Thursday, December 3, 2009
This is the End: Save this Class in Memory and Shut Down
Howdy-ho, dear readers! Is it that time already? The end of the semester in sight! I know for most of us, we are heavily involved in getting unit plans done and thinking about the holidays, where visions of lesson plans will dance in our heads. Since it is the end of this class in technology, it is time reflect on the semester that was.
I've learned much in this class. I always knew there was a wealth of information and resources out there on the internet to be used, but I never had the time, or the motivation, to go out and find it. I also always knew that there were resources on the internet to use as a teacher, but I always figured they had to be paid for. There is a lot free education stuff that will really come in use in the classroom!
Also, I knew about the digital divide, but perhaps not in that way. I've discovered ways to sort of bridge that gap as much as I can in my own classroom. This class has motivated me to make sure that what I teach is the best and most accurate content out there.
Those are really the main things that I can take away form this class. I will not be attending the last class since my brother is getting married and I am the best man. I apologize for missing it! This also happens to fall during the same time as the SEC Championship. Bummer. Anyway, this has been a great class and an experience that I will take with me into my classroom next year. The resources I have discovered are most valuable and I will use much of them. Until next time, studio listeners, ta-ta!
-JPO
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Using Elmer's to Glue That Digital Divide Together
Howdy there, studio listeners! Obaratone hopes everything is going well. Before we begin on today's topic of bridging the digital divide in classrooms, I want to point out that if you are not watching the special on the History Channel, WWII in HD, I highly recommend you do. It's amazing to see the footage originally shot in color back to its original form. Though I do not have an HD TV, just seeing everything in color brings a whole new level to WWII, a war that we have only seen in black and white with simple things being shown. Seeing all the carnage that war is puts a new perspective on war in general, especially that one. This could be a great thing to show parts of it in classrooms, providing you get permission. Some of it is a bit graphic, in terms of showing wounded or killed men, but it is very moving and I think it would give students a whole new respect for the war.
Anyway, that was my plug for this week. On to the topic of today, or tonight I should say. That would be the digital divide. We discussed earlier what the digital divide was (didn't we?) and how it is the gap between people who have access to technology and people who don't. This begs the question, is access to technology vital in classrooms? Well, in short, yes! Why wouldn't it be? Why are we still using some books out there that are boring and may contain some information that has become defunct instead of using the wealth of information out there on the internet? I remember having to assignments in school when I was younger and only being allowed to use 1 internet source. Everything else had to be in books. Well that's fine and dandy. Just don't expect me to have numerous good sources. I never got that. So there's a plethora of information out there waiting for us to use and we it's shut off from us because there are some bad websites out there? Excuse me, last time I checked not all books are rated G. I'm not saying, I'm just saying. Also consider that school libraries are only open during school hours, and that the only chance to go to it is during school, when teachers won't let you go and there's no other free time. Those libraries also don't necessarily facilitate open learning either, having many strict rules on what you can't do more than what you can do (more info. at bottom.)
Look, technology is essential and necessary to have in classrooms. So much more good comes out over the bad. Now I understand that not all schools are up to par with technology, and that's something I'll deal with. I don't ask for much. All I want is at least one computer or projector and an overhead. The computer can either be provided or I can use my own. The projector can be used to hook up to the computer so I can show pictures, videos, maps, notes, etc. The overhead is so I can have and give notes if I so wish. I will make it work with that. I would like to have access to more computers often since there is a lot on there that I can use with my lessons to teach. A smartboard would be nice, I guess, but not necessary for me. I just need a whiteboard to write on and I'll be fine.
Now what can I do to help bridge that divide? I can always start by asking for more things from the principal and bookkeepers and such. Then I can ask my fellow teachers what I can do help make things better. And of course there is always meetings and committees and talking to the higher ups. How much good that does varies on the district and superintendent. There is also the option of providing things myself for my class. Asking the parents to get involved is an option. Netbooks don't cost that much and I think it's reasonable to ask parents to get one for their kid. These are only some ideas that could work. Here are some ideas that I scrounged up from other teachers.
David Warlick talks about schools having open Wi-Fi in which for kids to use their laptops and smartphones.
The Innovative Educator describes using Ning to keep students engaged and learning over the summer.
Wesley Fryer discusses Oklahoma moving to a 1:1 digital classroom environment.
Doug Johnson uses a library sign to look at how digital learning is frowned upon in schools and libraries are being too restrictive.
Rudd Lucier has a great slideshow about 10 trends that are coming of age in the classroom of tomorrow.
