Final Blog Post

Final Progress Report PLN

My PLN has been growing continuously throughout the semester. When I began my PLN, my focus was only on one thing; writing. Since I began, I have realized that writing isn't everything, and I shouldn't focus my entire PLN on only one thing. My other passion is music. Throughout the semester, I have dealt with and talked to many different musicians. I also received a mouthpiece consultation from a GR representative. I can only hope that my interactions with higher level musicians grows as my PLN becomes more involved. This is not the end. I will continue to meet new people, blog, tweet, and anything else needed to simply learn. I have also started a writing project with two of my cousins. We write on Google docs every other day or so. What we write is a bit out of the ordinary. We collaborate on fictitious writing while critiquing each others' writing. We also critique writings from fiction writing websites. Doing this helps us to become better writers, and we are doing what we love. My writing PLN is limited to certain types of fiction because that is my favorite. However, I hope to extend my PLN and learn to enjoy other types of writing.

Final Project: on how we will use technology in our first class

Final Project: Len Jenkins, Jameson Branch, Aaron Fiveash

C4K Nov. and 12/5

The 8^th C4K was about the trulli, which were homes in a village in Italy. I offered more information on the trulli and discussed with her my Australia experience. The 9^th C4K was about traditional Maori instruments. There was a video with some children playing the different types of Maori instruments. I told them that I was a music major and thoroughly enjoyed listening them play the instruments. The 10^th C4K was about a student named Sam who plays the trombone. I told him that I was a music major and that I played trumpet. I also told him that he could ask me for help with music if needed. The 11^th C4K was about a student named Bennett. He wrote about his class's cranberry project. I told him that doing all these projects was a great learning experience. The 12^th C4K was about a book that a student named Yasmine read. She wrote a summary on it. I told her that I liked her summary and how she used many little details to explain things.

C4T 4

For C4T #4, I commented on Steven W. Anderson's post about how "revolutions start with one".  The movie was about a group of people in a park.  One person got up and started doing a dance.  He faced ridicule from people he did not know.  Shortly after he started dancing, someone else joined in.  Soon, more and more people kept joining.  The idea here is that it all started with one person doing something that no one else would have the courage to do.

Project 15

Blog Post 13

Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX) is all about learning. There are many different courses of study and lesson planning that you can access on this site. There are also many websites with many resources listed that can aid in your teaching career. Podcasts are also included. Under ALEXville, you can “communicate with your colleagues, keep up with the latest ALEX news, and follow various ALEX Professional Learning Communities!!” ALEX is educational learning on a website. 

 

Progress Report on Final Project

My final project will be about how my first class will use technology.  I will be doing my project with Jameson Branch and Aaron Fiveash.  We will each discuss how our first class will incorporate technology, offer suggestions to one another, then collaborate on the most effective way in using technology in the classroom. 

My Sentence Video

Blog Post 12

Watch this video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLbJ8YPHwXM

In your opinion, do you think PC should have won the fight?  If so, why?

In this video, technology is being used to describe technology.  What did you like about the way the video was produced?

Compare Mac vs PC in your own words.  What would you add or take away from this movie and why?

In your opinion, do you think PC should have won the fight? If so, why?

PC should not have won the fight. As a whole, the Mac is faster. Every program built for the Mac is built “for the Mac.” This makes the Mac much more technologically efficient. The Mac also runs off Linux, and does not need any special virus protection programs.


In this video, technology is being used to describe technology. What did you like about the way the video was produced?

I enjoyed the humor in this video. The fight scene made the movie interesting as well as informative. The transformer, fictionally, is a big technological advancement. This is representative of the way computers, Macs especially, are evolving in the world.


Compare Mac vs PC in your own words. What would you add or take away from this movie and why?

I would add something like the PC bogging down with everyday tasks such as a frozen screen or “program is not responding”. Macs can freeze up from time to time, but during everyday operations, there are few, if any, problems. Also, I would make the Mac look stronger than the PC instead of having them look the same, with the exception of their color. I would also add more types of transformers and on a much larger scale.

Project 6 Summary

How often do you play video games?

