#3

I feel as if I am able to teach the standards involving history because I have the most knowledge already in history.  Also I have taken lots of history classes and it seems to come naturally to me.  I feel that I would need more help with the standards involving math because math is difficult for me.  I think that with proper instruction I will eventually be able to teach every standard.  Some subjects will always be easier to teach than others, but if I try my best I can learn how to teach all the standards.

With my students I would really like to integrate technology in a fun way that does not involve pressure.  I want them to feel comfortable using computer games to learn how to type, read, and do math.  Hopefully my students can become digital citizens when they use technology in more than successful ways.  The age range of my students will be crucial to how they learn these skills.  As young children they need to learn how to use computers through communication, explanation, and patience.

Through making my news letter I learned formatting and design skills.  These skills can sometimes be difficult to navigate in Word.  Through this assignment I used enough of these skills to feel as if I now can use them in the future easily.  I also learned how to make charts and use bullet points.  In addition, I also made a hyperlink which I thought was pretty cool.  Overall I enjoyed making my letter and feel as if it taught me how to use Word well.

#2

Post #2

I have used Microsoft word for pretty much every essay I've ever typed.  I am fairly comfortable with the program because I have used it so much.  My teachers have used Microsoft word to make fliers and print outs.  The convenience of this program is that it is pretty universal.  Most people know how to use Microsoft word and navigate the program.

I think it is important to explain copyright and fair use to your students.  Students need to know that copyrighted materials cannot be used without permission or they will be liable.  Students also need to know that there are plenty of fair use materials out there that are open for public use.  As a teacher, I would print out an information sheet on copyright, fair use, and honesty.  Then I would explain the information and get them and their parents to sign he honesty agreement for accountability purposes.

Through social medias, such as twitter, I have learned how to be more involved in and with people around me.  Twitter is a way to instantly send out reminders and find out about events.  Personal learning networks can be used in teaching through so many different ways.  I personally think that having a twitter page for your class to follow you on is a good idea.  Other ideas include having a group me or edmodo account to reach students with.

Post #1

I think that computers being used as a tool for education is essential to student success.  Students need to know how to use technology in order to be successful in work environments. Almost every workplace requires some form a technological literacy.  Other than the basic standard required by the federally funded ISTE program, students with advanced technology skills will become better candidates for jobs.  It is our job as teachers to prepare kids for success to the best of our ability.  Technology is needed to achieve that goal.  

The ISTE program previously mentioned is a set of standards that further explains how much students need to know about technology.  This involves not only knowledge about technology, but also the application of that knowledge.  I personally love the creativity and innovation aspect of this program.  I believe technology is a way to channel and fine tune creativity in a unique way that inspires and entertains children.  I also like the collaboration part of this program, however sometimes I feel like collaborating with technology is more difficult than a face to face discussion.

I feel as if the term digital native describes most people in my age category.  I do not think that this describes everyone in my age group because some people lack access to technology or access to the education on how to use it.  I also believe that older people can adapt and be just as, if not more, digitally literate.  I do understand that some teachers struggle with technology and that does not bother me, however I have seen more effective methods used from younger teachers who understand social media better.  This shift towards merging social media and school is something I predict will continue as I hopefully become a teacher.

@quin_journalism