Thank you, peace out.
-JPO
Anyway, that was my plug for this week. On to the topic of today, or tonight I should say. That would be the digital divide. We discussed earlier what the digital divide was (didn't we?) and how it is the gap between people who have access to technology and people who don't. This begs the question, is access to technology vital in classrooms? Well, in short, yes! Why wouldn't it be? Why are we still using some books out there that are boring and may contain some information that has become defunct instead of using the wealth of information out there on the internet? I remember having to assignments in school when I was younger and only being allowed to use 1 internet source. Everything else had to be in books. Well that's fine and dandy. Just don't expect me to have numerous good sources. I never got that. So there's a plethora of information out there waiting for us to use and we it's shut off from us because there are some bad websites out there? Excuse me, last time I checked not all books are rated G. I'm not saying, I'm just saying. Also consider that school libraries are only open during school hours, and that the only chance to go to it is during school, when teachers won't let you go and there's no other free time. Those libraries also don't necessarily facilitate open learning either, having many strict rules on what you can't do more than what you can do (more info. at bottom.)
Look, technology is essential and necessary to have in classrooms. So much more good comes out over the bad. Now I understand that not all schools are up to par with technology, and that's something I'll deal with. I don't ask for much. All I want is at least one computer or projector and an overhead. The computer can either be provided or I can use my own. The projector can be used to hook up to the computer so I can show pictures, videos, maps, notes, etc. The overhead is so I can have and give notes if I so wish. I will make it work with that. I would like to have access to more computers often since there is a lot on there that I can use with my lessons to teach. A smartboard would be nice, I guess, but not necessary for me. I just need a whiteboard to write on and I'll be fine.
Now what can I do to help bridge that divide? I can always start by asking for more things from the principal and bookkeepers and such. Then I can ask my fellow teachers what I can do help make things better. And of course there is always meetings and committees and talking to the higher ups. How much good that does varies on the district and superintendent. There is also the option of providing things myself for my class. Asking the parents to get involved is an option. Netbooks don't cost that much and I think it's reasonable to ask parents to get one for their kid. These are only some ideas that could work. Here are some ideas that I scrounged up from other teachers.
David Warlick talks about schools having open Wi-Fi in which for kids to use their laptops and smartphones.
The Innovative Educator describes using Ning to keep students engaged and learning over the summer.
Wesley Fryer discusses Oklahoma moving to a 1:1 digital classroom environment.
Doug Johnson uses a library sign to look at how digital learning is frowned upon in schools and libraries are being too restrictive.
Rudd Lucier has a great slideshow about 10 trends that are coming of age in the classroom of tomorrow.
Thank you, peace out.
-JPO
Monday, November 9, 2009
Teachin' Ain't Easy
Grab your raincoats and umbrellas, sound studio listeners! Tropical Storm Ida is right next door! But we all know it won't hit our lovely town of Gainesville, though we will feel some effects from it. Anyway, on to today's recording session! Today Obaratone is recording a piece on teacher leadership. Now what could teacher leadership mean to all of us? To me, it kind of sounds redundant. If someone is a teacher, aren't they automatically a leader? If someone's a leader, aren't they a teacher of sorts? For some reason or another, teachers are held in a much higher light than the rest of society. Anytime a teacher does something that may make headlines in a bad way, it's pretty horrendous. For example, we hear someone having sex with students. Ok, not that big of a deal. Still bad. Oh it was a teacher?? Armageddon! I think the main reason is that once people start working with other people's kids, the stakes are raised and the teacher better not do anything that could wrong a child. All true statements to believe in. We wouldn't want crazy people teaching our kids!
That's just teachers in general. When talking about teacher leadership, there actually is more going on. Teacher leadership means that teachers are going to infinity and beyond to be the best person they can in regards to teaching students. This may involve leading clubs, going to games and being a big supporter, after-school programs, school board committee, etc, etc. Basically not only teaching the content in the classroom, but living the model citizenship that we expect our students to live.
Dr. Betsy Rogers had an interesting interview about teacher leadership that you can see here. In it, she talks about going around the country to work with other teachers to make the teaching profession a better thing. She also talks about making teaching better to help the students in every way possible. Another resource I found was from the Teacher Leaders Network site. What I've linked is to their "About" section on why they do what they do. Basically, it's a site that brings many teacher leaders around the way country to weigh in on issues and spread ideas and suggestions to become a better teacher and a teacher leader.
