you the digital natives of today will probably teach the super digital natives of tomorrow. Somehow, I think the instruction would have evolved because of the progress made by the digital immigrants and not the digital natives of today. I can still recall the calculators that were huge, noisy and clunky in my computer class categorized as state of the art at that time. What is state of the art of today will be paper weights of tomorrow.
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Technology is certainly becoming more and more a part of our society and something that we use daily. It has advanced so much in so little time. The explosion of Twitter and Facebook has allowed us to receive information and spread information so quickly. I do feel we need to prepare our students for the future and the advances in technology. However, I don't know if we should put all of our eggs in that basket per se. I still feel there are other critical skills unrelated to technology that will always be a necessity no matter how advanced technology becomes.
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The students of today sure have taught me a lot about the use of technology for recreation, but little about the use of technology for education. They have great ways to avoid education using technology, but not necessarily how to incorporate it into their educational processes. I believe that they can guide us through the rapidly changing technological educational traverse and we can instill in them proven pedagogues and methods. My college students were asked several months ago to present an ethical dilemma to the class. I told them they could use any platform, but Powerpoint. They whined!!! They know all these cool Web tools but can't incorporate any of them into their presentation. That's where I come in. This is not a technology class, however a teaching moment is a teaching moment. As soon as I begin talking about different platforms and ways of presenting, they jumped at the prospect of using the tools they knew. In the end the presentations were superb and I learned some really great tools to put in my own arsenal. My point being I think that each of us learns from modeled behavior. I can learn from their expertise and they can learn from mine. It is all in the approach and willingness to learn.
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Sean, I agree about the super-technology natives do lack some of the social skills needed in our society. Here is a great interview with a millennial who begs to differ. I thought it was a great debate over the subject. Watch the latest video at video.foxbusiness.com
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Sorry the video did not embed. Here is the link http://video.foxbusiness.com/v/2849237531001/millennials-lacking-interpersonal-skills-street-smarts-to-get-a-job/
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Amanda, Yes I agree with you. Its amazing how Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to name a few have taken over society as a rapid form of communication. It never seems to amaze me how fast people get updates or how involved they are with what is going on in todays society and its all because of the new form of communication out there. It has certainly change from how it was in the past. It never seems to amaze me how kids know so much about it and how much they know about these networks. However, I see this is just the beginning as time progresses there are more networks and more options out there to choose from. I personally like how technology has evolved through the years and can not wait for the future to see what else is new. I have learned you just adapt and roll with the punches. Technology is here to stay! Jose Davila
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Technology is evolving at an enormous pace and I believe those who choose to be educators must somehow get it front of it and at lease help guide student learning with the aide of technology. I would hope the digital natives would have an easier time with it, than us old immigrants.
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Technology has indeed become and everyday occurrence and Amanda is right, we should not put all our eggs in one basket. I don't think we should go all out and use just technology. I think that we should integrate technology into the curriculum as much as possible but not fully convert everything into digital format.
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I think that this is just the way of the world. The super digital native transcended from the digital native, who came from the novice digital native...if you follow me. Every generation is different and lives with the environmental limitations that exist within that time frame. The millanials of today are of a different mindset. I think of some of the more difficult sudents in my class, and how it's like pulling teeth to get them to want to learn in the classroom. However, just mention of going down to the technology lab to learn gets them all riled up. As educators we must allow our students to use the mediums that they are most comfortable with. I grew up loving taking exams with paper and pencil; they would rather take their exams on a computer. I guess if I would have been born during the technologoical boom, paper and pencil exams would seem repulsive to me. As the article mentions, "we need to know what makes them tick." I totally agree with that statement. Not all students learn in the same way, but research has shown that technology/ computers and the internet can make intrinsic learners out of students.
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Additionally, the folllowing website showcases an article that speaks on the topic of digital natives. These technology savy workman are taking over the workspace. We live in a society where communication is wanted at a fast rate. Hope you enjoy the article: http:www.dqindia.com/dataquest/analysis/175608/digital-natives-taking-over-the-workplace Hope you enjoy reading the article.
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Educating the Current Generation
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I saw some data on the phases teachers go through when entering the profession and what caught my eye was the amount of improvement that occurred after the third year. From year 4-20 it should very little, if any, improvement in teacher proficiency. Apparently it is "survival of the fittest" in action until then. It showed that those who were prepared were resilient enough to "lick their wounds" after year 1 and develop survival skills by year 3 and after that, they basically repeat what has gotten them to that point. I know we must all know some teachers that fall into that category, but the data showed that was more of a trend than an exception. The economy slowed some teachers from retiring (to avoid have to restock their tool kit), but it does seem to be picking up. I think with the social media now available that facilitates teachers helping each other to perfect their craft, this statistic has to be changing. We can only hope that it does as the needs of students preparing for 21st Century jobs and the required skills involved will demand it.
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Every generation tends to learn from the mistakes and successes of the previouse generations. The digital gap between generations is getting smaller. Many "digital immigrants" have made a concentrated effort to keep up with technology. These digital immigrants more and more are becoming the "digital natives" and will soon be "super digital native"; it's just a matter of time. All of us are learning from each other. It is clear that as we all learn and catch up, technology will become an integral part of the educational environment for generations to come.
Could the College Campus Go the Way of the Bookstore? - 35 views
I think MOOCs have a definite place in education, but they cannot be all to everyone. YouTube videos have provided a wide range of information to people and MOOCs can fill a like need as well. Th...
What do you think about Introducing Tables with Google Play for Education? - 35 views
Felipe, I think that you bring up a great point. Teachers need to be provided additional training to really make tablets and programs such as Google Play as effective as possible. It's important ...
the digital divide - 5 views
How do you account for the digital divide
Week 12: What You Need To Know About Babies, Toddlers And Screen Time : All Tech Consid... - 5 views
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What You Need To Know About Babies, Toddlers And Screen Time
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I found this article amazing as most of us have children. I have realized that my four year old daughter uses the iPad more than her dolls. I also thought to myself how much screen time is too much? As I was reading the article I realized that it focused more on 2 years old toddlers and the amount of screen time they need. The article didn't come up with a number but did talk about the difference between a toddler staring at the screen while working on applications and interacting socially with the use of the screen. I personally don't have an issue with my daughter playing with the iPad and attempting to navigate it and learn how to use it. My daughter has attempted to learn different things on the iPad but it was ineffective so we used a grease board or an outdoor activity that allows her to understand the skill or knowledge. So my question is how much technology does a young child need? Is society forcing them to learn this way as a priority? Are we as parents or teachers replacing our creativity with technology?
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I think technology should be dictated by the parent because every child is different. I also believe that while some parents could be a little more flexible with technology keeping a close eye with their child's development in cognition skills is always concern. It far too easy to use technologies as a bitter sitter in the long run it could have dire consequences for the child.
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I agree with you Chris my four year old daughter play more with her Ipad than with her toys she is so addicted to her Ipad that sometimes i don't know what to do. She loves playing games and practice her acb and the numbers but, most of the time are the games. Sometimes I think is are fault for our kids to be so addicted to technology because we use technology as a bitter sitter.
