Spring2011

The following video was shared by one of my professor's in one of my courses and I immediately thought I should share it with this class. It's basically a clip of how technology has grown over the past decades and leaves viewers wondering about the great impactand change technology will keep bringing. In it, it also gives way to notice the importance implementing technology in the classroom/education has in order to prepare students with the real-world technology skills they will need. media type="youtube" key="d8W1WuxGniE" height="349" width="425" Rocio Najera

I found this video on You Tube. It's someone's opinion on the subject of FaceBook. Veronica Guzman EDAD 5302 media type="youtube" key="Dvd9H7FOvII" height="390" width="480" Testing testing

I have been studying disruptive technology and have used them in my personal life. The idea of offering something at such a low cost to consumers that could normally not afford it is genius. I have done further research into other companies that have used this disruptive technology such as Nintendo with the Wii or Metro PCS and thier unlimited everything plan. This class has been wonderful and insightful. I feel like I got my monies worth out of this class.

Edward Woolcock EDAD 5302

This class has beeen wonderful and insightful. It has given me a different perspective on the use of technology. The i Phone or Ipods can be wonderful tools and you can get a lot of free APPS for any subject. Four or five years ago a few elementaries used Nintendos (ED games) for after school programs. R. Miramontes EDAD 5302

In the book study, the authors mentioned the project-based learning approach to creating student-centric learning. I think with the additional integration of Web 2.0, students using the PBL model can continue to work cooperatively outside of school increasing their ability to critically think and problem solve. However, i think there are many precautions that need to be taken when using social networking websites.

Jessica Erwin EDAD 5302


 * This is my first time embedding a You-tube video into a wiki, so I hope this works. I wanted to share with you all the video, Did You Know 2.0, which shows how rapidly our world is changing in terms of the type of learners our society is cultivating, and the changes our educators must make if we want to create more global learners with the 21st Century skills they need to be successful in the business world. For example, rather that residing to the one-way, monolithic style of teaching where the teacher takes center stage, and the children are simply required to regurgitate the information back on a standardized exam, we need to teach students to think critically, creatively, and learn how to apply what they know through the collaboration with others. All of these skills can be taught and applied through the use of technology in the modern classroom. If we want the United States to continue to be a competitive market in the fields of science, engineering, medicine, and business, educational leaders need to make the shift towards a more digital world in learning. Enjoy! **

~ Kimberly Munn EDAD 5302

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P.Coleman, my district just opened YouTube for teachers to use in class. We had a new AUP to sign. If you would like the info, you can email me: Alison.Keene@dvusd.org Alison Keene EDAD 5302 cohort

You Tube is a wonderful tool if used properly, but it could cause a lot of disruption, interruptions or distractions in the school setting. I use You-Tube for my Spanish literature, but I have to download all videos at home to Real Player and then show them on the Promethean Board. I even thought of assigning each student a video related to a literary work to save time, but to be safe I would have to send a form or letter to explain to the parents the assignment because they will come across innapropriate material. Ramon Miramontes EDAD 5302 I wanted to share this video with y'all. Even though a smart phone will (never) replace the computer I do agree many people use the phonefor daily functions they use to need to turn on the computer... is the Iphone or even the Ipad a disruptive Technology for the computer? It seems to be having an impact in education and in the classrooms! Rocio Paredes

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EDAD 5302

YouTube is a website that create wonderful opportunities for learning, yet many school districts block its usage. Is there any way we could work around this stumbling block? P. Coleman EDAD 5302 I like to use U-Tube for my literature class. It is a great tool, but all the work or downloads have At the Texas Computer Education Association(TCEA) Conference in Austin this year, I learned about a project using a Facebook template to create a fake page for an historical figure. This site has a template for download and other suggested implementations. I am going to try it with my 5th graders, but I think middle school and high school students especially could get very creative! []

Here is a website where you can build and publish a fake wall...it also has some good examples, but you need to sign up for an account. It's up to you how you want your students to present their information. http://www.myfakewall.com/ Amanda Schumann EDAD 5302

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/17/25ileap.h30.html?tkn=TWQFF6zhbX7PB%2Bf9kHijUsSpeQ7VGdRQ5zod&cmp=clp-edweek?intc=TC11ENL The article above shares a great example of technology disrupting the traditional classroom setting. Tara Miller

Excellent question, Tina!! I wonder what did happen to the response system we were supposed to get? I guess we got the Smart Slates instead??--Laura S. Laura, we need to ask at tonight's leadership meeting what happened... I remember last year when a company's rep came to show us a response system and it appeared that several teachers were interested. I think we did use the money on our smart slates (and no one really uses them) : (

Has anyone tried using this class response system? My school was supposed to get some response systems similar to this one last year but I do not know what happened... Tina P EDAD 5302

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What is Inquiry Based Learning? In this video, three 9th grade students do a great job of discussing and explaining this. It goes well with this weeks case study on Napa, CA and the methods being used in the New Tech High School model discussed there. media type="custom" key="8779614"

Tom Mossbarger EDAD 5302 Sec. 11

I thought your video was cool. I like that the students were explaining the benefits. My district encourages explicit direct instruction and no inquiry for classroom management reasons. However, many of our students could benefit from inquiry. However, as a math teacher, I am not free to use this type of learning with my students. I am currently looking for another job where I have more autonomy in the decisions I make.

I found out today my district specifically prohibits teachers from having their own websites, blogs, wiki or any other sort of online interaction with students. Lauren Dellert EDAD 5302 Sec.11 Its so unfortunate that your schools won't allow inquiry based learning or online interaction! I have seen huge gains in my students' success, creativity and interaction using inquiry based learning. I have had several students take on leadership roles when they were too afraid or uninterested before. It also has been easier to differentiate for each learner's needs. Laura Trubilowicz EDAD 5302

Tom Mossbarger EDAD 5302 Sec. 11

I have never Wikied before, but it is pretty cool. It would be cool for my math classroom. I have a goal to figure out how to take quick videos of my teaching (2-5 minute clips) that capture the major content of a skill. Students and parents could access the website daily to watch the video to assist their child and their homework and prepare for quizzes. I would be interested if someone knew an application that allows oneself to take quick webcam videos and post them on a website.

Aubrey Cobb EDAD 5302 Sec. 11

The more I journey through this course, the more I realize how much more there is for me to learn about all the various technology tools that could prove to be highly valuable in the education and future learning of my students. I want to be the best teacher I can be for them, ad before I can begin to be that vital source to guide them through all the benefits of learning online and instilling within them the 21st Century skills, I too, need to become more educated in these areas by continuously improving my skills and learning about how to create, manage, and apply wikis and blogs to the instructional teachings in my classroom. One of my first priorities when I am hired to my new district will be to investigate and research any upcoming workshop opportunities to become involved and gain more insight into these technology, learning tools. As quoted by Alvin Toffler, " The illiterate of the 21st Century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn." Kimberly Munn EDAD 5302 sec 11

When I lived in Japan I taught at a university where there was definitely a culture of technology use, and one of the best experiences I had there was having one of my advanced freshman classes create a Wiki on Japanese culture that they developed over the semester and then shared with incoming international students from many countries during their orientation. The students were thrilled to have something to talk about with these international students, and felt good that they had created something useful in a collaborative way. Adam Gray EDAD 5302 Section 1006

Thanks to my wife having taken a workshop on how to Wiki I have gained new insight into this form of technology. Man, I'm glad I married her. However, after using wiki I think it would very beneficial to use in the classroom setting in multiple subject areas. I feel that this form on discussion could aid students and staff in discovering much more about each others needs and goals. I really enjoyed using wiki. Matt Tate EDAD 5302 SEC 9 Good evening everyone, I'm sooo new to Wiki. I think I just posted twice because I don't know what I'm doing! Anthony Dansby EDAD 5302 sec 11 Hello All. I, too, am new to Wiki. I definitely see the possibilities available with staff members, teachers, students, and parents. I believe this tool will be a great way to collaborate, network, and share ideas and strategies with all stakeholders! TarMica Berry EDAD 5302

I could use this in math to explain how to solve equations. An administrator could use this as an online way to answer tough questions. The teachers could just log on and answer anonymously. Christopher Gusman EDAD 5302

I can surely see how using a Wiki in my classroom would engage students, especially when using a smartboard. Amanda Cobb EDAD 5302

This is new to me also! I have heard many teachers talk about using them for their classes and wondered what I was missing. Now I can see how this could be for my classes. When students are working on a joint venture they could used this to edit their work at home or at school. Students just finished a project that students complained about now getting to put their enough time to work together. With a Wiki they could! Kaye Hancock EDAD 5302

I am also new to Wikis. Several teachers at my school use them. Here is a link to my school's Wikis just to get an idea. The first one is pretty neat. Its a 3D Animation class and they post assigments on the Wiki for all to see. From what I hear, students tend to try harder as well knowing everyone will see their project. Im interested on how to implement these in my math classes. Any ideas? -Rocky Torres 5302

This is my first time to participate in a WIKI. I think it could definitely be used with students in my classroom. I can't wait to set up one for my class. Amanda Diehl EDAD 5302

Did anyone notice Christensen's plug for his own company in his book? (p. 144, []) Lisa Mazza 3/20 I have noticed that. I know that he is not wanting to replace teachers with computers (supposedly) ... but sometimes I feel he prefers the computers. I have a better solution than Guaranteach -try [|Ten Marks] or [|Khan Academy] - they are ABSOLUTELY FREE and student centric!!! ~ Candace Townsley

This is also my first time using a Wiki. I feel a bit silly saying that. It is a great tool and I hope to implement in my classroom. Steve Bibiano

This is a great collaboration tool!! I enjoyed looking over everyone's input. Scott Gutkowski

FINLAND has a lot of things RIGHT - I know this is 7 minutes long... but it's worth watching. There is also a mention of technology towards the end. C.Townsley - 3/20 (sadly the last day of Spring Break - back to work tomorrow!)

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I wanted to share a link to a slideshow I found on Diruptive Innovation in Education! []

-Dannette Heizer EDAD 5302

Hi everyone, I came to look a the wiki just a few minutes ago and almost everything was deleted. I figured out how to revert to the version just prior to the mass delete. I'm sorry if my revert lost anyone's post.

Alison Oswald-Keene

This is my first time at participating in a Wiki. What a great way to collaborate with staff and for students to work together on research topics! I will definitely be using this in the future.

Brett Crowson

I posted earlier in the week, but am afraid that I didn't save right, so I am trying again. I believe with the proper moderation and guidance that this could be a valuable resource.

Randy Guerra

In writing and researching about sustaining innovations, I ran across an interesting video showing how Google Docs is used to create a classroom response system. I thought it was an interesting tutorial and I wanted share. Lester Lopez 5302media type="youtube" key="6VJ1qFcayS8" height="390" width="640"

// Lester, I think this is such a great,easy idea for implementing a classroom response system when your school might not otherwise have the resources available to do so. I can't wait to try this -- thanks for sharing! // JoJo Grano EDAD 5302

Ok, I am a little new to the Wiki environment, nevertheless, I can see how this could be a beneficial tool to utilized in the classroom setting. Teachers are able to assign a specific topics for students to research via web, and in return students are able to comment, add to, and edit each others others findings. I do have a question concerning the Edmodo site. Is it a close site, where my students will only be able to interact with students I specifically assign to the group or is it an open environment like facebook and myspace? Eric Burns EDAD 5302

I have used WIKI in the past to communicate with other teachers in my building within my department and on my team. We have used this at least several times a week to communicate what we are doing in class, etc. I have never thought about using WIKI within in my class but I can see all the ways in which I can use it with my students. Keshia Fields EDAD 5302

This is going to be a valuable resource for communicating with students and other teachers. I can't wait to set up a Wiki for my class. Emmett White EDAD 5302

I can see many possible uses for this in the classroom. Jeremy Jordan EDAD 5302

March 20, 2011 This maybe a repost becasue my last attempt didn't seem to work. My question in the post was "how do you all have the time to maintain your wikis in the classeroom?" Do you post daily as well as assign your students to post for a grade? When do you find the time to read responses? Anyway, I'm enjoying reading everyone's great contributions and I am learning a lot! Simona SimmonsJordan EDAD 5302

response to Joanna Hanson....When I have created a wiki for my students, I have a "home" page that contains all of the instructions and expectations for my students. Then my students create their own pages within our class wiki. That makes it easier for all of us to manage the amount of information that is displayed on the wiki. I personally use the pbworks.com wiki for my classes. At the bottom of the wiki page is a discussion window, and I am able to see the discussion and collaboration among students in regards to putting information on the wiki or about the content we are working with on the wiki. The students love it, and I have found that it has been a success with special education students, regular ed students, and gifted and talented students. I hope that helps answer your questions.