So what does this have to do with moi? Why do you ask so many questions, studio listeners? Lucky for you, Obaratone is gracious with his responses. When I start teaching, I do want to be more than just a simple teacher. I want to be a role model for how students should act, not just in school but out of it as well. I want to help students with more than just content, but also on making it through school in general. What I don't see in my future, at least not as of right now, is joining every committee and group and advisory board and whatever else there is. I can see myself on maybe one or two, but teaching the students is first and foremost. I love being in the classroom and in front of the kids! I love that more than going to meetings. A lot more. I want to be a leader in their eyes in terms of being a good person and trying your best, not necessarily as a do-it-all brain with no outside life. But that's just me.
What about you dear listeners? Do you think that teachers should join all these committees to really gain their full potential as a leader or perhaps have a more balanced load? The choice is yours to respond (please respond!) Now it's time for Obaratone to join the committee of hunger and lead some food into my stomach.
That's just teachers in general. When talking about teacher leadership, there actually is more going on. Teacher leadership means that teachers are going to infinity and beyond to be the best person they can in regards to teaching students. This may involve leading clubs, going to games and being a big supporter, after-school programs, school board committee, etc, etc. Basically not only teaching the content in the classroom, but living the model citizenship that we expect our students to live.
Dr. Betsy Rogers had an interesting interview about teacher leadership that you can see here. In it, she talks about going around the country to work with other teachers to make the teaching profession a better thing. She also talks about making teaching better to help the students in every way possible. Another resource I found was from the Teacher Leaders Network site. What I've linked is to their "About" section on why they do what they do. Basically, it's a site that brings many teacher leaders around the way country to weigh in on issues and spread ideas and suggestions to become a better teacher and a teacher leader.
So what does this have to do with moi? Why do you ask so many questions, studio listeners? Lucky for you, Obaratone is gracious with his responses. When I start teaching, I do want to be more than just a simple teacher. I want to be a role model for how students should act, not just in school but out of it as well. I want to help students with more than just content, but also on making it through school in general. What I don't see in my future, at least not as of right now, is joining every committee and group and advisory board and whatever else there is. I can see myself on maybe one or two, but teaching the students is first and foremost. I love being in the classroom and in front of the kids! I love that more than going to meetings. A lot more. I want to be a leader in their eyes in terms of being a good person and trying your best, not necessarily as a do-it-all brain with no outside life. But that's just me.
What about you dear listeners? Do you think that teachers should join all these committees to really gain their full potential as a leader or perhaps have a more balanced load? The choice is yours to respond (please respond!) Now it's time for Obaratone to join the committee of hunger and lead some food into my stomach.
Monday, November 2, 2009
"I'll tell two people, then they'll tell two people, and that's like ten people right there!"
Ahoy there, studio mateys! Obaratone is in a mighty maritime mood with all this fine weather rolling in, bearing the temperature doesn't drop below 60. On to this week's tracks on the networked student. What is the networked student? Is it a student who is working the net? Is it a student who is netting the work? Is it a student who makes more sense than this? Possibly, though I have yet to meet one who does. In all seriousness, when I think of the networked student, I think of a student who is connected to many different sources and can pull information from those sources. "So you mean the student is connected to a lot of different people by ropes?" Sort of, if those ropes were phone lines and internet connections. Before going more into the networked student, let us discuss the human network. The human network is basically the sense that everyone in the world is connected to everyone else by internet and phones and all that cool gadget stuff. It can also encompass the strange concept of talking to someone in person, which I didn't know people still did.
So when talking about the networked student, it fits real nicely into this definition of the human network. The student is sent out to collect information from people all over the place who are preferably experts in their field. This means using blogs or wikis or podcasts or finding a webstie or Twitter or some other means to contact an individual. It can also mean simply looking for ideas and taking them. In turn, the experts respond back with information related to the project the student is doing (or the student takes information, legally of course) and thus the student is connected to people and can go do his or her project. "So does this mean that there is no need for teachers anymore?"
HAHA! How you make me laugh, dear reader! No, there is still a definite need for teachers. Why you ask? Well I'll tell you why! In order for all of this to occur in the first place, the student needs to have some sort of digital literacy, as well as a means to connect to those people. We can't expect kids who only know how to text and call to post something on a forum or follow a teacher on Twitter and see a link and further get closer to contacting the person they want to in the first place. There needs to be some sort of background knowledge or learning to make sure the student knows what to do. Thus enters the teacher of the future! This teacher does not merely spew information out, they guide the student to find information for themselves. They help the student setup accounts and keep an eye out for him or her to make sure he or she isn't messing up or doing something wrong ("Hello, Soviet Union? I need- (click)- hello?")