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I think it's up to the parents to find a good balance between technology and other non-technology activities. I don't have children but my 3 year old niece loves playing with the iPad. However, she still has just as much fun with some of the more traditional activities, working on a puzzle, writing in a notebook, working with flashcards etc... I think there can be some great benefits from having children use technology but I think they can potentially become overdosed with it. They should still be involved in physical activities and the more traditional social/communication activities.
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Amanda, I agree that a balance is important to establish early on to create good habits in a child. I also believe that children mimic their parents, so the child sees mom and dad on the phone, laptop, iPad etc...they think this must be what I should be doing. The behavior of child can often times is determined by the actions of the parent. Parents need to demonstrate the behavior they want their children to have. My father always said" Do as I say, not as I do." The sad truth Dad is we watched and did exactly what you did, right or wrong, good or bad!
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Jose, I agree that parents and teachers do use technology as baby sitters. The amount of screen time definitely interferes with the development of some very important interpersonal skills needed in life. Skills that studies show that they would be deficit in are oral communications, collaboration and creativity. These skills require practice and screen time decreases the chances that children will have the opportunity to practice. Steven Baskins talks about his experiences in getting children to put the device down and start acquiring the above skills. http://youtu.be/4rI3olRHxP4
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Jaime, I too have witnessed and been part of the baby sitter "tablet monster". I have now an entire year training my four year old table manners. I sit her down and teach her about the important basic table etiquette. Yet, in regards to the use of the tablet I must approve the application and I generally go through it with her at least once so that I approve and guide her to actual learning. The issue I have is the actual applications that are designed. I have a handful that I allow my daughter to utilize and in reality they are poor in quality. I do agree with you Jaime that each child is different and some can have more flexibility than others.
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Jose, Yes! Technology and technological appliances are like "popcorn" at the movies. The movies has not even started and we are entertained by eating popcorn. I sit down and eat the entire bowl of popcorn even before the movie even starts. My daughter's table use to be like the popcorn. I failed too as a parent. I would sit her down and do the entire process. I believe that the more tools we have the more responsibility we have as parents and teachers to properly execute the learning.
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Amanda, Physical activity is so important to children but I ask how much time is just enough? A balance is correct but what numbers do we work with? I am curious I allow my daughter about 30 min straight on the tablet. Then, I switch up the activity but in reality how much is she learning in those 30 min? What do you think Amanda?
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Lucretia, It is so true! My daughter's mother informs me that it is difficult for her to get our daughter from asking for the tablet. Yet, the times I have eaten lunch or dinner as a family I observe my daughter's mother texting away on facebook, twitter or one of the many social media. Toddlers do what you do because it is easier for them to pick up what they see with their eyes. Great Comment Lucreti! Yet, I have to ask what if our behavior is not followed? What if you have a toddler or child who conducts himself/herself in a different manner than what you display as a parent? How do you guide? How do you establish good habits?
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Lucretia, Great video clip! In regards to your comment I worry about creativity and problem solving skills. Creativity is drained if you plug a child in front of a tablet for hours because everything is given to them. All they have to do is observe, swipe, click and continue the same pattern. I occasionally have my daughter paint, sketch, cut, paste and work on general art skills and at the beginning she struggled to even follow the lines with a crayon. I have observed that technology must be used with a very specific purpose, plan and goal. Lucretia I really enjoyed the video clip!
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Chris, You pose some really good questions! I have done some research and there really is not any clear cut guidelines established yet. The only thing I found was no more than 2 hours of screen time total a day for toddlers. I guess as parents we are going to have to set limits just as we do for other things that we know can potentially harm our children, despite the tears and the wailing!
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I think that young children that are exposed to technology at an early age really do find it fascinating. I think about my brother who last year purchased all four of his children ipads. He stated he did it for educational reasons, but there is something unsettling about that. Like, shouldn't they start off by reading books first. I mean to each there own. I believe that technology is a great thing for children to use, but moderalty as there are books, magazines and other forms of communication to explore. True technology is a tool that we can now use to make our lives much easier, but we should not escape from our basic foundations either. My 7 month old grabs my smart phone becuase of the lights...but I can't help but wonder if there is something else that intreges her about my smart phone rather than it's color and bright lights. Does she find the moving screen entertaining? Does she like that when she clicks on the phone's face different applications pop out? At just 7 months of age, she seems very enthralled by technology, so I can't help but think that maybe there is a shift in the dynamic of this new generation. Almost like it's enfussed within them to connect with it. I know this maybe too far reaching...but just some food for thought. Still, some may argue it's the lights, but I still feel that it's more than that. My daughter really enjoys the fast movements of the phone, and after all technology is all about being fast. This is the cutlure that we live in now. When I was a baby I wonder what enthralled me, since technology was but an aspiration at that time.
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I think you do become a product of your environment. I think back to when I was a child and things did run a bit slower. The little things grabbed your attention. Today the world does move a lot faster and their are countless electronic devices to capture a young child's attention. We do not want them to become numb to the beauty of the stars twinkling in the night sky, but how many of us still find opportunities to go see a fireworks display and do not even realize the stars are up there. Now as I get older, I reflect on those little things, but I have to admit that the environment I worked in for most of my life was fast-paced and you either adjusted to it or held on to the simple life and quickly go left behind. I think technology evolution impacts us whether we want it to or not!
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This is a very important topic for me right now as I try to find a school for my son who is transitioning from a daycare to kindergarten. One of the things I am looking for in a school is how much technology he will be using in the classroom as I feel that he has enough time and resources at home to learn and work with technologies like the iPad. If the school has a large amount of technology integration then I will be making changes to the home use accordingly. Additionally, my wife and I are technology oriented individuals and with my preparation in the EdTech programs I know how to use and integrate technology for learning activities so I am looking for a school with lower utilization of technology. It's a great topic, thanks for sharing Chris!
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Daniel, I agree with you. Balancing activities out is wonderful. My kids do the same thing. They watch TV and play at the same time. My kids as well have many technology gadgets but they don't play with them all the time. They still prefer their toys.
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When it comes to technology us as parents need to keep track. My daughter has a NABI and it has a time control feature. When she has reached the limit of using her tablet it shuts off. It has a password she cannot access any more until the next day. Technology is something that I think all our children need to learn at a young age. My kids are pretty advanced on how to use technology and I thank their school for that. My daughter is only 9 yrs old and already knows how to do a QR codes and videos. Her school is having a TECH night in a few weeks to show all the technology projects they have been working on all year long. I am excited to see this! If you see an advancement in your child then why not keep letting them use tablets or other technology gadgets. My son that is pre-k already knows how to read, add, subtract, count by 2's and 5's. He uses a lot of ABC mouse, star fall and PBS kids.
Establish Good Tech Habits Now to Last a Lifetime - OnlineUniversities.com - 5 views
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Backup, Backup, Backup
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I must agree that backing up your data is about one of the most important habits we don't exercise. I have lost a ton of files and folders that were properly stored but never backed up. I have this issue every time that I change computers or that I have a technical issue with my computer. Dropbox is one of my favorites to utilize on a day to day basis but if security is an issue and I want to keep everything together close to me I use an external drive. I have an issue with this as well though. Last year I had all my information inside my external drive and I would update it every time I would connect it. I would update it probably monthly or every two months. I accidentally dropped the external drive and it no longer worked. So now I just have all my information all over the web and in my computer. It is easy to bring up and access but I do ask myself why can't I have one place where I can access everything? Plus what happens if these servers crash or disappear? Very important habit to keep and utilize frequently for the sake of your data.