Melissa Bettge EDAD 5302 section 1009

I have never participated in a Wiki before. When Wikipedia was defined in one of the PowerPoint’s, I was able to grasp the concept of a Wiki much better. I’m enjoying reading everyone’s post and I feel better knowing that I am not the only one that is new to Wiki. Carolyn Peterson EDAD 5302

WIKI is very new to me. I know that there are some teachers that teach in special education that have their students write their journals using WIKI. That teacher is much braver than I am. I am afraid that my students would end up deleting other students' posts. My students have a hard enough time logging on to the computer. I like the thought of WIKI but am still very uncomfortable using it in my classroom. Vicki Korpi EDAD 5302

WIKI is pretty new to me but it seems like it's basically a blog with cool benefits. I can see how this would be fun in a classroom. Students are constantly sending me website links and photos and I'd love for other students to be able to access them on their own. I would hope students would be mature enough not to mess with other people's posts...I can think of a couple of students who may be tempted to do just that. That's one thing I like about blogs - the editing! Overall, very cool! Erika Oster EDAD 5302

To be honest, I was not completely sure I understood what a WIKI was before this course. I have never participated in one and am pleased to see how easy it is. I believe using a WIKI as a classroom tool at any grade level could be very beneficial. I am very excited to try out a WIKI in my classroom and give my students a chance to engage with each other in a manner that far exceeds a simple clasroom discussion. Brenna Newman EDAD 5302

YES finally! I'm in the WIKI! I had some problems debugging my script.I went to internet options and disabled the scripting and now I can edit. I wanted to edit one of the first posts I read that had a survey on whether or not you prefer wiki or blogging. I would have liked to add a running total of the participating voters. I can see wiki having a value in K12 education. Thanks Dr. Berning Brett Simien EDAD 5302

Wow - I have never been a part of a WIKI before. The only concern I have is the overwhelming amount of posts/information. Teachers who use this in their classroom - is this a problem? Or do students enjoy the amount of information they have at their fingertips? I especially enjoyed the "not in words".com video! Wow! Joanna Hanson EDAD 5302 (forgot to add this the first time - nice to be able to go back and "edit")

Wiki - 1, Krystal - 0 In the last 10 minutes I figured out you can edit the HOME page or the CLASS page. Of course I did it wrong the first time (or at least I didn't edit the class page)! This is actually really easy to use and can see how Wikis encourage collaborative learning. Krystal Cortez, EDAD 5302

Jim Girouard EDAD 5302

Still not quite sure how all of this works but I also see the educational benefit of WIKIs. This is a really informative site on Disruptive Technologies. [] I have enjoyed reading and experiencing some of the technology options that are available to use. I know it will be successfully used in the classroom with students. I just need my own private tutor to teach me and help me integrate it into my teaching. Monica Sanders, EDAD 5302

The Wiki is a great resource for districts. My district uses a wiki. At first I was confused about the whole concept and did not know I could edit the information. I quickly became accustomed to the advantages of numerous individuals being able to contribute to a common document.

Ashley McAllister EDAD 5302

I like wikis, even though I don't normally use them. However, in keeping with this week's theme for appropriate uses of technology, a wiki can be very appropriate for a class. Some ideas for my content area for which a wiki might be appropriate:

1. Latin IV students select a topic or a writer and they create a wiki with all the information that they have for that writer, including samples of his/her work. 2. Latin III students could create a wiki about epigrams and epigram writers, such as Martial. The whole class could contribute to the wiki, by adding epigrams or explaining them. 3. All Latin students could take one or two grammar points, and make a wiki which would explain them, and possibly link to some practice work. 4. Use a wiki for a "creative" writing project in Latine, students could add, edit, and collaborate online. If I felt really ambitious, they could try connecting with other Latin students outside of our school.

Those are just some ideas for appropriate use of just wikis in my classroom. Janet Gilroy EDAD 5302

The blogging tool was easier for me to navigate than the WIKI has been. Obviously, as I spend more time working on developing my WIKI, I will become more comfortable with the tools and format. Still, I feel that there is more structure and ease with the blog or traditional comment areas. I have enjoyed the exposure to some of the latest technology creations, and have appreciated the experience in that I now know what people are talking about when they refer to wiki, podcasts, etc..Still I am a bit perplexed as to how we could set up/use this in our classrooms. I feel that the blog would be a better tool at this point because of the ease in setting it up for all to access.

Dallas Grimes EDAD 5302

WIKI is something new for me. Just as blogging was. Both can be a GREAT tool to use with my students. The use of either one is one hundred percent under my control. If I become proficient in either on and use it as part of my classroom then my students will engage in it as well. This will be added on the things to LEARN list. ( I was not sure if at any point I was supposed to hit "enter" so that one would not have to use the bottom scroll bar to read entry. I am the type that likes to read it all within the space of the open window). :-) You see, why it is on the "thing to learn" list! :-D


 * Edited it again...I have LEARNED that once it is posted the entire entry is visible without having to use the bottom scroll tool. :-)

Diane Valenzuela EDAD 5302

I like the idea of using WIKI in the classroom setting, students enjoy using technology so this program will be very beneficial to all. Rhonda 5302 This course is full of so much information I wish I had already been digesting and utilizing for years. It is helping me move my thinking forward even more with technology integration in education. I am still trying to see a wiki as a working, living document such as wikipedia, however it is a bit difficult for me to grasp. I am not quite comfortable with the idea, yet. It is almost like a wall wisher type posting board for all users to contribute to. I know it is a tool that can be utilized for collaborative efforts by many, but I think I personally need to investigate this tool as a valid option for my class room. I could see it as an assessment tool to check for understanding of my students...possibly.

I am currently on Spring Break and have really seen a collaborative effort being made all week at the various Disney theme parks I have visited this week. In fact, many shows state that the effort of one could not be made possible without the effort of many. This brought me back to the idea of a wiki. I suppose a wiki would be nothing more than a blog without the collaborative efforts of many editing and posting together. So, in the spirit of Walt Disney himself I would like to share a couple of his quotes that seemed appropriate for our wiki adventure...

"When we go into that new project, we believe in it all the way. We have confidence in our ability to do it right." - Walt Disney

"Whatever we accomplish belongs to our entire group, a tribute to our combined effort." - Walt Disney

Dawn Givan, EDAD 5302, 1007

Amber Clark ....I have had the same debate over wikis versus blogs. The big issue for me and my 7th and 8th graders was security. I ended up using a wiki because it require an email address and my wiki could be kept as a "private" website. I use pbworks.com for all of my wikis with my students. It is very easy to use, free, and you can assign login names and passwords to students. I used it for literary analysis questions with my 7th graders when we read The Hobbit, and my 8th graders just used it for a research project. The kids love using wikis, and I feel safe having them go out on the web with a wiki.

www.polleverywhere.com with our 8th graders. For students that don't have a cell phone, we have them log on to computers. You can also have students work in pairs to avoid any embarrassment of someone not having a phone to use. Just thought I would share that ideal since we read this week about technology giving instant feedback on student assessments.
 * Anyone that is interested in a fun formative assessment for students** that have access to cell phones in school....we have been using the free version of

Melissa Bettge EDAD 5302 section 1009

I can't believe how big this Wiki has become. I have checked it out several times, however this is my first time to "edit" it. It took me a minute to figure it out. I am looking for a way to incorporate more technology in my Advanced Placement Biology Class and I am torn between a Wiki or a blog. One might ask why not both - and I am just afraid I would not be able to keep up with both. I think I am leaning towards a blog.

AMBER CLARK EDAD 5302

Like many others, this is my first go at this! I love learning how to do new things, but for some reason this is a little scary! I hope I do not ruin anything! Julie Michaelis EDAD 5302

media type="youtube" key="6AWYIit1uNk" height="390" width="640" Exploring the changing expectations of our students. Go to http://www.boxoftricks.net to read more about the effective use of technology in the classroom.

This is really interesting.

Carwanda

EDAD 5302

I too found the "I teach, therefore you learn... or do you?" video really interesting. I especially liked the point about how our time was controlled and scheduled on television when we were growing up and now our students have limitless 24/7 time with all of the new technology that is at their finger tips. The days of having 3 channels and maybe a few UHF channels and the test pattern at the end of the programming day are gone. Thank goodness:-)

Cindy McNeil EDAD 5302 SP2 11-EL1005

====This is my first time using a WIKI site. I find it very interesting and I am already wondering how I can set one up. I think the sharing of videos to share knowledge is a great idea. I teach 5th grade and already have science, social studies, and math blogs for my students to participate in. It is great to see students getting excited to share what they are learning and use the internet to add to this learning. They blog and share their new ideas. Using WIKI is another way I can enhance my teaching. As an educational leader I can see where tools such as these will help integrate technology in schools. As Pip Coburn was quoted in the Module 1 Powerpoint, “Many projects fail because there is a technology without a problem to solve. Many projects fail because the pain of adoption is too high.” I think this statement validates that many educational leaders just try to spend on technology without a good plan as to how to make the learning meaningful and useful to the students. Just purchasing computers does not make a school tech savvy. Tools such as WIKI and blogs can be used to give students educational problems to be solved using technology. ==== Marjorie Mathews EDAD 5302 May 22, 2012

Ok guess I successfully signed up but did not successfully post on the wiki! So this is post #2! Kind of like texting with benefits on an Iphone. Melissa Walden EDAD 5302

Never contributed to a wiki before, just looked stuff up on wikipedia..... I'm wondering how I can incorporate one into the Digital Media classroom I teach.... Julie Roberds EDAD 5302

Wikis are currently used with our 3rd grade students in their language arts course. Since I am a math teacher I do not know much about them but am thankful this course is introducing me to WIKI use Kelley Brege EDAD 5302

I have never participated or heard of a Wiki until this class. I think this is a really great tool to use in the classroom. This could be a great way to assess student knowledge of content. I am really enjoying this class I have learned so much about technology in the last weeks. Really great course!!!

Ashanti Nix 5302 I have never participated in a WIKI before. I'm sure my students probably know more about it than I do. This course has been beneficial to someone like me who is technologically challenged. I need to be more prepared for the 21st century and the technology skills that our students need to prepare for education beyond high school and the workplace of today. This video is a great summary of the need and appropriate uses of technology in K-12 education.[]Brenda Allen, EDAD 53023/18/11Most of today’s students are entirely comfortable with technology, but are they using it appropriately? Do they understand their roles and responsibilities in digital society? How can teachers help students becomeresponsible digital citizens? In this excerpt the authors discuss digital communication and its appropriate (and inappropriate) use. [|Digital Citizenship in Schools] KAREN HINSON, EDAD 5302 I am trying to edit here because I read this article and it is great especially where it says try the technology and research it before you use it. Do not hear about a good Idea and then try to use it.

This is my first time participating in a wiki. I must say, that while I'm new at it, I'm not sure I like it. I think I would much rather a blog, as it seems easier to participate in. In reading through other's posts, I've gained information that I would like to research and possibly implement in my classroom. I do enjoy the exposure to the various possibilities available to educators.

Mindy Elledge, EDAD 5302 03/18/2011

I also find the wiki somewhat overwhelming. It can be hard to know what has been added since the last time I looked. It seems like it might need some structure so that it's not just comments from everyone everywhere about everything. I'm imagining that using it with students, this would be especially important. Erin M 3/18/11

My school district employs the latest and greatest research based methodology and best practices for everything from student achievement all the way down to emptying a trashcan. J I loved Christensen’s view of improving educational research and innovation in chapters 8 and 9. Christensen's assertion that valid models can rarely assert that one size fits all, and that leaders must make circumstance-contingent “if-then” statements to predict results (p. 222) inspired me to explore the eMINT Instructional Model more closely. It sounds amazing, but I wonder if it would work in my educational institution and learning environment?

