MD5Blog

Thornburg states that “Red Queen” is attached to certain phenomena when a competition between two forces results in the rapid development of them both (Thornburg, 2008).  He uses the example of Netscape and Microsoft.  Both of them are fighting to stay ahead of each others’ features.  When I decided on a movie to view for module four, I went the easiest, least expensive route.  I did not buy or rent a DVD, nor did I utilize Netflix or another vendor.  There are many free applications over the Internet, to view movies without having to download them.  I believe that buying DVDs will soon become obsolete.  With Redbox and Netflix, it is easier to download or rent a DVD for a dollar.  Netflix is very popular, but sights such as Project Free TV and HULU.com you do not have to download videos and can just view them without the threat of viruses is becoming more popular.  There are also videos streamed on YouTube.  The Blue Ray was in the process of replacing DVDs, and now with streamlining on iPads and other electronic devices, why buy the physical disc.  Bill Gates has been quoted saying he suspects DVDs and Blu-Rays to become obsolete within 10 years (Techetron, 2012).   Streamlining will obsolete DVDs and rekindle movie theaters.  Apples newly designed laptop will not include a DVD Rom, but instead offer their iCloud service which gives 5GB of storage space for free. Therefore the use of DVDs and CDs on your laptop may not be possible in the future (Techetron, 2012).

Resources

 http://www.techetron.com/1784/are-dvd-and-blu-ray-obsolete/

Thornburg, D. (2008c). Red Queens, butterflies, and strange attractors; Imperfect lenses into emergent technologies.  Lake Barrington, Il: Thornburg Center for Space Exploration.

Mod4BlogAssign- The Disruptive power of Second Life:

Second Life began in 2003.  It is free online virtual 3D worlds initiated by Philip Rosedale, chairman of Linden Labs.  Residents can actually build their own worlds.  They interact through Avatars where members can explore, meet people, do business, and share knowledge.  Second Life is intended for people sixteen and older, but the average age is thirty two.  People have the chance to build worlds, visit places, and purchase items that they may not be able to do in real life.  In Second Life, anything is possible. 

Second Life is a disruptive technology because it is unavoidable.  People can be who they want to be and work where they want to work.  There is fair ownership in the economy.  There is a challenge for people to learn faster, be more creative, and be a better person virtually than in reality (Rosedale, 2008).  The innovations that it displaced are AAAs (open source games), MMOs (massively multiplayer online games), and RPGs (role playing games).  Second Life is not a game, it is a social experience.  It is a place where you can show off creativity, curiosity, and share amazing ideas that you may not be able to do in the real world.  It is better than a structured game.  I believe Second Life will be around for a long time to come.  I believe it will evolve.  For the next decade virtual worlds will be how more people interact (Rosedale, 2008).  The social benefit of Second Life is the lack of culture (Rosedale, 2008).  In the virtual world, you can become anything you want.  A female can become a male, A Hispanic can become Caucasian, a person can become an alien.  While the economy in the real world was in trouble, Second Life economy was booming.  In Second Life, people implicitly and inherently interactively share information.  Businesses utilize the site for training purposes.  People across the globe meet and collaborate.  In my industry working with elementary students, technology is evident.   Students are used to playing video games in 3D.  Teachers are expected to utilize technology across the curriculum.  Second Life would be advantageous to students.  They could create their own avatar and interact in a classroom. 

Rosedale, P. (2008). Philip Rosedale on Second Life [Video]. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/the_inspiration_of_second_life.html.

Hindman, B. (2012). Retrieved from fir http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/

Mod3 Rhymes of History Technology

Rhymes of History Technology

Thornburg stated that the impact of a new development rekindles something from the distant past (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009).  He goes on to talk about how we see it in the third quadrant of our tetrads.  It is not the technology itself that is being rekindled, but the impact of the technology (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009).  This is how Rhymes of history is explained.  People have added and subtracted since the beginning of time.  The calculator has rekindled man’s ability to count on, count back, count repeatedly, and subtract repeatedly.  Before written numbers existed, there was the abacus.  It has evolved to the mechanical calculator that performs basic arithmetic operations.  Now there are scientific calculators that include trigonometric and statistical calculations.  There also algebraic and graphing calculators.  But the basic calculator rekindles man’s ability to count. 