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I do use Google Drive and Drop Box at work on a regular basis but recently we have been instructed at the university to use Microsoft Sky Drive going forward. It was also suggested to stop using Google Drive and Drop Box. I think the reason why is because the university probably does not have an agreement with Google Drive or Drop Box. As agents of an organization one should investigate what are approved technologies in each organization in order to stay compliant. It can be easily overlook by someone in the organization and could put the organization in liability. I personally do not like Sky Drive but will eventually use it regularly based on the direction by the university.
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Jaime, Even though your organization may have an agreement with one or the other another problem exsists. While we think that our documents are safe using these kinds of storage devices the true is not as safe as we think. This article talks about the terms in which Google Drive and Drop Box have when we use them to store. Our documents are not really ours! http://www.pcworld.com/article/254500/what_you_need_to_know_about_storing_your_content_on_google_drive_dropbox.html
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Lu, Thanks for sharing this article. I was not aware of these terms of service. I have used Google Drive and Drop Box in the past but for the most part I tend to keep my items saved on my computer hard drive and external hard drive. These clouds are definitely helpful for group work when several people need to edit the same report or document. It is much easier keeping updated versions saved online instead of emailing these versions back and forth amongst group members. My use of these services have been basically limited to times that I worked with a group or partner.
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This article makes sense in that people are using the web, computers and technology as whole. However, they may not be using the most streamlined ways to organize their work....especially if they are students or business professionals. I use Drop box often at work and One Note. These two programs allow me to collaborate with other team members, and ensure that our product is satisfactory to all parites involved. Using a Office 365 cloud is where I back up most of my work. It is a program that I pay $10 a month to use but it also has other great Microsoft Office programs with it. There are so many ways to organize oneself and so it makes sense that we guide our students towards that direction.
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Jaime, I could see how that makes sense...as the university may be switching due to some agreement to change. However, technology changes and improves at such a fast rate that I'm always eager to try the next best thing. I use Microsoft Skydrive and it is so much more streamlined. Dropbox syncs with other universal applications, while Skydrive is more about Windows. Therefore, it is more in tune with Microsoft Window Products, and since UTB shifted to Microsoft 365 Platform, it makes sense that they'd be pushing that.
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Chris, Yes, backing up your files is critical. I don't know how many times I have lost invaluable information from my computer and couldn't recover it. I now use Skydrive and Dropbox occassionally, and I also have an external hard drive to store information 'just in case.' The advantages to having cloud based data storage is frequent updates and the latest advances within the programs themselves. I just scared sometimes knowing that my information is out there in a cloud....but I don't think fear should guide my storage habits. I mean we use facebook, twitter and email....and that is out there on the web as well. Storing information on the web, is just the way business is done now a days, and we must just embrace it.
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I think cloud-based storage solutions are great, but as organizations try to safeguard their networks and information they sometimes stifle the benefits of the technology. On the surface the level of security schools networks are subjected to seems ridiculous, but the reality is that they operate financially much like any other corporate entity. I was involved with a district which was just a few keystrokes away from having a large portion of their fund balance transferred to an overseas account. It was a result of a download of a monitoring software innocently installed during the install of a free utility program. Government entities are even more restrictive concerning uploads and having to deal in multiple environments makes it the more interesting. Bottom line is our students will be facing these same challenges and we need to help prepare them as well.
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This article presents several tech habits to become a more effective technology user. Which tech habit do you think is more important for you in your job or as a graduate student?
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Daniel, Back up is very important! You just never know when anything can happen. It is essential to at least do a complete back up at least every 2 days I think unless you use your device on a daily basis and you are constantly adding more things. Back ups can save your life.
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Rene, To be honest, I have not been one to always save my documents and like others I found out the hard way. I lost several documents because of not saving them properly. I as well as others rely heavily on my computer's hard drive and external hard drives. It has definitely been a tough and bad habit to break. However, It is so true you never really know when those online back up sites will crash. Great job Rene!
Problems with Education - Very Funny Video - YouTube - 7 views
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I ran into this video a few semesters ago and began thinking about my educational experience at the university I attended. After careful examination of the video two questions emerged. Do we really need 4-6 years of additional education to be fully prepared for a career? Did the college/university you attended prepare you for the career you currently have? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRnHlQo6Sx0
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Martin, I really enjoyed the video. However, in reference to your question do we really need 4-6 years of additional education to be fully prepared for a career and did the college/university you attended prepare you for the career you currently have. I really have to agree with Laura. It does help to have a degree because it definitely opens doors plus in several jobs they require a degree. However, what I have noticed that counts a great deal is having experience. It all really depends on the real life work experience in your career. Moreover, employers want to know what your work experience is and how many years experience do you have. This is what they really want to know. I have several friends who major in Criminal Justice and end up going back to school to complete the ACP program in Education because they can not find a job and end up teaching. I am sure it varies for everyone. Great job Martin !
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Martin, I do believe that having a 4-6 year degree fully prepares you, if you can work in area similar to what your degree is intended for. I can't speak for everyone, but I spent 5 years to receive my bachelors and masters (both of which have helped me teach all levels of secondary math). This video is funny, but it generalizes the college student to one that doesn't specialize in any specific field. I wouldn't degrade the college degree from years of study to 5 minutes worth of learning. Justin
untitled - 0 views
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Martin- I always explain to my daughters that if I only would have known back in college what I know now things would be different. I strongly believe that college changes a person-- the more education or the more knowledge you acquire the person adds value. What a person makes out of that education is what is the most valuable, the educational experience. Is a college education important? It opens doors and provides opportunities, it provides structure, work ethics--Remember we finished our degrees-however the percentage of student that start do not complete is high. I would argue that college is a good investment--what I do not like is that college is an expensive investment.
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Technology are excellent learning tools, however too much of something can interfere with child development. My oldest daughter was punished for staying up late and reading with a flashlight during school nights. My youngest daughter gets in trouble for using too much her tablet or phone. When is the appropriate age for technology? My granddaughter uses her ipad and she is two--is this early? The digital students will always use technology, our responsibility is to teaching them responsible use.
Google Glass - 6 views
Do you think that Google-Glass has a function in education?
What do you think about Introducing Tables with Google Play for Education? | Diigo Groups - 2 views
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Tablets are a great tool when used effectively in classrooms. Most of the my experiences have been that teachers are having a greater difficulty knowing what to do with the technology. This tool allows for instant research of questions--Millions of questions are asked of google every day--the video "Shift happens" says who were these questions asked to before google.
Tech for Teachers - 13 views
Sean, I am very happy that you found the information I posted useful. It just amazing the amount of technology resources for all types of population. Students in school are being immersed in the ...
Using Social Media to Teach Visual Literacy in the 21st Century Classroom - 9 views
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This article reminds educators that 21st century technology needs to include both textual communication and visual literacy. What does visual literacy look like in your classroom? Are you using any special method to what and how you are trying to teach? If you do not have your own classroom how can you apply this idea of textual communication and visual literacy to your own job?