Six out of seventeen people never play video games, and only one person plays video games every day. This shows that video games are either not as popular among students as I had hoped, or they are simply too busy to play video games every day, like myself.
Most preferred strategy or RPG type games. Only one person chose “shooter” and one person chose “sidescroller”. Strategy and RPG games require a lot of thinking, so it is safe to say that the majority of the responses came from intelligent thinkers.
Everyone owns between one and three game systems except one person, who owns over nine. In the past, more people have owned more systems, most likely because they were children at the time.
When it came to choosing your favorite game, one answer was prominent; “Mario”. More people recognize and have played “Mario” more than any other game, eleven out of seventeen to be exact.
Only one person would rather play video games at competitions. Seven would rather play video games with friends, and the remaining would rather play video games while at home alone.
Four people knew what year the first home video game console was created. Four others knew what home console was the first. Only one person knew both.
When asked if video games affect children’s behavior and schooling, most agreed that there is more effect than not.

Blog Post 11

Ms. Cassidy's approach to the use of technology in the classroom is very effective. She has her students blogging, creating websites, creating videos, using skype, and even using Nintendo in effective educational ways. Ms. Cassidy has everything carefully planned for the protection and eventual success of every student.

Most teachers don't want to use technology because they don't want to work harder. It's easy to simply read chapter to chapter, take the quiz at the end, and call it a day. But to take it to the next level, setting up websites and blogging for students, is much more challenging. Also, teachers may be afraid to step outside of their comfort zone. They fear that if they change their “standard” routine, thing will not turn out for the better. Some teachers may also use the “cheating vs. collaborating” excuse. As long as students do their own work and make up their own mind prior to collaborating, then it can't be considered cheating. The teacher should phrase the question in a way that forces the student to answer in his/her own words.

I would use every technique Ms. Cassidy has to offer. How my students benefited from the results of these techniques would decide if I were to keep them in the new curriculum. Any problems that occurred, I would simply fix them one at a time. I would go through whatever means necessary to modify the particular problem so that nothing like it happens ever again. The pros far outweigh the cons. Not only are the students learning more about what they will eventually need to know in the technological future, but I would be learning as well.

C4K 3-7 Summary

The 3rd C4K was an animated movie by a girl named Kaycee of people getting onto a boat and crossing a river.  I told her that I liked her video and sound effects in the video.  The 4th C4K had artwork on origami-like figures.  A student named Jack crafted them.  I told Jack how much I liked his artwork.  The 5th C4K was about why we blog by a student named Daniel.  I complemented his concept on blogging.  The 6th C4K was most interesting.  A student named Oliver wrote a “goofy” blog.  It did not make complete sense, but it was not supposed to either.  It was also very creative.  The 7th C4K was about foot races in Northwest Arkansas.  The post was very descriptive at showing  the specifics for the race.

Project 14

Learning music through Finale

C4T #3 Summary

On the week of the 24th, I commented on a teacher's blog.  The problem is, I can't seem to remember which teacher it was.  There should be only one possible option, but somehow I can't find where I commented.  So I posted two comments this week on two different posts for the same teacher.  Here is my summary. 

The first blog post is about how teachers' evaluations are not representative of their work.  The virtual evaluation of teachers is simply satisfactory or unsatisfactory, this based on only a select number of visits by an administrator who has other things to worry about.  If our teachers are not being evaluated truthfully and effectively, how can we expect that our students will be successful in school?

The second blog post is about how some students are digitally shouting, that is, they see commenting and such as a means of showing how much more their way of viewing something is superior.  Unless students are taught how to collaborate effectively, they can easily being to "shout".  The post also gives several handouts that are quite helpful in teaching students how to communicate with each other in a positive manner instead of shouting.

Blog Post 10

Dan Brown discusses how institutionalized education has been around for many years, and that education should continue to adapt to the informational age. He explains that "if institutional education wants to survive in the information age, then institutional education needs to do more than just adopt a few new tools." Brown goes on to discuss how information, in the distant past, was quite valuable. Over time, that value has decreased because everything is free on the internet. I liked when he discussed how information in colleges is there, but only if we can pay for it. He explains that this will eventually go away, and all information will be free on the internet. In some ways, this has already happened. The question is raised, however, "what about the economy?" How will the freedom of information affect the economy? Many things that we used to have to buy separately are all available either on the internet or in other convenient uses. When we talk about small things, the economy is irrelevant. But when large scale things like education are brought up, every aspect, including the affect on the economy, positive or negative, must be considered. How this "new" education is going to affect everyone as a whole is most important. The video was going great until Brown said that he dropped out of school because "it was interfering with his education." Regardless of what the school was doing to "his" education, what will he tell his potential employer? At this point, Brown along with other dropouts with no college degree will have difficulties converting the minds of college graduates, teachers, and administrators to a "better" education. I decided to comment on the video before reading Morgan Bayda's post. I did not want anything pointing me in any particular direction. We both share similar views, especially about Brown's decision to drop out of school.

