EDT+652

=Innovations in Education=


 * Discussion Questions:**

//Discussion Question 1:// //As computers have gotten smaller and more affordable we have seen more in the K-12 schools. What do you think the implications for the use of technology in education will be as the chips are further reduced in size and affordability?//

As technology as a whole continues to progress at a rapid pace—becoming more affordable and smaller in size—the education world will undoubtedly feel the effects and be required to make the necessary adjustments in order to ensure that the next generation is prepared.

School districts will be forced to implement new technology into their classrooms, as they are responsible for preparing today’s youth for the real world. Thomas Friedman stated that “if our students are going to survive, let alone thrive in a world that’s flat, they must leave school with a completely different set of skills than the skill set they typically leave school with today” (Jukes and McCain, pg. 25). In other words, skill set students graduated with ten years ago is entirely different than the skill set students graduating ten years from now will be expected to have.

Much of this has to do with the fact that technology has become, and will continue to be, an enormous part of our lives. Moore’s Law clearly explains that technology will continue to become exponentially cheaper and more powerful, only cementing its place in every realm of our lives. While the shift from teaching the traditional academic curriculum to one that infuses the 21st century technology skills will be a difficult one for districts, schools, and teachers alike, it is a shift that must occur in order to produce successful students.

Even today, students feel that their traditional academic preparation is not enough to make them successful. According to Jukes and McCain, “only 28% of 12th grade high school students believe that school work is meaningful; 21% believe that their courses are interesting; and a mere 39% believe that school work will have any bearing on their success later in life”(Jukes and McCain, pg. 9). As educators, it is our responsibility to prepare our students for the future and we will only be able to truly do that by integrating technology, and teaching the important technological skills students will be required to possess.

As technology continues to progress at the rapid pace Moore predicts, the educational system will need to adapt to the continual wave of new technology available. Teachers will need to adjust their own teaching styles to reflect the importance of 21st century skills in today’s technology-centered world.

//Discussion Question #2: What do you think are some of the reasons that Education is slow to change, even in a time of such a rapidly changing society and all the innovations in the field of technology? //

Education is slow to change for multiple reasons. Three of the main reasons that I can see are school district budget constraints, educators’ familiarity with technology, and the continuing evolution in technology.

I believe money to be the biggest factor in the slow transformation of education. Many schools are trying to figure out ways to cut back on spending and cannot afford to bring in the latest technology resources for their teachers and students. My school, for example, has 14 classrooms. Of those classrooms, seven of them have SmartBoards. My district simply cannot afford to supply every class with such technology due to the current state of our economy and budget limits. However, as Jukes and McCain state, "Encyclopedia Britannicas are out of date by the time one opens the delivery box.” So instead of supplying classrooms with new text books year after year, computers and other technological and online resources may be the better option.

The second reason for the slow change in education is the lack of teacher expertise in the area of technology. Some teachers are comfortable with computers, while many question how to even start one up. Teachers are already expected to do quite a bit in today’s learning world. Therefore requiring them to participate in additional training (on top of the requisite training they already have to do) may not be a popular, much less possible option. However, it is impossible for a teacher to teach their students about technology if they themselves are clueless. I do my best to keep up, but the incredible pace of technological progress makes it nearly impossible.

Finally, the rapid change in technology also plays a factor. As stated by Jukes and McCain, “The Internet continues to come at us like a freight train.” This not only affects educators, but doctors, engineers, chemists, and several other professions. Technology and the Internet change so rapidly that a professional’s grasp on current technology will inevitably become out of date more quickly. This brings me back to my number one reason: budget. School districts cannot justify buying such expensive resources to have them be out of date by the time they are installed.

//Discussion Question #3:////What program did you pick out of the LJ Group site? Briefly describe it and tell us why you think it would be a great resource for your or any classroom.//

After looking through the multiple science programs that the LJ Group has to offer, I found that the “Living with Life Science” program would be an excellent resource for my classroom.