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Amanda- Glogster sound like an awesome web 2.0 tool to use, as I use collages all the time in my classroom. However, it would be a great idea to make a virtual collage that all students can access and modify outside of the classroom environment. Students really get into technology. Most recently at our school we started using avatars in learning to really personalize our student's instructional experience. Students got to decorate their own personal avatar that represented themselves, and would reap the benefits of their online academic successes. The school noted great success from that venture. Web 2.0 technologies are a great way for student's to become active and willing participants to their own learning experiences.
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This article is a great reminder of all of the visual ways we can enhance our classrooms and our jobs. Rene, I started using the text message option (thanks) in my class this week. We will see how it goes. Some of my students are really good with technology and others need more practice. It's a constant dance with them but in the end I know that helping them along and introducing new things will only make them more successful in the future. Lucretia, your travel brochure is a great idea and one I will have to use. I agree that we can say very little with pictures and have the students come up with the ideas and ask the questions! Your avatar and scavenger hunt ideas are also very good and out of the box. I agree that we need to visually engage students in order to allow them to critically think. Long gone are the days of lecture and textbook pictures!
NEA - Social Media Made Simple - 18 views
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Social Media Made Simple
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This article provides a prime example of how social media can be integrated into a physics classroom, yet may be easily applied to other types of science fields.
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Justin, The millennial generation has transition from other social media sites to instant sites like Twitter,Vines SnapChat, etc.I believe this is happening because of the instant feedback they receive from these platforms.Why not use these sources for learning in the classroom. For example,a teacher could develop a instant game that incorporate Twitter as platform of learning. The teacher ask a question and the first student that answer it correctly wins.The teacher could have a computer displayed on a screen and showcase the interaction to the class.
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Justin, I really like how the social media applications are finally moving beyond just "Facebook" or "Twitter". Savvy teachers are now using these tools to be more proactive in their learning styles, and promoting greater engagement in their own students. I don't know about you, but it's teachers like Michelle Burgess that will help teach students far beyond a single class. Great usage of podcats, by the way. Being that most teachers seem to have more students than they can realistically keep up with, by having a lesson plan that students can continually reference as needed is a great idea.
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Justin, Thank you for sharing this article. I am currently not a teacher but I am very interested in the flipped classroom and how social media can be used to facilitate this strategy. As the article states, the flipped classroom allows for students to complete their lower-level thinking for homework and engage in higher-level thinking in the classroom. I think it's much more effective to stray away from the regurgitation of facts in the classroom and have the students become actively involved in real life applications. One of several benefits of the flipped classroom is that students will have access to watch videos or read blogs as many times as needed. I think this is very beneficial for the students since not all students learn at the same pace. This can allow for the instructor to provide additional guidance to those students who may need more one on one interaction. Additionally, students themselves will also have the opportunity to provide assistance to their peers. One of the possibilities I see with the flipped classroom are students collaboratively working on projects through wikis or conducting self reflections on blogs.
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Justin, The use of Edmodo in classrooms has really encouraged student to engage in technology. I did a project in one of my earlier EDTC classes and found that Edmodo was so very easy to use. Since the project was completed, Edmodo has come out with some new features that make it even more fun and easy to navigate. Edmodo added badges, much like what Dr. Butler is letting us experience during this class. There are so many different ways you can incorporate badges into your curriculum. One of the ways I have seen teachers use these is not only with their students, but with other teachers. The Tech department host mini seminars on using a variety of technology and if the teachers attend and try the new technology..Bingo earn badges. The teacher actually compete to see how many they can earn. If teachers do that what do you think your students will do?
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Justin, Thanks for using that article. Edmodo I think encourages students to get engaged a lot. I used Edmodo for a project I did for my under grad. I saw that it has a lot of features that students and parents can use. It lets students blog, view grades and do assignments. As time changes I think that we will be seeing more and more of technology being used in schools. I think that is a great tool to use because look how we use online discussions a lot. The kids will be ready for the next step in life.
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Justin, I enjoyed reading your hosted article. I too try to incorporate social media in my lesson plans by keeping a YouTube channel that the students in my classroom can access at any time. My YouTube channel exists to help assist my students in everything from English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) Meta-cognition strategies to 'How to write a STAAR Expository Essay." These are all modules that I have uploaded, and created within my graduate course, as I tried to align them to the needs of my 7th grade classroom. I only have a few followers, as the students seem a bit shy to add my channel for whatever reason. But my students have told me that they have viewed my lesson modules, and that it's helped them learn how to begin to like ELAR. Students, or really anyone that views my channel can leave a message or inquiry. In addition, social Media and the use of technology is the way to go, and in particular why I picked the Educational Technology degree for graduate studies. Furthermore, the article you hosted mentioned what flip classrooms do. They teach the upper level in the classroom setting, but then provide lower level content to bridge any educational gaps from the day's instruction. They do this by way of supplemental online lessons and social media access. I definitely feel that students need to be able to communicate through social media outlets, because learning is an ongoing process and instant communication mediums (such as the one we are currently using to post) are critical to today's learning society. It's just the way things are done now a days- the way of the world. Here is an additional website that has an interactive slide share that discusses the benefits and disadvantages of social media in education- http://www.slideshare.net/ErnestoLuna1/social-media-in-education-advantages-disadvantages-13575997
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Sean, You make a good point here with your response to Justin's posting. Education has moved into another realm, and social media is where it's at. I recall back in the day my aunt used to have a huge collection of Encyclopedia Britannica's. They were so expensive, and oh so bulky. Even though they were a wealth of information, they were oh so time consuming to go through. They didn't provide feedback to any questions, and they definitely weren't high tech. When the internet revolution exploded, we began to gather and share our information differently. We not only relied on text, but started to get feedback and communicate with others over our findings through social media outlets. We look up relevant topics to our questions, and ask others online for their experiences and expertise. This is now how we learn in today's internet age. Social media communication is so fast paced, that the way we gather information and formulate our ideas is now influenced by the smaller world the internet has created. Your absolutely right- smart teachers are jumping on the social media bandwagon, and those that aren't- are being forced to anyway by their administration. Social media is the way we communicate our educational needs in our communities, and beyond.
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The article brings out the fact that many of these Web 2.0 tools can be incorporated into classrooms of any subject. I believe teachers need to feel comfortable regarding the tool being safe for student use. Edmodo is a good example of an education friendly tool which replicates other, more popular tools which provide less opportunity for sheltering students from exposure to social networking risks. This provides teachers a safe environment to introduce safe and responsible practices to students.
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And easy to use. I was looking at stats, and there are currently more Edmodo users than there are BlackBoard users. I would have to say that is a pretty good deal. I know that teachers who have used it tend to move their classes to that format. It also prepares the K-12 student to be proficient in using an LMS - so we are preparing them for their future.
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Instead of constantly trying to get students to put their phones away, educators can use the devices to their advantage.
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I allow for students to use the calculator abilities of their cell phones if the lesson doesn't call for tasks beyond a scientific calculator; however engaging applications, such as Poll Daddy, are great ways to integrate the cell phone in the classroom.
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I allow for students to use the calculator abilities of their cell phones if the lesson doesn't call for tasks beyond a scientific calculator; however engaging applications, such as Poll Daddy, are great ways to integrate the cell phone in the classroom.
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How about students using a blog to write as a writing assignment about a specific topic or as a daily diary outside the classroom! Blogger and WordPress are two biggest blog sites that students could use for free.