These two questions act more of an identity finder than anything. Figuring out what your question is can identify you as a person. When people try to find their question, it is often difficult for one of two reasons; they don't feel important enough, or they feel "too" accomplished. When deciding what my sentence would be, I had trouble for both of these reasons. To decide what I would write, I thought about my life and the effect I had on those around me. I consistently try to affect people in a positive way, no matter what it takes. I treat everyone the same, regardless of any discriminatory mindsets. Everything I do, or at least try to do, points to the Golden Rule.

“I always try to do what is right, following the Golden Rule, and remain a neutral party while insisting respectfully a peaceful resolve.” (Len Jenkins)

Additional Assignment 3

I think the most important thing Sir Ken Robinson discusses in this presentation is how students are getting penalized for getting distracted. There are so many distractions for students, and if the teacher cannot facilitate their interest, why should the be expected to be bored? There was nothing about the video that I disagreed with. Everything Robinson discussed was relevant and could be defended. When it comes to the college of education, there are some congruences. The design of the college has not changed much in recent years. Though a change is ongoing, the same “one teacher, boring lecture to many students” idea is still in effect, with the exception of EDM 310 of course. Students in the college of education, unlike those in grade school, are less classified by age or level. Younger students who are smart often excel at the same rate or even quicker than students that are older. Students are only held back by their own willingness to learn. To address the issues that Robinson raises, I can make more people aware of these issues though studies showing the differences. In one setting, I would have the average classroom full of students with one teacher and a boring lecture. In the other setting, I would have many students in a classroom full of technology, interacting with each other and collaborating new ideas with a fun learning process. After a time, I would evaluate each class and discuss their performance with colleagues. This would be one way to get people to open up their eyes and see that education must change to facilitate learning in the technological age. I enjoyed this presentation, especially the diagram that was drawn. It really helped to see what was going on with visual representations. If I had to do a presentation, I would most likely play the role of author. One of my passions has always been writing, and I would be content in writing a script for a presentation of any kind.

How to read marching band drill coordinates

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nH3zvaxthA

Skype Interview Project

http://screenjel.ly/cjBTwBUfvkg

Blog Post 9

What I've Learned This Year

In this essay, Mr. McClung shares his experience as a first year teacher. McClung elaborates on key points that he considers important. He talks about “reading to the crowd”, focusing on how teachers place too much emphasis on teaching the material, and little if any emphasis on making sure the students comprehend and understand what is being taught. What McClung said that I liked the most was “in order to be effective you have to be able to let your audience drive your instruction.” This does not mean that you have to always let them drive your instruction, but you should give them the opportunity when presented. McClung also talks about “being flexible.” He explains that lesson plans are not always going to go according to plan. Being a music major, we as conductors have a lesson plan from rehearsal to rehearsal. That lesson plan changes, however, from piece to piece. Sometimes, the students will surprise you and do something well that you may not have expected, and other times they will do worse than you expected. Whatever the case, being flexible is always the best option. McClung is correct when he talks about “Communication”. It is one of the most difficult skills to develop. Most people now, with social networking and such, can easily say things online because there are no direct effects. Communicating in person, however, is much more, well, personal. Most people are afraid of confrontation, but confrontation does not always have to be negative. Constructive confrontation is better than no confrontation. I enjoyed the part about “being reasonable.” McClung says that “our job as teachers is to simply pick them(the students) up after they fail, dust them off, and encourage them to try again.” He explains that we can still have high expectations for the students, but that we should “not scold them for not coming through.” I have had quite a few teachers that were not reasonable. When students would fail, those teachers would simply look at them as if in disgust or disappointment, and offer no help. What sort of message does this send to the students? McClung also tells us “don't be afraid of technology.” He reassures us that “technology is our friend.” We should all embrace technology and use it to our advantage. McClung sent a strong message when he said that we should “listen to our students”, and that “we may be the only ones who do.” While there is no need to learn every detail in our students' lives, we should have some knowledge of what their life is like. Without this knowledge, we cannot communicate effectively with our students and we become nothing more than another teacher who doesn't seem care about anything but work. Finally, McClung makes a good point when he talks about learning; “why not soak up as much as you can?” The question is “why not?” What is stopping us from becoming efficient in our own field of study? How can we expect the students to learn new material if we are going to be hypocritical and refuse to learn more ourselves?