Attached is a podcast about the 4 major components of the eMINT Instructional Model. [|eMINTS Instructional Model]

Octavia Johnson, EDAD 5302, Section 1019

After reading Christensen's book this week, I have been thinking a great deal about his concept of student-centric learning. It really sounds a great deal like differentiated learning. So I did a little research and found an article about a school in South Carolina that does differentiated learning and uses technology efficiently. If you read the comments, there is a link at the bottom for a HS example. Collaboration between teachers is a key factor in their success. http://www.edutopia.org/stw-differentiated-instruction-technology-elementary Suanne

I, like many of you, are very new to this wiki thing. I am a huge consumer of technology like this, but very rarely have a gotten actively involved. This is the first time I have actually edited a wiki of any kind. I thought I would post a link to a lesson that I compiled and uploaded for my students. During this lesson, I used a combination of a Promethean board, TI-Smartview and software to create the lesson. We have many teachers at our school who create their lessons in this format so they can utilize class time to help students with their understanding of the lesson. Anyway, here is the link for anyone who is interested: [|Lesson on Law of Cosines] Michael George, EDAD 5302

Okay... I'm going to try to add something of interest to this space. I got this from a long ago college friend who has taught at the college level for many years and teaches online courses as well. She was excited to talk to me about wiki! Here goes:

Im not sure if I'm using the wike correctly but I am excited about the information I'm reading Tamatha dupree 5302

** SILKE FLEISCHER TO GIVE KEYNOTE AT OHIO LEARNING NETWORK’S FIRST ANNUAL SPRING COLLOQUIUM ** The Keynote Speaker for the Ohio Learning Network’s Spring Colloquium is Silke Fleischer, CEO and co-founder of ATIV Software, a growing startup company focusing on mobile applications. Ms. Fleischer will present “The Future - it's here!” on Monday, April 11, at the Ohio Learning Network Colloquium: Best Practices Using Technology for Teaching, Learning and Student Services. In the past several years we have seen a dramatic technological revolution that has been unprecedented in our lifetime. However, this rapid change has left many of us grappling with how to deal with thesesudden changes. Today's technology is revolutionizing our lives by taking down traditional barriers and restraints and opening a completely new way of consuming and sharing information. How is the mobile smartphone explosion, social media, and cloud computing changing us? In this media-rich and interactive keynote, Silke Fleischer from ATIV Software, the makers of the OLN 2011 event app, will touch on these points and provide practical ways to embrace today's powerful technologies. After spending her professional career managing performance support software, Ms. Fleischer was fascinated with the possibilities today's smart phones offer for instant information access as well as information sharing. The explosion of mobile technology is opening new opportunities and is “pushing us” to develop new approaches and applications, especially in the area of eLearning. ATIV Software is a service provider for mLearning solutions and publisher of EventPilot, a customizable mobile conference program application. These applications are downloaded to smart phones, mobile devices such as the Apple iPhone and iPad, or Android devices. Ms. Fleischer has more than ten years of experience in the e-Learning field. Before founding ATIV Software, she managed product and marketing strategy for Adobe Captivate. Amember of The eLearning Guild, Fleischer has been a featured speaker at several national and international conferences, including Adobe MAX, eLearning Guild, STC, SALT, ASTD, Tekom and WCET 2010. Ohio Learning Network will soon release the Colloquium’s mobile program. Instructions for downloading the Colloquium’s app will be coming soon. This electronic version will provide information about the First Annual Spring Colloquium to be held on April 11-12, 2011, at the Columbus Hilton at Easton Town Center in Columbus, Ohio. The Colloquium will share best practices using technology for teaching, learning and student services. Learn about best practices, administration, new strategies, and what works and what doesn’t from your colleagues around the state. View the YouTube video and register online now at @http://www.oln.org/conferences/OLN2011/. Linda L EDAD 5302

Thought I would let everyone know that I decided to create a wiki for a child that I am tutoring!! He loves technology, but hates English and reading. :( This way I can con him into reading his materials, and giving me some type of required post that will go along with whatever we are reading! I'm excited...so is he and his parents! I'll share the address when we get a little more going! Erin Howard  EDAD 5302-EL1009

I am a wiki newbie. I am impressed by the quality of the content everyone has shared so far. I am, of course, experiencing some technical difficulties. Why does there seem to be two strands to the wiki. I have accidently moved between the two several times. I am at the wrong end of the learning curve on this application. Shannon Parum EDAD 5302

This WIKI experience has been interesting. To participate in this page has been rather difficult. To create my own page has been much easier (which will serve me well as I implement this technology in my classroom). Kristina Grim EDAD 5302

I would like your insight. I saw this video in one of my previous classes. How does this fit into the 21st Century model for education we are learning about?

Susan Horn EDAD 5302 I agree about this video not being especially compelling. It kind of makes the students seem unfocused or irresponsibe for their own educations. The ways I've thought about using technology to help students is keeping a class website, using a blog to discuss important issues in my US and TX history classes, and perhaps (if I really get the hang of technology) I'll create additional curriculum to tutor or enrich the students. I have some big ideas, some potentially disruptive. i hope I have the follow through to make them happen.

I don't find this video compelling, because I don't think of "disruptive" technology as some way we start swimming in the same social fishbowl as our students to get them to pay attention to us as if we are the ugly duckling in the corner. If anything this video is talking about sustaining innovations-- using computers/technology hype to get kids more engaged in the learning-- we're already doing this so doing more is just sustaining an innovation we've already begun. The disruptive stuff-- do we even know what that will look like yet? Katherine Wade EDAD 5302 (always playing the devil's advocate) media type="youtube" key="dGCJ46vyR9o" height="390" width="480"

This is my first time using wiki. I am a little nervous about how to introduce it to my kiddos. I like the comment that April made about learning With technology. I can see how this could help my 7th graders with their writing. I think it would help especially with their editting. i can see how wiki's can be intrergrated to be used in projects where students can work on reports, powerpoints and different files and presentations. I can also see how this can benefit my ESL students. It will allow them go give input. It will be a matter of sitting down and taking some time as teams to plan and implement.

Thanks

Sylvia Saenz EDAD 5302 03/17/2011

I am new to editing a Wiki with such a large group of people. We use a wiki for a service group to quickly and easily communicate, collaborate and share ideas. Already I can see the value and limitless possibilities for my students. Thank you for the wealth of resources, ideas, and inspiration! Heather Holloway

[] Here's an article about Learning WITH technology VS. Teaching with technology from School CIO. Enjoy! April Riley

This is my first time edting a Wiki. I feel like it could be a tool with endless possibilities for a classroom, but I have a few hesitations... with so many posts, it takes a long time to get through them all. What if I don't want others deleting my posts? Can the administrator control these types of issues or not? I would be interested to know specifically how teachers use these in their classrooms. Has anyone tried this with elementary students? Kelley Hall

This is my first exposure to wiki and I must say I find it scary but interesting at the same time. I am interested in how I could use this in my classroom. I think publishing works would be lots of fun using this type of format. I really like that you can edit other's posts but...what if you don't want to be edited? Do you set up ground rules for editing others info? Shelley Wilding

This was one of the articles in my TCEA newsletter, thought some might like to read.... By Heather Chirtea
 * How to Argue for Technology**

We are all feeling the crunch of declining school funding. Technology budgets, which are often viewed as expendable, can take a big hit. In order to secure funding for technology it is necessary to provide a compelling argument to decision makers, explaining why technology is critical to education. You will be hard pressed to find a conclusive body of research that actually draws a connection between technology usage and increased test scores. So, in a recessionary environment of declining funding, how do you convince funders that technology is important?

Change the argument! Test scores are not the answer.

Try crafting a connection between your technology initiative and the future economic development of the workforce and your community.
 * Argue for Economic Development**

Consider this: If students are tech-savvy, then businesses hiring technology workers will be able to hire locally and sustain or grow their operations. Graduates who find local jobs will stay in local communities, raise families, buy houses, contribute to the tax base, and start new local businesses. A technologically rounded education has the downstream effect of promoting the economic development and future growth of an entire community. It sparks systemic change.

Companies and colleges are spending an estimated $17 billion per year to train recent graduates in the basic skills they should have gained in school. Students need technological competence to succeed in the competitive workforce. New entrepreneurs can work from anywhere, start businesses, and bring new growth opportunities to local communities.

America's position in the flattened global economy has declined and shortfalls in the technical workforce are hurting American businesses. Just ask your local businesses. According to Deloitte LLP, only 22 percent of high school students feel schools have done an "excellent" job preparing them for college. In order to remain competitive in global markets, our school systems must prepare our students with the skills they need to compete globally.
 * Talk about Globalization**

In a 2007 survey, 75 percent of educators classified themselves as "often in need of" or "desperate for" technology resources. Bob Stevens, the executive director of the Vermont Principal's Association, stated that the lack of technology in the classroom can be likened to "educational malpractice." Schools need access to technology so students can develop the skills they need to thrive.
 * Raise a Moral Question**

85 percent of teens ages 12-17 engage in some form of electronic personal communication, including text messaging, emailing, or online social networking. Yet students are faced with a pencil-and-paper education. Relevant technology tools will inspire our students to learn and engage in their education.
 * Point out Relevance**

Increases in student engagement are the number one most common benefit cited by schools who employ one-computer-per-child initiatives. Here is a one idea to present. The effective life of a computer in a school is approximately four years. The effective career of a student through your school is probably similar. You might want to turn over the computers' "pink slips" to students as a bonus upon graduation. This not only saves the cost of disposing obsolete equipment, but students will take much better care of equipment they know is "theirs when they graduate." It is also an added motivation to stay in school at a time when the drop-out rate is so dramatically high.
 * Discuss Student Engagement**

As technology funding erodes, our teachers become progressively less able to prepare students for future employment in the rapidly expanding global economy. The Journal of Industrial Technology reports that during the past two decades, enrollment in technical degrees has decreased by as much as 11 percent, while the demand for technical workers has risen by 29 percent. Businesses are sounding the alarm. Without students receiving adequate exposure to technology in schools, it becomes increasingly difficult to find and hire technologically-qualified graduates from the local economy. It's a silent and cumulative crisis that now threatens to undermine our children's future.
 * Focus on Workforce Development**

Consider what's going to happen to your school and town if you don't modernize schools with technology. Brainstorm the worst-case scenario, then share the story with your potential funders. It will sound something like this, "... if our students aren't savvy, local businesses can't hire. Those who are savvy will leave and never return because there are no job opportunities ..."
 * If We Don't, Then...**

It is much easier for a decision maker to fund a "human interest" story than a piece of equipment. This works incredibly well with politicians. If you ever get the opportunity to appeal to your school board or local legislator, don't do the presentation yourself. Rather, invite a few students to speak on your behalf. Let the students explain why they need technological skills to prepare for college and get a job. Remember, you are not trying to put technology in schools; rather you are preparing students for the future workforce in the global economy. You are fighting for your children's future!
 * Tell Stories**

Calculate the total education budget in your funding region (school, district, or state), then consider what percentage of that budget would be necessary to put a computer in every student's backpack. It is a sure bet you will be able to craft a true and compelling statement such as "Less than one half of one percent of the total education budget would put a computer on the desk of every single student in our district." You will quickly realize how small that percentage really is. //Heather Chirtea is the executive director of Digital Wish. Digital Wish is on a mission to solve technology shortfalls in American classrooms. Invite your teachers to make __ their technology wish lists __, then invite parents and community members to donate. Flip video cameras are available to US schools through a 2-for-1 matching program. Digital Wish has brought technology grants to more than 22,000 classrooms and maintains a vibrant community of over 50,000 educators. You may email Heather __ here __.//
 * Calculate the Percent of Total Spending**

Rachel Sotelo EDAD 5302

So here's my question and I'm looking for thoughts and ideas. And for this discussion, let's think primary students grades K-2... I've been on this personal journey of integrating technology for the past few years. I use quite a bit which is mostly replacing the way things have been done in the past for myself and my student. 21st century learning is to be collaborative and to transform the way kids learn. It's not just replacing things such as word processing to publish, document cameras, ppt, etc. The Ted video's are inspiring and can show what kids can do, but in a real classroom day to day, how do we ensure kids are still getting the basic skill set they need. So my question is, **how do we transform the way kids learn, using technology, for students in primary grades** while ensuring they develop a solid skill set of reading and writing? Any ideas?

