Something Old, Something New

This weeks readings about video production in the language arts classroom was a bit outdated, but very useful.  I found myself chuckling when the suggested doing a how to video on programming a VCR, but some of the other ideas and suggestions were really worth while.  I found in reading through it that they strongly recommend steps in the planning process; such steps included writing a script, a detailed story board, and a statement of purpose.  These are all aspects that would be found in any typical English class and by adding the step of producing the film we will  be engaging our students on a whole new level.  In addition to showing how it ties to a traditional classroom I found that the article provided various steps that could be used as means for assessment before the final turn in.  These assessments could check student progress and ensure that they are using time effectively.  One of the things that could be used for assessment is the writing of an objective.  It reaffirms their understanding of a text and makes them plan ahead; this prevents students from throwing together a lack luster film the day before it is due!  

Thanks Bud!

Wilber, the author of last week’s readings, provided a list of valuable blogs and wikis to check out.  The one I chose to explore was Bud the Teacher's Wiki.  On Bud's wiki he had a list of links going off in all different directions.  For instance, he has one that has instructions for creating an acceptable blog use policy.  Not only does he list things that he thinks belong on the list, but also summons the help of other teachers.  He solicits answers to his questions and is open to suggestions.  I think as teachers we must work with one another and collaborate to become better at our jobs, not only in the school but on the internet as well.  Also with this collaboration, as a future teacher I find it reassuring that I am able to find samples of policies I might need to make.  In addition to policies I think with the internet being readily available it will be easier to find rubrics for projects or even ideas for incorporating various things into the classroom.  Bud's wiki had many other links as well that I'm sure would lead to many more ideas!

Communication Skills

In my special education class we spent Friday talking about the collaboration that goes on between teachers working in a school.  We spent the last portion of class doing an exercise.  In the exercise we had groups of around eight people and had to hold hands in order to create a human knot.  I found online instructions that explain it all little better here. But anyway, I quickly discovered how difficult it is when someone either tries to completely take over or no one steps up.  This not only relates to working with other teachers, but the classroom in general.  If no student is willing to participate a discussion may fall flat or turn into a strictly lecture class, which honestly is not engaging for high school classrooms.  We have to try and find a balance for getting students to orally express themselves and demonstrate their knowledge and them listening to a lecture.  In addition, I think the exercise could be beneficial to do in the classroom to get students to work together and utilize effective communication skills.

Reassurance

If you've ever read my blogs or spoken to me in person you know that I am weary of the whole technology in the classroom thing, but I'm working my way to being comfortable with the idea...This weeks reading from D2L, chapter 3 specifically, started off with some additional reassurance.  The author began by stating that "first and foremost, any teacher must have a reason for using technology." This just solidifies what I think.  I know I probably sound like a broken record (sometimes I feel like one), but this concept that is crucial! I truly feel that too many teachers, especially those in the middle of their careers, don't really know how to use technology and have it serve a purpose. The author also mentions having a philosophy for technology integration.  I think if we slowly work to bring more technology into the classroom and devise a plan for how  and when to bring in more, everything with go much more smoothly.  Just like everything else in life, its going to take some practice and fiddling with, but I am gaining confidence that I can bring technology into my future class.   Hopefully I will be gaining countless more ideas for activities to do in my classes.