Course Reflections

While this may seem incredible, prior to this course, I lived without the knowledge of what a blog was! Now, it seems absurd that I did so!

Really, the most valuable knowledge that I will take from this class, is based on the very definition of an authoring tool. I realize that anything we, as educators use, to motivate our students to create, is invaluable.

I also am convinced that it is much better to integrate technology into lesson planning when it actually improves the journey of learning. It is not only about the perfect Internet search, but about where that search takes you or the student.

No names mentioned!

So this week we are asked to view each other's blogs! I looked at several of them and without mentioning any names, these are my reflections:
I find that incorrect grammar and repetition of certain words are very distracting, even in a blog.

I was surprised to see my own name referenced in someone's blog! That was a wake up call, reminding me to be careful about what I wrote. Do I really mean what I write all the time? I thought this person's site was very attractive and loved the picture of the cab. Seemed like a very intellectual blogspot.

I noticed that not all blogs were current and wonder if this is because of a reluctance to publish one's own thoughts.

Authoring Tools

I have been working with a tool called "Toolbook Instructor" lately and it offers some interesting possibilities. It is possible to create custom quizzes that the students can take online. I think that this can be used successfully in a World Language class if the entire computer lab was available during one or two segments.

E-learning Tools

I found it helpful to read and re-read Horton's concept of "levels of granularity." Staying on task is just as important for us as educators as it is for us as learners.

New resources

In Dr. Zieger's class, we have been reading from Grabe. I have started to work with both "kidspiration" and "telenaut." I am constantly searching for easy ways for young students to use technology to connect them to other cultures!

People First!

In reading Horton's Chapters 1-5, my concerns were addressed. As educators trying to integrate technology, we must think of the abilities and interests of our learner audience. It seems that many of us are so enamored with the technology, that we sometimes forget what we are trying to accomplish.

Once we assess out audience, we can carefully choose the appropriate tools and hardware, etc.

Digital Natives

September 27, 2006

I have three children, ages 21, 19 and yes, six so I am the parent of very different technological children! I see the "digital native" mentality in my 19 year old, but not in my 21 year old and have to say that the older child seems to use higher level thinking more often and always has.

In reading the assigned article: http://www.techlearning.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=170701917, I agree with those believing that it is impossible for shildren to focus in a deep meaningful learning while doing more than one thing at a time.

However, I find myself guilty of the same multi-tasking and expect and demand instant information to be available at all times.

Multimedia Instructional Tools

http://www.coe.uh.edu/digital-storytelling September 27, 2006


I reviewed a web resource that describes digital storytelling, a tool I found fascinating in a class taught by Prof. Shamburg at NJCU.

Digital storytelling allows both the student and teacher to create and experience authentic learning. This is especially exciting to me, because I can create cultural lessons that are age-appropriate, using language, music, art, etc.

The article on Multimedia Instructional Tools is clear about the benefits of these tools, but takes a realistic look at the necessity of training teachers to use them.