Beam Me Up

A few weeks ago we checked out Google Earth and learned that we can bring the world to our computers. Now, Google has brought the universe to our desktops with a new feature in Google Earth, Google Sky. Check out this great overview.

Skype

So, last night we learned about a video conferencing software called Skype, which allows you to talk through the Internet. The best part is it's FREE! Imagine the possibilities when you can bring the world to your classroom. Whether it's a guest speaker or the ability to have office hours from home, Skype is a great way to see and share with others. Hopefully, we'll be able to chat about your projects next week without being in the same room. See you wherever you are...

Assignment: Arends Post

Read the article by Arends and use your post to discuss one of the following issues.

#1 What are some of the behaviors of effective classroom managers as described in the Texas and Kounin studies?

#2 What is the difference between assessment and evaluation? When it comes to technology projects developed by students, how would you assess or evaluate their work?

#3 To successfully integrate technology through your curriculum, you should consider the planning cylces as described by Arends. List the planning cycles described in the chapter, then give examples of how you would use technology in each of these phases.

Assignment: Grabe Post

Read the article by Grabe and use your post to discuss one of the following issues.

#1 What is the Big Six and how should it be used?

#2 Try this. Choose one topic and do an Internet search on a search engine, on a kid-appropriate search engine, on Pioneer, Utah's Online Library, and some other resource (like MarcoPolo, UEN Curriculum Search, or another portal). Compare your results? What did you find out? What advice would you give students based on this experience?

#3 Take some time to explore the PBS site "Don't Buy It." (www.pbs.org/dontbuyit ). This site deals with Media Literacy - a form of information literacy. What do you think of the site? Do you think this is important, or not? Do you think this is effective, or not?

Assignment: Harris Post

Read one of the Harris articles and post a response to one of the following issues in your blog.

#1 Harris (1998) lists eighteen activity structures for Internet projects as well as numerous examples. Are these learning projects prevalent in today's classrooms? Why or Why not?

#2 Think of the learning environments that Harris (1998) describes. What are the factors that influence whether a teacher teaches this way? Can a teacher work within these factors or do you believe they are insurmountable? What can a technology proficient teacher leader do?

#3 Some critics believe there's no place for Internet projects in today's world of high stakes testing and emphasis on student achievement. What is Harris'(2000) answer to this criticism? What is your answer?