Weekly Blog #3

So, this isn't entirely weekly, but you get the idea.

In our last class, we discussed a little more about students using technology. After a wonderful presentation, it was mentioned that our students will probably know more about technology than we will. But that shouldn't stop us from using it. We simple need to involve them more.

I really liked the suggestion for teachers who only have one computer for an entire class. With use of a projector, students can make comments, give input, and share information with all the students. The teacher would have actual control of the computer, but the students would feel as if they had a say. Their thoughts would matter and impact others. They don't have to touch technology to use it.

Because they are part of the MEdia generation, as I am a part as well, these kids will accustomed to always having something to do, hear, or see. So why not "let them do as they do"(Lecture 1/28)? (okay, so I know someone said that in class, but I'm not entirely sure who. So, Thank you, whoever you are!)

That is sort of my mantra for teaching with technology now. It's a pretty good catch phrase.

Last Wednesday, we also explored the Utah Education Network website. And let me just say: awesome. The wealth of knowledge and resources that exists on the one site is phenominal. The pioneer library alone has everything from EBSCOHost for literary articles, to newspaper archives, to culturegrams. MyUEN for teachers provides a secure place for teachers to communicate with students or other teachers. They can even see and hear each other while taking in Wimba. So cool.

One of the greatest resources on UEN is their lesson plans. For every subject in every grade level and each one corresponds to a specific standard and objective for the Utah core curriculum. Even if you don't like the exact lesson, you can use their ideas as outlines for your own.
Speaking of which, I have created a lesson plan based on one I found on UEN, although, I incorporated technology which they had failed to do.

My lesson plan is:
-For 6th Grade
-Under the subject of Social Studies (World History)
-entitled: Revolutionary Characteristics: People and times
-based on Andrea Bostwick and JoAnna Seely's Lesson plan
(Found at here)

Having those lesson plans will be very helpful when I am a teacher. I can't wait to discover what else is available on UEN. It seems to go on forever. It may not be the most helpful for every task, but it certainly will help teachers.