Journal 9

Pape, L, Sheehan, T, and Worrell, C. "How to Do More- Lessons From Online Learning." Learning and Leading with Technology. 39.6 (2012): 18-22. Web. 26 Mar. 2012. <http://www.iste.org/Store/Product.aspx?ID=2348>. 

Summary: In this article, the authors focus on the issue of teachers being limited on resources such as money and time, yet parents and the government are expecting more out of both teachers and students alike. These three authors create different techniques that teachers can use in order to get the most out of the little that they are given. By using technology both within and outside of the classroom, teachers can get the most communication with their students. Through and online program, students are able to collaborate with each other, and also use the teacher as a resource when they are not physically in the classroom. Personally, I had never heard of a flipped classroom before this article, and I am fond of the concept. It seems as though it would save so much classroom time if the students reviewed the lectures at home. The material can then be reviewed and applied within the classroom. Many of the tools we have used in our own classroom (ED422) are mentioned in the article, and each one enhances the students' learning experience. As long as students have access to computers, through the use of technology, teachers can ensure their students are getting the best education possible despite the budget and time restraints.

Question 1: In what ways could I ensure I am giving my future students the best education?

When I am a teacher, I will definitely use a program like Blackboard or CougarCourses in order to keep constant communication with my students. Not only do these programs save time, but they are environmentally friendly. I do not want hundreds of papers flying around my house, but rather, have every assignment from each student neatly placed into its appropriate folder on the computer. I also strongly believe that websites such as Diigo and reddit could enhance students' learning, so long as the distractions are minimal.

Question 2: What [in my own opinion] is the best way to save time and money while maximizing the students' education?

I feel that putting lectures onto videos or podcasts is genius, and I am surprised more lecturers do not take advantage of this type of technology. The only issue I could see occurring is when the students do not watch/listen to the lecture prior to the class. This, however, is a problem that happens in every class and every situation. There are students who do not read, do not complete homework assignments, etc. Reviewing and applying the lecture material in the class could still benefit the students who missed the lecture though.

Journal 6

Vaidyanathan, S. (2012). Fostering creativity and innovation through technology. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(6), 24-27. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/DigitalEditionMarch-April2012.aspx.

Summary:

The main focus of this article is placed on the importance of students not only being educated in science, engineering, technology and mathematics, but also creativity and innovation. These skills are a definite part of the NETS, and it is crucial for teachers to have the ability to teach these skills to their students. One solution to teaching students both right and left brained skills can be through use of technology and digital art. Vaidyanathan explains that technology and computer based art is the best tool for art and design, which in turn ignites creativity. This method of art also boosts the students' confidence, as there is no negative affect from adding an unwanted mark or using the wrong color, due to the "undo" button on a computer. The options for creativity are unlimited, and the author includes sample lesson plans in order to incorporate technology art into the classroom. Through use of art on the computer, the students are able to use both sides of their brain, as technology is a left brained skill and art/creativity is right brained. The issue of cost is predetermined and confronted in this article. Vaidyanathan informs us that all of the software she is using is free, and that anyone can access it. As long as students have access to a computer, the software can be used anywhere at anytime.

Question 1: Would I be able to use Digital Design within my own class?

If I was skilled enough to use this program, I feel it could be a fun and interesting addition to a high school English classroom. We could use the program to create diagrams, or explain a poem through art.

Question 2: Would there be any possible downfalls to using this program?

So long as every student has access to a computer and is informed on how to correctly use the program, I think it would be beneficial to all students. Students who use mostly their left brain skills would get to exercise their right brain and vice versa. I think it would intrigue and interest all students.