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Jaime, I currently work with both Blogger and Wordpress and they are both excellent tools for writing assignments. I use Blogger in a class that I'm taking where each week the professor will post an article about some technological dilemma and upon reading the article we answer his question and we also reply to our classmates. I use Wordpess in both of the classes that I'm teaching and it works in a similar manner, students read their assigned chapter, they answer the question that I posted and they are required to comment on three of their classmates' comments.
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Jaime, I've used Blogger and Wordpress for self-reflection in a couple of my previous courses in the EdTech program. I have to admit that the very first time I was asked to self-reflect in one my courses, I completely viewed it as "busy work". For me, it was just another task amongst the many that would need to be completed that week. However, I've found self-reflection to be such an important part of the learning process as it has enabled me to gain more insight as to how I learn. The added bonus is that both Blogger and Wordpress are extremely easy to use and can keep a great record of your journey throughout the semester.
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Amanda, I agree with your statement about the "very first time I was asked to self-reflect in one my courses, I completely viewed it as "busy work." I do wish now I had a copy of all the many post I have made over the course of this program, whether in a blogger, someone else's blog, discussion board or Wordpress. I think maybe in the future UTB could find a way to keep all the post by students in one central location or just encourage students to preserve the ones they have written. All of those compiled would be a excellent way to view the growth of every student.
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Justin, One of my favorite tools for cell phone use in the classroom is Poll Everywhere. Here is a website that explains how it works www.polleverywhere.com/how-it-works It is fun, easy and my students like it. You can poll the class to see if the majority have read the material, pre-quiz questions, feedback about the class, feedback about the mood of the class or simply to introduce a new topic. Try it, your students will love it.
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Justin, The use of cell phones in classroom is a good tool. Almost every teenager has a cell phone to use. This would get them to participate in different activities. I am sure that are different apps that they could download on their phones to use in class like blogs, or a planner to keep track of all assignments. The calculator is a great tool that cell phones have. I find myself using it frequently!
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Laura, Smart phones in the classroom can be so great to use as a teaching tool. Students can access the internet in the palm of their hands, and then communicate through social media websites. It makes a big difference when the students are using technology to get their ideas across. We are teaching them with social mediums that will strike their interests and keep them engaged. As educators we need to change with the times, and social media is definitely the way to do it.
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Los Fresnos is moving into the BYOD model - I know it is getting mixed reviews.The important thing is to make sure that the teachers have received appropriate training. Of course, that is always important but too frequently, the last thing they think of!
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I'm a believer of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) with incentives for acting responsibly and monitoring to ensure those not willing to adhere to standards loose their privilege. Unfortunately, most IT departments are unwilling to risk opening up networks, but security solutions are becoming affordable and the possibility of BYOD could soon be a way of leveraging technology at school..
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Dr. Butler, As a teacher in Los Fresnos CISD, I'd love to give my two cents on their BYOD program. I encourage the use of BYOD in all my classes. Most of the devices that are brought are cell phones. At this point though, less than half of the students actually bring a device. This can create a sort of segregation as it seems that most students with devices aren't from low-income families. In my class, I try not to make too many resources strictly online-only. Because most students only have cell phones, it is difficult for them to type on word or google doc type of software. In our teacher support training for BYOD, we learned about different apps that could make students successful. However, if I publish flash cards for review on a app, for example, then I might as well print them out too for students who don't have access. Since I'm limited in time (prep period is very short), it would be a waste to create that digital resource when I could be using that time to grade papers, call/email parents, and doing many other things I don't have time to do during the day. In addition, I do have many students who don't have internet access at home. So, that's a challenge I didn't see coming when I started this year. I think BYOD is a good start but will really be effective when equality ensures that everyone has at least one device. I also didn't mention the time I spend telling students to put the 'Flappy Bird' game away or their Snapchat app.
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Daniel, I agree with your comments. BYOD is a great idea but it is also limiting. Even if students and parents have the funds to provide a device, there will be some parents and students who will not abide by the guidelines. I would still encourage all teachers to attempt to use mobile devices in the classroom. Some students may be encouraged to use them for educational purposes once they see how much more fun the subject matter can be. Managing the classroom may be more challenging but it is worth it.
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I like the idea of BYOD. However, I think this it will be hard for the students because not all the student have devices. It will be great if the school district will have tablets or ipads for students to uses them during school time. This will be so good for the student to get them familiar with technology and get them ready fro the future.
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I believe that with time BYOD is going to be supported and widely available. I have to say it is a powerful tool and way of learning when you have technology at your fingertips. The options increase, the way of learning increase and overall learning enhances at a higher level. I really think that BYOD can help out individual learning and decrease performance gap in the classroom. Yet, for some and at times many it is difficult to afford even a tablet or computer. At this point more and more students have access to the internet and devices that can access the internet. More and more consumers are buying smartphones and are allowing there students to have one at a very early age. It is going to take time for equality to quick in but I ask myself how do we overcome this issue at hand at this moment? Any thoughts? What works? What doesn't work at this moment in regards to utilizing BYOD with all students in the classroom?
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Here are some great ways to simplify the integration of social media web 2.0 tools in the classroom.
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Jamie, I have used word press and it works ok. I do not think there is anything exciting about using word press. I think word press is ok. I am also liking this new discussion type forum DIIGO. I have never used it before and now that I have been made part of the group and can comment on the article and what other students think it works pretty good.
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No doubt that these tools are creating more opportunities for teaching and learning. With the onset of so many tools there is a major transformation on the way subject matter is presented. The learner is no longer a passive individual sitting on a desk. These technologies have allowed educators to present the material more vividly and engaging. As educators, however, we must also take in consideration that not all students have the resources that will allow them to use these tools at home. A post by Daniel that some students don't have cell phones is appalling. Nonetheless, the probabilty that some students may not have certain resources is very real. So, before you flip your classroom, please consider the marginal students. I used to be one of them.
Integrating Web 2.0 Tools into the Classroom: Changing the Culture of Learning | CCT - 25 views
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This report presents findings from a two-year investigation of the ways in which Web 2.0 tools and social networking technologies are being used to support teaching and learning in classrooms across the United States.
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Teachers and schools we visited are using different Web 2.0 tools or programs to create virtual spaces or networks that support and enrich their pedagogical goals, both at the classroom and the district level, and increase educational capacity by extending learning beyond the physical walls of the classroom
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Lucretia, thank you for your posted article- as it was very informative. When I first heard of the term Web 2.0, I too found it to be quite abstract. Through the educational technology courses I have taken, I have become much more informed about the categories of technology that fall into Web 2.0 tools. I've steadily learned about the great magnitude of change that Web 2.0 tools have done within the educational realm. It has definitely made me more excited to see what the future of social networking and communication holds for us as educators. Educational delivery and the upkeep of it, is being done differently now and this is a good thing. As technology is being pushed at a fierce force by the academic community, we are becoming smarter as communication is being delivered at a phenomenally faster rate. I remember a time when I thought online classes and discussion forums were a waste of my valuable time. But as the years progressed, I definitely feel more knowledge having read and communicated with my course peers through these Web 2.0 programs. We are definitely living in a great time. I'd like to share a link that speaks further of your current topic: https://sites.google.com/site/adms647summer12/tutorials/collaboration/benefits. If you scroll down to the bottom of the website, you will find a very informative video that speaks about how Web 2.0 tools compliment and engage students in discussions-that just "aren't happening in the classroom." The first night that the English teacher (in the video) launched her first discussion question, she noticed that the quietest students were the ones that responded to her posted questions. They gave quality responses, of which is what we will find most beneficial when banging our heads thinking- "how will we ever target those quiet ones?" Hope you enjoy.
