My Personal Learning Network Journal #7

NETS-V Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership
Educators need to continuously grow, explore new ideas and model lifelong learning. One way to seek new information is through a Personal Learning Network which is a customized group of resources gathered from different technological tools.

 A Personal Learning Network (PLN) is a customized group of resources gathered from different technological tools such as Twitter, Delicious or Wikis.  A PLN allows the educational community to collaboratively share information, knowledge, lesson plans, or new pedagogy locally or globally.  I started my Personal Learning Network by subscribing to Classroom 2.0; adding and following education related forums and chats on Twitter; using Delicious Bookmarking website.  My Personal Learning Network is designed to assemble many different educational resources in one place that can be easily accessed and expanded based on my personal interests.  As a future educator I will continue to grow my PLN and participate in my network community.  I will seek opportunities implement the information and knowledge gathered from my PLN to directly improve student learning.   

My twitter account consists mostly of Educational Websites.  The Websites include the National Endowment for Humanities, US Department of Education, National Association of Elementary Schools, NEA media, and The National Middle School Association.  I am also following our edchat422 and will add teachers as I grow my twitter network.  I originally chose to add the website to stay current in the educational community. 

My delicious bookmarks follow the same format as my twitter account.  I have tagged websites such as the Websites for students: 10 Learning Tools, Google for Educators, Smithsonian Education Website, NEA achievement gaps, and multiple intelligences.  I didn’t search for anything specific because I wanted to explore broad ideas.  In the future I will narrow the searches as I become more familiar with the networking tools. 

 I joined the digital forum Classroom 2.0.  Within the website I followed the blog link Most Popular Blog Posts By John Costilla.  On his post he had 100 best youtube videos for teachers list provided by SmartTeaching.org.  This list included videos for History, Science, Language, Art, Inspiration, Classroom Management, How To’s and Guides, Technology and Humor.  I watched a video made by Steve Spangler, How to be an amazing teacher.  He demonstrated different activities that would amaze and engage elementary students.  I look forward to exploring other videos on this blog page.  When I incorporate technology into my classroom I will use some of the videos in my lesson plans.   

iMovie CSUSM PSA

NETS-IV Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility
Using digital video editing software is a great way to make a movie which advocates, models and teaches safe, legal, and ethical uses of digital information.

Journal #10

Journal #10 “10 Great Ways to use Digital Video Cameras in the Classroom” NETS-I, II, IV

Ullman, Ellen. (2010).10 great ways to use digital video cameras in the classroom. Tech and Learning, 31(4), Retrieved from http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/newbay/tl_201011/#/

This article highlights 10 different ways to use digital video cameras in the classroom. The ideas to utilize video include public service announcements, creative slide shows, immerse classrooms in another culture, record student’s journals or responses, learning to read and improve school to home communication. Teachers are experimenting with different creative options incorporating technology.

Q1: Wouldn’t using digital video be expensive?

A1: Not necessarily, any type of camera could be used to create videos, including phones, flips or standard video cameras.  Many people already own video cameras, a teacher could use their own camera, or a parent could lend a camera to the classroom for use.  A retail store could be petitioned to donate a camera to the school.  A school would only need one camera to share with all the classrooms, where as other equipment would need to be provided in multiples. 

Q1: Should teachers utilize this media more in their classrooms?  

A1: There are many options and ideas available about how to use cameras for academic improvement. Teachers have an incredible opportunity to utilize technology to reach and inspire students in non traditional ways. Using video also gives teachers the option of reviewing their students performance and can focus on areas that need improvement.  

Journal #9

Ed 422 Journal #9  “I Can See Me: Webcams in the Classroom”  NETS 1,2 & 5

Frey, Timothy J., Houlton, Abby L., & Gruis, Elizabeth D. (2010). I can see me: webcams in the classroom. Learning & Leading with Technology, 38(3), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-november.aspx

Webcams are put to use in the classroom to help struggling readers.  Students watch and record themselves as they read.  As they see themselves they begin to recognize errors and begin to self correct and self monitor.  Students who used webcams showed a decrease in errors and an increase in reading fluency.  

