Throughout this semester I've been challenged not only to learn different aspects of technology, but also how to integrate technology into learning. Yes, I've learned how to create websites, share links, create and use SMARTBoard activities, use free online resources like Animoto, but even more importantly than that, I've learned how to incorporate all of these things into creating a more effective learning environment.
I think technology is vital in education because one of the purposes of education is to prepare children to become successful adults. If they are not exposed and taught appropriate technological usage, educators will not have been successful in preparing the children for adulthood.
I don't know that my view of technology has really changed through the semester, but I've become more confident in my ability to use it and become more aware of the options there are in using it. I knew there was a lot of cool stuff out there, but I thought you had to be a geek in order to learn it :-) Now I know that I'm capable of learning and implementing many forms of technology.
16 December, 2008
09 December, 2008
Reflection #10
Today I've found myself thinking a lot about how much technology has advanced in my lifetime. I still remember one birthday getting a computer. I was so excited until I got it into my bedroom and realized it took up half the room! I also remember my parents first cell phone. It was one of those box phones that must have weighed five pounds and was to be used in emergencies only. Today we have laptops with fewer square inches than a piece of paper, and cell phones the size of a credit card. The Internet was made accessible in my lifetime; wireless connections were invented, online books and shopping have all become possibilities in my lifetime. It makes me stop and wonder what kinds of technology will be available to my children? How far will we have progressed when I die?
Technology is progressing so rapidly, I just wonder, how far it will go?
Technology is progressing so rapidly, I just wonder, how far it will go?
Assignment #4
My final project can be found here
While working on this project I learned so much, not just about the actual technological gadgets and processes, but also about technology and learning. I think that completing the technological processes with the purpose of educating really served to cement in me just how big of an impact technology can have in education. When I was creating my project, it wasn't just about how many technological tools I could include, but about what tools would create the biggest learning opportunity for my students. What would benefit them and bring them to a higher level of learning? I think that's an important thing for teachers to remember; it's not just about using technology, but using appropriate technology. So through my project I didn't just learn technology; I learned to integrate technology into learning.
In my project I used the following technological tools:
While working on this project I learned so much, not just about the actual technological gadgets and processes, but also about technology and learning. I think that completing the technological processes with the purpose of educating really served to cement in me just how big of an impact technology can have in education. When I was creating my project, it wasn't just about how many technological tools I could include, but about what tools would create the biggest learning opportunity for my students. What would benefit them and bring them to a higher level of learning? I think that's an important thing for teachers to remember; it's not just about using technology, but using appropriate technology. So through my project I didn't just learn technology; I learned to integrate technology into learning.
In my project I used the following technological tools:
- webs.com to create my own free website
- yousendit.com to give my students a way to submit projects online
- html to specify what colors I wanted on my blog
- online templates for my web page
- links: I embedded multiple links into my project
- I used webs.com to add graphics, music, and polls to my page
- I added a sidebar to my site
- I both created, edited, and linked wiki's to my site
This project meets the following NETS standards for students:
- 1.a) apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes. Through this projects students meet this standard because they are taking ideas and processes they have learned in school like writing, performing, singing, etc and combining it with technological things like uploading onto the Internet, creating mp3's, making video's, etc.
- 2.a,b,d) interact, collaborate, and publish with peers, experts, or others employing a variety of digital environments and media; communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats; and contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems. Students meet these standards because they are given the opportunity to work individually or in groups to complete their holiday project. They have a variety of options for the holiday project, each of which uses a different type of technology. Through their projects they will be communicating their ideas to me the teacher, fellow students, and the families.
- 3.c) evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks. Students will meet this standard because after choosing their activity, they must find an appropriate technological tool to share their project.
- 5.a,b,c,d) advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible use of information and technology; exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports collaboration, learning, and productivity; demonstrate personal responsibility for lifelong learning; exhibit leadership for digital citizenship. Students will meet these standards because students, through their project, will take ownership of the technology they use. The projects are fun so the students will exhibit a positive attitude towards technology and it will all take place within appropriate boundaries.
- 6.a,b,d) understand and use technology systems; select and use applications effectively and productively; transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies. Students will meet these standards because through their project they will learn new technological tools and applications and also been transferring classroom learning to technology.
This projects meets several of the NETS standards for teachers as well, but because of time I won't go in to all of them.
Reflection #9
While trying to gain a better understanding on how to implement technology in education today, I came across this article. This article does a fantastic job of laying out how technology can be used to enhance student learning. It talks about the various learning styles and how technology can be formatted to fit all needs. The article also discussing the changing ways in which the world is connected and communicates. I think that this article did a nice job of saying what it is I've been trying to put into words all semester but couldn't quite get my thoughts into words. I think you all should read it!
08 December, 2008
Reflection #8
As the semester comes to a close and I begin the task of reflecting on everything I've learned, Math Methods comes to mind. Throughout this semester, I've been introduced to reformed math. Reformed math couldn't be more opposite from what I learned growing up so it's been interesting learning all the differences and they ways I will be expected to teach math in the coming years.
One of the ideas I've had the most trouble with is the idea that math is no longer about having the right answer, that's certainly part of it, but the main point is the journey the child took to finding the answer they did. Growing up, it was all about getting the right answer by following a very specific set of rules. Throughout this semester I've learned a lot about the reformed method and I think it has it's good qualities, but I think that as teachers we need to remember that it's not just about the road traveled, but getting the answer is equally as important. It does no good for a child to come up with an ingenious way of solving a problem if, in the end, the problem remains unsolved.
I really feel like the ultimate math class would have a quality combination of both methods. I think the reformed method provides children with a solid number sense that is crucial to understanding math, but the traditional algorithms also provide a standard way of getting the right answer.
With the introduction of the SMARTBoard and various other technological tools in many classrooms, I look forward to seeing other new ways math can be taught and understood.
One of the ideas I've had the most trouble with is the idea that math is no longer about having the right answer, that's certainly part of it, but the main point is the journey the child took to finding the answer they did. Growing up, it was all about getting the right answer by following a very specific set of rules. Throughout this semester I've learned a lot about the reformed method and I think it has it's good qualities, but I think that as teachers we need to remember that it's not just about the road traveled, but getting the answer is equally as important. It does no good for a child to come up with an ingenious way of solving a problem if, in the end, the problem remains unsolved.