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!! I LOVE using Wordles!!!! (Erin Howard, EDAD 5302). ~ I LOVE Wikis! I also love to share how to use great technology! I have learned about all of these technologies from my PLN (Professional/Personal Learning Network) on Twitter. All I would have to do is tweet asking about good sites to use for "spelling with 2nd graders" and I would have a ton of suggestions. Twitter is a teacher's BEST FRIEND as far as collaboration and wealth of knowledge is concerned!

As far as YOUNGER kids are concerned (I teach middle school) - we have collaborated with younger kids in other countries on a wiki called Waliacam (Wales, Australia, Canada & America). We did a [|WORDLE] project where my students created Wordles using known fairy tales. The younger children had to figure out the story based upon the Wordle.

~ My classes were also one of the initial classes to participate in the award winning wiki Greetings from the World where we used [|Glogs] to inform others about our state.

~ We have taught German students about Westward Expansion (for their assessment test) via our Going West wiki and SKYPE You can check out my classroom wiki and the kids' stuff (our pages are on the right side) by clicking here! THANKS FOR ALLOWING ME TO SHARE!!

OH and a P.S. after reading more of the posts - for those that are worried that people can erase and change things you have done..... this is one of the first things I show my students - media type="custom" key="8739144" Candace Townsley EDAD 5302 3/17/11

AISD hosts an annual Media Fair in which students synthesize information and present it in the form of a "technology project". This year, every teacher at my school was given a directive to enter at least one project at the campus level for the 2011 Media Fair. I was amazed at the projects that were produced from students at the K-2 level. Teachers assumed the role of a coach and students were put into groups to create a project. Even at this primary level, students were able to take content material from core academic subjects and integrate it into technology. They created diagrams with labels, books, posters and instructional videos. To check the authenticity of the projects, student groups were selected randomly and students were asked to "teach" the judges how to create a similar project. Across the board, every group could clearly articulate the process and assume the role of the coach - even at 6 years old! It was obvious that students come to school already equipped with a vast array of technological understanding - even at the kindergarten level. We would be foolish not to take advantage of this and move towards a more student-centric mode of learning. Kristina Grim EDAD 5302

For those of you who might be interested, I thought it would be okay to post my top five appropriate uses of technology:
1. **Collaboration**: using a wikis, blogs, certain websites, etc. to allow students the ability to create things together and learn from one another. 2. **Language Learning**: using technology to not only teach spoken languages but also the metaphorical language of our current information society (i.e. techie talk) 3. **Opening doors for disabled learners**: technology can allow us to create flexible courses and ways to reach learners, who wouldn’t ordinarily be able to get “regular” classroom type instruction and coursework. 4. **Data Driven Decision Making**: being able to keep extensive records about students, teachers, testing data, courses, objectives, outcomes, etc. can allow us to get in depth looks into exactly how well we are doing our jobs. 5. **Ongoing Professional Development**: This use of technology may actually fit better at the top of the list. Students can’t learn from technology, if their teachers aren’t comfortable teaching them how to learn from it, or can’t even use it themselves! RW 5302
 * Guess this is part of collaboration huh!

Check out this video about re-thinking education. I am posting the link to the blog because there is some really good info there too.
[]

Yancey EDAD 5302 ====This is my first time using wiki. I had some problems getting in but, its looks like I made it this time. Wow! There's so much information. I haven't quite grasped the whole embedding video idea yet but, here's a website that I found interesting. It provides examples of Sustaining and Disruptive Technology. It will also allow you to add to the lists.====

[]
Thanks all for sharing! Carwanda EDAD 5302

===I love wiki and use it with my Calculus classes but I do like blogging better. With highschool students, it is easier to control a blog. I also really like animoto and pretzi for presentations. They are much more fun that powerpoint. I have also used wordle but it is not quite as useful for math. It is a graphic organizer and fun. I have the kids make one about themselves at the beginning of the school year. Quizzlet is also great for online quizzes and you don't really even need to create anything. My kids find great quizzes to use as reviews all the time. Just recently learned about Glogster but haven't used it yet. I love using technology in my classes but with the AP test just around the corner, it is sometimes hard to find the time. We are using my CPS a lot right now as we practice for the multiple choice part of the test.===

Carolyn Smith
EDAD 5302 3/16/2011 7:35

==Hey all! I ran across this video [|Shift Happens] I watched the original Shift Happens video a few years ago and thought we could all benefit from the information in this new "updated" version. I know its from 2009 so the stats aren't probably up to date but you'll get the picture. Hope you all enjoy, even those who might have already viewed it :)==

Melissa Delgado EDAD 5302 3/16/2011 6:42 pm

=This is my first time using and editing a Wiki. It's really cool how you can go in and edit everything. I even change a word in Tina's entry below. Can you find it? I found what you did to my writing! Very funny! This is kinda neat, though. : ) = bryan

=Being at the elementary level, Bobbi, I do not usually have any issues with students and cell phone use. I can imagine how much of an issue it could be, however, at the middle and high school levels. It is clear that your board made a "hoolahoop" in order for cell phones to be used under certain, educational circumstances. Don't give up. You could always see if your principal would let you do a trial run for a short amount of time. I am sure the students already have their cell phones at school anyways, practically attached to their hips. : )= Tina EDAD 5302, Section 18 =3/16/11= I am also new to Wiki. I am not sure yet if I like it. I have enjoyed reading everyone’s comments and ideas. I love technology and I am always looking for ways to incorporate into my classes. Cell phones can be a major disruption in classrooms and I have wondered about how to incorporate them into some of my lectures. I have found the following website which allows students to text there answer in and it immediately will show the responses. I think it is a great toll but my principal will not let me incorporate into my class. She says the district has a no cell phone policy. I quickly pointed out to here that the school board approved the use of cell phones for educational reason’s (I even provided her with the documentation from the board meeting). She feels that it would allow the students to inappropriately use the cells phones in class and it could get out of control. I still think it is a great tool. [] Bobbi Levine EDAD 5302

Our school district has recently implemented a BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) program on the high school level. So far, I do not think it is revolutionizing the way students use technology because they only bring their laptops when they are working on specific projects - not everyday. Bobbi, our principal showed us the www.polleveryhwere.com site at staff development before school began. I have yet to use it, but I know several teachers who have with great success. Javonna Bass EDAD 5302

Erin, I love this video! I can't wait to have the opportunity to share this! It's such a good reminder that sometimes we need to bend! Thanks for sharing! Lisa Greenhouse EDAD 5302

This is a video that I use with resistant teachers. It's a way to poke fun at how set in our ways we can really be at times. I used this actually yesterday in a whole faculty professional development during a "Response to Intervention" presentation. It was used to discuss collaborative cultures and further enhancing our professional learning communities to ensure that ALL students reach high levels of learning. My teachers got a kick out of this because they realized that sometimes they really do need to flex just a little! ENJOY!

Erin Howard EDAD 5302-EL1009 media type="custom" key="8737910" USS Montana vs. Lighthouse

I thought that I posted this yesterday, but for some reason it didn't save.

This year, we began using a connected learning community (CLC) called [|UniServity]. On our campus, each teacher has a class webpage. I keep mine updated with current and upcoming news. I also have blogs and forums for my students to comment and post on about things we are learning about in class. I also recently started a vocabulary wiki. It has been a really great experience for my students. Here is the link to my class page- [|Lauren's UniServity Page]

Lauren Lovitto EDAD 5302

A 5th grade teacher at one of my schools shared Quizlet.com with me and I think it's a wonderful resource! Teachers can create vocab lists and keep track of students' progress/grades if they create an account. This would be more of a practice/drill but there are different ways of "testing" and students go at their own pace. I wonder if this would be considered appropriate use of technology?? I certainly loved it! media type="custom" key="8737988" SAW (March 16, 2011) EDAD 5302 Will use Quizlet with my students. Thanks for the info. Rocio Paredes (March 16, 2011) EDAD 5302

I recently discovered Quizlet when I was searching for a way to help some students prepare for a history test...the students do so many 'packets' they tire of flipping through page after page to study 'facts'...Quizlet turned the studying into a gamelike situation - same info different medium! Every student who tried it as a study tool said they liked it and they felt like they were able to put more time into their test prep...granted it is not higher level thinking, but for certain types of skill checks, it's great. I had a few parents tell me they were using it with their high school kids for language vocabulary practice. The other great thing is that students can connect on handheld devices...so as they go to their after school activities they can easily bring their study tools! Seems like a great use of technology... Cindy Hentges (3/16) EDAD 5302

John Cunningham 3-16 Responding to Dr. Bernings comments earlier on the Wiki, I think that budget cuts will be a help in the purchases of new technology. In the past, as we have read in our materials, billions of dollars have already been spentfor techonlogy, some not so wisely. Hopefully, there will be more careful and critical decisions made for what is really needed. Perhaps one area one change should be to replace traditional textbooks withe on-line "textbook" websites. These should be colorful, interactive, connected to the web and continuosly updated. Perhaps this will end the traditional annoying TEA textbook selection drama by replacing the texbook selection process with a Wikipedia-style community of teachers and experts who continuously update and modify the material.

I can see the benefit of using a WIKI if a class project was being done but I am nervous about the use of a WIKI to deliver information. I think I am more comfortable with a blog because I can control the contents a bit more.

Jennifer Edmondson 3/16

Jennifer, I agree with your sentiments about a WIKI. I was just recently introduced to this concept by our BIL/ESL dept. They communicate and post any information and resources we need on their WIKI. The jury is still out on it for me. I do agree that I would limit its use do to the fact that I cannot control the content. Diondria Phillips EDAD 5302 March 16, 2011

I was introduced to a cool form of technology kids and adults will all enjoy. Check out [|www.blabberize.com]. The llama is the hilarious into into the blabberize world. It's fabulously funny! You enter a picture, place the assistive icon over the mouth of the picture, and choose the speech you would like. And, best of all, it's FREE! (Love that free stuff that's out there!) Have fun exploring new options!

Marge Rolston 3/16

I created a Wiki earlier this school year as a way for my classes to complete a webquest. It was locked, so students were not able to add content at all. They were only able to navigate through the pages, read instructions, and follow links. If I use it again next year, what I might do is create an additional page where they can not only post comments and questions, but also post their final products. If you have time to look at it, I'd love some feedback! Webquest Wiki Valerie Pope, 3/16

All of the TED videos and the one below from Russell from "Not In Words" reminded me of one of my favorite sites to turn to for video tutorials. [] Here's a video "In Plain English" about wikis! []

Dr. Berning was talking about the computer gaming industry creating learning platforms. We use DimensionU on my campus which takes advantage of gaming as a leaning tool. I am currently looking at using their game Dimenxian for my 8th grade Algebra I students.

Morris Goldade 3/20 EDAD 5302

Enjoy! April Riley

This is all new to me. I like the idea and possible uses of a WIKI, especially if you can lock areas that you want. Russell Barker - EDAD 5302 media type="custom" key="8738038"

media type="custom" key="8738182" I love WIKI's and so does my class! In fact, I gave a presentation to the staff during staff development on how to set up a WIKI. However, I have my WIKI page locked so that the kids can't edit what I place on there. We utilize the discussion board piece to have class discussions about novels and short stories that we read in my language arts class. Teresa Sturm EDAD 5302

Honestly, I really don't see the need for a WIKI. Too many different avenues of communication to keep track of. Who has time to sit and read all of this stuff? Who wants to? I really don't see how this would be anymore beneficial than a blog. Pretty much the same thing except that someone can erase what you've written here... Anyone can post anything on this and kids think that since it's on the Internet, it must be a fact. I'm sure it has its use but not really for a math class, although someone earlier thinks so? I do think technology can enhance the curriculum and it does have other applications as well. I find social networking (WIKI, facebook, twitter, and blogging) boring and a waste of my time. I hate sitting at the computer. I know, I know, our kids love it. But our children are also getting fatter and less fit because all they do is sit around at the computer or video games for hours. I'm about activity not sitting at a computer! I understand these things have a place, but if a teacher is going to use them she must also keep up with them. Aspegren EDAD 5302

Ok, so I'm not sure that I like the fact that anyone can come in and change/delete my post on this wiki. I don't understand the value of using this over a blog. The one time I've used a wiki was with my team of Instructional Coaches as we edited a document together. I enjoyed doing that, but I think I like the blog better for a communication tool. JMO. What do y'all think? Take this survey.... Katie Gray EDAD 5302

media type="custom" key="8738214"

This is my first time using Wiki as well and I can see the potentials for many classrooms now. For math teachers this could be a great way to reach those students who need help with homework when they get home. Elise EDAD 5302.