Q1: What would be the difficulty to implementing a webcam reader program in the classroom?

A1: One of the problems would be, not all schools have the equipment necessary to implement a webcam program.  Also, it  is incredibly time consuming.  If a teacher had 32 students and if even a third needed the support of a webcam program, that would be 10 students trying to read, re-read, record and review on a consistent basis to gain the benefits from the program.  Unless a teacher had an aide that could be assigned just to help those reading students it would be extremely hard to utilize the program. 

Q1: How else could a webcam be used in the classroom?

A1: The ability to use a webcam in the classroom can connect students with other students across the United States and the World.  Students could also collaborate in groups to record a project.  A webcam could be used as a testing tool.  Instead of just the standard paper based test, students could be asked a series of questions and recorded.  The recording could then be analyzed for understanding of concepts.  Technology needs to be reevaluated and utilized for its value to improve education.

Journal #8

Journal #8  “Teach you students to share using iCyte” NETS 2, 3, 4 & 5

Huston, David. (2010). Teach your students to share using icyte. Learning & Leading with Technology, 38(3), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-november.aspx

The tool iCyte is a bookmarking tool that allows students to capture, save, share information and collaborate on research projects.  It acts like a personal learning network.  Students are able to bookmark certain sites they found relevant to their research, and access sites that other students have found relevant to the topic.  This tool could take the place of scanning  several sites trying to find relevant sources.  

Q1: What are the benefits of using iCyte?

A1:  There are many benefits to using iCyte.  One benefit is students can share their information.  After finding relevant sources, students are able to save it in one location for easy access which saves time.  Another benefit is the abundance of relevant information in one location.  It is an easy tool to learn and can be utilized during a regular computer lab session. 

Q2: Are there any drawbacks to using iCyte?

A1: There would be very few drawbacks to using iCyte.  It would be the responsibility of the teacher to research the site and learn how to use it effectively then teach it to the students.  Some students may have difficulty with learning a new technology tool.  Some students may not find it necessary to look for new information to add.  

Journal #6

ED 422   Arlynn Cook   November 11, 2010

Journal #6 “Change Agent” NETS-T  3, 4 & 5

Rebora, A. (2010, October 11). Change agent. Education Week Teacher pd Sourcebook, 4(1), Retrieved from http://www.edweek.org/tsb/articles/2010/10/12/01richardson.h04.html?cmp=clp-edweek&intc=bs&sms_ss=delicious&at_xt=4cb7dc75d0303b73

Educational Weekly conducted on interview with Will Richardson, who is a high school teacher and has written a book “Integrating Web 2.0 technology in classrooms K-12” and advocates integrating Web 2.0 tools in the classroom.  He believes students need to learn how to navigate the web and share information using current technologies, moving away from a “what not to do” attitude toward a “what to do”.  He says the environment of education and learning is changing and teachers must embrace the new culture and learn to utilize web 2.0 tools to build a network of other educators to share and gather ideas.  The second component is to teach the students how to use the web and build their own network for accessing and learning.  Learning and education needs to be moved from the traditional platform to a technology based one.  He agrees that children today are considered tech savvy, however, in more of a social and interest based arena than a learning one.

Q1.  Who is responsible for implementing a technology based learning program in the schools?

A1.  According to Richardson he believes the responsibility lies with the teachers who should model, provide technology understanding and implement a technology based structure into the curriculum.  That would be totally unrealistic, the only way the platform of education could change would be for a complete overhaul of the education system, starting with the legislators at the top who have already implemented a system of high stakes testing.  In addition, some schools are provided more technology resources than others, it is already a proven fact the resources are not evenly distributed across school districts.

Q1.  Would teaching technology to students limit their attention span or learning ability ?

