Thoughtful Analysis

The article that I discussed in the small group was about the way technology is presented in staff development seminars. It stated that seminars were often taught mainly toward mastering the skill of technology, not how it will improve student learning. This leads to very little follow-up use of the technology, if any. It also impedes the use of creativity because teachers are more concerned about mastering the skill and using the technology correctly. Alan November's new technique involves the teacher bringing a few students into the seminar and having the seminar focus on how students learn with the technology. This way the teacher can observe and discuss with the student about how they are using the technology and what they are learning from it. This has resulted in more follow-up use, as well as more meaningful and creative use. I think this is a great way to teach technology to teachers because technology provides so many opportunities for student learning as well as a great outlet for teachers to express their creativity. Having the students in the seminar provides an instant feedback for how well the students respond to the new technology. It also takes the focus away from the teacher becoming an expert on the technology and puts it on technology as a useful resource for increasing student learning.

Another article that was discussed was about using technology in early childhood education. The way the technology was used in this classroom was combined with traditional pen and paper methods. Newsletters were posted online as well as handed out in class. The assignments were also available online and could be turned in electronically or hand written. I think this classroom setup provided a great balance of introducing very young children to both technology and print. It is giving them exposure to manipulating technology and practicing writing, both of which are necessary skills. 

Interpreting Feelings from a Picture Grade 3

After our lesson on interpreting feelings from a picture, please answer the following questions:

Look at the picture below:

1. What type of conversation do you think the two boys are having (for example: a serious conversation) 

2. What clues did the picture give you? 

3. Give an example of what the boys may be talking about. Were there any clues in the picture to help you?

Ready for a challenge?

Watch the video below with the sound off

Create a sample conversation that the lions may be having.

Now watch the video with the sound on

Was your conversation similar to the conversation you heard? Why or why not?