This is the first time I have ever used a WIKI and I can see what the sensation is all about even though I don't really have a complete understanding of it. I am someone who doesn't even have a facebook and will be setting one up for the first time today. To be honest I am a bit nervous because everything is so unfamiliar to me. I am motivated to bring as much innovation appropriately into my classroom and my life from now on. Wish me luck! I hope I'm posting this correctly. Ugh! Ruby EDAD 5302 I think this is fascinating! How difficult is it to start your own wiki? What do I need to know for my students to begin collaborating on one? The idea of students discussing a difficult math problem or whatever sounds very powerful. Charlene EDAD5302

Carrie - my husband and I were just talking about this yesterday! I had read the Disrupting Class chapter about language acquisition and was telling him about it. He showed this story to me. Very fascinating! Thanks for posting the link! Lindsey Perry EDAD 5302

I wasn't sure if anyone had seen this, but I thought it went along well with not only with the chapter about language aquisition in //__Disrupting Class__//, but with the whole impact of social media on language. Very interesting stuff, and yes, it is a TED video!

[]

Hope you enjoy!

Carrie Fuller ED5302

Tuesday March 15th:

Good afternoon Y'all! Besides Wikipedia this is the first time I've heard of WIKI but the concept sounds so intereting. I'm so amazed schools are using this as part of their professional development and as a showcase when others have not even heard of it before. I've realized that you jave too keep up with it or you'll find yourself needing to read and watch so much information. I wonder if the host has the ability to recover any data someone might have deleted by mistake(?) I'm excited to see how I can use WIKI as a Parent Involvement Specialist, whcih is my current position. Rocio Paredes EDAD 5302

Hello all. I'm not sure this is the place to post a question, but I figured since we are being encouraged to use the Wiki, I would proceed anyway. So I'm trying to wrap my head around the concepts of disruptive innovation versus sustaining innovation, and preparing for this week's assignment. I'm a little stumped. It seems all the examples I come up with are in actuality sustaining innovation if I compare them to what is suggested in the guidebook and the Disrupting Class book. So how about creating a discussion here with my thought of: online research like wikipedia vs. the traditional "old school" encyclopedioas. This would be a disruptive technology? Also I thought of how the old card catalogue of looking up books has been replaced with a computerized system? Any thoughts would be appreciated. Was hoping for the office hours to reconvene on Wed. like normal and to not have to wait til Sat. to sort this all out in my mind.

Emily Layman EDAD 5302 Cohort 2

I would like to share with you my school’s wiki. It is a collaborative space that has been used for our academy, training sessions, and to showcase content and technology integration projects. In addition, you will find links to pretty cool teachers’ wikis and information on technology tools such as Vokis, Voice Thread, Jing, etc. I hope you like it! http://bankingonsuccess.wikispaces.com/ Posted by Iliana Gonzalez March 15, 2011

Hey Iliana this is Michelle... I found myself on your wikispace;-) I feel after reading a lot of the blogs from this course that our school is doing a great job technology wise! I posted my math and homeroom wiki below did you see it?

Michelle D Hall UTA Student EDAD5302 EL1011

I have not personally used a wiki either. The information that is being shared here is tremendous! I have been viewing videos and checking out new sites. Love it!

Kathy Gist EDAD 5302

I wanted to share a site that is free and easier to work with than Powerpoint. Prezi.com. There is a tutorial. My students are working on adding a video. Hopefully as soon as we get it done I will post it. Yvette Sumner

Cassie~Another source of educational videos is Discovery Education's [|United Streaming]. You can search by content/curriculum area, grade level, topic, etc. Valerie Pope, 3/15 Another resource that is great for videos is Safari Montage [|Learn360] I have never used a wiki either. It seems interesting if you have them do it on a certain topic. It seems our topic is Educational Technology so I posted this link to Learn360, which is an educational movie website that schools can log into. It has short videos for every topic imaginable. Great source of technology if you have the right bandwidth.

Cassie Britt EDAD 5202

I use United Streaming in my classroom, but have never used a wiki. I am wondering if a wiki along with the educational videos and interviews would not be a great taste for students to experience a blog type application, but share their thoughts related to the given content. I will look into Safari montage in a bit. Thanks!

Aurora EDAD 5302

media type="custom" key="8743742"

This video is Sir Ken Robinson from the 2010 TED Conference entitled "Bring on the Learning Revolution." He is one of my favorite TED speakers (oh who am I kidding, I have a ton of favorites). I think his ideas for education go hand in hand with the discussions we are having about technology.

Susan Horn EDAD 5202

My husband has us hooked on TED video. We have watched everything from neurological brain research, to green environments, to technology advancements...the list is endless. I just watched the "Bring on the Learning Revolution" and as many other educators, I am humbled to listen and watch other schools and countries use technology to the point that creativity is heightened and learning is foundational.

Aurora EDAD 5302

This comment seems rather snobbish Suanne! Where do you work that middle school students have access to that level of technology? Very few schools in the world are so endowed. Hotel California I've used wikis before and seen them used successfully in our middle school. I think what you are seeing here is just an unfocused discussion. Typically a wiki has a topic and everyone who contributes is adding to that topic of information. Suanne

I am missing the point of a wiki. It seems like an updated form of a message board. At least the blog had a theme and I didn't have to go through all of the postings to read a particular subject. Lauren, I am walking that path of confusion right next to you. While it would be really rude and I wouldn't do it, could someone really edit what others wrote in the WIKI without their permission? Stacy EDad 5302 EL 1019

I agree with you Stacy. Wiki does seem like a message board except for the fact people can change what you wrote. Austin EDAD 5302 011

I've observed Larry Ferlazzo's classroom in Sacramento, California and subscirbe to his daily blog posts. He uses his blog to highlight great tools for educators, particularly those working with second language learners. [|Larry Ferlazzo] A. Torres EDAD 5302 EL1008

This is my first time working with a wiki, so I'm not sure if I embedded this correctly. It's a short video giving examples of how implementing technology into the classroom does not replace a teacher, rather enhances the teacher's ability to instruct. Tony Jarrard EDAD 5302

