Web conferences are a valuable way to collaborate with others via long distances. I had the opportunity to participate in my first web conference with my professor, Dr. Abernathy, and classmates at Lamar University Academic Partnerships. During this conference, the students had an opportunity to ask questions about assignments, completion of program, graduation, etc. It was also an advantage to have the professor explain assignment specifics, including helpful links that we may need to access for further information on web 2.0 resources.
Web 2.0 resources was a fairly new concept to me when I began this course. However, I believe it was the name "web 2.0" that was confusing, because I had been using these types of resources for a couple of years. It's a great way to get students involved in working with students across the globe, as well as using technololgy for collaboration on school assignments. I was able to start a list of tools that are not only excellent resources for students, but are also little to no cost to the campus/district. I'm excited to continue my exploration of these resources, and implement them in my classroom instruction,
Monday, February 20, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
My opinion regarding the TX Long Range Plan for Technology
In regards to the Texas Long Range Plan for Technology, I believe the one area that needs to be improved upon is Educator Preparation and Development, specifically how to integrate technology through all subject areas. During the NetDay Speak Up in 2005, a survey related to technology use, “All teachers reported a desire for additional professional development with the primary emphasis on integration of technology into the curriculum and instruction.” (2006, pg.13). The results showed that nationally: 59% of the teachers listed this as a primary need, while 57% of Texas teachers felt the same. Throughout my experiences, I’ve noticed how teachers mainly using technology for skill drills, (using programs such as Fasttmath, spellingcity.com, etc.) and therefore are not utilizing it to the fullest potential for student success. “Technology can impact curriculum and instruction, but for this to occur, teachers need to learn to incorporate technology appropriately to support the curriculum and bring about learning opportunities that would not be possible without the technology.” (2006, pg.23). In order for teachers to develop these skills, they must have the appropriate training, and practice, through college courses, educator preparation programs, online learning activities, and/or through collaboration with colleagues and instructional specialists. However, teachers need assistance from campus and district leaders in providing the time and opportunities to take on these activities, whether it be through campus based learning, district training sessions, or service center professional development opportunities. To be successful in providing the best instruction for our students we must work as a team.
Resource:
Texas Education Agency, 2006. Long-Range Plan for Technology 2006-2020: A Report to the 80th Legislature from the Texas Education Agency. Texas Education Agency. Retrieved January 28, 2012, from http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=5082.
Resource:
Texas Education Agency, 2006. Long-Range Plan for Technology 2006-2020: A Report to the 80th Legislature from the Texas Education Agency. Texas Education Agency. Retrieved January 28, 2012, from http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=5082.
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