The “Living with Life Science” program aligns perfectly with my current first grade benchmarks. It’s major components—health, animal life, and plant life—are three of our main benchmarks currently being taught. Its direct correlation to our standards makes it particularly relevant to my current teaching situation.

Additionally, we currently have no “set” science curriculum (i.e. text books, teacher manuals, etc.), so it is often difficult to obtain the necessary materials and activities required to plan a cohesive science unit. The LJ Group offers a comprehensive unit that not only includes all of the materials required (models, microscopes, slides, etc.) but integrates a technology component as well.

I really liked the fact that the “Living with Life Science” program combined several different methods of teaching, making it applicable to many different types of learners. The LJ Group websites states that “Through a comprehensive series of hands-on experiments and software based investigations, students build on their experience of living things.” I think that the hands-on element of science is an integral piece that is often lacking from today’s science curriculum.

Additionally, the technological component the LJ Group website describes is equally important. They state “Through the use of the Computer Aided Instruction containing high quality graphics, animations and full audio support, students are guided through their assignment. During the assignments students are asked to complete their worksheet and answer questions designed to track and assess their performance.” This allows students to actively participate with technology, which is integral, as Jukes and McCain state “ This is the first generation that has actually grown up with a mouse in their hands along with an assumption that that the images on the screen are supposed to be manipulated and interacted with -that screens aren’t just for passive consumption"(pg. 74)

Overall, the LJ Group offers a comprehensive and engaging unit of study that would be well-suited for my first grade students. It provides them with hands-on experiences and technological instruction that is suited to the digital natives of today’s youth. Furthermore, as stated on the LJ Group’s “Success Stories” page, school districts saw “an amazing 27% gain in just one school year of using the new Living with Science program” (LJ Group). The quantitative success—in an era in which data counts for nearly everything—combined with the positive educational experiences it provides students, undoubtedly make the LJ Group offerings a beneficial system that should be considered by all.

//Discussion Question #4:// //Jukes and McCain talk about one type of digital divide – the divide between the digital natives (our students) and adult teachers – but there is a growing concern about another “Digital Divide” in our country. Do some research on the Internet to find out what the Digital Divide is and then give a brief description of the digital divide and a reference to a website where you got your information? Also – brainstorm some ideas as to what we as educators can do to help bridge this gap?//

“The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not.” This is how author David Nagel, in his online article “What Digital Divide?” defined the digital divide. In essence, the article is stating that there are some people who can access the internet anytime and anywhere; from home, work, or even their cell phone. On the flip side, there are people who have very limited access to computers, and therefore know very little about them. That in turn creates a big gap in the background knowledge in technology children have entering our schools.

We as educators must always be thinking of ways to bridge this gap. I agree when Jukes and McCain state that “Teachers must learn to communicate in the native language and style of their students.” It is going to be impossible for us to bridge the gap if we do not change our instructional styles. I believe that children learn the best when they can make connections. Educators have to show students how to connect the content that they are teaching to their own lives. By using pictures, sound, hands-on activities, or anything visual, we are helping our students see why the concept is important. This is all made possible through the use of technology.

Another way to bridge the gap is to keep forcing the issue of the importance of technology in our school districts. If we do not voice our opinions about the need for better technology and teacher training, we are no going to get it. How are we supposed to keep up with our students when they know more about technology? The gap will just keep getting bigger and bigger. We need to be able to provide them with meaningful and exciting ways to learn things through innovative programs using technology. There are so many fabulous programs out there; teachers just don’t have the training or equipment to utilize them in their classroom.

//Discussion Question # 5:////Do you agree or disagree with the author's view that education is stuck in an Industrial Age Paradigm? Give some examples to support your answer, including characteristics of the Industrial Age and how schools have changed or remained the same.//

I both agree and disagree with the author’s view that education is stuck in an Industrial Age Paradigm. I am sure that there are educators stuck in the Industrial Age, but many teachers or teachers willing to change are shifting away from this. Educators may not be entirely shifted yet, but are making the necessary steps to get there.