====For those interested who have one of the few virtual K-8 academy in California. Enclosed is the pdf file and information because one of their hopes is to get the enrollment up, according to the Superintendent. From Catherine's School District in California Oak Knoll Virtual Academy media type="youtube" key="v3ZFr7pY48w" height="390" width="640" Here is another great website/wiki discussing disruptive technologies. http://k12wiki.wikispaces.com/Disruptive+Technology+in+the+Classroom Rachel Sotelo EDAD 5302 media type="custom" key="8696714" I was looking around on YouTube for some videos about educational technology and ran across this video from Clayton Christensen. He doesn't directly refer to education in the video but the implications are heavy. I think of the milkshake as course offerings or "education" in general and Christensen's proposal to properly market what the people are "hiring" it to do for them as maybe online classes, offering different things for different people because everyone is hiring it for various reasons and all are on different schedules and move at different paces. Interesting depiction here! Russell Walden EDAD 5302 Russell, This was a great video. Christensen does a great job of giving real life examples to help us understand the concept through whatever platform his is discussing. That is, whether it is the business students in his classes are Harvard, or the future administrators in our classes at Arlington. Thank you for sharing this with us. Gretchen Lupica EDAD 5302 To Edit this Wiki: Choose EDIT in the top, right corner of this page. Place your cursor where you want to add or edit. Add, edit text. To add a video or audio, choose the Widget link :icon of a television: on the tool bar, and follow directions. Be sure to Click SAVE when done. __ I guess I've been missing out! The past two weeks I have concentrated on the Blog site and this is my first foray on the Wiki -- better late than never :: A great video that I highly recommend is TED 2006 with Sir Ken Robinson. I believe it speaks volumes regarding the ideas of motivation and learning for ALL. I also suggest his book, The Element. Rick Overton UTA EDAD 5302 This is my first experience with anything like this....I am so confused and behind the 8 ball with this!! Lauren Dellert EDAD 5302-11 This is my first experience with a Wiki. I have actually never heard of one and am interested in gaining more information and ideas for ways I can implement these great tools in my classroom. I like the post under me! What a great way to share ideas with teachers. I would love to use a tool such as blogging or Wiki to share information with teachers and gain creative ideas from other teachers. I know a teacher who has a blog and she gets so many responses from people who love her ideas. These are great tools and I hope to become more comfortable with using them. I used blogging last year when I taught 4th grade and my students went into the computer lab once a week to practice their writing skills. They created avatars instead of using their real pictures and really enjoyed sharing information with peers. They loved when they could see that people from all over the world were reading their stories. It is a great tool for teachers in Texas who need to get their fourth graders excited for the Writing TAKS!!!! :Well now I guess the STAAR!) It was very simple to set up and create. [] Kate Palmquist EDAD 5302 I love the idea a class blog for fourth grade writing! I will be starting one right after spring break! Cortney Sims EDAD 5302 I don't currently use one, but my sons Middle School Spanish teacher does. He likes the opportunity to ask her or other students questions about homework. Also, it has been very useful when a friend of his was out due to a long term illness, he was able to keep in contact with his classmates and when he was ready had no problem working back into the class. Catherine Rodriguez EDAD 5302 This is a different format than I have seen for a Wiki. We have one set up for our school and it works as a great portal for teachers to share information together. EDAD5302 ESW I just watched this on TED, Salman Khan talks about using technology to reinvent education, this is the most relevant video I have seen so far! http://www.ted.com/talks/salman_khan_let_s_use_video_to_reinvent_education.html Tara Miller EDAD 5302 //As an aside, you can share Salman Kahn's whole academy with your students. This looks like what the authors of "Disrupting Class" are talking about when they mention virtual tutoring. It's amazing! And the best part is it's free! [] Just scroll to the bottom to see his whole library of classes.// //Carol Swalley, Section 1006// I am really excited about joing this Wiki! This is my first experience! I am trying to get more comfortable with technology. My district will be offering classes through Texas Virtual School Network in the summer and I will be the Site Coordinator. I am a little concerned because I am not as comfortable with technology as I should be. I am learning quite a bit in this class and loving every minute of it! Trista Lepore EDAD 5302 We have a Cyber Academy in our district that is entirely computerized work. It covers students trying to catch up on credits, alternative students who are in danger of dropping out, and is just starting to work on long-distance learning. Originally the idea came from long-distance learning initiatives from the state. I also asked our Gifted teacher at my school if she had used Wiki. She has her students working on projects there and I was excited to hear about that. My introduction to Wiki just happened with this course. I am looking forward to continuing and may start my own Wiki with my students when I get back from Spring Break. I'm an old dog getting to learn new tricks! If I can do this, anyone can! Linda L. EDAD 5302 In my class, we use the website [|http://treasures.macmillanmh.com]. It goes along with our new textbook adoption. We use it to read the books online, play spelling games, vocabulary matching, etc. The kids love it. Haley Pair EDAD 5302 There was a story on our local news last night about cloud computing. It was in reference to health records, not education, but I was excited to see it. My husband looked at me like I was crazy, but... As to edcuation, my district has been really pushing 21st Century Skills this year. Last year, they installed ceiling-mounted projectors in every classroom in the district :33 campuses). Teachers are writing grants to get more technology like iPads and Smart Boards and Classroom Response Systems. It remains to be seen whether or not this will continue, since our superintendent left last month to join a neighboring district. Hopefully, his initiative will carry on. 3/13  Valerie Pope  EDAD 5302-15  Local news paper posted this article about a local urban school switching to electronic books.  []  This was a very good read.  Adam G. Brown  EDAD 5302 EL101  Hooray! This article mentions that in February 2011 wikis became free for K-12 and college. I guess before you had to spend $50 for a wiki. Honestly, this is the first I have ever wiki'ed, and it is pretty fun. I may start my own wiki now that I know they are free. [] Lisa Mazza :EDAD 5302) March 12, 2011 I just made mine. I'm still figuring everything out thoughh.  This web site would offer reference tools for students. The web site [] offers a way to according to them “Respect the time and creative effort of those whose information you use.” It would allow students of all types to correctly format their citations for their particular class or field of study whether APA, MLA, Turabian, or Chicago Style citations. - Catherine  After reading chapters 1-4 of Christensen's text, I am motivated to be an advocate for disruptive learning in schools. I teach at what is considered an alternative school only because we do not have traditonal schedules. Our purpose is to service students that are at risk of dropping out of school due a variety of reasons such as being behind on credits, being teen parents, the inability to attend school due to financial difficulties and feeling the need to work. We offer three sessions to accomodate students' schedules and even provide an in schol daycare for their children. We also provide coursework online so students can continue to access course content from home. We operate in the manner Christensen feels teachers should. We serve more as tutors who is able to provide individual instruction for each student as needed. We are seeing success with students who have never experienced success in the traditional learning environment. We have alo helped to recover droppouts and offer them alternatives to traditional school and its schedules. I believe wholeheartedly in what Christensen is proposing and hope that more schools will move towards this type of learning atmosphere. Diondria Phillips EDAD 5302 March 12, 2011 This year, my campus, a new 5th grade cent and pilot campus was looking to change the way we teach and the way students learn. We had 6 teachers trained in Project Based Learning :PBL). We are trained by the Bucks Institute ([|www.bie.org]) and are some of the only elementary level teachers trained in the country. So far this year, we have done 3 projects; one character and teamworked based, while the other two were content based. We will do one more after TAKS. By the end of the year, we will have over 50% of our teachers on campus trained. our goal with the STAAR test coming to Tezas next year is to teach in a completely different way, so we do not have the test breathing down our necks. I have also taken on the role as "Teaher Leader" for the district to help train and be a go-to person for other teahers rolling out PBL. PBl has been amazing to see in the classroom. Students have more freedom than they ever have and are able to develop some amazing projects. Lauren Lovitto EDAD 5302 Lauren, This is such a great idea! I'm starting a class blog for writing as soon as we get back from spring break! Cortney Sims EDAD 5302 I teach Latin, which falls under the heading of World Language instruction. I am always on the lookout for ways to incorporate more technology into my teaching, as ironic as that might seem. I came across a wiki with some ideas and links that might benefit all World Language/Foreign Language teachers. [] has lots of ideas on how to incorporate and when not to incorporate technology into language instruction. It also has some links to websites to help with that. Janet Gilroy EDAD 5302, sect. 08 March 12 We use Promethean Boards rather than SmartBoards in our district. I use http://www.prometheanplanet.com very frequently to find resources that I can quickly and efficiently adapt for my own uses. With all that I am learning thanks to this class, I wanted to share one of the resources that I find so valuable as I work to integrate more technology in a way that is beneficial to my students. We also use the "clickers" to do formative assessments as we go through lessons developed with the Active Inspire software. I also love the slate that allows me to stand away from the actual board and write or click with my pen wirelessly. Janice Duncan EDAD 5302 EL 1017 I just got a smartboard this year. I absolutely love it. So do my students. It really motives them to work. Especially in math so they can get up and use the board. I used "clickers" last year and the kids liked them but the schools software kept on missing up so I'm waiting to get it reinstalled. Holly Lippe EDAD 5302-1019 March 16 media type="youtube" key="B4g5M06YyVw" height="390" width="480" Thanks so much for sharing this video. I have been presented with the "Vision of K12 Students" at a start of the year inservice. I thought it was powerful, but this is excellent! I plan to share it with my campus. Alison Oswald-Keene EDAD 5302 Sec. 011 Catherine Strother suggests the following site for making 3 d movies for total engagement of learnershttp://www.xtranormal.com/ **watch/10945472/** media type="youtube" key="Mok6t6ZIPOY" height="349" width="560" media type="youtube" key="AhoOG5Kf1w4" height="349" width="560" The State representative from my district has started a study to see if replacing textbooks with Kindles would save money and help keep the information more up to date. http://www.kswo.com/Global/story.asp?S=13052354 Fred Roloff media type="youtube" key="Rpj0emEGShQ" width="425" height="350" Thanks for sharing! I think this is a great way to disrupt my middle school kids. I am sure I am the non consumer in their minds, they have probably all become familiar with these in some aspect before! They certainly know about blogs! Sarah Hall EDAD 5302 EL 1016 media type="custom" key="8584766" http://finch5thscience.wikispaces.com/Student+Glogster+Portfolios** Posted by Iliana Gonzalez March 5th, 2011 ||  || One example I have found of appropriate use in my school setting, is through a tutoring program we use called Earobics. The nice thing about this program is that it adapts to the student's needs throughout the process. In Disrupting Class, the authors mention that in the future students will be learning at their own pace using modules. This program works much the same way. If a student has not mastered a skill, the program will keep reviewing that same skill until mastery. This really helps me to differentiate my tutoring instruction for my students. I am able to assign specific tasks for my students to practice in the computer program, and also able to pull small groups while other students are working on the specific skills they need using Earobics. posted by: Jessica Erwin ||
 * Monday, August 9th, 2010 ||  ||   || Discover Charter Oak Unified School District's new __**Oak Knoll Virtual Academy**__ Because all children deserve the chance to think big. Visit us online for complete program, enrollment, and event details at www.k12local.com/oakknoll or call us at 877.382.0472  begin_of_the_skype_highlighting <span class="skype_pnh_highlighting_inactive_common"><span class="skype_pnh_textarea_span"><span class="skype_pnh_text_span">877.382.0472   <span class="skype_pnh_mark">end_of_the_skype_highlighting  . See the attached flyer and brochure for more information. ||   || <span style="border-bottom: #cccccc 1px solid; border-left: #cccccc 1px solid; border-right: #cccccc 1px solid; border-top: #cccccc 1px solid; display: block; float: left; font-size: 8pt; margin-right: 2px; padding-bottom: 2px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 2px; text-align: left; width: 99%;">Attachments: || [[image:http://www.cousd.k12.ca.us/education/graphics/icons/filetype/pdf_sm.gif height="16"]] || [|oakknoll_brochure_2aug10.pdf] ||   || [[image:http://www.cousd.k12.ca.us/education/graphics/icons/filetype/pdf_sm.gif height="16"]] || [|oakknoll_flyer_2aug10.pdf] ||   ||   || e
 * I love my promethean board!!! The kids are always so actively engaged in the lessons! The prometheanplanet website is so helpful and easy to use!!!! Definitely agree with you Janice!**
 * Haley Pair**
 * EDAD 5302**
 * EDAD 5302**
 * here is a video about 21st century teachers. Thought you all would enjoy watching.**
 * R Sotelo**
 * EDAD 5302**
 * I wanted more information on Internet 2. The following gave me a better understanding:**
 * []**
 * C.Galindo**
 * Josiah Silva recommends [] . This software for math teachers frees them to create customized worksheets that address the current needs of the classroom. This frees both teacher and student from rigid textbook formats and allows learning needs to be specifically addressed. The software also saves teachers hours of time when creating tests. The time saved can then be devoted to addressing other areas of need. The math department at our school uses this to create our shared tests, practice tests, and many types of assignments in a fraction of the time otherwise needed. **
 * As I was talking with the gifted and talented teacher on my campus the other day about how exciting my Educational Technology class was, she provided me with a blog that she follows. As I watched the video segment from the blog I realized that this was infact everything that we would be dealing with in this course. After watching the video and along with the music I was so pumped to learn about ways to be more innovative with all the technology that is available for educators.Check it out at the link below: []**
 * Brandon Girard EDAD 5302**
 * The "what is innovation" video is great! I think it helps teachers get a visual of what innovation is and is NOT. It can help educators evaluate their teaching utilizing technology...**
 * Tricia Badillo - EDAD 5302**
 * This video shows a good way to use technology with the 'problem based method.' I love the problem based method and using technology as a means to the end is a wonderful idea.**
 * Laura Trubilowicz EDAD 5302 3/**
 * This video is inspiring. It shows how universal access works. Laura Trubilowicz EDAD 5302 3/6/11**
 * []**
 * Michael Brown**
 * A few grade levels on my campus use Spellingcity.com to take spelling tests. The students love it and the students are able to pratice their spelling on the same site at home. It has activities to help students as they learn their words for the week.**
 * Becky Stephan**
 * This is a video I found that uses computer-generated simulations to show the path and duplication of a virus**
 * John Kershner**
 * File obtained from Youtube, produced by NPR.org**
 * Michelle D Hall **
 * UTA Student **
 * EDAD5302 EL1011 **
 * This is a link to my wiki space. It is a work in progress. My school has implemented this very successfully. We use it in the classrooms, faculty meetings, and any updates we want to share with each other etc. **
 * http://hallshomeroom.wikispaces.com/ **
 * Veronica Guzman**
 * Found this video and thought that it was a good example of approriate us of technology in the classroom.**
 * Robert Martin - EDAD 5302**
 * I found this article interesting. A Tennessee school is requiring all 4th -12th grade students to either purchase or lease an iPad. I read this through the lens of an administrator in a high SES district. I'd love to see it, but how could we make it happen? Grants?**
 * http://www.tecca.com/news/2011/01/24/school-makes-ipad-mandatory-for-students/**
 * Hello Teachers, **
 * After reading the article “How New Technologies Have :and Have Not) Changed Teaching and Learning in Schools”, it dawned on me that most educators are using technology for learning only vs. technology for learners. We are using technology tools that reinforce existing practices where we control the learning experience and refuse to let go and let students be in charge of their learning. The following Wiki is an example of a teacher in my school who is letting students create science portfolios to assess their learning. I think this is a good example of how technology for learning is powerful and engaging. **

For Jennifer:

You were asking about an example of a classroom response system. If you click on the link: []

this will show you one product that is designed as a Student Response System. I happen to use them in my classroom. Most often they are connected to a SmartBoard, which is an interactive whiteboard. The "clickers" :what they are called) are perfect for student engagement and as an assessment tool. They are like remotes where students can enter their choice of answer to multiple choice or short-answer questions that are pre-designed in a SmartBoard lesson. We have thoroughly enjoyed them in the 6th grade!

My district alone has about 15 technology programs, none of which I actually implement into my special education classroom. However, my campus has two programs that are meant for special educators that are also available to all of the special education teachers in the district. I use one of these programs pretty consistently and one not so much, I know that they pay for me to have a subscription, but I don’t feel the content is age appropriate for my students and would rather take the time creating lessons that are age appropriate. If the district took a look at how many teachers actually used the programs being purchased, they may see that they are wasting a ton of money on programs that are just sitting and could be using that money elsewhere to help our budget. Lawren Phillips EDAD 5302

Lawren, I too have seen many technology programs fly through my district with little to no integration. Districts are wasting money on programs that are under utilized. After reading this week's material, I realized the problem in my district is that there is not sufficient training to accompany the push for technology. Until districts realize that they have to provide adequate support for new technology and listen to teacher feedback, we will continue to have useless technology that does not benefit the students we service. Diondria Phillips EDAD 5302 3/5/11

Diondria We have a similar problem in my district of not supporting the technology assigned us with adequate training. There is also little in the way of consultation prior to mking the decision to purchase new technology. Not to say that all these purchases are met with resistance. We mostly were pleased when every teacher was assigned a laptop.

However, some have been less enthusiastically received. We were informed that the latest plan in the high schools is to have a netbook for every student in the classrooms. This year they are 'piloting' the program and ased for 'volunteers' to do so. Our department was informed that if no one volunteered we could forget having priority in consideration for the next new technology.

Gene Aanenson EDAD 5302 3/5/11

Jennifer, In our district we use the CPS "Clickers". I've included a link for them here: [].

These are great tools that can be used for quick quizzes to show real-time if students understand the material. I assign students numbers and get a score for each student as well as a whole class average. We also use the CPS Whiteboard which allows students to "write" on a powerpoint. Our math teacher uses this daily but I haven't found as many uses for these as an ELA teacher. I've used the system for editing but haven't found a way to use it for reading. If anyone has creative ways of using these for reading I would love to hear them.