A1.  Teaching students how to research and gather information effectively enhances literacy and comprehension and exercises analytical thinking and problem solving.  In addition it would provide the opportunity for students to participate and network with other students in an appropriate learning community.  

PLN

Visit Classroom 2.0

Inspiration NETS Organizer

NETS-V Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership
An inspiration presentation can be used as a collaborative tool to visually organize current research to enhance profession practice.

Journal 4 Computing in the clouds NETS-T 3 & 5

Ed 422   Arlynn Cook   October 7, 2010

Journal #4 “Computing in the Clouds”

Johnson, Doug. (2009). Computing in the clouds. Learning and leading with technology, 37(December/January 09/10), Retrieved from http://iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Computing_in_the_Clouds.aspx

In his article “Computing in the Clouds”, Doug Johnson explains the pros and cons of moving from a hard drive driven platform to a universal network that exists on a cloud.  Some of his points are; it is less expensive because there is no need to invest in a larger computer system to run all the necessary software needed for say word processing.  Using cloud based processing like Google docs allows anyone from any computer to log onto the internet and use the free application for word processing.  Another pro would be since it exists on a web based platform people would have access to all their files from any computer and wouldn’t need to transfer that information via email or flash drive.  Some of the cons are, the cloud platforms may not accommodate a large presentation or a more complicated project.  In addition there is always the risk of losing your information, so it may be necessary to back up files on a hard drive anyway.  Even though Google says your information is safe there is always the risk someone could gain access to your information.  Clearly there would be specific instances where working on a cloud would be optimal, mostly word processing or collaborative projects.

Q1.  Who would benefit the most from using this type of platform?

A1.  I believe students would benefit from cloud computing the most.  First, there is no need for a large computer or expensive software.  Laptops or Notebooks are relatively inexpensive, portable, and web accessible.  Students could access their documents from any computer and could work collaboratively with peers on group projects.  High school and middle school students could word process on a cloud at school and access their work at home or at the library without the need for an email or storage device.  Students could also utilize other programs than just Office products.  There are many free applications available students could experiment with.

Q1.  How could schools utilize this type of computing?

A1.  Schools now operate using different software for different schools even in the same district.  Cloud computing could lower costs for school districts by eliminating the need to provide software and bring cohesion to operations.  Teachers could incorporate and encourage document creation at school knowing students could have access at home.  School districts would need to expand their network infrastructure to accommodate such large hard drive systems, thus saving money.  However, before this can become a reality for schools there needs to be research done to make sure information would be safe.

Journal 3

EDUC 422 Arlynn Cook September 28, 2010

Journal #3 “Bring the World into Your Classroom” NETS-1 and 2

McDermon, Linda. (n.d.). Bring the world into your classroom. Learning and leading with technology, Volume 38 No. 2 (September/October), Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/20100910//Pring_submit.action

Interactive video-conferencing is being used in K-12 classrooms to bring a greater world experience to students.  Conferencing can be used to connect with other classrooms in the United States or around the World.  It can also be used to visit educational destinations such as museums. Linda McDermon in her article tells of two programs that have benefited students, RAP (Read Around the Planet) and Mega Conference Jr. Both programs have brought students from different parts of the country together to collaborate on projects and exchange ideas.

Q1: How do these types of programs benefit students?

A1: These programs give teachers the tools to incorporate hands-on multicultural learning.  It fosters understanding and gives students the opportunity to meet and engage with different children they might not have ever had the chance to interact with, especially with students of other countries. Utilizing this type of technology brings students into the 21^st century and provides the awareness of what is possible through technology.

Q1: How many school districts or classrooms take advantage of the technology tool?

A1:  It is hard to know how widespread video-conferencing is.  As with many states and school districts there isn’t an all encompassing policy that includes all programs in each school within each district.  Most of the time affluent areas have access to technology more that lower achieving areas.  The Federal and State institutions that are responsible for curriculum need to investigate the benefits of such programs and facilitate implementation.  There is several free software options available to get a video-conferencing program started.  It is important to integrate the use of technology into the classroom as a norm instead of random pilot programs scattered throughout the United States, and unfortunately most are found in affluent schools. 