Kevin Kelly discussed the concepts of embodiment, restructuring, and codependency on the web as examples of the rhymes of history (Kelly, 2007).  He goes on to state that the web works much like the brain.  The calculator embodies us because it is an extension of human senses.  Kelly states that machines are extension of human senses and humans are the extended senses of the machine (Kelly, 2007).  The machine cannot work without us.  It is restructuring because it links us to pages.  One of the accessories on the computer is a calculator.  It causes a codependency because we depend on it for so much.  There has been controversy in schools because educators believed that dependence on calculators made students lose the ability to calculate in their heads.

Resources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calculator

http://calculatororigins.com/

Kelly, K. (2007). Kevin Kelly on the next 5,000 days of the Web [Speech]. Speech delivered at the EG 2007 Conference, Los Angeles. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/kevin_kelly_on_the_next_5_000_days_of_the_web.html

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Emerging and future technology: Rhymes of history. Baltimore, MD: Author.

MD2Assign2SnowT

MD2Assign2Snow2

Reading K-12 (reading applications)

Reading ApplicationsEnhances – Story telling, reading, language arts, and reading across the curriculum.  It also enhances vocabulary as well as students with visual and auditory disabilities.	Obsoletes – Text books, dictionaries, thesauruses, and other resource books.
Retrieves – Story telling, students being read to by a computer instead of a parent.	Reversal – Newer and faster applications 3g to 4g and so forth.

Thornburg (2008) states that the tetrad of the effects of technologies is not sequential, but simultaneous.  Reading applications enhance reading, language arts, and vocabulary.  It also provides support for students with visual and auditory disabilities.  It obsoletes text books, and other resources.  Because of the Internet connection, there is no need for resource books.  It retrieves oral storytelling by reading stories for students.  It reverses faster applications.

Reading K-12 has become an important requirement of the Core Curriculum Standards in most states.  In the state of Georgia, it is imperative that students enhance their reading skills.  The standards will improve reading, literacy, and critical thinking.  The changes will lead to a national assessment in which student performance and be reliably compared from state to state (Washington & Badertscher, 2012).  The article in the AJC goes on to state that the changes will infuse reading and writing into every subject across the curriculum.  Technology has caused reading to become more mobile.  With iPads, iPhones, Kindles, and Netbooks; students will be able to read independently outside the classroom.  The reading apps on these tools help students with vocabulary, definitions, and are able to connect to the Internet for other resources.  A study conducted by PBS found that the use of educational iPhone apps increased student’s vocabulary acquisition by thirty one percent within a span of two weeks.  Students now have the digital technology to help them learn language.  PCWorld named the iPad the best toy of the year in 2010.  Early reading specialist Kiera Parrott stated that with the right tool and the right app, a child can explore reading, early learning concepts, and sensory-rich play (Munoz, 2012).  A study in the Journal “Computers and Education" they found that interactive digital reading instruction had lasting positive effects on children's literacy skills.  LeVar Burton launched the “Reading Rainbow” app on the iPad ( Edwards, 2012).  It is geared toward students ages three through nine.  The article goes on to state that the free app contains one hundred fifty stories and sixteen videos.  The only drawback is the 9.99 a month fee.   

Resources:

http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/sweeping-changes-to-hit-1428379.html

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/tablets/10-ipad-apps-for-teaching-kids-to-read.htm

http://www.education.com/magazine/article/best-reading-apps-for-kids/

Read more: http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/news/science_tech/reading-rainbow-app-aims-to-take-kids-to-new-learning-heights-wcpo1340894862740#ixzz1z8ha2Zqz

Thornburg, D. D. (2008b). Emerging technologies and McLuhan's laws of media. Lake Barrington, IL: Thornburg Center for Space Exploration. Retrieved from:  https://class.waldenu.edu/bbcswebdav/institution/USW1/201270_01/PH_EDUC/NCATE_EDUC_8848_EDUC_7108/Module%202/Resources/Resources/embedded/emerging_technologies_and_mcluhan%27s_laws_of_media.pdf

Replies to MD1Assign2 - Emerging Technologies

I have replied to the following people:

Rachel McCullough
Jessica Green
Michele Baylor

MD1Assign2SnowT

iPads in the classroom -an emerged technology

iPads in the classroom are an emerging technology.  With the graphics and touch screen it has become very popular with students and teachers. There are an abundance of applications that help students with research and writing.  The applications cover every content area.  There is even an English Learner App for ESOL students.  It will help build their reading, writing, speaking, and understanding skills.  The books can be seen in iTunes and are loaded with colorful graphics, animation and games.  There are interactive math applications that have engaging games that are fun.  The science and social study applications are full of discovery and engaging games.  Some schools are beginning to use the iPad to replace classroom books.   Some of the most interesting applications are those that allow for student creativity and critical thinking (Levy, 2011).    