Travis Niemeyer EDAD 5302

Emily Layman EDAD 5302 Cohort 2

Hi all,

I found this opinion piece "iPad 2 Could Level Playing Field for Learning" on the very day that Steve Jobs announced the introduction of the iPad 2... amazing how quickly folks are incorporating new technology these days! The thing that struck me is that in my district the opposition to technology initiatives is often the opposite argument: that increased use of technology will create more stratification in education based on income. Anyway, it's an interesting piece:

[]

Cheers! Nancy Yates :EDAE 5302, section 1020)

Nancy,

Thanks so much for attaching this opinion piece. I have been toying around with the idea of using the iPad2 in my 8th grade ELAR classroom. After reading this and some of the other articles from module 3, I am planning on meeting with out tech facilitator to set up a lesson. I have to say that I feel very "behind the curve" when it comes to integrating technology. However; stepping out of my comfort zone for the betterment of my students has beome my mantra. Again thank for sharing.

Liz Reiter EDAD 5302

Hi Emily: My 5-year-old son was able to use the iPads for reading practice in kindergarten. My, how things have changed. In kindergarten, I remember listening to books on casette tapes. That was high tech. Now 5-year-olds watch "Tumblebooks" on SmartBoards and reads on iPads. Lisa Maza (EDAD 5302)

A fifth grade teacher I work with on a regular basis does an amazing job integrating technology into the classroom. The fifth grade students get different articles from tween tribune on Thursdays. There are normally 3 different articles and the students are grouped by article. They have to read the article the night before making notes about what they think and having BIG questions about the article. On Friday, the students log into [|Today's meeting] where there are secure chat rooms to log into. They students then chat with another 5th grade class as well as their own class about the articles. The teachers are the moderators and keep the students on task. I work with two limited English students in the class. It's wonderful to see them contributing more through this platform than they do in class. They have more time to process and contribute. The students are also learning on-line etiquette. When they first started using this platform there was always a debrief of how it went, what went well, what didn't and how could they make it better. You can also save all conversations to go back and look at as long as you remember to do it before you leave the session.

On a side note, if anyone knows how I could put a screenshot up of the page that would be great. I can't seem to make it work tonight! Thanks Anna

Anna, I agree with the above entry that the technology in the classroom really grabs our younger learners whether they speak English or their primary language is other than English. The strategies used in creating a power point presentation engage my English Language Learners and their enthusiasm is fabulous without the grimaces of having to speak in front of a new group of students. The learners in my classroom love to use their cell phone to call the homework hotline or text friends about the power point research project revolving around their novel. The best part of the collaborative work is watching the group interact and the synergy infused with each learner's critique of their projects. Catherine Strother
 * EDAD 5302 Educational Technology Planning - SP2 11 - EL1008 March 3, 2011 11:45 p.m ||  ||

Posted by: T Pickowitz, EDAD 5302 Educational Technology Planning - SP2 11 - EL1005, 3/5/11 For the past 3 years my class has participated in 'RiverXchange' and WIKI is our medium for communication. The program is funded by federal, state and local agencies. We are teamed with another school :over 3 years, our team schools have been in Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Japan:. The students learn about their local river, environment, and community then share their knowledge with their partner school. It is a wonderful learning experience and the students enjoy it :you could say - they do not realize how much they are learning.)

Dr. Berning,

There was a section in your guidebook that discussed different type of innovations and disrupting the status quo. I was wondering if you could provide me and example of a classroom response system?

Thanks, Jennifer Pfalzgraf March 2, 2011 8:27 Here you go Jennifer. See this an example of teaching with "Clickers." DrB media type="youtube" key="z0q5gQfQmng" height="390" width="480"

This video was shown to teachers at the beginning of the school year during my school’s academy. I think it is very inspiring and scary at the same time, because it really hits the nail on the head: Educators need to embrace technology to engage students. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4g5M06YyVw&feature=player_embedded Posted by Iliana Gonzalez March 2, 2011

I saw on the news that a district in Florida had purchased Kindles for high school students to use instead of textbooks. Here is the video. media type="youtube" key="LiY5kDgI1a8" height="211" width="354" Posted by:Jason Shipley March 1, 2011

Jason, I wrote a grant and purchased a few Kindles for my special education classroom. They are something that the kids are really taking too! I justified one for myself so I would be up on what is happening and how they work. There is a dictionary that is very easy to access and use as well as an unlimited source of age/grade appropriate reading material! Thanks for the video, I am anxious to see how they are using them on a larger scale. Sarah Hall March 3, 2011

Read this article today on Foxnews.com about teachers learning to push past their technology fears and embrace the innovative ways it can be used in their classrooms. Perfect timing as we get ready for this class and all it has in store for us! <span style="cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">[]

<span style="cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Sarah, <span style="cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">I am a Special Education Teacher in a Life Skills Classroom and I was blown out of the water by your fantastic idea of Kindles for your classroom. How did you go about writing the grant? I would love some mentoring. Jeanie Washer March 5, 2011

Stacey Landrith February 27th, 2011

Sarah, What is your plan for adding titles to the Kindle? Are you writing grants for those as well or is your district providing the funding? I would love to investigate using Kindles in my reading class for guided reading, book clubs, etc. Though after reading Chapter 3 in Disrupting Class by Clayton Christensen, I start questioning if it would really be a "disruptive" technology.

Travis Niemeyer March 11, 2011

I think Kindles and the like would be worth researching, for sure! My middle school daughter LOVES to read on her iTouch. I would be interested in what the TCO would be? It sounds more reasonable than buying every student a laptop, but they would all still have access to all their textbooks and downloaded material from the teachers. Interesting for sure...

Tricia Badillo 3-4-11

I think digital tablets and readers will be the "next big thing" for schools to adopt. In financial hard times, while the initial expense may be large, the cost of replacing a Kindle :or some other digital reader) would be less than replacing the cost of a text book, especially with so many textbook companies offering their books online. Not to mention downloading novels, where EVERY student could actually have their own copy AND be able to take it home to read and work with! I am hearing rumblings that this will be a part of our next bond package :one or the other) right now, every student has a laptop in middle and high school. High school students can take theirs home whereas middle school students leave them checked in and locked up at school. I often wonder, when making big puchases such as a tablet for every student, how long before it's obsolete? I mean, the ipad has only been out a year and it's already old.

Angelica Fernandez 3-3-11

I was searching the internet for information on how technology is continuing to impact how we teach and came across a teacher's creative way to motivate her students as well as assist with certain skills through technology. I thought it was interesting and so decided to post it here to demonstrate one small way that technology continues to impact education in the classroom. The quote and picture below is taken from E-WOT and the author of the post is Sally07, posted on Feb.4, 2011 - Becky Stephan

"I took a risk today because I had really been pushing my year 11s today with their vocabulary for the new assignment, some grammar and aural comprehensions. I needed to lighten it up. I had heard about Voki so I thought we could start a presentation on it and continue with it next week. They have to present themselves in French. Within 30 seconds their were shrieks of excitement and a lot of laughter. Then there was some serious silence, some sharing of tips and techniques and silence. We realised we needed to sign up to get the Vokis in a form we can share as class presentations. So we signed up and they got going. They worked on their French for what they are going to record for the Voki to say and then they had a lot of fun choosing and shaping their Voki. Tuesday next week we’ll really work on it because they are all going to look at the site properly at the weekend. I had NO motivational problems. They all were totally committed to this and I am so glad I took that risk. It meant when we put that on hold and went back to the serious vocabulary development for their summative piece, they were able to fully concentrate again. Try Voki. It looks like it is going to be a great help for learning any language or encouraging language development. It was also clear the students who are a bit shy has the perfect medium for practising their language skills.There is a good educational section on [|Voki]for you to consider."

Posted by Becky Stephan I continue to hear the possibility of E-books replacing traditional textbooks and I think it is just a matter of time. The amount of funding required for new textbook adoptions is huge, including the costs for shipping and personnel to deliver the books to our schools. Also, the amount of time it takes for all schools to get their shipments is lengthy, with some schools in our district still waiting to receive materials that were to be used at the beginning of the school year. I can see the benefits of going the e-book route. The article below, taken from kxan.com, an austin news station, talks about this coming change. :Some schools in Texas are already using e-books)

= E-textbooks may soon be reality =

Traditional hardbacks lost in wave of future
Updated: Tuesday, 18 May 2010, 6:31 PM CDT Published : Tuesday, 18 May 2010, 6:01 PM CDT AUSTIN (KXAN) - Electronic textbooks are closer to becoming a reality in Texas classrooms. Already, many are picturing classrooms where textbooks exist on the Internet or on Kindle-like devices. In Lina Miller's Kindergarten classroom at Great Oaks Elementary in Round Rock, the children sit on the floor watching for their voice and animal pictures to pop up on the television screen. They created Voice Threads. The students used the Internet to research an animal, and then used the computer to draw the animal. Then they used the computers again to record short story voice-overs. Ms. Miller's class is Internet savvy. They are excited about the idea of electronic textbooks. They already refer to the Internet often when books seem out of date. "A lot of books we have still say that Pluto is our planet," says Kindergarten teacher Lina Miller. "Whereas the new information out there online (says) it's not an actual planet, it's a dwarf planet. We use the internet to kind of check." In May 2009, the Texas Legislature
 * [|Catenya McHenry]

approved allowing school districts to use their textbook funds to purchase e-book supplies and materials. Round Rock school officials still don't know yet how they will implement the technology and what that means for parents and students. Right now the idea of e-textbooks

is great especially for those who lift and move hundreds of heavy textbook boxes each year.

"Once they [textbooks] get to the campus, that's labor on all those textbook coordinators and teachers and everyone involved there," says Dottie Hall, textbook coordinator. "With an online textbook, it's a download, period." Texas Education Agency board members today reviewed a list of 97 vendors for the education commissioner to look at. The publishing vendors supply schools districts with electronic materials. The board also approved three electronic products for English Language Proficiency standards. But after closer review, TEA officials don't believe switching to on-line books will save much money. "A lot of people thought electronic books material would be much cheaper," says Debbie Ratcliffe, TEA communications director. "But at least on this initiall round, we're not seeing that." Some SBOE board member expressed concern that school districts may not be ready financially and technologically to get rid of textbooks altogether. Texas schoool children could see textbooks disappear as early as this fall. The next step is for Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott to decide which vendors will be solicited for bids.

Since the students, in my view, have been hungry to participate in a digital world, the reinforcing research is thorough enough to justify using wikis, blogs, and any other online technologies that can improve students' achievements. Mozhgan media type="youtube" key="_A-ZVCjfWf8?rel=0" height="390" width="480"

Posted by: Israel Villanueva

By: Devin Rodriguez In Irving ISD we have a new Net-Zero Middle School opening this coming fall. The major mission and goal of this school is of coure to be net-zero but also to be innovate, and to have the greatest technology accessibility for all students. In understanding of the proposed concepts "the sky is the limit" regarding technology use in the classroom. Many people shy away from cellular use in the class but given the example of cell phone use found on youtube, one might need to look at the cool, innovate possibilities that it can have. I am sure the new school in Irving has already looked into and put some directives in motion to promote this kind of technological culture. media type="youtube" key="YOSlmFYLX1s" height="390" width="480"

Posted by: Devin Rodriguez

postted by: Israel Villanueva

I found this interesting article on Dallas Morning News' website.

The article mentions Lewisville ISD as implementing this in small reading labs and they will be allowed to purchase a single book and be able to copy it to at least five kindles. The ability to copy will in turn save the district money. The district has only purchased a few and predict that the school will not need to buy many since parents are beginning to purchase their own for their children. One of the advantages to phasing in e-readers is the ability to easily update software and that the library has over 5,000 books that students can access and download.


