"What Does Globalization Mean for Education?" By Anita McAnear
Anita McAnear describes that due to advances in technology, people are connected all across the world. She states that this “means increased opportunities to learn with and from the global community.” Through resources such as Curriki, teachers can stare curricula, assessments and textbooks all over the word by means of an open and free source. This exchange of ideas helps to unite educators, regardless of their residence. McAnear also discusses how, in a connected world, students must obtain a global perspective. To further their communication and literacy skills students can communicate with students in other countries. Above all, this perspective improves multicultural understanding and increases appreciation for diversity.
What are some of the ways students can connect to students across the world?
Internet pen pals are an excellent way to maintain that connection and get to know other cultures. This offers children first-hand experience when it comes to different ways of life. Video conferencing can also be integrated into this idea.
Why is it important to unite educators worldwide?
There are so many view learning and education, but sometimes we get stuck in a box that limits our flow of novel ideas. Looking at the way other countries do school helps us to gain fresh and innovative ideas and improve the status quo.
Friday, May 4, 2007
Journal # 9
“Activating Your School: Movement-Oriented Learning” by Pete Rognli
This article focuses on the “embedding” physical activity into every part of the school day, not just during the assigned physical education times. At one district, students work on laptops standing up and are allowed to sit, kneel, or stand throughout the lesson, encouraging continuous activity. According to the American Heart Association, physical education in schools is decreasing, and these techniques help to integrate it in various aspects of the curriculum. Technology provides a motivational tool for students, and the new, wireless versions allow for more movement and freedom. Even schools do not have the financial means to purchase fancy gadgets or desks, there is still an endless amount of ways a teacher can incorporate physical activity into the classroom.
What are some of the ways technology can be incorporated into physical activity and embedded in the school day?
Ipods can become a part of the learning and promote physical activity by having students walk around a track while listening to podcasts. Teachers could also create videos that combine movement with learning. For example, a kindergarten teacher could create an appealing video, which teaches phonics using hand and body movements. Kids can also create a health video or PowerPoint presentation.
What is an effective way to get students, parents, faculty and the community involved in this movement?
By hosting an after school health fair, as mentioned in the article, all parties are able to come together to support physical activity. Students can research and plan for the fair. A local medical facility can come in and discuss healthy lifestyles. There “Nutrition committee” could teach fellow students about carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as the “Fitness Committee” discusses BMI and leads stretching sessions.
This article focuses on the “embedding” physical activity into every part of the school day, not just during the assigned physical education times. At one district, students work on laptops standing up and are allowed to sit, kneel, or stand throughout the lesson, encouraging continuous activity. According to the American Heart Association, physical education in schools is decreasing, and these techniques help to integrate it in various aspects of the curriculum. Technology provides a motivational tool for students, and the new, wireless versions allow for more movement and freedom. Even schools do not have the financial means to purchase fancy gadgets or desks, there is still an endless amount of ways a teacher can incorporate physical activity into the classroom.
What are some of the ways technology can be incorporated into physical activity and embedded in the school day?
Ipods can become a part of the learning and promote physical activity by having students walk around a track while listening to podcasts. Teachers could also create videos that combine movement with learning. For example, a kindergarten teacher could create an appealing video, which teaches phonics using hand and body movements. Kids can also create a health video or PowerPoint presentation.
What is an effective way to get students, parents, faculty and the community involved in this movement?
By hosting an after school health fair, as mentioned in the article, all parties are able to come together to support physical activity. Students can research and plan for the fair. A local medical facility can come in and discuss healthy lifestyles. There “Nutrition committee” could teach fellow students about carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as the “Fitness Committee” discusses BMI and leads stretching sessions.
Journal # 8
“Virtual Schooling” by Niki Davis and Dale S. Niederhauser
This article discusses the growing trend of virtual schooling and the impact it is having on the boundaries of education. Virtual schooling, which is when K-12 courses are offered primarily through digital communication, offers a wide variety of opportunities for students. According to the article, “…one-third of public school students enrolled in distance education courses during the 2002-03 school year, with approximately 300,000 students participating in Web-based online courses. This type of learning allows for educators to tailor their curriculum and activities to better fit the needs of individual students, supporting the No Child Left Behind legislation. It aids the displaced students, as well as those who are not able to physically be in the classroom. Supporters hope that Virtual schooling will instill motivation of lifelong learning, due to its accessibility. The three main roles in a VS system include designer, teacher, and site facilitator. The site facilitator is the advocate of the VS system, providing support for students and acting as the medium between the teacher and students.
Is distance learning a good idea? Does it benefit the students?
I think distance learning is an excellent way to allow kids to experience places they would never be able to otherwise see. It is a great way to get them engaged in interested in several topics.
Is distance learning appropriate for elementary-aged students?
DL can be for anyone! There are many websites that guide elementary school teachers in integrating distance learning into their curriculum through virtual field trips. They even coordinate a videoconference in which the students can ask the expert any questions
This article discusses the growing trend of virtual schooling and the impact it is having on the boundaries of education. Virtual schooling, which is when K-12 courses are offered primarily through digital communication, offers a wide variety of opportunities for students. According to the article, “…one-third of public school students enrolled in distance education courses during the 2002-03 school year, with approximately 300,000 students participating in Web-based online courses. This type of learning allows for educators to tailor their curriculum and activities to better fit the needs of individual students, supporting the No Child Left Behind legislation. It aids the displaced students, as well as those who are not able to physically be in the classroom. Supporters hope that Virtual schooling will instill motivation of lifelong learning, due to its accessibility. The three main roles in a VS system include designer, teacher, and site facilitator. The site facilitator is the advocate of the VS system, providing support for students and acting as the medium between the teacher and students.