Journal #2

EDUC 422 Arlynn Cook September 28, 2010

Journal #2 “Join the Flock!” and “Enhance Your Twitter Experience” NETS-3 and 5

Miller McClintock, Shannon. (2010). Enhance you twitter experience. Learning and leading with technology, 37(June/July), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=June_July_No_8_2&Template=/Members

Ferguson, Hadley. (2010). Join the flock!. Learning and leading with    technology,37(June/July),Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues?Volumes37200920

Both articles, “Join the Flock!” and “Enhance Your Twitter Experience”, advocate the use of a PLN (Professional Learning Network) to enhance the resources available to educators.  To build a PLN both authors suggest using Twitter as the main technology platform to build ones PLN.  Each author gives step by step instructions or suggestions on how to get started, follow and manage Twitter accounts.  Miller prefers to use a TweetDeck to help her organize her contacts and information, while Ferguson has different Twitter accounts for different information.  Again both articles mention using hash tags, which is a system designed to target specific topics, and works by attaching the # symbol to Tweets.  

Q1: How would a PLN be beneficial to an educator?

A1: The purpose of a PLN is to be able to tap into all sorts of ideas regarding education from all different people around the country and world.  In doing so it provides an opportunity to gain ideas through only  one source, your Tweets, it’s like having the information come to you instead of having to seek and research different sources.  It also gives the educator the freedom to customize their PLN based on what they are specifically interested in.  For, example a 6^th grade Social Studies teacher that is interested in The American Civil War can network with other 6^th grade Social Studies teachers to get ideas and view resources that have been helpful to them.  An educator’s PLN can expand the teaching experience which in turn expands the learning experience for students.

Q2: What are some draw backs to using Twitter for a PLN?

A1:   Some drawbacks to starting a PLN using Twitter would be, one it takes an incredible amount of time to get started, especially if you are not Tech or Twitter Savvy.   It takes time to create an account and to filter through the vast amount of information available.  Twitter is also a place for casual communication which can be distracting.  After you have navigated the information and have established some resources it then takes time and effort to stay current with your network of colleagues.  Teachers are very busy and every minute is precious, so unless one is extremely organized and efficient a PLN can become a drain on time.  When an educator is researching different methods of lifelong learning, they should be very certain and confident about the route they choose.  As with any new endeavor there is a learning curve and if it is easily overcome then a PLN can be priceless.

School 2.0 Reflection Tool

NETS-V Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership
School 2.0 is a tool used to evaluate current research in technology and includes information about how to incorporate technology into the classroom. 

Blog post 2.0 Reflection Tool

I was interested in learning how to find information on ways to network with other educators in regards to technology in the classroom.  One of the resource options I searched led me to a Digital Education Blog.  It had a lot of information about legal policies that addressed internet use in schools.  It gave the latest updates about the FCC's E-rate program.  The program is involved in supplying discount internet access for schools and is also working on providing access to educational mobile devices in areas off campus.  As with any federal agency, legislation and policy is an ongoing process and this blog site keeps educators up to date.  Some of the other resources I clicked on took me to some sites that wanted to sell educational materials or books.  It would take some time and perseverience to weed through to find useful information.  Overall, I can see the potential for educators to gain some useful tools and networks.