Short Movie Project

Blog Post 8

“This is How We Dream”

The video “Writing with multimedia” is about how writing in the world has changed. Books used to be the main ways of writing to get information across. Now, that information is stored globally on the internet. Most books are online and can be accessed almost anywhere in the world. Most people now have no need to go to the library because everything they need is on the internet. This is not a bad thing. As Miller explains, we should share our ideas with everyone.
My favorite part of the video was the program about “aggregating bots that are released into the web and determine an emotional profile of the world moment by moment.” With technology growing more rapidly than ever before, programs like these will continue to show up. Though this program and programs like this are only beginning, technology is growing and there is not telling what it will include five or ten years from now.
Toward the end of the video, Miller shows a 3d image that combined two buildings, “the best of the humanities with the best of the sciences. The building has not been built; it is just an idea. It is a green, solar powered building. What Miller is trying to explain in this building idea is the “shared labor between the humanities and the sciences in order to create a bright future.” This building not only represents a combination of the two, but it represents a certain communication.

“EDM 310 is Different”

I found the chipper series to be quite humorous. The video may have over-exaggerated some things, but some students might actually attempt things like that. Who knows what people are capable of doing. I did not like watching EDM 310 for Dummies. It wasn't the acting or the video itself, it was the message. No class should be that frustrating or need an instruction manual for dummies. If there is a need for a class dummy manual, either the student shouldn't be in college, which is most likely the case, or the instructor should do a better job.(Which is not the case in this class)
I would like to create a video tutorial showing how we should do various, and more difficult, assignments in EDM 310. I know there are already many videos like this out there, but everyone has a different perspective, and one more wouldn't hurt. I would also like to create a video that explains and describes how much EDM 310 has helped me. The first week we had to download multiple items, many of which I didn't know existed. Now, I am using those items to my advantage. A video showing how EDM 310 helps might be motivational.

"Smartboards”

Reading various blogs, I found that many people think smartboards are "dumb". They consider them a waste of money. The phrase "you get what you pay for" does not necessarily apply here. I believe that if teachers are to use smartboards, they should do so in an effective manner, drawing students to the material.
I can understand why K. Martin disagrees with Bill Ferriter. Martin works for DE School for the Deaf. Obviously, deaf students will need extra attention when it comes to conveying education. If using smartboards is good for them and Martin knows that it helps, then the money is not wasted As long as the teacher does not use smartboards in a “be all end all” sort of way, I see no harm being done to the students' education. Also, the teacher must make sure to do everything needed to engage the students and work toward having them engage their own learning and critical thinking.

http://www.edweek.org/persona.html?U=1113147&plckUserId=1113147

Timetoast 9b

These are only the first home consoles of each series. Note that there were many revisions of each, and they can be found on the links provided.



In case the links did not work: http://www.thegameconsole.com/

PLN Progress Report

Starting my PLN was quite difficult, simply because I have never done one before and didn't know exactly what to include. After a couple hours of thought, I finally discovered what I want my PLN centered around; writing. I have always been inspired by writers, and writing in general. My main focus is fiction. I find it fascinating that the human mind possesses so many thoughts and that people try to write those thoughts down in a creative way. As I research more about writers, I am finding many writers have great work but are not famous. When you ask a random person who J.K. Rowling is, they know exactly who you're talking about. But if you were to ask someone who Greg Keyes is, they would have no clue.(Go ahead, look him up) This is not to say that Rowling's work is not good, but just because a writer is not famous doesn't mean he/she is a bad writer. As my PLN grows, I will find more writers to talk to and hopefully get a firm understanding of what it really means to be a writer. Perhaps I will even collaborate with some of the best writers one day.

Blog Post 7

Randy Pausch's Last Lecture speaks to many people in many different ways. How a dying man could give such an inspiring lecture is not as out-of-the-ordinary as people might think. Pausch knows he is dying, so he is doing everything he can while he can, including helping people like his kids accomplish their childhood dreams. Throughout his lecture, Pausch talked about how many important people in his life would tell him things that were quite direct. Instead of blowing them off, he would listen to them, accept their constructive criticism, and move forward.

One thing Pausch said was “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity”. Throughout my career, I have experienced this a lot. Having been prepared in my musical abilities, I have been given many opportunities by many people. Pausch also says, “Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.” Even though you may not get everything you want, you gain much experience in the process.

I like the fact that Pausch had so much humor in his lecture. At one point, he told all the ladies, “When it comes to men that are romantically interested in you, it's really simple. Just ignore everything they say and only pay attention to what they do.” This statement really spoke to me. So often ladies fall into many traps, and they believe things that men say too easily.