Is distance learning a good idea? Does it benefit the students?
I think distance learning is an excellent way to allow kids to experience places they would never be able to otherwise see. It is a great way to get them engaged in interested in several topics.
Is distance learning appropriate for elementary-aged students?
DL can be for anyone! There are many websites that guide elementary school teachers in integrating distance learning into their curriculum through virtual field trips. They even coordinate a videoconference in which the students can ask the expert any questions
Journal #7
“Does Your District Need a Technology Audit?” By Howard Pitler
In this article, Pitler addresses the fact that many districts are required by law to go through annual financial audits to assess the budget. Some even conduct curriculum audits to analyze the implementation of the curriculum in the classroom. Not many districts chose to conduct a tech audit, although technology is a large portion of the budget. Technology audits anser many questions including: How do the teachers feel about using technology? How do they use technology in the classroom? How effective is technology-related professional development? The first step in a tech audit is to collect the data. By surveying the teachers, conducting interviews, creating a focus group, and participating in a building walkthrough, auditors are able to determine the how technology is utilized on campus and its effectiveness. Then, the auditor analyzes the data, creates a final report, and follows up on the schools progress.
Why is it important to have a tech auditor?
A third-party tech auditor provides an unbiased view of how the school is doing regarding technology. Aside from assessing the appropriateness of tech use in the classroom, he or she is able to pinpoint where the issues are and how to create the most effective technology programs.
Is this necessary for all schools, including the younger ones?
It is immensely beneficial for all districts to go through this kind of audit. It helps them to make the most of technology and ensure that it is being properly integrated into all classrooms. Many audits will also suggest specific types of professional development to improve the programs
In this article, Pitler addresses the fact that many districts are required by law to go through annual financial audits to assess the budget. Some even conduct curriculum audits to analyze the implementation of the curriculum in the classroom. Not many districts chose to conduct a tech audit, although technology is a large portion of the budget. Technology audits anser many questions including: How do the teachers feel about using technology? How do they use technology in the classroom? How effective is technology-related professional development? The first step in a tech audit is to collect the data. By surveying the teachers, conducting interviews, creating a focus group, and participating in a building walkthrough, auditors are able to determine the how technology is utilized on campus and its effectiveness. Then, the auditor analyzes the data, creates a final report, and follows up on the schools progress.
Why is it important to have a tech auditor?
A third-party tech auditor provides an unbiased view of how the school is doing regarding technology. Aside from assessing the appropriateness of tech use in the classroom, he or she is able to pinpoint where the issues are and how to create the most effective technology programs.
Is this necessary for all schools, including the younger ones?
It is immensely beneficial for all districts to go through this kind of audit. It helps them to make the most of technology and ensure that it is being properly integrated into all classrooms. Many audits will also suggest specific types of professional development to improve the programs
Journal # 6
"Social Justice: Choice or Necessity?" by Colleen Swain and David Edyburn
This article talks about the use of technology as a tool for social justice. To succeed in today’s society, students need to be technologically fluent to be able to apply their knowledge in the workplace. Many teachers do not effectively use technology in the classroom, therefore disadvantaging their future. They have the class use computers for remedial work or do not allow all students equal time. To equivocally employ technology, teachers must ensure that it is being used regularly on meaningful projects and to enhance the leaning of all students. The first step is to provide computer access. If the school does not have the financial means, then they can acquire discounted or free computers through refurbishment Web sites. Locating powerful resources is the next step, as educators need to assess aspects such as how the program supports higher level thinking opportunities. Keeping a journal for reflection is another integral part of this process. This allows teachers to analyze and improve their strategies.
Why is equal use of technology important?
It is imperative for all students to have equal access to the computer because it directly affects their ability to achieve success in the future. It needs to be treated as a valuable resource for ALL students in the classroom, not just a select group.
How can teachers implement technology in the curriculum to promote growth for all students?
Teachers can use software or the internet to aid all children such as struggling readers and English Learners. It is fun for students to use computer programs, and these programs can be specifically tailored for them.
This article talks about the use of technology as a tool for social justice. To succeed in today’s society, students need to be technologically fluent to be able to apply their knowledge in the workplace. Many teachers do not effectively use technology in the classroom, therefore disadvantaging their future. They have the class use computers for remedial work or do not allow all students equal time. To equivocally employ technology, teachers must ensure that it is being used regularly on meaningful projects and to enhance the leaning of all students. The first step is to provide computer access. If the school does not have the financial means, then they can acquire discounted or free computers through refurbishment Web sites. Locating powerful resources is the next step, as educators need to assess aspects such as how the program supports higher level thinking opportunities. Keeping a journal for reflection is another integral part of this process. This allows teachers to analyze and improve their strategies.
Why is equal use of technology important?
It is imperative for all students to have equal access to the computer because it directly affects their ability to achieve success in the future. It needs to be treated as a valuable resource for ALL students in the classroom, not just a select group.
How can teachers implement technology in the curriculum to promote growth for all students?
Teachers can use software or the internet to aid all children such as struggling readers and English Learners. It is fun for students to use computer programs, and these programs can be specifically tailored for them.
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