Saturday, January 30, 2010

Beginning of Semester Reflection

Its amazing how much technology advances over just a few years. I have not been out of high school very long and yet so much has changed since I was there. It is amazing what this new technology is bringing into the classroom, and even more amazing the possibilities it brings. I have already learned a lot about technology and the ways that it can be used in the classroom and I am excited to see how much more I can learn. A few things that have stuck out to me so far this semester like the idea of digital natives or immigrants and how that can effect how we approach and use technology in the classroom. Another thing that has stuck out to me is the importance of technology, and the fact that if we are not using it we are going to be putting out students at a disadvantage. They learn best through these avenues, because that is what they are used to using, so if we choose to not use them then we are only hurting our students. I cant wait to start using these methods in my classroom.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Smart Boards (Week 3)

Smart boards have given teachers today such a big advantage. I still really don't know how they work, but I am really excited to get to learn. The idea that a teacher can so easily bring up information and have the students interact with it at the same time is amazing. If used properly this can help students learn in different capacities and get the students up and becoming a part of their learning experience. Not only will smart boards help out in the classroom but they also enable the teacher an easy way to post their lesson plans and information online so students that struggled with it the first time can go online when they get home and go over it again if they want. It also lets parents see what is actually going on in a classroom a lot easier than previously. This is a tool that if used properly is going to help out everyone.

Smart board article

Turning on the lights (week 2)

In the article Turning on the Lights they talk about the importance of incorporating technology into our classes as teachers. Its sad to think that most of the time kids in school are bored. They are not getting pushed to their limits because the teachers don't seem to want to meet the kids on their levels. I think one of the most important thing a teacher can do is try and incorporate technology into every aspect of their teaching. Kids are used to moving at a fast pace and they are used to getting things now. They want to touch and be a part of the learning experience, and most schools now have the technology to let them do that.

Why did I decide to become a teacher

I have always known that I love working with kids. Ever since I have had the opportunity i have chosen to work with kids. As soon as I graduated from high school I worked as a camp counselor for a Christian camp. I volunteered for teaching positions in my church. I think this desire to work with kids comes from the fact that i enjoy being one. I went to college with the knowledge that I wanted to work with kids in some capacity, and being a PE teacher just naturally seemed like the right fit for me. I have been involved with sports and coaching my whole life and I really couldn't picture myself doing anything else.