His lecture was performed in front of an audience of about 500 and viewed by over 12 million. Ironically, however, the lecture was not for them; it was for his kids. Everything Pausch discussed had something to do with achieving your dreams. Some would view his story as “that sort of thing couldn't happen to me”, but the fact is it can with hard work and persistence. Pausch talks about the brick walls we face. In life, there will be many brick walls that stand in our way. We must learn to overcome these walls and move forward in life.

Timetoast 9a

Additional Assignment 2

If learners are motivated, they can and will teach themselves. Anytime I am motivated, I consider learning fun. For a younger generation, life is all about having fun. Children can teach themselves. In fact, they begin to teach themselves before they are two years old. They start to realize that they have control over their bodies, and they use that control to their advantage. Learning is no different. Children realize they have control over how and what they learn, so they use the technology needed to accomplish anything they want to accomplish. I believe the internet is a must if children are to teach themselves. More children would use a computer, something they find puzzling and new, rather than simply reading from books, which can take longer and does not require interaction. Having this access to the internet allows the students to learn with others instead of learning from one teacher. When students can experience learning with their peers, they are more likely to enjoy what they are doing and learn more in the process. When students are faced with problems and they solve these problems, they acquire a sense of accomplishment. As they succeed in their everyday life, they are constantly looking for new ways to solve new problems. You can motivate someone to learn by showing them how much fun you are having by learning yourself. If a student sees that another student is motivated to learn and is having fun in the process, that student will almost always strive for that same motivation. I am motivated to learn by realizing that you can never learn everything. Everyone learns at least one thing new every day, but I make it a point to learn as much as possible every day. I am constantly teaching myself how to do many things. Usually, I teach myself how to use a computer effectively. Sure, I have a strong basic knowledge of the computer, and I can easily navigate around many programs, but there are still many programs that I have yet to discover for myself. I believe a teacher plays a great deal in learning. When I attended MGCCC, I had a teacher who taught a Western Civilization course. His lectures were so intriguing that I actually did research about the subject on my own time. If it was not for his great lectures, I might not have found that information interesting. Teachers tend to have the capabilities to make things interesting for students, whereas we can't always see the fun in learning ourselves. On the other hand, not all teachers are like this one. The most important thing that I heard on this video was “If there's stuff on Google, why would you need to stuff it in your head?” Many teachers expect us to know everything about the subject and be able to relay all of that information on command. Knowing that much about any subject is quite substantial, but it does not make any person smarter than another; it just makes them better at memorizing information.

C4T #2 Summary

The first blog post is about, in part, rules in the classroom. The points made in the discussion relate to almost every teacher today. The post reads, "Sometimes I even have to invent more based on some things that occur repeatedly. Often times, I can let rules go because I see the students have adapted beautifully." This message is clear, that students without these limitations would be lost.

The second blog post is about science fair projects, and how parents should help their children. The post reads, "Parents should do their best to let their kids take ownership of the project as much as possible." This is one of the most important things that you can do for your children. When you allow your children to take "ownership", you instill a sense of responisibilty that they may not get elsewhere.

C4K 1 and 2 Summary

For the first C4K assignment, I commented on a student's blog named Zackery. I told him that I enjoyed reading his post, and even shared with him some things I like to do myself. One of our main topics that we discussed was family. He had much to say about family, and what family brings. I agreed with him. Our brief conversation had much meaning.

Blog Post 6

The Networked Student

The Networked Student video is all about learning. The video describes the act of learning as "part of a social network of many diverse connections and ties". This is a strong statement. The phrase "social network" shows the vast amount of learning that is possible. We learn much through other learners.
The student in the video uses many tools like Google scholar, social book marking sites, and a reader to build a knowledge base of his topic. Doing this beforehand is especially important because "not knowing" is being set up for failure. Once he has built this knowledge base, he uses other tools such as iTunes, Skype, and Wikispaces to learn more about the topic. Through his wide range of connections, many "new learning opportunities arise".
The question is asked, "Why does the networked student even need a teacher?" The answer is simple. A student cannot do everything by himself/herself. No one can be expected to accomplish incredible bits of learning without some guidance. A teacher is needed for support, answering questions, giving demonstrations, and acting as a mentor/coach in the world of learning.

Note: Someone once told me that "learning occurs when there is an increased awareness of what is."


