A perfect marriage. What is the point in studying educational technology and the affordances new tools have on learning without looking at educational psychology? I have begun that process by undertaking a PhD program offered through Michigan State University. Follow the journey and the discussions that are produced.
Friday, July 17, 2009
A (not quite) Two-Year-Old and Her Puzzle
One thing I've learned is to never be too surprised at what Carmen is learning, because she amazes me every time. Here's a link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILO7wYPE3Vc
As a side, I also missed a video/picture of another great moment from this morning. Carmen was sitting at the piano plunking the keys and singing her ABCs when she paused and turned the page of the music book above her. She looked at the page and turned to me to say in an apprehensive voice with a matching expression, "Oh, that's a toughie." It was a great moment and I am still chuckling at it.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Skype an Author Into Your Library or Classroom - Skype An Author Network
Toward the close of this past school year, I had the pleasure of connecting my classroom with another U.S. History classroom in Liberty, MO, using Skype. The teacher, Eric Langhorst, and I configured two half-hour sessions in which our students could discuss recent topics of study.
The impact of that opportunity was amazing. Word spread instantly though the district about what my students did in class and I still hear from people how "cool" they thought that was.
"Cool", although it certainly was that, does not adequately describe the event in its entirety. The instructional implications were far greater. By helping to smash the barriers that enclose learning within the four walls of the classroom, students are able to see how technology should be used in the school and learning.
This wiki, the "Skype and Author Network", is a fantastic project that deserves attention. By allowing students to connect with an author and discuss their book as they are reading makes a lasting impression and solidifies learning that has taken place and opens unique opportunities for enhancement.
The technology required to facilitate this activity is within reach of nearly every classroom I have seen. All a classroom needs is a computer with high-speed Internet access and a web-cam (these can be purchased for $25). For a more enhanced experience, a LCD projector can be used for a larger display, but is not required.
Our students are surrounded by an increasing ubiquity of technology that is advancing at an increasing rate. Teachers do not need to know how to use it all and apply it seamlessly in their lessons for them to participate in the growing trend, they must simply seek simple applications with lasting effects and demonstrate for their students that technology is not just for entertainment and leisure, it is for learning, too.