The one concept that seemed to be reoccurring in the text was the idea that students need to relate their learning to real-life situations. The text states, “Students should be presented with a real-life problem at their level of development and understanding.” Furthermore, “It is critical that the learning in every stage of the 4Ds approach involve real world relevance.” This is something that many teachers are already doing. In my own classroom I am constantly posing math problems that occur in everyday life situations, using venn diagrams to relate an idea to students’ lives, and asking questions such as, “How does this connect to your life?” By doing this, students are making connections, which in turn results in a deeper understanding.

One skill suggested by the text was “Communication Skills.” I never thought about how speaking and listening would be essential for survival in the 21st century. I know that I am guilty as a teacher of focusing more on reading and writing instead of speaking and listening. “The skills we use most in everyday life, communication skills, are the skills that are taught least.” It’s not that my students do not practice this; I just never knew how essential it was and that it needs to be done more often.

I believe educators are moving away from the Industrial Design using the Problem Solving and Critical Thinking area. I believe many children are challenged by teachers to “think outside the box” and really use critical thinking skills that they have not tapped into before. I have my students determine what they need to learn in order to accomplish the task they have been given, in the form of a KWL chart. I often leave it up to my students which way they want to solve a certain problem. I have modeled several ways (especially in math) of how they can come up with the right answer. Then I challenge them to come up with a different way. I know that I am not the only teacher practicing this. I also see the developing and debriefing steps being taken by teachers. I strongly agree that these are essential steps for children to develop in school. Problem-solving must also involve real word relevance as stated earlier. “Students quickly see the worth in applying their problem solving skills to real world tasks.” How often do you hear a child say, “Why do I need to do this?” Or “Why does it need to be done this way?” When a teacher is able to connect it to their lives, they see the importance of the subject at hand.

In conclusion, I think educators are definitely moving in the right direction away from the Industrial Age Paradigm. People just have to remember that educators are also human, and cannot be expected to change overnight.

//Discussion Question #6:// //What are some of the pros and cons of online schools? Also, brainstorm some ideas to address the cons that are mentioned in this discussion.//

I must say that I was very intrigued by the online school that I chose to research. I must admit, I was skeptical against online schooling, but it really made me sit back and think about virtual schools in an entire different manner.

There were many positive aspects that I saw while looking at the Wisconsin Virtual Academy. In its description, the website stated that the school has “the flexibility of learning anytime and anywhere” (http://www.wivcs.org/about/index.html). Everything in society today seems to depend on convenience, and what is more convenient than an online school? Sometimes I feel that it’s a full time job just trying to keep track of who was at school for the week, and who missed what lesson?

More benefits to online learning include its self-paced style, being constructed toward each child’s unique needs, their foreign language opportunities, the program has no tuition, and the school provides all the materials that are needed. The materials include a complete computer system, textbooks, and other instructional materials. I was also impressed that they had so many certified teachers that could be contacted, including special education teachers.

While there are many positive aspects to The Wisconsin Virtual Academy, there are still negative characteristics as well. A couple that stood out were the lack of social interaction, building little speaking or listening skills, and the lack of experience working in a “regular” classroom environment.

While my collective vision of complete online learning has changed significantly over the past two months, I still prefer the in person setting of a classroom taught by a teacher. I teach to my students’ needs and I believe at this time children are better suited for this type of learning, however, as students and technology continue to change and develop my views most likely will adjust toward a different type of learning.

//Discussion Question #7:// //After examining these sites and looking at all the innovative uses of technology, describe one way that one of these technologies could be used in a K-12 classroom to enhance teaching and learning. Also come up with one new site of your own to add to the list – give the name and address of the site and a one sentence description.//

After examining http://www.edutopia.org, I am excited to try the handshake trick. It was shared as a “Tricks of the Trade.” Essentially, the teacher greets each student in the morning with a handshake. While shaking hands, the teacher asks the student a question. The student my not enter the classroom until they have correctly answered the question.