7th grader's PLE

he 7th grader's PLE was a real eye opener. The fact that a 7th grader could possess the knowledge and skills associated with the organization of a PLE is astounding. When I think back to the 7th grade, the only thing I can remember about computers is a typing course, which was fairly new at the time. Looking at how far we have come, to have the ability and means necessary to incorporate these skills into students' education, it is quite clear that things can only get better from here, especially in regards to the main purpose of schooling; to further society.


The Machine

What really spoke to me in this video was the web cam idea. When you video blog or record something, there no fear at first thought because you are recording to an object. However, when you realize that what you do in front of that camera will be seen by many, you tend to act differently. For example, my trumpet professor has me record myself playing. Though it is not a video recording, it is still relative. During my recording session, I want to play to the best of my ability so as not to make myself sound bad. The question is, why should I only want to play to the best of my ability just because I am being recorded. I should want to do that all of the time. No matter what the case, everyone should have strength in their words and action and stand by them, despite who I watching or judging.
The free hugs campaign is amazing. More attention should be given to the message behind the free hugs. They are not simply hugs for sake of being hugs. The college experience can leave you weak, emotional, and seemingly insignificant. These free hugs offer much more than physical contact with another person that cares. It gives college students like myself a way out of this difficult life, if only for a moment. How does this relate to technology? While saying something like “hugs” online is not as effective as in person, the thought is still there. Having people that you can connect with on a daily basis moves students in a positive direction.
In the future, we should always strive for being the best we can. If that our best is not good enough, so be it. We should instill in our students that connectivity and communication is key, and we should always do our best to lead them in the right direction.

Blog Post 5

The Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom

The video discusses many ways in which students as well as teachers can use podcasts. In the video, there is a clip of a girl who is sick. Because she cannot go to school, she will miss the necessary work needed for future assignments. There is hope, however. Podcasts offer the solution. Her teacher uploads podcasts of the lecture so that anyone can access them through the internet at any time.
I have always viewed podcasts as only informational. This video has expanded my knowledge by showing how podcasts can be used in creativity. Not only can you record audio with podcasts, you can also record video. This makes for a different representation of role play and gives visual to various circumstances. Also, with podcasts parents are able to “see and hear what their children are doing at school.”


Judy Scharf Podcast Collection

As I began to explore Scharf's collection, I noticed the amount of information on podcasting was larger than expected. Scharf has everything broken down into periods for students. This is effective because it gives the student a goal to reach that is not seemingly impossible. She also lists suggestions for podcast topics for the students as well as a detailed list of the layout and rubric each podcast should contain.
Using podcasts are not as simple as they appear. Sure anyone can make a podcast, but not everyone uses the amount of detail Scharf describes. In order to make podcasts fun for students, remind them that “the term 'podcast' is a cross between 'broadcast' and 'iPod.'” Students are aware that iPod's are fun as well as radio broadcasts, so when combined, why not convince them that podcasting is fun?


100 Ways to Use Your iPod to Learn and Study Better

I knew that there were many uses for the iPod. However, I had no clue they extended this far. For such uses like extensive variations of studying, tutorials, multiple downloads, and connectivity between users, it's clear why the Apple is on top. With this rise in technology, soon everyone will use an iPod to and for its full capabilities, much like everyone uses a cell phone today. Things like the iPod as well as many other Apple products will become primary systems in the world of education.
What are we to think of this new idea that 'electronic' learning is better than what we have done in the past? Most could argue that by using more technology in education, children are exceeding their parents' knowledge of the subject. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however. A great goal in life is to learn as much as possible every day, regardless of how. The iPod just makes things easier.

Blog Post 4

Don't Teach Your Kids This Stuff. Please?

Scott McLeod is Associate Professor in the Educational Administration program at Iowa State University. McLeod directs the UCEA, Center for the Advanced Study of Technology Leadership in Education. (CASTLE) McLeod also co-created the video Did You Know?(Shift Happens). It's a good thing Dr. McLeod chose to write about this subject. Where most people that should read this post will not, the ones that do might relay the message. We, as a younger generation, are lucky to have such people like McLeod who care enough about students to urge parents, teachers, administrators, and board members to use every tool possible to learn.

If you take a look at “older” people today, most of them have no clue what is going on in the world of technology. They are happy in their own little niches, and nothing anyone does can fix their stubbornness. However, we today, as technologically inclined students, will one day become those “older” people, and we will be more likely to open our eyes to learning what our children learn.


The iSchool Initiative

The iSchool Initiative is intended for improvement. The idea is to improve education in America by means of electronic devices and applications to replace books, calculators, paper, pencils, etc. The plan is to combine corporations, business professionals, and apple programmers. Almost anything that we can do today in education will be available in one device.