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Yes, the video of the English teacher was very informative. I think there are several hidden jewels that can surface when incorporating Web 2.0 tools. Learning Styles can play a key role in how students interact within the learning environment. Providing more avenues for students to engage does take more time up front, but the opportunities gained for students to learn seem well worth it.
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Maricela, When you said, "The first night that the English teacher (in the video) launched her first discussion question, she noticed that the quietest students were the ones that responded to her posted questions. They gave quality responses..." We see that even in our graduate program. I have had classmates that never said a word on Collaborate or any other live chat and then you read their posts and go, "Wow, what a insightful response." I love that about these kinds of tools. We get to experience students at their best.
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Felipe, I agree that Learning Styles play a key role in how students interact within a learning environment. I do believe students have some very insightful things to say but depending on the personality they may or may not say it out loud. Thinking outside the box as a teacher provides students with other ways to express themselves and this is very important in the learning process.
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Maricela, I like the video of the English teacher. Some student don't like to participated in class because they are shy in public speaking. I am one of this student I have fear of public speaking but, with help of Web2.0 and forums like this one. I feel confident and when I want to shared my opinions or open a discussion in class.
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We examine the following four lines of communication in the report: (1) communication among students, (2) communication between students and teachers, (3) communication with parents, and (4) communication among educators.
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This article is really very important for showing those who are less enthusiastic that the research is in - and these tools have increased learning - and learning at a higher level. Great article and great information.
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Laura, communication is always vital in any situation. Of course, it is a must in an educational environment and it must be a shared dialog amongst different groups. It is critical that the channels of communication be established early on. Teachers and students must be able to communicate to create the learning community needed to foster knowledge. Students need that communication amongst each other to share ideas and experiences. Parents must also have access to the communication channel to be able to express any concerns or offer suggestions to teachers and administrators. Of course, we must also have a wide open channel of communication among educators allowing for the sharing of knowledge and new ideas.
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Laura, I believe Web 2.0 tools have had such an impact on the expansion of learning beyond the walls of the classroom in terms of accessibility to materials and communication. Many teachers have created class websites with PBworks or other types of wikis. This occurrence has allowed students to download missed assignments or other activities conducted in class. They can also watch video postings on these websites and keep updated with reminders about deadlines through social media such as Twitter. This extension has also enabled students to receive assistance from their peers or teachers outside of the classroom on any ongoing assignments and projects.
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Amanda, you have touched on a very important topic and that is accessibility. In working with our client one of her request was that she wanted for her students to access her class material without having to depend solely on Blackboard. She wants us to use a tool that students could access through different devices, including their smart phones.
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Laura, Never before has education had such a great opportunity, an opportunity to bring the world into the classroom and do it so easily. What we would have given growing up to actually visit with students in other countries, just by clicking a button instead of waiting and waiting for the penpal letter. This research pointed out that their report did a summary of some of the most frequent Web2.0 applications they encountered. I was wondering if there was a pattern to the what Web2.0 tools were used and where they were used? It would be interesting to see that information to find out about what other school districts are using and the outcome of their programs.
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Martin, I think that it is interesting that our client didn't just stop at wanting students to be able to communicate among themselves and the professor, but wanted experts from the outside their classroom to be able to communicate with them as well. It is like having a "World Wide Web Dear Abby." (if that phrase catchs on, remember I coined it) The more students are exposed to expert advise and communication the more they begin to critically think.
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Lu, It really is amazing when you consider the opportunities that exist in education at this time due to technology. I completed a massive open online course last year, and part of the course called for the students to interact through social media including Twitter and Facebook. The fact that I could easily message someone in another part of the world still amazes me when this was not possible not too long ago. It would have been great to have these opportunities when I attended school as a child. I remember we did exchange pen pal letters with an elementary school in another part of the country but that was the extent of our interaction outside our area. Nowadays, a school could easily collaborate on projects with other schools through the use of wikis and blogs.
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Amanda, I'm glad you mentioned this example of writing to a pen pal. Teachers were doing this back in the day. It was easy to write a letter, send it out, and perhaps get some type of response back- if lucky. I think it's important to note, that now for a lot of veteran teachers- Web 2.0 tools is a major departure from their comfort zone. Gone are the days of the ole' pen and paper communication system that we so relied on. You are correct, education has changed for the better. But it has been a bumpy road for some educators. However, through staff developments, and regional conferences teachers are learning to effectively use programs such as wikis and social networking systems. I believe that the more practice and familiarity teachers get with these technological resources, the more they will be used in the classroom. It is worth it in the end, as these students will end up learning their lessons at a faster rate. It is important to note that the educational system has had a major facelift, when it comes to how students are learning in the classroom today. Web 2.0 tools are enhancing the way that "business is done as usual." Students are becoming excited to learn and create educational deliverables, as teachers are beginning to speak "their language." Today's generation of students were brought up with technology, and so it is only fitting that as educators we change and adapt to the times.
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Martin, I agree with you about the communication. Parents do need to have access to that channel of communication. We need to know what is being written. I think that starting these kiddos at early age will prepare them better for the future.
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Lu, Yes these children now a days have great opportunities with Web 2.0 tools. My 9 yr. old is already blogging at school! Friday she had to post about QR codes! I think she knew more than me in regards to those codes. They are doing so much at schools with technology that they even have digital day. No paper or pencil just technology tools.
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I have created a website for my class where I post assignments so that both parents and students have access to what we will be learning or what they have missed if they are absent. I try to make my class at technology friendly and accessible as possible . Students need these skills in this day and age. I do run into the parents who say they and their children prefer pen and paper assignments but I look at it as I am preparing these children for the future. I continue on updating the website, giving out blogging assignments and hope that one day they will see the value of learning this skill. Some of my students do shy away from technology because of their economic situations and it is important that we remember that not all students have been introduced to technology as we may believe.
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It is unbelievable what kids can do with Web 2.0 tools. I notice in my nephews how good the are with computers they can blog, navigated the internet and do a lot things using the computers. They are learning so much in school about technology just like Laura said no paper or pencil just technology how about that.
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It is important to introducing students to the Web 2.0 tools, but like you have stated, we cannot assume they have access. I think I would at this point provide choice on how to meet assignment requirements. Access to technology is becoming a larger concern as stakeholders realize its effect on student success.
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This article is on a research of how teachers began to use Web 2.0 tools in their classrooms.
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My new teacher have a good grasp on some of the new technology tools that are used as part of 21st century learning.What they are struggling in is on merging technology and pedagogical concepts into the classroom. The art of teaching and mastering technology.
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The article is great because it talks about how using 2.0 tools and its emerging technologies are helping both sides of the classroom. The tools help the teacher present better lessons and the students are engaged more in the class. Like stated with Maricela's article, the idea of keeping the students engaged is very important to the teacher and the student. They tend to retain better when engaged in the lesson. It's is also very good to keep up with all the 2.0 tools available.