I believe this to be an excellent way to greet my students in the morning, as well as a great way to show respect for one another. You can ask review questions, ask about material that will be assessed in the future, or just everyday “how are you” type of questions. I can see my first graders really enjoying this type of interaction on a daily basis.

The website that I would like to add to the list is http://technology.usd259.org/resources/whiteboards/smart-lessons/elementary_lessons.html The website offers various ideas for technology projects for elementary students.


 * Assignments:**

//Assignment 2:// After watching the video “Shift Happens,” and reading the two articles “Technology in Schools” and “Techno-Promoter Dreams, Student Realities,” it is hard not to notice the many challenges schools face moving toward the future.

“Shift Happens” is a real eye opener. I realize now how oblivious I am to the amount of technology the world has to offer. The rapid speed at which technology is growing is amazing. The biggest roadblock that the world of education faces is the fact that keeping up with the rapid progress is practically impossible. The video stated that, “The amount of technological information is doubling every two years.” I cannot even begin to fathom what technology will be like in twenty years. The video also mentioned, “The information of the computer exceeds that of a human brain.” This makes me wonder, how are we supposed to stay on top of technology when our brains literally cannot?

The article “Technology in Schools” illustrated where technology needs to go in order for our schools to be successful. It reiterates what the textbook has said: “It will creep up on us.” I believe Seymour Papert is stating that the biggest challenge facing schools is the fact that teachers need to change. He even suggests that there may not be a place for teachers in the future by saying, “The structure of places set up for learning will be so different that perhaps the word ‘school’ will no longer be used.” It is an absolute must for teachers to use the “vision of Someday” to guide them in what they are going to teach. They simply cannot continue teaching the “same old stuff” in the “same old manner.” Nor can they simply use technology as an occasional addition to their traditional curriculum. Rather, teachers need to truly infuse technology into their curriculum and create a method of teaching unlike one we have seen before.

Finally, “Techno-Promoter Dreams, Student Realities” provided yet another challenge. I believe the overall concept that Craig Peck, Larry Cuban, and Heather Kirkpatrick wanted to point out is that educators need to actually implement technology into their daily curriculum. It was clear, based on the article, that technology helps students by allowing them to learn at their own speed. In addition, students that excel at technology are given the chance to help others, which raises their self-esteem. Students were quoted as saying, “It’s an outlet where I am good at something,” and “I am good at computers, so I am good at school.” These quotes, and the overall message from the article clearly coincide with one of our most important teaching standards: teachers understand that children learn differently.

//Assignment 3:// Andy Brandt's Wiki andybrandt.wikispaces.com

My Wiki was created during my first course EDT 650. I do not use my Wiki for any educational purposes with my first grade class; I use my blog instead. The purpose of my Wiki is to store all my work from my masters program at Marian University. I like to be organized and have found my Wiki to help keep all my class work organized and easy to locate. (AB GreenBay 07)

//Assignment 4:// I viewed the Apple Learning Interchange using my laptop computer from home. I have a cable connection, and had no problem viewing any of the videos.

I chose a project that involved students learning about simple fractions. The children worked in groups to create a real world connection on how they use fractions in their every day lives. They also incorporated time into their project by showing what time of the day these events would occur. When they were ready with their research, the students made an iMovie. I believe that this project could be used in my first grade classroom for math. Here is the link to the project's webpage: http://edcommunity.apple.com/ali/story.php?itemID=193

I chose this project because I teach simple fractions to my students. I loved the idea of the students making the real world connections. Kids learn best when they are able to make a connection with what they are learning. I envision my students getting really excited about a project like this. It would be something to share with their fourth grade buddies or with their parents at conferences. It is something they would feel so proud of, and still learn a very important concept at the same time. I liked how they shared books to go along with this project for resources.

I think some of the pros of this project are that students work collaboratively in groups, they learn both the concept of time and simple fractions, and they have experience and practice with the use of digital cameras and making movies. The only con that I could see is that the project involves using Macintosh computers. Our school does not have Macintsoh computers, and I'm not as familiar with them myself.