I really feel like the ultimate math class would have a quality combination of both methods. I think the reformed method provides children with a solid number sense that is crucial to understanding math, but the traditional algorithms also provide a standard way of getting the right answer.
With the introduction of the SMARTBoard and various other technological tools in many classrooms, I look forward to seeing other new ways math can be taught and understood.
Reflection #7
I've been working on my technology project and the thing I keep running into is how much time technology takes. It seems like the more you learn, the more you realize you have yet to learn. The deeper I go into creating my website, the more ideas I get and the more widgets I am able to create, which is fun and exciting, but it also creates the feeling that it's never good enough. I feel like no matter what I do with the website, there's always going to be something else I can add, or another link I can provide to make it better. Which in some ways, is very exciting because this project is something I can continue to work with for years to come; there are so many possibilities. But, for my personality, it's also kind of frustrating. I like closure, I like having a checklist of responsibilities that I can cross off, and when they're all crossed off, I know I'm done. It doesn't work like that with technology; there is always something better.
Through this, I've come to the conclusion that I can only be expected to do my best at the time. When I find something that could make it better, great, it will be a nice addition, but for the time being, I just have to stick with as much as time allows and call it good :-)
Through this, I've come to the conclusion that I can only be expected to do my best at the time. When I find something that could make it better, great, it will be a nice addition, but for the time being, I just have to stick with as much as time allows and call it good :-)
07 December, 2008
Reflection #6
With a growing number of health concerns, many schools have begun to make rules regarding food and drinks in the classroom. Some schools only allow water and healthy snacks during class, while other schools have said that's it's ok to bring whatever you wish, while others have said no food or drinks are to be brought into the classroom.
I think each of these arguments can be made valid. Obviously we want to help children make healthy food choices, but at the same time is it our right to control what a child is allowed to eat, therefore they should be allowed to bring whatever they wish? Or to be fair to everyone, should we should just make a blanket rule that additional snacks and drinks are not allowed?
I think an important perspective to have is to remember that as a teacher, we are influencing students' lives. As such, we should be modeling not just good study habits and good behavior, but also modeling healthy living. So although we can't control our students lives, we can model a positive lifestyle and this includes healthy eating.
Overall, we can't control what goes into kids' mouths, but we can control the behavior that's modeled for them, therefore we should do our very best to model healthy living in order that the children can learn and become healthy adults themselves.
I think each of these arguments can be made valid. Obviously we want to help children make healthy food choices, but at the same time is it our right to control what a child is allowed to eat, therefore they should be allowed to bring whatever they wish? Or to be fair to everyone, should we should just make a blanket rule that additional snacks and drinks are not allowed?
I think an important perspective to have is to remember that as a teacher, we are influencing students' lives. As such, we should be modeling not just good study habits and good behavior, but also modeling healthy living. So although we can't control our students lives, we can model a positive lifestyle and this includes healthy eating.
Overall, we can't control what goes into kids' mouths, but we can control the behavior that's modeled for them, therefore we should do our very best to model healthy living in order that the children can learn and become healthy adults themselves.
02 December, 2008
Future Classrooms
I think the potential for growth and change in elementary classrooms is tremendous. When I think about the exponential technological growth in the last five years, I can only expect technology to move into education even more rapidly during the next five years. I think classroom learning is going to move farther and farther away from paper and pencil, and lessons will be far more computer and Internet based. I also think there is going to be a huge shift from individual rote memorization learning, to group project based discovery learning.
When I think of classroom technology in the next five years, I hope that SMARTBoards will have become commonplace and teachers, both old and new, will have been taught instructional methods in using this technology. I would also love to see student's having their own computers to be used for note-taking, assignments, networking, etc. I think the world, and therefore jobs, are moving towards becoming an online community so as educators this is what we need to be training children in. The more technology based assignments and learning we can provide, the more prepared the children will be for their futures.
This will affect my role as a teacher in that I think my teaching will go from explicit group lecture style, to an explicit small group, individual discovery teaching. I think there will also be a lot more communication that takes place with my students and their parents online versus in the classroom. For example, I could easily see parent teacher conferences taking place via webcam group chat where I email video's of students work that parents can view ahead of time and be prepared to discuss online.
When I think of classroom technology in the next five years, I hope that SMARTBoards will have become commonplace and teachers, both old and new, will have been taught instructional methods in using this technology. I would also love to see student's having their own computers to be used for note-taking, assignments, networking, etc. I think the world, and therefore jobs, are moving towards becoming an online community so as educators this is what we need to be training children in. The more technology based assignments and learning we can provide, the more prepared the children will be for their futures.
This will affect my role as a teacher in that I think my teaching will go from explicit group lecture style, to an explicit small group, individual discovery teaching. I think there will also be a lot more communication that takes place with my students and their parents online versus in the classroom. For example, I could easily see parent teacher conferences taking place via webcam group chat where I email video's of students work that parents can view ahead of time and be prepared to discuss online.
25 November, 2008
Kidspiration and Gradebooks
I thought tonight's class was a lot of fun. I like the convenience grading software provides. I can see how it could save a tremendous amount of time and the program seemed very easy to navigate. There were things about the program I would change ie: I would have more options in the gradebooks like making parts available rather than all or nothing.
I also enjoying playing with Kidspiration. I really like how it's so visual and colorful and it's super easy to change things around. I also really like how with the click of a button you can go from a visual, pictoral view, to a verbal outline view. I think kids would have a very easy time adjusting from using this program to applying the writing concepts to actual paper.
I also enjoying playing with Kidspiration. I really like how it's so visual and colorful and it's super easy to change things around. I also really like how with the click of a button you can go from a visual, pictoral view, to a verbal outline view. I think kids would have a very easy time adjusting from using this program to applying the writing concepts to actual paper.
17 November, 2008
Safety Issues
I think one of the most prevalent safety issues regarding children and the Internet are online networking sites like myspace and facebook. I have nothing against either of these (I have accounts with both, hehe) but I think children/young adults don't fully comprehend how important it is to be careful with these kinds of sites. I think kids have no clue the effect posting pics and becoming friends with strangers can have on their lives. I think children should be informed and kept accountable with sites like these so as to prevent predators.
I also think that, in general, children's Internet usage should be monitored. It's way too easy to come across information, pictures, etc that children should not see. To deter this, I think kids should be monitored and be taught proper usage/search habits.