I believe this initiative is possible. There are certainly resources for such a dramatic change. The question is, “will it work?” This could be argued for years before something is actually put to the test. The only way to know if something like this is practical is to try it. The attempt should not be widespread, however. On the outside, this initiative appears convenient as well as productive, but there are always other factors that should be considered. As to what those factors are, until the iSchool Initiative is put to use, we will never know.


The Lost Generation

The Lost Generation video was outstanding. The video kept me on the edge of my seat, curious as to how it would end. I had no idea that by reading it backwards, it would completely reverse everything. This was a great technique to use. The message is quite clear; in order to change how our generation views life, we need to reverse how we see and do things.

Most of what was noted in the video, we don't want to admit. The fact is, almost all of it is usually true and not in the reverse order. Trying to accomplish everything in reverse all at once will usually result in failure, but if we take small steps toward achieving our goals we should strive to attain, we will be successful.


Virtual Choir

Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir was interesting, especially for me. Being a music major, it was difficult to stay focused on the fact that there was something else behind the music. I did not like the way the choir was portrayed. If the choir had physically been there, more personality would have shown. Sure their facial expressions say a lot, but nothing says more than experiencing that sort of thing in person.

Nevertheless, a virtual choir speaks much about technology. The idea of a virtual choir is a great concept when you consider singing with multiple people from around the world. However, in a local setting, I do not believe it should be done.

Note: We are playing one of Eric Whitacre's pieces in the USA Wind Ensemble entitled “Equus”. Our concert is Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 7:30pm. (Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall)

Project 5

C4T Summary

The first blog post discusses interviewing tips and audio recording. In the video, there were five main tips: Make sure there is enough space on the recording device as well as battery power, search for a good location, use a microphone close to your voice and monitor as you go, don't talk over top of the interview, and keep to the point. These main points were quite helpful. They seem simple, but it is typically the simple things that we tend to forget.

The second blog post discusses how a teacher improves his students' writing with Jing, an online screencasting of "visual and aural feedback on their written work." The video shows step by step how the students learn through visual and aural communication instead of receiving a grade on paper with comments they don't fully understand. I only wish that I had this opportunity in high school. Not all efficient learning can be contributed to this method, but it certainly seems to work.

Blog Post 3

Michael Wesch: A Vision of Students Today

To some extent, this movie has captured my college experience. While not everything displayed in the video was entirely accurate as it relates to myself, it does make many valid points. The fact that this video came from students' surveys of themselves in college life speaks for itself. The question is not what the problems are, but how do we fix them. There is no miracle cure for how we are educated. However, when a select few teachers consider other alternatives, things begin to change. Eventually, one person(of course multiplied by many) can and will make a difference in the way students are educated in the classroom.
I would add clips about personal lives affected by college. The movie breaks down the college experience, but does not include anyone's personal problems. While these clips do not need to be too detailed, a portion of them should elaborate on the general effects on students outside the classroom.


Read the post "It's Not About the Technology" by Kelly Hines

I agree with Hines' outlook. She stresses how important it is for teachers to learn as they teach. It is not good enough for a teacher to simply have a lesson plan and teach it from the book or a computer. I especially agree with her statement, “Teachers who customize the learning experiences of their students to involve critical thinking and problem solving are doing their students a greater favor than those who misuse technology as a means of facilitating learning.” Using only means of technology does not mean that a student will learn more efficiently or have more success.
Hines' statement, “These foundational components of a quality classroom experience will ensure that students value experiential and focused learning”, is very true. Experiential learning is the best kind of learning that can take place. Students and teachers alike learn through their own experiences. Also, if the students are having fun while this takes place, they are more likely to be more creative.


Karl Fisch: Is It Okay to Be A Technologically Illiterate Teacher?

When discussing whether being technologically literate is relative to success or not, Fisch makes an excellent point. It is getting much more difficult to go through life technologically illiterate. Technology will never stop, and neither should learning about it. Fisch's statement, “You need to demonstrate continual learning, lifelong learning – for your students, or you will continue to teach your students how to be successful in an age that no longer exists,” is very true. If students are not encouraged, they are being set up for failure.
There is much for a teacher to consider if he/she expects to meet Terry's standards. What the teacher must realize, however, is that you can only do so much. If at the end of the day you advance a student's knowledge in some form and they have learned something, then you have done your job. Nobody can expect any one person, teacher or parent, to teach a student everything. Hopefully, by the educated and technological guidance of the teacher or parent, that student will become well capable of excelling himself/herself.