Students, say goodbye to snow days -- and say hello to school at home - CNN.com - 15 views
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A day later, when students logged in on school-provided laptops, they were able to ask teachers questions, work through assignments or jump into class discussions, even if they sometimes took breaks to shovel the walkways.
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With the use of "virtual school days", it seems students can have the opportunity to continue learning and not fall behind. Throughout the day, they can complete assignments at their own pace and at any given time as long as it meets any established deadline by the teacher. Overall, it provides opportunities for teachers and students to remain in contact despite not being in their normal physical classroom.
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I think virtual school days are a great idea, especially in those areas of the country that have six or more months of winter a year. However, I think it would require a great deal of discipline on behalf of the teachers, parents, and students. However, as long as each are committed to their respective roles, I see nothing but positives coming out of it.
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Any means that enhances learning is a great way to continue the learning process. This concept of learning at home requires a huge committment that parents must take on. We are assumming that every has the technical skills and internet resources at home.
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Jose- Yes, I totally agree. Virtual schools are the way to keep education going when the weather is not best to be out. But I think that you bring up a good point. I work at a school with many low income students, of which many do not have computers nor internet access. Therefore, the schools may want to brain storm a way to help faciliate virtual school opportunites to students that can't afford it. I hate making up inclement weather days, perhaps this is the solution. Great article.
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Sean, I'd hate to be living in Chicago where the weather is fierce. Making up inclement weather days in my school is bad enough...I wonder how it is for them up there? I think that the teachers will indeed need to have a great degree of discipline when it comes to coordinating their instruction. They will need to be able to coordinate times and assignment deadlines with their students. However, in the end it will all be worth it- as this is the way that education is headed in the long term.
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Great article! Jose and Maricela, I agree with you on taking into account the schools we work at and low income students who do not have access. Our schools may also not have the resources to provide a laptop to take home for each student. Our hurricane days usually fall within summer break but in case we get a late storm it is important to start thinking outside of the box. Teachers will also have to be very in tune with different types of technology and programs but a few training's on that should help. I think this is a great idea and just taking the technology that we all want to implement in our classes to the next step. On the plus side the students in the article seemed to really enjoy managing their own time and surprisingly enough the attendance to "school" on the virtual class days was higher than a regular day.
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Maricela and Daniel, I do not have any teaching experience but from what I understood in the article and maybe either of you can correct on me on this, a school has a certain number of days allotted for these types of closures but when they use them up, they must tap into vacation periods like Spring Break? I'm sure it is frustrating for teachers to have their lesson planning thrown off and also trying to keep their students on track with the curriculum as a result of school cancellation. I know the a virtual school day may not be possible for all but I think it can definitely exist as a possibility for some schools and having them avoid having to tap into extra make up days. I think it can help keep the learning paths on track without major interruptions. I know some students may not be enthusiastic about a virtual school day but I think in the long run it will benefit them.
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Daniel, you make an excellent point "Teachers will also have to be very in tune." We all know that some teachers, even with training, will not be in tune with the technology. Let's face it, there are educators who feel that teaching will not be improved with technology. Some educators strongly feel that technology is just a fad, short-lived, and will not transform teaching and learning. This way of thinking does not help students who literally are born with technology. Also, this way of thinking will never improve learning in any siginificant way.
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This is an alternative method that the district is using to keep the learning process moving. It is an excellent example of how technology can become a powerful educational tool when used properly. Think back at when most of us were in school, this was nowhere near being an option for us or for our teachers. This is really thinking outside the box; wish more of this was being done.
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Daniel, I could not agree more, teachers need to really be on top of their game in order to keep up with the ever growing technological trend. A lot of the research that I have done on teacher absentee has shown that it's not so much that teacher do not want to participate it's just that they do not know how.
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Martin, My kids think when I was in school dinosaurs roamed the earth. Yes, we have come a long way, when it was a snow day (in my case a hurricane day) it really was a snow day. However like Joseph Cirasuolo, executive director of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents said, "If we are going to personalize education for children, we need to take advantage of what technology offers us and online programs are one of the things that technology makes possible." I like the interactive online programs that the schools in the article came up with for good use of the down time away form school. I think it would also be beneficial if the teachers used the snow itself to create lessons and then the students could post findings and observations so that classmates could review and comment on them. In the article below one school did just that. The students were learning how snowflakes were made and building 3 snowmen in different parts of the yard and determining which one melted faster. The school said that every snow day, the lesson plans were revised to include other activities to continually engage their students. I do like hands-on learning. http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/Could-technology-make-snow-days-a-thing-of-the-5286160.php
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I agree with all of you. Teachers need to get more educated on Technology and be able to utilize it more in the classroom. However, I know several teachers that feel that technology is just a fad and there is no need to learn and integrate it in the classroom. Moreover, we all know it is a very important tool that needs to be utilized because its the way of Education and life. Technology is here to stay whether teachers accept it or not. I just feel they need to embrace it and learn more about it for the children's well being along with themselves.
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Maricela: Yes, there are a few days set aside for inclement weather however, when there are unplanned inclement weather days they start taping into breaks and sometimes even extend the year. In my class everything is posted online (since I am really trying to push technology and help the students become comfortable with it). If every teacher could move to this model then everything would be uniform and teachers would not have to rush to post things. If all districts could move to training teachers to do this then it wouldn't be extra work for teachers. When I was getting my bachelors degree in Education I can't remember there being many technology classes for teachers.. it was mostly hands on learning. Has that changed for recent graduates? That may be where teaching teachers about applicable classroom technology needs to begin.
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Having technology as a back up for days like this is awesome! the students and teachers don't stay behind. They are still able to access their assignments and also able to get in touch with their teachers. Technology has grown so much the past years. I remember when we had to missed school due to weather related issue I dreaded going back because of all the work that we had to do. In order for this to be effective all the teachers need to be on top of the technology tools that they can utilize for this certain issues. If the teacher is not willing to stay in tuned with technology then it will not be effective.
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I see this as a great way to continue education through the use of technology. I do have to agree that a great deal of discipline and culture is needed in order for it to be effective with all the learners. Yes, it is always difficult even in the classroom to reach out to all of them but I believe this can work with proper planning.
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I see this as a great way to continue education through the use of technology. I do have to agree that a great deal of discipline and culture is needed in order for it to be effective with all the learners. Yes, it is always difficult even in the classroom to reach out to all of them but I believe this can work with proper planning.
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Laura, Great points. I'm not a teacher but I imagine having to miss school for several days can place teachers in a bind. They will need to rework lesson plans and still have to make sure they get their students back on track once classes resume. Its great that this could be potentially be an option for some schools rather than having to use up other days or run their risk that their students might fall behind.
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Tougher yet is the technology. Most schools don't have one-to-one programs that supply students and staff with computers, and home Internet connections can still be spotty. Teachers polled for a 2013 survey by Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project said more than half of students had sufficient access to digital tools at school, but only a fifth could access digital tools at home.
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The access to an internet connection as well as actual devices is something a school district definitely needs to consider prior to implementing virtual school days. While many students probably have access to some type of device whether it be a laptop, tablet, or phone, how many of these have sufficient internet connection at home? Plus, if a school is having to cancel due to bad weather, it is possible that this weather might impact a family's access to internet or other power sources.