Also, this may seem kind of silly, but it seems to me like there is an alarming amount of time spent online by kids. In my opinion, there are far better things to be doing with your time than sitting on your bum in front of a computer. So, even though it's not a "safety" issue, I think it's an Internet issue that needs to be addressed. Even if kids are playing educational games, it's still better for them to be out and about playing and using their imaginations. I think that when you look at Internet usage long-term, it could easily become a health issue for kids because they're inactive for long periods of time daily.
I also think that, in general, children's Internet usage should be monitored. It's way too easy to come across information, pictures, etc that children should not see. To deter this, I think kids should be monitored and be taught proper usage/search habits.
Also, this may seem kind of silly, but it seems to me like there is an alarming amount of time spent online by kids. In my opinion, there are far better things to be doing with your time than sitting on your bum in front of a computer. So, even though it's not a "safety" issue, I think it's an Internet issue that needs to be addressed. Even if kids are playing educational games, it's still better for them to be out and about playing and using their imaginations. I think that when you look at Internet usage long-term, it could easily become a health issue for kids because they're inactive for long periods of time daily.
04 November, 2008
Project Plan
For my technology project, I would like to create a fairly specific website. If using this in a real classroom, I would have it as a link on my class website, but for this particular project, I will make it a site of it's own. This site will be the central point for a combination of Holiday activities. First of all, it will be a planning site for our Holiday party. I will have links to wiki's where parents can sign up for the area they would like to volunteer in for the class party (ie: decorations, snacks, etc), and wiki's where kids can sign up for areas they would like to help in as well (ie: set up, clean up, etc). During the party, of course there would be games, so I would have a few polls where kids could vote on which games they would most like to play or crafts they would like to make. I would incorporate the winning ideas into the party.
The second part of the Holiday activity would be a Holiday project for the kids. I would give them options on what they would like to do for their project, but let them know that the project must be uploaded onto the class website. So, they could create their own Christmas carol, record it, and post it to, or they could create a Holiday skit and make a video, or they could write about a Holiday memory they have, or write a Holiday poem. Each of these things would need to be uploaded onto the site. I would give the kids the option of working individually or in groups, but in a group there couldn't be any more than four children.
The final phase of the website would come in during the Holiday party. The parents and kids would have all completed the tasks they agreed to do on the wiki's and we would have played our games and made our crafts, but the party's finale would be showing and/or playing each of the kids' Holiday projects they had posted. In this way, the kids can see what the other students were able to accomplish, and the parents would be super impressed with their children's learning.
The second part of the Holiday activity would be a Holiday project for the kids. I would give them options on what they would like to do for their project, but let them know that the project must be uploaded onto the class website. So, they could create their own Christmas carol, record it, and post it to, or they could create a Holiday skit and make a video, or they could write about a Holiday memory they have, or write a Holiday poem. Each of these things would need to be uploaded onto the site. I would give the kids the option of working individually or in groups, but in a group there couldn't be any more than four children.
The final phase of the website would come in during the Holiday party. The parents and kids would have all completed the tasks they agreed to do on the wiki's and we would have played our games and made our crafts, but the party's finale would be showing and/or playing each of the kids' Holiday projects they had posted. In this way, the kids can see what the other students were able to accomplish, and the parents would be super impressed with their children's learning.
Shortcuts?
I've been sitting at my desk for about a half hour now, trying to come up with tricks I use in Microsoft Office programs that you might not know about, however, I'm just going to have to be honest...I just know how to do what I need to get done. I have no clue what kinds of shortcuts there may be, or options you can manipulate, etc. I know how to type, and I know how to use spell check, and then how to print. That's all you really need, right? But, in order to feel like I've completed this assignment, I'll make a list of the few features I use, but am fairly confident every five year old in America knows!
*ctrl + p to print
*ctrl + c to copy text
*ctrl + v to paste text
*shift and then arrows to highlight text
*ctrl + arrows to jump cursor by word sections
I'm guessing that tonight in class I'm going to become informed on all kinds of quick little shortcuts that I can use to expedite and improve my Office abilities.
*ctrl + p to print
*ctrl + c to copy text
*ctrl + v to paste text
*shift and then arrows to highlight text
*ctrl + arrows to jump cursor by word sections
I'm guessing that tonight in class I'm going to become informed on all kinds of quick little shortcuts that I can use to expedite and improve my Office abilities.
28 October, 2008
Online Learning Experience
I listened to H. Songhai and his discussion, "What Did You Do in School, Yesterday, Today, and Three Years Ago?"
This short talk was quite fascinating. H. Songhai took a short trip overseas and used various methods of technology to document his trip. Upon returning to the States, he led a small group of high school students on a sightseeing trip. He was shocked and saddened to see that the kids walked around all day texting friends and listening to their iPods, but not using any of these tools to document what they were seeing and experiencing. So, one morning he shared with the students how he used his phone and iPod to document his trip. It seemed to surprise the students that they could use their gadgets for learning. This sparked H. Songhai's thinking.
As the new school year started, H. Songhai began teaching his students how to incorporate technology into their learning. He ditched paper in his classes, and hasn't fused a single piece for the last three years. All students keep up a blog to record their learning and post assignments. He calls these learning tools, "Personal Learning Networks" and has students use sites like iGoogle, Google Reader, Skype, twitter, Project Gutenberg, and Google Notebook. He is of the belief that sites like this help a student learn and grow. If a student starts a blog upon entering ninth grade, by graduation, the students will have a blog that forever documents their growth, teacher's involvement in the learning, and what exactly the student learned. He compared this to his own high school and college learning experiences. Besides his diplomas, what proof is there that he learned anything?
H. Songhai has given all his students complete freedom to take pictures, get online, download material using whatever device they have, etc during class. Each of these show the students the possibilities they have in learning. His hope is that they can take this information and apply it to their everyday lives, that they wouldn't spend all their time texting and listening to music when they can be using these same tools to expand their minds and grow.
It's just absolutely incredible to think of teaching for 3 years without using a single piece of paper! It makes so much sense though; if you think about the amount of paper you find of the floor or in the garbage, you might as well just use the Internet. I think it's very cool to hear that about a teacher showing students how to incorporate technology and learning into their everyday life. I had never thought of using screen capturing tools to archive information or use on blogs, mashups, slideshows, and class projects.
This short talk was quite fascinating. H. Songhai took a short trip overseas and used various methods of technology to document his trip. Upon returning to the States, he led a small group of high school students on a sightseeing trip. He was shocked and saddened to see that the kids walked around all day texting friends and listening to their iPods, but not using any of these tools to document what they were seeing and experiencing. So, one morning he shared with the students how he used his phone and iPod to document his trip. It seemed to surprise the students that they could use their gadgets for learning. This sparked H. Songhai's thinking.
As the new school year started, H. Songhai began teaching his students how to incorporate technology into their learning. He ditched paper in his classes, and hasn't fused a single piece for the last three years. All students keep up a blog to record their learning and post assignments. He calls these learning tools, "Personal Learning Networks" and has students use sites like iGoogle, Google Reader, Skype, twitter, Project Gutenberg, and Google Notebook. He is of the belief that sites like this help a student learn and grow. If a student starts a blog upon entering ninth grade, by graduation, the students will have a blog that forever documents their growth, teacher's involvement in the learning, and what exactly the student learned. He compared this to his own high school and college learning experiences. Besides his diplomas, what proof is there that he learned anything?
H. Songhai has given all his students complete freedom to take pictures, get online, download material using whatever device they have, etc during class. Each of these show the students the possibilities they have in learning. His hope is that they can take this information and apply it to their everyday lives, that they wouldn't spend all their time texting and listening to music when they can be using these same tools to expand their minds and grow.
It's just absolutely incredible to think of teaching for 3 years without using a single piece of paper! It makes so much sense though; if you think about the amount of paper you find of the floor or in the garbage, you might as well just use the Internet. I think it's very cool to hear that about a teacher showing students how to incorporate technology and learning into their everyday life. I had never thought of using screen capturing tools to archive information or use on blogs, mashups, slideshows, and class projects.
25 October, 2008
SMARTBoard
After Tuesday's class, I've come to appreciate the SMARTBoard even more. I thought I had discovered a lot of cool features, but seeing everyone else's presentations made me realize how much more I can learn. It also made me realize how much more I need to keep track of. For instance, on the last slide of my presentation, I was looking at the board wondering why there was a big magnifying glass at the bottom...the class had to remind me to use to the glass in order to illuminate the answers!
It's little glitches like that which make technology in a classroom a gamble, however, it also makes learning so much fun and that much more memorable. I think a SMARTBoard is an excellent way to get kids involved in the learning and eager to participate in classroom learning.
It's little glitches like that which make technology in a classroom a gamble, however, it also makes learning so much fun and that much more memorable. I think a SMARTBoard is an excellent way to get kids involved in the learning and eager to participate in classroom learning.
21 October, 2008
Reflection #5
After discussing my greatest challenge with technology and education, I've started to think about mistakes I will make as a teacher. What will I do when I have a whole lesson using some form of technology, and it doesn't work? Or the computer is down, etc? How will I handle it? How long should a teacher spend trying to teach something before finally improvising or moving on to the next lesson?
I know that as a teacher, there will be many many times things do not go according to plan, or how I wish they could have gone. However, the important thing is that the kids still learn. So, when these things happen, I think it could be helpful to think of way to turn the mistake into a teachable lesson for the kids. For example, let's say I have a power point on zoo creatures and it isn't working when I need it. I try for a few minutes to fix the unknown problem, but it just isn't coming together. I could turn it into a teachable moment and talk about how sometimes technology just doesn't work, or the importance of having multiple copies of a document, or thinking ahead and creating a plan B. These are a few ideas.
Overall, I want to be a teacher that expects the best, but prepares for turning the worst into the best :-)
I know that as a teacher, there will be many many times things do not go according to plan, or how I wish they could have gone. However, the important thing is that the kids still learn. So, when these things happen, I think it could be helpful to think of way to turn the mistake into a teachable lesson for the kids. For example, let's say I have a power point on zoo creatures and it isn't working when I need it. I try for a few minutes to fix the unknown problem, but it just isn't coming together. I could turn it into a teachable moment and talk about how sometimes technology just doesn't work, or the importance of having multiple copies of a document, or thinking ahead and creating a plan B. These are a few ideas.
Overall, I want to be a teacher that expects the best, but prepares for turning the worst into the best :-)
Challenges With Technology
I think my greatest challenge regarding technology and teaching is integrating. It's easy to learn how to use technological tools, and it's fun to teach, but to learn to combine the two in effective ways that promote greater learning and understanding, I think is my greatest challenge. I think I tend to look at things as a checklist, so I know I have to teach math, for example, and I know I have to teach technology, so it's easy for me to teach one and then the other, but I find it very difficult to think of creative ways to combine the two.
I think the only way I'm going to overcome this is through time and practice. In the beginning I think it will take a lot of careful time and planning to come up with things, but after awhile I hope I will have trained my brain to think outside the box :-) I don't think there is going to be any magic class that I can take that will suddenly make me effective at integration, I think it's going to take lots of time and practice and learning through my mistakes.
I think the only way I'm going to overcome this is through time and practice. In the beginning I think it will take a lot of careful time and planning to come up with things, but after awhile I hope I will have trained my brain to think outside the box :-) I don't think there is going to be any magic class that I can take that will suddenly make me effective at integration, I think it's going to take lots of time and practice and learning through my mistakes.
Assignment #3
The SMARTBoard activity I chose is a super fun Christmas Language Arts lesson. It can be found here
This lesson meets the NETS standards for students by:
-applying existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes
-understand and use technology systems
-select and use applications effectively and productively
-transfer current knowledge to learning of new technologies
The lesson meets these student standards because the parts of speech, spelling, etc that are shown is all based on prior knowledge. In a 4th grade classroom, the Language Arts covered in the lesson would all be review, however, by putting the information into a SMARTBoard lesson, it's presenting old information in a new way. Students would be required to transfer current knowledge and apply it in a different setting. Students, in order to participate, would also have to become familiar with the use of a SMARTBoard and apply their LA knowledge accordingly.
This lesson meets the NETS standards for teachers by:
-promoting, supporting, and modeling creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness
-promote student reflection using collaborative tools to reveal and clarify students' conceptual understanding and thinking, planning, and creative processes
-model collaborative knowledge construction by engaging in learning with students, colleagues, and others in face-to-face and virtual environments
-demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations
This lesson meets these teacher standards because the teacher is integrating learning material with technology to promote student learning. The teacher is asking the students to apply current knowledge in a new and creative way. The teacher is also modeling an effective use of technology in a classroom and demonstrating technological fluency.