Gary Hayes Social Media Count

Most of these changes have to do with technology in some way. As a future educator, I must be aware of the ongoing development of technology and the way we communicate. Because these counts are growing exponentially, they will have a great effect in the school systems to come. This information was quite helpful in realizing how much the world today relies on virtual means for virtually everything. No matter what anyone does, these numbers will keep growing, and the technological demands will never stop. I believe it best to join the world of technology, instead of shying away.

Blog Post 2

Did You Know?

There is certainly some truth to the video “Did you know?”. The content in the video was mind blowing. Many things in the video were well known, but until we are confronted personally with the issue, we do not think twice or even once. This video confronted issues worldwide as well as continental, which expanded the statistics.
While there can be some speculation on the factual content of the video, the sure thing is that everything described is true in some form or another. Those who do not believe this video is true simply have either not been affected by these problems or think they are invincible to statistics and likely future conflicts.


Mr. Winkle Wakes

The video, “Mr Winkle Wakes”, discusses how school systems have not changed for one hundred years. I believe that some things may have changed in the school system, but for the most part remained the same.
In trying to dispute the fact that some but not all classes should not contain multiple sources of information, independent learning strategies, and creative thinking ideas, I came up empty handed. I firmly believe that every class should be, in some form, the exact opposite of how Mr. Winkle remembers. More emphasis should be placed on various ways to learn and excel instead of sitting in class all day, listening to lecture, and taking tests.


Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity

The Ken Robinson video was most intriguing. He made a great point when he said that nobody knows what the world will be like in five years, but we are supposed to be educating our kids for it. The question is how can we educated what we ourselves consider unknown. I believe the answer is creativity. As Ken Robinson describes, creativity is just as important as literacy and should be treated with the same status. Often times, students go through life with no requirements for creativity. If students cannot display their creativity in a way that is beneficial to their success in life, the teacher or parent is not doing his/her job.
Another point Robinson made is that kids take chances and are not afraid of being wrong. If we were all as courageous as younger kids, we might find that we are more successful in life. I also agree wholly with Robinson's statement, if you're not prepared to be wrong, you will never come up with anything original.


Vicki Davis: Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts

Vicki Davis' video was my favorite so far. Davis challenged the students on a much higher level than most teachers do. She stresses that when you have only pencil and only paper, then only certain types of children are going to succeed. I believe this is true, however, all students should be taught multiple ways to succeed.
One useful tool Davis uses is giving the students material that they have never used. When they encounter such material, she expects them to take the initiative to look it up. This is effective because it teaches the students to be self driven. Davis also explains that she does not have to know everything to teach it. I have to agree with her statement. If you have a strong base knowledge of computers, it does not take much more effort to figure something out for yourself, thus learning as you go.

Wordle

Blog Post #1

My name is Len Jenkins. I am not originally from Mobile. I grew up in Mississippi, half of my life in Hancock county and the other half in Harrison county. My major interest is music. In fact, my major is Music Education. My primary instrument is the trumpet, and I have played the trumpet for ten years. I am one of three section leaders for the Jaguar Marching Band trumpet line. I am also a member of the USA Wind Ensemble and USA Trumpet Ensemble as well as conductor for the USA Show Choir Band. Recently we, the USA Trumpet Ensemble, traveled to Sydney, Australia to perform at the International Trumpet Guild conference.

The University of South Alabama was not my first college of choice. This is my fifth year as a full time student and my fourth college. The first college I attended was Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL. I attended JSU for one year before realizing it was too far away from home. After my freshman year, I proceeded to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Jefferson Davis Campus for one semester. However, the JD campus did not have a music program. I quickly left, and continued my journey to Pensacola, FL. There, I attended Pensacola Junior College, which has an outstanding music program, for one year. By that time, I had to transfer to the university level because I had too many credits. When I heard that USA was starting a marching band, I was immediately interested. Finally, I have arrived at my graduating destination.

Most of my family members are close-knit. I have two sisters, one being a twin. My mom works for a lawyer and my dad works for a casino. They all stick behind me in my chosen major and my future goals I aspire to reach. I have three choices I have given myself within my field of study. They are joining the U.S. Air Force after I graduate, opening a music business, or pursuing a graduate degree to become a professor of trumpet. I enjoy playing the trumpet over most things. When I play, I can get away from the rest of the world. Aside from music, I enjoy many sports such as working out, racquetball, and almost anything else that involves physical activity. Something unique about myself is I always finish what I start, no matter how much it takes. In that way, I am stubborn.