"So Mr. Obaratone, can you see yourself as a digitized networking teacher that is not a teacher that is a teacher?" First, no need for the mister. We're all friends here. And there is a possibility I could use some of these techniques. I am guarded in some areas since there are still a lot of things and topics that I would like to cover in an entertaining lecture and assignment and test and all that traditional stuff. There is definitely a place for a good network of people and using cool things in the class though. The student should be pushed to make decisions and come up with information on their own instead of merely taking my word for it (even though I'm always right.) So I will definitely make sure my students use every possible resource and I will also do my best to provide these resources to them. That's what being a good teacher is all about! Do I see this trend becoming more and more involved in the schools? Yes I do, and I think it is a matter of time before most of our teaching will come down to this and our jobs will be more emphasized to guide rather to give information.
But now my friends, is time for me to say adieu. Before I go though, here is a nice little place on Delicious that has many different topics and articles and whatnot related to networked learning. Have fun with it! I would also like to pose the same question to you. Will schools become more like gateways to information rather than schools of information? Intriguing I know! Until next time, stay classy. I must text my pizza order to the pizzeria in Italy who will forward my pizza to a cheese farm in Norway who will then overnight it to a mushroom farm in California before arriving at my door. In fifteen minutes or it's free.
-JPO
So when talking about the networked student, it fits real nicely into this definition of the human network. The student is sent out to collect information from people all over the place who are preferably experts in their field. This means using blogs or wikis or podcasts or finding a webstie or Twitter or some other means to contact an individual. It can also mean simply looking for ideas and taking them. In turn, the experts respond back with information related to the project the student is doing (or the student takes information, legally of course) and thus the student is connected to people and can go do his or her project. "So does this mean that there is no need for teachers anymore?"
HAHA! How you make me laugh, dear reader! No, there is still a definite need for teachers. Why you ask? Well I'll tell you why! In order for all of this to occur in the first place, the student needs to have some sort of digital literacy, as well as a means to connect to those people. We can't expect kids who only know how to text and call to post something on a forum or follow a teacher on Twitter and see a link and further get closer to contacting the person they want to in the first place. There needs to be some sort of background knowledge or learning to make sure the student knows what to do. Thus enters the teacher of the future! This teacher does not merely spew information out, they guide the student to find information for themselves. They help the student setup accounts and keep an eye out for him or her to make sure he or she isn't messing up or doing something wrong ("Hello, Soviet Union? I need- (click)- hello?")
"So Mr. Obaratone, can you see yourself as a digitized networking teacher that is not a teacher that is a teacher?" First, no need for the mister. We're all friends here. And there is a possibility I could use some of these techniques. I am guarded in some areas since there are still a lot of things and topics that I would like to cover in an entertaining lecture and assignment and test and all that traditional stuff. There is definitely a place for a good network of people and using cool things in the class though. The student should be pushed to make decisions and come up with information on their own instead of merely taking my word for it (even though I'm always right.) So I will definitely make sure my students use every possible resource and I will also do my best to provide these resources to them. That's what being a good teacher is all about! Do I see this trend becoming more and more involved in the schools? Yes I do, and I think it is a matter of time before most of our teaching will come down to this and our jobs will be more emphasized to guide rather to give information.
But now my friends, is time for me to say adieu. Before I go though, here is a nice little place on Delicious that has many different topics and articles and whatnot related to networked learning. Have fun with it! I would also like to pose the same question to you. Will schools become more like gateways to information rather than schools of information? Intriguing I know! Until next time, stay classy. I must text my pizza order to the pizzeria in Italy who will forward my pizza to a cheese farm in Norway who will then overnight it to a mushroom farm in California before arriving at my door. In fifteen minutes or it's free.
-JPO
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Other Service Learning Ideas
To all sound studio listeners! Do you want to learn what you can do with students to help out in your community? Well here's some ideas! As other students in my class have made their own service projects, I have posted a link to them so you can get some ideas! Have fun with them! Until next time, Obaratone signing off!
Service Learning Unit Project Ideas
Service Learning Unit Project Ideas
Monday, October 26, 2009
A Larger Version
If you sound studio listeners want to see Obaratone's Glog on Napoleon I up close and personal, I added the link to it below. Au Revoir!
http://obaratone.edu.glogster.com/NapoleonI/
http://obaratone.edu.glogster.com/NapoleonI/
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