EDUC 422 Journal #1

EDUC 422 Arlynn Cook September 21, 2010

Journal #1 “Taking Laptops Schoolwide”  NETS-5

Green, T, Donovan, L, & Bass, K. (2010). Taking laptops schoolwide: a professional learning community approach. Learning and leading with technology, 38(1), Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading

This article highlights the merits of using laptops in the classroom at each grade level K-12.  The authors recommend using a teacher collaboration approach to incorporating laptop use in schools.  The collaborative approach includes teachers meeting to discuss student data, student progress and implementation of computer skills into the curriculum.  Teachers in schools that integrated the laptops into the curriculum assigned computer skill building as homework.   Teachers determined introducing basic laptop skills at a lower grade level ensured student computer proficiency shown at higher grade levels, stating that progressive laptop use improved skills.  The authors stress four areas of consideration when implementing a one-to-one collaborative laptop program into a school.  These four areas are School climate, communication, collaboration and progression of use.  The conclusion of their article states “they realize every school context is different, that despite the differences each school will work through the same issues.” (Green, Donovan, & Bass, 2010)

Q1: Does this program ensure the equality/equity of education?

 A1: This type of program would be extremely difficult to incorporate into schools that don’t have the resources from their state, district or their communities.  As mentioned in the article one school district with 20 schools had only 6 of them participating in the laptop program.  It takes more than just teacher collaboration to make it possible for all students to have the opportunity to learn and work with current technology.  It is unfair to say that all schools given different contexts face the same issues.  That is simply unrealistic and one sided.  The article itself even states laptops were only integrated into a GATE program targeting combination 3/4 and 4/5 classes, insinuating that not all the students at that school had equal opportunity.  Unless programs like these that utilize new technology are made available to every student in every school there will always be inequality and inequitable education.

Q2:  What could be done to ensure a successful laptop program for all schools?

A2:  Programs like Taking Laptops Schoolwide are an excellent idea.  Our society and government should understand and focus on the importance of educating a computer/technology literate society.  The mandate for technology in education needs to come from the top.  There needs to be a universal program for all states and school districts to bring laptops and curriculum into every classroom not just a chosen few.  If each school district was responsible instead of individual teachers there could be collaboration district, state and nationwide.  It is imperative that students without access to computers at home be given the opportunity to have access to them at school.  There also needs to be more time allotted for students to use computers at school to ensure they are gaining and improving their technology skills.

   

Introducing Arlynn Cook

My name is Arlynn Cook, I was born in Northern California, inland from the Bay area. My father was in the military so when I was 5 we moved to Colorado. Four years later he got orders to ship to Germany so my mom and I moved to Escondido to be close to my grandparents, that was back in 1980 and I have been here ever since. My school experience was not that great until I attended Palomar College and received my AA in 1991. My husband and I were teenage friends, but we officially started dating the day I graduated from high school. We got married and had three children so my education was put on hold. My oldest, Justin 19 is now at Palomar working toward his nursing degree, Daniel 17 is a senior at Orange Glen High School and is on the road to UCSD, and my daughter, Alyssa 13 is an 8th grader at Bear Valley Middle School. After my kids became a bit older I finally decided on what I would like to do for a career, so I went back to school to work toward my teaching credential and here I am. My favorite place is the desert, specifically Ocotillo Wells, we have been taking our family to Ocotillo Wells for many years. And during desert season, October to May, we try and go at least once a month. All of my children learned to ride motorcycles at a very young age and I have a dune buggy. It is a whole lot of FUN!




Since I grew up in the 80's technology for me meant school papers on a word processor, music on the go was AA batteries and many tapes, I still needed change to make a phone call, and personal computers had green screens. I have to admit I am slow in learning and keeping up with today's technology. My daughter helps me navigate Face book, I didn't have a cell phone until I was in my early 30's and only started texting when I got a phone with a keyboard. However, my ipod is awesome! I am hopeful this class will help me gain the much needed skills to be more tech savvy.



The mission statement for the College of Education is very forward thinking. I like the emphasis on diversity, educational equity and lifelong learning. With the NCLB Act I believe education has taken a huge step backward. While Math and Reading are very important they should not be the sole focus for education, students need to experience science and social studies as well as learn how to nurture their physical and emotional well being. Through such a forward thinking program and training I hope to contribute to furthering education reform in a positive direction to include a well rounded curriculum.



My blog address:



mrscookies422.blogspot.com