Assessments

Reflect on the idea that test are the only objective assessments of student learning.

I do not agree with the above statement. Test are not the only objective assessement of student learning.  Assessments are designed to provide an accurate measure of student performance.  This measure can be done in a variety of ways such as journals, projects, essays, posters, blogs, portfolio just to name a few.  Students should have a variety of ways to demonstrate their learning.  By only using test, students who "freeze" when they are subjected only traditional testing are not having their needs met as active and engaged learners.  Having a variety of ways to demonstrate that they understand the content that was taught will encourage students to become high academic achievers.  Teachers will have to find a way to use a variety of assessments for today's learners.  Testing done online, with handheld devices, or with student response devices will need to be implemented to engage learners of today and tomorrow.

Technology-Infused Lessons

Reflect on the idea of what a technology-infused classroom looks like. How

do you plan to have a technology-infused classroom?

I believe that a technology-infused lesson will (1) incorporate various forms of technology, (i.e. computer, ipod, Internet, graphic art etc) in each lesson a student is assigned. (2)Students are well versed in using the appropiate technology to complete an assignment as well as using creativity in applying critical thinking. (3) Student have assess to the appropiate technology for each lesson.

I plan on having the appropiate materials for my classroom.  Groups or partners could use an Ipod with an adapter for more than one to listen to stories, while other students are using the classroom computers for basic skills review or Internet research.  Writing and Social Studies class will use blogs as a response journal.  Students will use glogster to create posters.  Activotes are used for review or whole group quizzes for immediate feedback.  I hope to incorporate the use of technology in most assignments.

Visual Literacy

How can visual literacy and the Internet impact teaching and learning process in the classroom?  I believe the Internet allows for teachers and students to get a vivid look at visuals.  No longer do you have to look at a grainy picture from one source.  The Internet will allow learners opportunities to see visuals from several sources and from different angles. What are some visual-thinking strategies you would like to use in your classroom?   I use visuals as an output strategy to get students to be creative and use critical thinking skills. Students create powerpoints about a topic that they have studied.  Visuals are used in writing.  Students look a a portrait and write a story to match the picture or what they think inspired to artist to paint the portrait.  Visuals are an aid in mathematics with counting money, geometry, etc.  What role do you want the internet to play in your classroom?  I would like the Internet to be one source of infomation for students. I would want students to be able to use the Internet effectively to enhance their learning whether it is through games, research, or visuals.

Instructional Strategies and Technology

The importance and value of instructional strategies for students of the 21st century is crucial to any educational setting.  Students are easily distracted by the least thing in the classroom.  Teachers have to create a learning environment that will engage students from the time they step in the room.  Teachers are in competition with cellphones, Ipods, PS3, etc.  Teachers are faced with students who are learning a second language.  With all of these distractions, instructional strategies must vary in order for all students to be successful and to close the achievement gap.
 The role of technology is important because of the variety of technology available.  Teachers can have computer centers, Ipod centers, document cameras, digital camera, voting devices, and the Internet to aid in advancing learning.  No longer does a teacher have to talk about a foreign country, students can take a virtual trip and see first hand.  Students can demonstrate their learning by using various office tools to create presentations of what they have learned.  Technology will impact my teaching by allowing my students to be creative and critical thinkers because the sky is the limit on what and how they learn.

Learning in the Digital Age

Creating a blog was the first assignment for TEC 538 at Grand Canyon University. The first assignment is completed!