 * Dallas area school districts prepare to shift to e-books **



[|http://www.dallasnews.com/news/education/headlines/20110219-dallas-area-school-districts-prepare-to-shift-to-e-books.ece?ssimg=128001#ssStory128003]

By WENDY HUNDLEY Staff Writer whundley@dallasnews.com Published 19 February 2011 08:35 PM

Related items

It’s a fourth-period reading class at Killian Middle School in [|Lewisville], where the students are absorbed in reading Shakespeare’s //Much Ado About Nothing.// But instead of hardbound textbooks spread across their desks, the seventh-graders are reading the classic comedy on [|Sony] E-readers, Kindles, even an [|iPhone]. In fact, only one student is reading from a printed book. “I just forgot to bring my Kindle today,” said [|Michael Lee], who prefers electronic, or e-books, over the traditional kind. “Of course,” he said. “I think e-books are more enjoyable.” While electronic books have not replaced print texts in classrooms, many educators think that day is just around the corner and are making plans for the digital shift. “It’s the way of the future,” Marilyn Beaird, library supervisor in the Lewisville school district. “I don’t think print will be out in my lifetime. But a lot of students are learning in this way. We want print, and we want e-readers.”

Posted by Simona Jordan: I read the many previous posts concerning E-readers such as the Sony, Kindle and the Nook and how they are being implemented into many classrooms. One teacher even posted about writing a grant to receive funding to purchase them for her special education class. I thought this was an excellent idea! However, while I think this is a step in a great direction as far as technology is concerned, I do wonder if students are mature enough to handle such gentle, expensive equipment? Of course a few are, but the majority, I don't know. I worry that this huge purchase potentially made by districts aren't as easy to handle and navigate through as a textbook :which can handle rough kids). Maybe a special class, such as computer lab, is a good place to implement this tool? Just an opinion because our poor textbooks, which I might add do not have any costs associated with them needing to be fixed, take a beating from kids. How will these expensive e-readers hold up in the long run?
 * Simona Jordan*

I have tried to implement a blog in my Relationships class at the high school level. I have not found a good site that can be effectively used by students and myself. I am currently using Google Groups. Does anyone know of a good blogging site? Robert Van Dyke UTA Student EDAD 5302

Dr. Berning

I have been in education now for 10 years. This year is the first year I have seen school districts having to make significant cuts in their budgets. What affects will the budget cuts have on technology both now and in the future? How will the public perceive the spending of funds on technology, when their son or daughter is sitting in a class of 30 to 40 students? Also, how can technology purchases be justified when teachers are being laid off?

Posted by Allison Laws EDAD 5302 I think that many more districts will begin to look into e-books. With education in such a budget cut, they are finding ways to save money. Within my own district, teahers are able to purchase ipads, ipods, netbooks, and laptops for classroom use through a bond that was passed last year. Teachers are finding books that would cost $20 at the local bookstore for $0.99 on the iPad. Amazing, the teachers on our campus are purchasing those left and right. Apple never realized that the iPads and iPods would have such a great educational use. Posted by David Wilding

My school is using a program called FASTT Math. It helps students achieve fast fluency in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts. After doing a lesson for 10 minutes, students are allowed to play a game to practice the facts they already know. I really like it, because I run a weekly report and it tells me everything about every child. I do not have to worry about sitting with them individually to teach them to add, subtract, multiply or divide, unless he or she is a tier 3 student and data shows that the computer program is not beneficial for him/her. But this hasn't happend so far...all the students love going daily to the computer to do FASTT Math. Here is the video that explains Fastt Math. media type="youtube" key="aqrvXoAZZkQ" height="390" width="480"Debora Martinez

Debora, we also use Fastt Math in our district. The program is great. I look forward to the next few years to see how the growth of the students has progressed campus wide. I would like to see more and more students mastering all their facts and being able to move on into a program dealing with fractions that our school is looking into accessing for when those student complete Fastt Math, so that they are still challanged with a new learning activity much like Fastt Math.

Brandon Girard

I wanted to introduce a great web based tool we use in our math and science departments called Gizmos through ExploreLearning.com. As a math teacher, I can't say that I appreciate every gizmo lesson they provide but more often than not, I find that it enhances and enriches my instruction as the students enjoy exploring the concepts deeper, forming more frequent and deeper connections through the experience. Because it is web based, it is also accessible from home but the teacher can manage which lessons can be accessed and monitor progress. ExploreLearning.com media type="youtube" key="sx-eBcrgCio" height="390" width="480" Posted March 9, 2011 by Tammy Whitaker EDAD 5302

As future administrators, it is imperative that we consider all aspects of integrating technology. So often schools get caught up in the hype of wanting to provide promethean and smart boards, ipads, laptops, computers and kindles for every student, that they do not consider how all of those devices will effectively run once being used by a classroom of students all at the same time. I know that in our school, teachers are often frustrated because the computers and internet is available for student use, but the network often cannot handle the use. Connections are slow or go down; it is very frustrating. I found this article below on the website, //The Journal: Transforming Education through Technology :[])// which has many informative articles about the trends of technology in education today.


 * 3 Questions Schools Should Ask About WiFi by Bridget McCrea**

"By asking the important technical questions early in the buying process, districts can avoid major headaches down the road," according to engineer and wireless expert Douglas Haider. So just what are some of the basic questions that all K-12 schools should be asking about their WiFi implementations?"

To read the complete article, please go to: @http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/03/10/3-questions-schools-should-ask-about-wifi.aspx

Posted March 13, 2011 by William Carpenter EDAD 5302

My school in Lancaster is a part of the TAP System. We use video and technology to train teachers. Technology and multi-media is a major part of the presenting instructional content indicator on our instructional rubric.Check out this website [] to learn more about the use of technology in the TAP program.

TaTanisha Stevenson EDAD 5302

I am really excited to use wiki to interact. I have never used a technology like this in teaching. Being a physcial education teacher, I want to see if it is possible to utilize these types of technologies in teaching PE. If it is possible, how can I do so? I look forward to interacting with everyone.

Nathan Harbottle EDAD 5302 Posted March 14, 2011 @ 11:40am

My school just recently told the teachers that we can apply for I-pads to use in our classroom. I put together a proposal and should have one by the beginning of April. I am so excited to use this new technology. I think it will help in my classroom with showing graphs and visuals for my AP Statistics class. I hope to download some new online quizzes and websites to tie into my current lessons. Texas Instruments also has a great websitre with activities each week for AP Calculus and AP Statistics.

http://education.ti.com/calculators/downloads/US/Activities/Search/Subject?s=5022&sa=5026&d=3

Mark Zmuda EDAD 5302 [] I have never posted on a wiki. This is a great source of collaboration. Susette Wiggins EDAD 5302 SP2 11 EL 1013

This is my first time on a Wiki also. I think it is a form of collaboration but I haven't decided if I like it yet or not. Shirley Woods

EDAD 5302

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! It has been a long while since I have participated in a Wiki. Some teachers and I at my campus created one a couple of summers ago to create and edit out ELA reading plan for the school. I think it has great potential but I'm not completely comfortable using one yet. Someone commented earlier about privacy. I think that would be an issue because I have had problems with students in the past posting material and signing it as someone else. N. Anderson EDAD 5302

As we are studying appropriate uses for techology in the classrooms, I wanted to share a website that my fellow English colleagues passed on to me today. As a teacher, I have always loved using webquests to introduce new units and provide scaffolding and background for literature that I teach. I have never created my own and have depended on other webquests I have borrowed from teachers online. The site that they shared is called Zunal WebQuest maker, a web-based software for creating WebQuests in a short time without writing any HTML codes. Plus, it has a menu of already created webquests that you can use. Like other teachers who borrow, beg, and steal ideas from other teachers, this is a great tool! I hope you find it useful! Here is the link: [] Happy Webquesting!

Y. Carpenter EDAD 5302

This is my first time on a WIKI has many of the other students have mentioned. I have been trying to find time to set up a moodle for my classroom in order to create an online extension of the room. Looking at this WIKI I think this could be an easier method. I know my district offers both moodle and wiki sites, and I think on online forum could increase the level of participation of some of my students. The school district stopped doing blogs last year and moved to these two options. I really like the flexibility of the amount and type of material a student and teacher can post. I do worry about being able to monitor the amount of information and to evaluate student participation and performance using this medium.

D. Graves EDAD 5302

I have no experience using a Wiki. One of the problems I have encountered is that when I click on Edfit a box shows up asking if I want to continue to run the script. I don't know what this means. I am hopeful I am going to learn much from my classmates and this course. Jeanie Washer

This my first time experiencing the Wiki. I have had some trouble but I will not quit. I think the vision of the 21st Century Teacher video share that student will be engage and speak up even if they are shy. I truly beleive that is a great tool to reach them. I located a great video that I thought could helps us make a difference in our classroom. Please view 21st Century Classroom (part 1 of 2). Thank you Dr. Berning. My local library is wonderful.

Joyce Spears EDAD 5302 EDAD 5302media type="youtube" key="kQlNyTrKhAg" height="390" width="480"

This is the first time time I have ever been on a Wiki page too. It took me a minute to figure it out but find it interesting how it works. I didn't even know what a wiki was before this class. I don't think that anyone in my school district uses one and I would be surprised if they even knew what it was !! Technology integration is not a top priority in our district. We are blessed to have smartboards in our classrooms but very little has been done to train the teachersin all of the ways that they can be used. I am learning a lot in this class and am hoping to try to implement more techology in my classroom as a result of the information I am learning.

Lyndie Davis EDAD 5302 Sec. 11

I have to agree with what a lot of people seem to have been saying in that the integration of technology in my district is not very supported or encouraged. However, one of the things we have been using this year are some of the free interactive sites, much like a wiki. We have been utilizing glogster and animoto with the kids. They seem to really like the interactive part of this! I have struggled with it, though, with my special education students. Although, I do use some of the voice technologies with my students on a daily basis.

Shaundra Byers EDAD 5302, 1005

I have heard so much about teachers that are starting to use WIKIS for classroom discussions on projects, and so I am glad to say that I am now learnnig to be apart of a WIKI.

Julie Wuerch EDAD 5302 Sec.11

As a teacher who teaches Algebra I and freshmen, I am constantly looking for new methods for instruction. Although I do have a Promethean board, I do not effectively utilize it it for instruction. I would appreciate any videos or sites that would give me some insight. I am definitely a novice and am learning much valuable information through this Wiki and class. William Carpenter EDAD 5302

Our school is slowly working to integrate technology. We currently have Elmos (document cameras) and projectors in each of our general education classrooms. We also have Promethean boards in our 3rd-5th grade general education classrooms. I am a special education teacher, so we don't have Promethean boards or Elmos, but we do have student computers with access to SuccessMaker, which the general education classrooms do not. Anyways, we have two Promethean boards that are located centrally in our building and anyone can utilize. I have found that the Promethean Planet website ([]) is fantastic for resources. You can download ready-made lessons, interactive games, or tutorials for students. Plus you can download a flipbook and then edit the content quite easily so that it matches the exact standards you're trying to teach. Best Wishes! Katie Arbore EDAD 5302

This is totally new to me. We tried to have all teachers create web pages for their classes, but that took a lot of maintance. I just might use it for class next year. Anthony Dansny EDAD 5302 sec

I finally was able to participate!!! I have tried this several times. I even resorted to watching the tutorial, but that didn't help. So here I am again and yes, it finally worked using the same step as before. I still don't understand why this has been so difficult. Patricia Pereira EDAD 5302

I think I am finally going to be able to write something! This is all very new to me, but it is an excellent learning experience. This would be a great tool for my classroom. A Wiki would give the students access to a discussion if they needed help with assignments or homework! A great form of interaction. Ashley McBride EDAD 5302 SP2- 11

I could see a Wiki working in classes of intermediate or high school stustudents, but I have to wonder if my 3rd graders would abuse the feature that allows students to change prior entries. I think if I do implement a Wiki, I would create an acceptable use form that parents must sign to acknowledge consequences for their child should he abuse the Wiki. Katherine Stathakos EDAD 5302 SP2 11 EL1025media type="youtube" key="57EL3eaVEKY" width="425" height="350" albert enjoy videomedia type="custom" key="9814261"

I have been looking for videos but I haven't found any worth while to post yet. I have to say that I do like posting through this. I think it is a good way to foster teacher to teacher communication, student to student to teacher, student to student and teacher to parent communication. As long as students are trained on the expectations and acceptable use policies, this could be a very desirable tool for teachers. Paul Pavelich EDAD 5302 SP2-11