18 October, 2008
Reflection #4
After using Animoto, I am so excited with the possibilities on how movies can be used in a classroom. Now, using Animoto specifically might not hold as many options because it's mainly music videos/slide show style stuff, but it got my mind going...
I remembered when we looked at various teacher sites and one of them posted videos of lessons for children who missed school for whatever reason. I think that is an excellent idea! I also thought that for an upper level class, it would be cool for students to create their own videos. For example, a group of students could create a video outlining the steps, procedures, and outcomes of a science experiment. They could share their hypothesis, etc, then film themselves conducting the experiment. Then they could use a program like Animoto to compile the clips which they could then share with the class. Presto! Not only has a group of students learned something through the science experiment, become familiar with a technological tool, but also taught the class a science lesson! That is just one idea I've come up with, but I'm sure there are hundreds more ways an online video editing program could be used in a classroom.
I remembered when we looked at various teacher sites and one of them posted videos of lessons for children who missed school for whatever reason. I think that is an excellent idea! I also thought that for an upper level class, it would be cool for students to create their own videos. For example, a group of students could create a video outlining the steps, procedures, and outcomes of a science experiment. They could share their hypothesis, etc, then film themselves conducting the experiment. Then they could use a program like Animoto to compile the clips which they could then share with the class. Presto! Not only has a group of students learned something through the science experiment, become familiar with a technological tool, but also taught the class a science lesson! That is just one idea I've come up with, but I'm sure there are hundreds more ways an online video editing program could be used in a classroom.
Reflection #3
Last night I was talking with my parents, and somehow we got on the subject of learning. We got talking about differences in a class in terms of where children are at and how to teach to a room of 25 students who are all on completely different levels. Is it possible to challenge each and every student?
My Mom talked about her 4th grade teacher who had the class split into three groups. They were obviously divided by skill level: an upper group, an average group, and a below group. The teacher had different lesson plans for each subject for each and every group. Now, when I think about that, my first thought is, oh man; we could never get away with that now! My second thought is, wow, that would be a ton of work and planning! Yet, through this, my Mom still remembers this teacher and considers her to be the best teacher she ever had because every single student was challenged. They never got bored, and they were always learning.
That is the kind of teacher I desire to be. I want each of my students to feel challenged, but capable. However, I know that I could never divide a classroom like my Mom's teacher did. So, I'm left with wondering what kinds of things I could do in a classroom today that could accomplish the same thing?
I really believe in group work, but the temptation with groups is to clump according to ability. I would love to have a chance to experiment with a class and different ways of grouping. It would be interesting to see how a group composed of all skill levels was able to work together.
My Mom talked about her 4th grade teacher who had the class split into three groups. They were obviously divided by skill level: an upper group, an average group, and a below group. The teacher had different lesson plans for each subject for each and every group. Now, when I think about that, my first thought is, oh man; we could never get away with that now! My second thought is, wow, that would be a ton of work and planning! Yet, through this, my Mom still remembers this teacher and considers her to be the best teacher she ever had because every single student was challenged. They never got bored, and they were always learning.
That is the kind of teacher I desire to be. I want each of my students to feel challenged, but capable. However, I know that I could never divide a classroom like my Mom's teacher did. So, I'm left with wondering what kinds of things I could do in a classroom today that could accomplish the same thing?
I really believe in group work, but the temptation with groups is to clump according to ability. I would love to have a chance to experiment with a class and different ways of grouping. It would be interesting to see how a group composed of all skill levels was able to work together.
14 October, 2008
Assignment #2
The topic areas I chose to bundle are:
-Classroom Management
-Differentiation
-SMARTBoard Activities
-Technology in the Classroom
First, I thought classroom management would be a good bundle because it's something that I will need help with throughout my career. I thought it would be nice to have a few resources at my fingertips before I even start. To look at the sites I found which could be useful for gaining information on classroom management, follow this link :
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Classroom%20Management
Differentiation seems to be a new buzz word that I'm hearing frequently in my Ed. classes. I'm just starting to become familiar with its meaning and how it will affect me and such, so I thought it would be helpful to find some websites that helped me learn more.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Differentiation
Although I haven't had much of an opportunity to use a SMARTBoard, my mind is blown away by all the possibilities I've discovered. Knowing that I could have one in my class someday makes me super excited and so I love looking for lessons that can be taught using a SMARTBoard. I was able to find quite a few sites, but because I don't have the SMART program on my computer, I couldn't really play with them, so I don't know how good the lessons are.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:SMARTBoard%20Activities
Last, I thought it was befitting to have a Technology in the Classroom bundle for my Technology in Education blog. The sites I found all give either ways technology can be used, why it's important to incorporate technology in a classroom, or useful gadgets.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Technology%20in%20the%20Classroom
A few of my favorite sites I discovered are fairly general teaching sites. They cover a wide variety of topics and seem relevant. One site that I sent to the class del.icio.us account is an absolute incredible looking teaching program called K to the 8th Power. It incorporates state performance expectations in various subjects with learning new technology. I would encourage everyone to watch the demo; it highlights all the features for the both students and teachers. http://www.kto8.com/se/?gclid=CMOLl-S8p5YCFQM-gwodmx94zA Another good site I found which is fairly general and encompasses a lot of teaching tools is http://www.4teachers.org/ I liked this site because it's one stop shopping for a teacher! On this site you can kind lesson plans, hints for classroom management, technology tools, teaching strategies, tutorials, assessment, etc. A third site I really liked was http://www.suite101.com/educationandcareer/ This is actually a magazine that covers a variety of topics, but I liked it because it is a magazine, it's all new information. The site is continually being updated with relevant information. So, for example, right now I can learn more about homeschooling and behavior modification, but in the next issue, I could gain some information regarding school lunches or computers. Finally, http://www.teachersfirst.com/index.cfm is an incredibly helpful site. I think this one is especially nice because it was created and is maintained by teachers, thus, how much more relevant could you get? My favorite part is the features sites area. The featured sites are links that the TeachersFirst people think would be helpful. The featured sites are updated weekly. There is also a forum that teachers can join to share thoughts and ideas and respond to a posted weekly question.
I think a del.icio.us account can be useful for teachers because it's an easy way to share helpful ideas. I think it would be really nice in a large public school setting where you have several teachers for one grade. It would be an easy way to share lesson ideas so everyone could be on the same page. In a classroom, I could see a del.icio.us account being a fun way of incorporating technology into a group research project. Students could be doing independent research, but still keeping tabs on what the other kids in the group are discovering.
-Classroom Management
-Differentiation
-SMARTBoard Activities
-Technology in the Classroom
First, I thought classroom management would be a good bundle because it's something that I will need help with throughout my career. I thought it would be nice to have a few resources at my fingertips before I even start. To look at the sites I found which could be useful for gaining information on classroom management, follow this link :
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Classroom%20Management
Differentiation seems to be a new buzz word that I'm hearing frequently in my Ed. classes. I'm just starting to become familiar with its meaning and how it will affect me and such, so I thought it would be helpful to find some websites that helped me learn more.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Differentiation
Although I haven't had much of an opportunity to use a SMARTBoard, my mind is blown away by all the possibilities I've discovered. Knowing that I could have one in my class someday makes me super excited and so I love looking for lessons that can be taught using a SMARTBoard. I was able to find quite a few sites, but because I don't have the SMART program on my computer, I couldn't really play with them, so I don't know how good the lessons are.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:SMARTBoard%20Activities
Last, I thought it was befitting to have a Technology in the Classroom bundle for my Technology in Education blog. The sites I found all give either ways technology can be used, why it's important to incorporate technology in a classroom, or useful gadgets.
http://delicious.com/neanaroo_hehe/bundle:Technology%20in%20the%20Classroom
A few of my favorite sites I discovered are fairly general teaching sites. They cover a wide variety of topics and seem relevant. One site that I sent to the class del.icio.us account is an absolute incredible looking teaching program called K to the 8th Power. It incorporates state performance expectations in various subjects with learning new technology. I would encourage everyone to watch the demo; it highlights all the features for the both students and teachers. http://www.kto8.com/se/?gclid=CMOLl-S8p5YCFQM-gwodmx94zA Another good site I found which is fairly general and encompasses a lot of teaching tools is http://www.4teachers.org/ I liked this site because it's one stop shopping for a teacher! On this site you can kind lesson plans, hints for classroom management, technology tools, teaching strategies, tutorials, assessment, etc. A third site I really liked was http://www.suite101.com/educationandcareer/ This is actually a magazine that covers a variety of topics, but I liked it because it is a magazine, it's all new information. The site is continually being updated with relevant information. So, for example, right now I can learn more about homeschooling and behavior modification, but in the next issue, I could gain some information regarding school lunches or computers. Finally, http://www.teachersfirst.com/index.cfm is an incredibly helpful site. I think this one is especially nice because it was created and is maintained by teachers, thus, how much more relevant could you get? My favorite part is the features sites area. The featured sites are links that the TeachersFirst people think would be helpful. The featured sites are updated weekly. There is also a forum that teachers can join to share thoughts and ideas and respond to a posted weekly question.
I think a del.icio.us account can be useful for teachers because it's an easy way to share helpful ideas. I think it would be really nice in a large public school setting where you have several teachers for one grade. It would be an easy way to share lesson ideas so everyone could be on the same page. In a classroom, I could see a del.icio.us account being a fun way of incorporating technology into a group research project. Students could be doing independent research, but still keeping tabs on what the other kids in the group are discovering.
07 October, 2008
Reflection #2
Right now I'm enrolled in Dr. Kress's Special Needs class. This class has been very thought provoking, and the material is something I think about often. One of the more poignant thoughts has been the attention he drew to the fact that people with special needs are not involved in church. I had never really noticed this, but once he said it, it was like, oh my goodness; that's so true! Ever since that moment, I've been trying to come up with reasons why. Is it because they are incapable of being involved? Certainly, that might be the case for a few, but I think the majority would be capable of being involved. Is it because there aren't very many people with special needs who are Christians? If that's the case, why aren't they being reached?
This last weekend, I was able to go home and attend my home church on Sunday. I was shocked when the Pastor asked the ushers to come forward to take the offering and I saw Daniel walk forward. I remember when Daniel's mom found out she was pregnant with him. She was over 40, so the Dr.'s ran more tests than usual. Before giving birth, she found out Daniel would be born with Down's. As a toddler, it was discovered that Daniel was also autistic. However, I watched as he stood in front of the church, now 15 years old, grinning from ear to ear, taking the offering. It really touched me. It made me so happy to see him involved.
So, now I want to know why there isn't more involvement by people with special needs. They are capable, they are willing, so it must be that "abled people" don't let them. If this it true, it's a crying shame.
This last weekend, I was able to go home and attend my home church on Sunday. I was shocked when the Pastor asked the ushers to come forward to take the offering and I saw Daniel walk forward. I remember when Daniel's mom found out she was pregnant with him. She was over 40, so the Dr.'s ran more tests than usual. Before giving birth, she found out Daniel would be born with Down's. As a toddler, it was discovered that Daniel was also autistic. However, I watched as he stood in front of the church, now 15 years old, grinning from ear to ear, taking the offering. It really touched me. It made me so happy to see him involved.
So, now I want to know why there isn't more involvement by people with special needs. They are capable, they are willing, so it must be that "abled people" don't let them. If this it true, it's a crying shame.
Reflection #1
While browsing through articles and webpages, I came across this website that could potentially be very helpful during the first year or two of teaching.
http://teachertipstraining.suite101.com/articles.cfm
This site holds a host of practical tips and answers to FAQ's new teachers may have. For example, one of the newest article gives some practical advice on how to prepare for parent teacher conferences, what the parents expect and things like that. I think it's an excellent tool because it gives you and idea of what to expect and prepare for. The site also has articles giving classroom management and discipline ideas, curriculum help, and classroom activity ideas, which as a first year teacher can be intimidating. In my mind, this is a great resource because it's created by teachers for teachers; who would know better the kinds of things teachers should know and need help with?
This is a site that I would definitely bookmark and save for future reference. Of course, you never really know what you need until you need it, but it seems like this site holds potential, and it appears to be updated frequently and by credible sources.
http://teachertipstraining.suite101.com/articles.cfm
This site holds a host of practical tips and answers to FAQ's new teachers may have. For example, one of the newest article gives some practical advice on how to prepare for parent teacher conferences, what the parents expect and things like that. I think it's an excellent tool because it gives you and idea of what to expect and prepare for. The site also has articles giving classroom management and discipline ideas, curriculum help, and classroom activity ideas, which as a first year teacher can be intimidating. In my mind, this is a great resource because it's created by teachers for teachers; who would know better the kinds of things teachers should know and need help with?
This is a site that I would definitely bookmark and save for future reference. Of course, you never really know what you need until you need it, but it seems like this site holds potential, and it appears to be updated frequently and by credible sources.
O, The Possibilites
After spending way too much time on Mr. Tepley's website, I am just bubbling with all the things a teacher can do with various web tools. I had no idea there were so many online applications for things so simple as grading, keeping track of assignments, typing practice, etc! After looking at his page, I'm kind of wondering why kids even need to go to school; they can just do everything online!
There were so many cool things on his site, but one of my favorites was his link to http://www.yappydog.com/
This site is absolutely incredible! I went through almost every one of it's various applications, and they are all SOOOOO cool. With this one site alone, you can create spelling word searches, practice math facts (and as a teacher be able to look at your students' participation and improvement), and keep track of assignments. With using an online application like this, it creates so many more options in terms of keeping everyone involved and "in the know". I would think it would be so much easier to keep the students, parents, and teacher all on the same page in terms of knowing what's going on and where the student is at.
This one is kind of a silly personal thing, but I also had a lot of fun with what he chooses to use as his typing program, Dance Mat Typing http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/typing/ It was so much fun and pretty cute, but above all, I just loved that it wasn't Mavis Beacon! It seems like everyone uses Mavis and it gets to be so dry and boring, so I had a lot of fun playing with the British rock dog :-)
There were so many cool things on his site, but one of my favorites was his link to http://www.yappydog.com/
This site is absolutely incredible! I went through almost every one of it's various applications, and they are all SOOOOO cool. With this one site alone, you can create spelling word searches, practice math facts (and as a teacher be able to look at your students' participation and improvement), and keep track of assignments. With using an online application like this, it creates so many more options in terms of keeping everyone involved and "in the know". I would think it would be so much easier to keep the students, parents, and teacher all on the same page in terms of knowing what's going on and where the student is at.
This one is kind of a silly personal thing, but I also had a lot of fun with what he chooses to use as his typing program, Dance Mat Typing http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/typing/ It was so much fun and pretty cute, but above all, I just loved that it wasn't Mavis Beacon! It seems like everyone uses Mavis and it gets to be so dry and boring, so I had a lot of fun playing with the British rock dog :-)
23 September, 2008
Interactive Whiteboards
I chose to read, Improving Instruction with Interactive Whiteboards (on the Cheap) by Dian Schaffhauser. In this article I was reminded by how much education has changed over the years. In my teaching elementary math class, we spent weeks learning how angles were centered around the circle, yet in this article, this was revolutionary to the teacher at the seminar. It seemed like a double learning opportunity for the teacher; reformed math and interactive whiteboards. The article made me anxious to hear how the boards did affect the schools test scores. I wish it had been a two part article: the first impressions of the teachers when learning the board, and then the effects on student learning. Also, the title made me think the article was going to give some hints as to how to get interactive boards cheap, or some way of sharing the boards to lessen costs, however, there was no mention of any of these things. Just that the technology director has had to squeeze out the money.
Assignment #1
I think technology in education hold tremendous value. If you look at our current society, and compare it to ten years ago, or even five years ago, it becomes pretty obvious that we are moving more and more towards a techy world. If education is to remain relevant to society, if elementary schools are going to do their job of guiding successful children into adulthood, it's imperative that education keeps up with the societal trends. If education remains stagnant it becomes irrelevant and kids will tune out while in school. As a future teacher, I want to learn all the technology I can so that I can hopefully be that much better at relating learning material to children.
In an article by S. Michael Putman, I learned about using technology to assess reading at a fourth grade level. In this article Mr. Putman researched not only the effects of using technology for teaching reading, but also the impact it had on student's motivation to learn. He did a study on a group of 68 fourth graders to determine how a student's level of self-efficacy either worked together or against a computer based reading program, Accelerated Reader (AR). He divided all 68 students into three groups of varying reading levels and levels self motivation based on a Reading Survey portion of the MRP. It was found that students who accumulated the most number of AR points, also had an increase in self-efficacy but a lowered view of the importance of reading, while those students who accumulated an average amount of AR points had a decrease both in self-efficacy and a lesser view of reading. The final group, which was made up of students who displayed a lower reading level and lower self-efficacy, hardly participated in the computer reading program. Putnam's conclusion was that because AR teaches reading based on the number of points earned through taking quizzes, it became extrinsic to students. Learning to read was no longer about the enjoyment of reading, but accumulating the most points.
S Michael Putman. "Computer-based Reading Technology in the Classroom: The Affective Influence of Performance Contingent Point Accumulation on 4th Grade Students. " Reading Research and Instruction 45.1 (2005): 19-38. Research Library. ProQuest. Hurst Library, Kirkland, WA. 23 Sep. 2008 http://www.proquest.com/
Through Putman's article, I learned that a teacher must be careful about the kind of technology used in classroom. I learned that a teacher should examine learning programs which involve technology closely before assuming they are wonderful and will work for every student. I think it's also important to remember, though, that no style of teaching is going to work for every single child in every single classroom. As teachers, I think we need to use a balanced method of teaching involving technology, outdoor activities, worksheets, graphs, etc. In this way, we can hopefully reach the maximum level of learning.
NETS (National Educational Technology Standards) are important for both students and teachers because it serves as a benchmark. For teachers, it's important to know the standards because we are responsible for helping students reach those benchmarks. If we don't know and understand where our students should be by the end of the year, we have no hope of helping them reach that goal. For students, NETS is important because it helps prepare them for life. The standards and goals NETS represents are all life-skill related goals that will help children become successful adults who can easily navigate their way through our ever changing technological world.
In an article by S. Michael Putman, I learned about using technology to assess reading at a fourth grade level. In this article Mr. Putman researched not only the effects of using technology for teaching reading, but also the impact it had on student's motivation to learn. He did a study on a group of 68 fourth graders to determine how a student's level of self-efficacy either worked together or against a computer based reading program, Accelerated Reader (AR). He divided all 68 students into three groups of varying reading levels and levels self motivation based on a Reading Survey portion of the MRP. It was found that students who accumulated the most number of AR points, also had an increase in self-efficacy but a lowered view of the importance of reading, while those students who accumulated an average amount of AR points had a decrease both in self-efficacy and a lesser view of reading. The final group, which was made up of students who displayed a lower reading level and lower self-efficacy, hardly participated in the computer reading program. Putnam's conclusion was that because AR teaches reading based on the number of points earned through taking quizzes, it became extrinsic to students. Learning to read was no longer about the enjoyment of reading, but accumulating the most points.