//Assignment 5:// After viewing the websites provided for the action assignment, I found the â€œInformation Fluency Skillsâ€ to be the most useful for me. Research projects are something my class works on quite a bit in the second half of the school year. These projects incorporate their writing, literacy, and technology skills. My students are currently doing research on an animal of their choice in collaboration with our unit on Animals in science. I provided websites for them to use, but also gave them the chance to find their own information in â€œZoobooksâ€ and â€œRanger Rick.â€ I printed out the Critical Evaluation Survey provided by the website and went through it with my students on my SMARTBoard. At this point, I think they are a bit too young to utilize this resource independently. However, I have always stressed the importance of using reliable websites. Using this survey to illustrate what the difference between reliable and unreliable web resources was a superb way for me to help them understand. There is so much information out there that kids need to differentiate between what is useful and not useful in terms of internet sites. This knowledge will be helpful to them for years to come. â€œThe ability to critically evaluate information is an important skill in this information age.â€ If the students go to a search engine like Google, they will have so many hits on one topic that they need to be able to get the best and most useful information without wasting too much time. After using this survey a few times, my students had an easier time spotting the websites that would give them the information they were looking for. What a great resource!

//Assignment 6:// I chose to explore was the Wisconsin Virtual Academy. I was extremely intrigued and impressed by the websites representation of their program. The Wisconsin Virtual Academy is a public school. Any child in grades kindergarten through 8th grade can apply. The school is based out of the Northern Ozaukee School District.

The “the flexibility of learning anytime and anywhere” (http://www.wivcs.org/about/index.html) made an impression on me immediately. I believe today’s society is centered on convenience. I appreciate the convenience aspect of this class, and wish that I could attain my entire master’s degree in this manner. If all the classes were online, I would not need to worry about my schedule as much as I do because I can pick and choose when to get online and complete my work.

Secondly their “individualized and self-paced learning program that adapts to your child's unique needs” (http://www.wivcs.org/about/index.html) stuck out. This is a constant struggle for me as I try to push my gifted students to excel, and my struggling students to succeed. Differentiation is extremely hard to implement on a daily basis, yet is awfully important. By having the child work at their own pace, they are getting the most out of their education.

Another positive aspect was the idea that everything needed for the school is provided at no cost, including the computer system. “We provide all the textbooks and instructional materials that are needed to complete the program. These books and materials are sent to students directly” (http://www.wivcs.org/faqs/index.html). This makes it very simple and inexpensive for the parents.

Lastly, I also found the amount of teachers that are readily available to assist (including special education), foreign language being offered, and the suggestions for school outings to be significant reasons why the Wisconsin Virtual Academy to be a reliable choice for our youth’s education.

Although there are several positive aspects that I shared about this school, I also see some negative ones. The first one, again, would have to be social interaction. The website argues that this is not a problem, but I still can’t help to disagree. I believe that it is essential for kids to interact with other children in order to develop social skills that they will need their entire lives and especially when it is time to interview for their profession careers.

I didn’t see anything in the curriculum about technology, and considering that this is what this class is all about, that bothered me. How are the children going to learn how to make PowerPoints, webpages, graphs, charts, tables, or brochures if no one shows them? How are they going to learn the fundamental programs that will be necessary for their future jobs?

Overall, I opened my mind to the fact that online schools have potential. I was previously against them, but can now see how they could be beneficial. Like anything else that is a somewhat new concept, it will have to be tweaked along the way.

//Assignment 7:// Roger C. Schank: “We won't want children staying home, taking courses on computers, and never having real, live contact with other people. They need to learn how to communicate with each other, how to deal with real people problems, and how to grow as people.”

I really agree with what Schank is saying here. Being able to effectively socialize with other people is a necessity in life and a skill that is worked on at school.

Elliot Soloway: “Technology needs to get a whole lot more friendly, stable, and effective before the typical K-12 teacher can use it on a daily, routine basis.”

Soloway makes an important statement. I have encountered multiple experiences at home, in college, and as an educator when technology has failed me.

Final Paper: