Monday, August 24, 2009

Mr. Winkle Wakes

This video demonstrates how technilogically advanced things have become. Mr. Winkle woke up from sleeping the past 100 years. He saw computers, x-ray machines, and other technilogical advances he never thought was possible. With the exception of a laptop, he thought some of the teaching styles had not changed.

The video was a good example of changes in technology. Mr. Winkle went to sleep in a primitive lifestyle. When he awoke, he was lost. There were cars, computers, and electricity. He still had his cane and was not use to technology.

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity

Robinson discussed how important it is to be creative in the future of education. He talked about different ways to be creative in the class. He expressed the importance of creativity in the class to touch base with all of the students. You should be able to teach in a way that allows the students to understand the subject. Also, he demonstrated how his creativity resulted in the success of one of his students.

I like the idea that creativity allows a teacher to incorporate their own ideas into the the class- room. The classroom will consist of students of various diversities. Some may have a learning disability or another problem that hinders the students learning in the classroom. It is the teacher's job to come up with creative ideas that can override the problem. The creativity of the teacher is beneficial in the student's success.

Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts

This film demonstrates the importance of students "...learning how to learn." The students had internet access at their fingertips in the classroom. As Davis taught the class, the students had the opportunity to Google words or ideas during her lecture. This gives students the opportunity to readily get a better understanding of subject matter while it is fresh on their minds. Also, a student may be able to find other information to help others in the class to get a better understanding of the subject.

Allowing students to become "digitally" smart is beneficial to students who do not have internet access readily available. All students do not have internet access at home. Students can learn to do assignments and turn it in on the web. The student may be able to work on their blog assignments at a library or elsewhere. Also, it is convenient for the teacher to post other ideas not covered in the class.

Did You Know? 3.0

"Did You Know? 3.0" really expressed the importance of staying up to date as new technologies are created. Technology is constantly becoming more and more advanced as time passes. As the population increases, there is an urgent need for America to catch up with the technology of other countries. The video demonstrates how far the United States is behind other countries in technology. We are preparing for a job market and it is uncertain what new jobs may arise in the future.

My reaction to this video was how important it is to be up-to-date on new technological advances. I will have to be prepared to learn new technologies as it becomes available. Also, I was stunned at how far behind the United States is, technically, compared to other countries.

Introducing Jennifer B. Foreman

My name is Jennifer B. Foreman. I am a native and resident of Clarke County. Currently, I am a junior and majoring in English/Language Arts in Secondary Education. I enjoy listening to gospel music and writing. I decided to return to college after being out of college for 12 years. I worked for Vanity Fair Brands for 13 years and was terminated during the plant closure. Now, I am at the University of South Alabama seeking a career instead of just a job.

In May 2009, NBC 15 did a feature story on me at campus. We conducted interviews in my communication class and mine was sent to the news station. It was part of a series on economic hard times. It was a very exciting experience for me.

Next Generation Learning

"Next Generation Learning" was very informative about possible technologies available to the classroom. I particularly liked the student voting system. Some kids are shy or easily
embarrassed before the class. This will allow all of the students to participate in the discussion. It will create better students, because they want their vote correct. Also, this protects the students' privacy.

It is a great idea to make internet access available to every student. Printed materials are on a decline and creates an increasing need for internet accessibility. On the internet, students can quickly look up words in the dictionary and encyclopedias. I like the idea of students checking out laptops. This will give students an early advantage in technology.