S Michael Putman. "Computer-based Reading Technology in the Classroom: The Affective Influence of Performance Contingent Point Accumulation on 4th Grade Students. " Reading Research and Instruction 45.1 (2005): 19-38. Research Library. ProQuest. Hurst Library, Kirkland, WA. 23 Sep. 2008 http://www.proquest.com/
Through Putman's article, I learned that a teacher must be careful about the kind of technology used in classroom. I learned that a teacher should examine learning programs which involve technology closely before assuming they are wonderful and will work for every student. I think it's also important to remember, though, that no style of teaching is going to work for every single child in every single classroom. As teachers, I think we need to use a balanced method of teaching involving technology, outdoor activities, worksheets, graphs, etc. In this way, we can hopefully reach the maximum level of learning.
NETS (National Educational Technology Standards) are important for both students and teachers because it serves as a benchmark. For teachers, it's important to know the standards because we are responsible for helping students reach those benchmarks. If we don't know and understand where our students should be by the end of the year, we have no hope of helping them reach that goal. For students, NETS is important because it helps prepare them for life. The standards and goals NETS represents are all life-skill related goals that will help children become successful adults who can easily navigate their way through our ever changing technological world.
18 September, 2008
The Not-so-Intimidating HTML
For whatever reason, I've always imagined HTML to be super confusing, tedious, and something only geeks knew. After this last class, however, I've had a change of heart. HTML is fun! I still think it's slightly tedious, copiously copying all the carrots, backslashes, numbers, and letters, but it's so worth it. I had so much fun creating my web page:
http://sites.google.com/site/theteachingship
It's still a work in progress, and is slightly overwhelming, but I think I'll get the hang of it. I think that Google sites would be a whole lot easier if there was just a template and I could fill everything in, but then I wouldn't be learning as much, so I guess it's a good thing there is no template :-)
http://sites.google.com/site/theteachingship
It's still a work in progress, and is slightly overwhelming, but I think I'll get the hang of it. I think that Google sites would be a whole lot easier if there was just a template and I could fill everything in, but then I wouldn't be learning as much, so I guess it's a good thing there is no template :-)
16 September, 2008
Rift Valley Academy
I spent all four years of high school at Rift Valley Academy in Kijabe, Kenya. Those four years were pretty much the best of my life, so whenever I take the time to peruse their website, it's always a bittersweet moment. The website is very well done in terms of being as aesthetically pleasing, however, when I think back on all the memories the school holds, the site doesn't do the school justice. My memories aside, if I were to pretend to be looking at the site as an outsider who had never seen the sun set over Mt. Longonot, I would find the site to be very informative. The page gives the history of the school, the purpose statement, information on how to support the school, a whole set of links useful for alumni, how to apply to either attend or become a staff member, and lots of helpful hints for parents sending their kids to boarding school. I think my favorite part of the site would be the school gift from the 2005 class; the Longonot web cam. It's live feed updated every minute, and positioned off Kiambogo (the school's admin building) to overlook Mr. Longonot. Because of the unique nature of the school, another favorite aspect of the site is the page with all the alumni links. Every alumni can use this page to post life updates, contact information, etc. This is very useful for connecting with old friends. Overall, I think the website is very well done, easy to navigate, and very informative. If you would like to look at the page, you can go to http://rva.org/
09 September, 2008
What I Want to Learn
I sincerely hope that this semester I have visible technological growth. Specifically, during this semester I want to become comfortable with the current technological lingo. I want to be comfortable using words like wiki, blog, delicious, etc But not just the lingo. I also want to become proficient with these applications. Right now I'll admit that it all kind of seems overwhelming. There is so much to learn, and for every little bit that I think I've mastered, ten more newer and better things have been invented. I realize that as a digital immigrant, I will never function on the same level as my students, however, I hope to learn just enough to be able to fake it. I want to be able to relate to my students, and I feel that being fluent in the technological lingo of the day would help me relate to my students in a new and exciting way.
Today's Educational Dilemma
After reading Marc Prensky's, "Engage Me or Enrage Me, What Today's Learners Demand" I feel as though today's education is at an impasse. Certainly educators need to meet the student at his or her particular level, but will it ever be good enough? I also can't help but look at the kids' futures. Right now their social lives certainly revolve around what's new and knowing how to work the newest games, etc, so what will happen if their academic lives suddenly become a part of this virtual world? Yes, it will help them become more engaged. Yes, depending on the quality of virtual curriculum, they could be learning far more than we dream of. Yes, it would create excitement and enthusiasm in school. These are all positives for the here and now, but what happens when they're 30 and have a family and realize they have to get a job that requires sitting in an office, or calculating percentages for a large corporation? Will they be able to handle the mundane? Will they have learned that sometimes you just have to buck up and do what needs to be done, or will they still demand to be entertained in order to perform?
Aside from all these questions the article evoked, I do believe that it is the teacher's responsibility to engage children in active learning. A teacher should be willing to work hard at keeping the information relevant and applicable to the child's life. On the flip side, I also think that a teacher should be prepared for how far they might need to go in order to accomplish this daunting task, and also the repercussions.
Aside from all these questions the article evoked, I do believe that it is the teacher's responsibility to engage children in active learning. A teacher should be willing to work hard at keeping the information relevant and applicable to the child's life. On the flip side, I also think that a teacher should be prepared for how far they might need to go in order to accomplish this daunting task, and also the repercussions.
Make Me a Teacher
It took me quite awhile to decide what I wanted to be when I grew up. I pretty much wanted to do everything. I went from being a marine biologist to a secretary to a even dreaming of being a pastor's wife. There was only one profession I just knew I would never, ever do...teach. I was so sure I would be a horrible teacher because, well, I had a whole long list of reasons that I won't get in to. Anyway, as a senior in high school I was asked to be a teacher's aid in a fourth grade classroom. I loved it! It was pretty much the best part of my senior year. However, graduation came and went and I still wasn't convinced that teaching was for me. I randomly chose a state to move to, Oregon, and what do you know? The only job I could find was in a private Christian school. After working there a year, I was finally convinced...I was meant to be a teacher. So here I am, pursuing my dream, and having a blast.
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