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A very good point. I have had to stop myself on several occasions because I made assumptions about other people's access to technology and at-home internet. I now have to internally stop myself and ask my clients about any potential shortcomings as far as access to a certain level of technology or a certain internet speed. I then look at local elementary schools and how they currently lack enough computers to support a program like this. It will be an interesting balancing act to watch as technology requirements continue to grow proportional to the available budgetary constraints.
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The digital divide keeps growing with students that do not have the means of resources. The argument of public access points also is invalide since that would require a committment to go to the point of access. Schools and teachers should clearly plan when using technology tools.
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How do you keep an entire class moving forward with a virtual school? Monitoring students who are not directly in front of you can prove challenging. Maybe video chats, or live confrences when the students are on the clock will prove helpful. I think that when teachers are planning their instruction to zone in on these inevitables, they will be able to make the virtual school a more successful experience for all. I think that the concept behind virtual schools will definitely be very feasible in a mass scale soon enough. As educators we have to think to the future and technology technological mediums such as Web 2.0 is it.
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Sean, I too am guilty of those same technological assumptions as well. Its very easy to assume others have the same access as you especially if most of the people you interact with have sufficient internet access as well. The school district will need to consider this aspect when working on the development plan for virtual school days. I'm not sure how they would go about handling students that do not have access at home since I'm sure in every school there will be at least one family that falls in this case.
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Amanda and Sean, I think most of us have that same assumption. However, there is an organization working toward providing 30 million Americans with reduced Internet access within the next 3 years. Families with K-12 students that qualify for reduced or free lunch are the focus. "The consensus is that a big piece of how we are going to work in classrooms is with digital tools, both in class and at home," said Zach Leverenz, CEO of Connect2Compete. "Kids living in homes without the Internet are increasingly at a disadvantage as coursework and workplace skills become more dependent on technology." http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2013/03/internet-access-for-everyone-a-new-program-targets-low-income-students/ Look at the website Everyoneon.org to find out how this is happening and how you might could help. http://www.everyoneon.org/
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Thanks for sharing this article Lu. I had no idea that there was initiative like this in process. I think its great. Technology is used so much today, it makes me think just how much it will be used in our classrooms over the next few years. It would be unjust for students to be left behind as the article mentions. I also like how they will be providing training as to how the Internet can be beneficial. I use the Internet frequently and still discover new things I can use so I think this type of training is necessary for individuals that have rarely used it due to a lack of access.
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Technology in schools is a great tool to use. At schools all the students have opportunity to utilize it, but whats happens when they get home. The majority of the students might not have internet access and don't have the advantage to learn those tools more. I think there should be some type of program to help those without internet. It could be provided only during the school year for a low cost. This will give those students the chance to practice what they are being taught.
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Lu, you are on top of up-to-date information. Thanks for sharing with us what you read. It brings the point that today's education should be "just-in-time" education and not "just-in-case" education. We are actually using what we are learning. Technology, by the way, plays a vital role in the "just-in-time" education. Employers expect employees to know the most up-to-date information. Just as well, teachers should expect student to have the most current information. Without the Internet or mobile technology the "just-in-time" education is a bit more challenging. I applaud all of you who are making comments and keep me on the cutting edge of information.
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Money here is the issue and it always will be. Every time that the conversation about technology comes into the classroom finances are always touched. I still believe that plenty tools our in our reach but we need to educate the students and our teacher's of the tools and how to utilize them. Financial support is huge but starting with what we have is important.
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Chris, I agree. I think we can at least begin to take small steps with what we have. Proper training for both teachers and students will help them reap the benefits of technology. Not all students have access to technology at home but at least we can do what we can to help them utilize technology to the fullest in the classroom.
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Online, he finally heard some quieter classmates speak up. "Having it all out on Twitter, people have that little barrier," he said. "It was kind of open to a lot more opinions."
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I've mentioned this in other posts, but I consider myself quite the introvert and appreciate the opportunities that technology provides as far as "giving a voice". I don't know if I would speak out as much in a traditional environment and find myself more at ease in sharing opinions through this virtual medium. I think this would be one of the benefits of virtual school days which could provide somewhat of a change for the quieter students. They may view it as an opportunity to become more involved with discussions.
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I have to agree with you, Amanda. As a closet introvert (had to force myself out of my shell for professional pursuits), I completely empathize with anyone that might have difficulty in sharing their thoughts and voice with an audience of any size. With technology, you no longer have to feel like you're standing up in front of the masses and they are staring at you like a three-headed cow. Now, we have the opportunity to share our voice in a variety of forums, probably provided in a more clear and concise manner, and meet new people with much less societal pressure. Technology continues to advance education and our society in new and inventive ways!
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Great thinking Amanda and Sean. Technology allows introverts to come out of their shell and extroverts to learn to listen. This plan allows introverts to voice their opinion and fosters learning for the extrovert. The thinking of those giving feedback and receiving feedback is improved. We need to be sure, however, that introverts do not become fascist.
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Amanda, Sean and Rene, Coming from a very extroverted opinion, I know first hand about learning to listen to those introverts when they use technology. I really am glad to have had the chance to learn so much through many of the introverts that have been in my classes throughout this program. The old quotes about listening really should ring true in all ears of extroverts, " We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak." Epictetus http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/listen.html#VD4tAUXyaoYVTDs0.99 I am thankful that I have had the opportunity to listen to those that are not as outspoken as myself. They have taught me so much about subject matter, about when to be quiet and when to speak (still working on that one) and to remember to do the same for my own students.
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Amanda, I agree with you. I consider myself an introvert as well, because I like how technology gives us a voice. I am one of those students that is a bit shy and can not engage easily in a conversation like others. They would definitely view it much more easy to engage in discussions.
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Lu, Thanks for sharing that quote. I love it. Jose, I agree. It's great that technology can help give a voice to others. I actually was a bit hesitant about pursuing this master's program in the beginning since I had never taken an online course. Looking back, I think this was the best option for me.
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I am the type of learner that will sit in class quiet and shy the entire time. Yet, if you sit me in front of the computer in an online class I am the complete opposite. I interact, collaborate and stay engaged most of the time. I have the opportunity to voice my opinion and thoughts without having anyone looking straight at me. I also get to express myself while working with a team fluently. It is so much easier to just engage and collaborate online since there are minimal distractions. It is a great way of communicating because it forces all team members to listen and then actively provide feedback.
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In my Edmodo classroom, students who never ask questions, timid, and quiet in class among other classmates are those students who ask more questions through Edmodo than the other students. I have found that online classrooms have given the shy students confindence in communicating with me, their instructor, to progress through the course.
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I agree that online discussions give those who find it difficult to join F2F conversations an easier in. I think some of us process information differently and may benefit from reading a post, having time to formulate a response, re-wright if needed, and then let it fly for all to see. Hopefully with a supported ability to edit or delete. F2F just does not lend itself to that level of control.
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This article discusses how some schools are using technology to hold "virtual school days" and continue the learning process during periods of school cancellation because of inclement weather.
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This article discusses how some schools are using technology to hold "virtual school days" and continue the learning process during periods of school cancellation because of inclement weather.
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This article discusses how some schools are using technology to hold "virtual school days" and continue the learning process during periods of school cancellation because of inclement weather.
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