With that being said, most school districts are using grant money to buy the iPads.  Some schools do not have the funds to buy and iPads for every student or even a class set.  The books must be downloaded and bought through iTunes.  iPads are continually changing and being updated.    Some teachers are using the iPads as a replacement tool rather than a supplemental tool in education.  Teachers need to be aware of the applications available and make appropriate lesson plans accordingly.  The students need to be aware that it is an educational tool and not a toy.  One teacher stated that there was a problem with typing and you would need and external keyboard.  There are many pros for the iPads in schools.  Personally my school does not have iPads for students.  “It isn’t in the budget,” I was told.    

http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/07/11/putting-the-ipad-to-work-in-elementary-classrooms.aspx

http://www.maclife.com/article/features/ipads_classroom_are_changing_face_education

Responses to Module 6

Tracy Snow

I have responded to Tiffany Harrell and Laura Lee.

Module 6: Learning in a Digital World

As a student of higher education later in life, I have experience in traditional face to face and distant education.  I am both a teacher and a student.  I believe it is critical and non negotiable that each child learn in a safe and loving environment.   I love Harry Wong’s theory that school is not a place but a concept where students are welcome to learn and enhance the quality of their lives without fear of intimidation or safety for their lives.  They should be guided by hospitable and caring teachers in a clean and orderly environment (Wong, 1991).    In a face to face environment and in distant education, I feel it is important to incorporate collaboration.  Students retain knowledge when they are responsible for their own learning.  Students who participate in collaborative learning perform much better on critical- thinking and problem solving skills. 

I believe that technology enhances learning in a supportive and non intimidating way.  There are many games that develop students’ critical thinking skills and engage learners. It incorporates skills, strategies, and fun together to keep students engaged in learning.  Technology also highly motivates students.  Technology also supports creative thinking.  According to our text students are expected to make choices based on learning goals and self monitoring of the problem-solving processes (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2010).  There are so many ways that technology enhances the way we learn.  When I take my students to the computer lab, they ask me if they can “play” Education City.   Education City is an award-winning online teaching and learning resource that is mapped to our state and common core standards. 

Resources:

Cennamo, K., Ross, J., Ertmer, P. (2010).  Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standard-based approach. Belmont, CA:  Wadsworth.

Wong, H., & Wong, R. (1991).  The first days of school: How to be an effective teacher. Sunnyvale, CA: Author.

Response to New Technologies - Tracy Snow

Module 5: Responses to New Technologies.

I responded to Laura Lee and Tawana Stiff.

Mod 5: New Technologies

Module 5:  New Technologies

Through this and other graduate courses, I have learned about Edmodo.  This is a secure social learning network for students and teachers.  I was excited about it and wanted to utilize it at my school.  I asked several teachers at my school about it and no one knew anything about it.  I told my assistant principal about it and asked if I could set it up.  She was excited about it and received the approval from the principal to let me set it up.  Without knowing anything about Edmodo, I set it up and enrolled all my students.  We have gone to the computer lab and communicated with each other.  I have also set assignments in which the students have to respond to, complete and turn in.  I have tried to get other teachers on my grade level and others to join so that we could collaborate.  They refused!  They gave excuses that they didn’t have time, it was too complicated, and students wouldn’t get it.  I told them if I can do it, anyone can.  The students will get it and love it!  I am the only teacher at my school who utilizes Edmodo.  I have made contact with a classmate from Walden, hoping that our students could collaborate together.  We are still working out the details.

The Keller’s ARCS model that I could use to change the motivation of these people to encourage success would be gaining and sustaining attention.  I stimulate lasting curiosity with problems that invoke mystery (Driscoll, 2005).  I talk about what my students do when we go to the lab and how they go home and message me about their homework.  One student even sent me a note when he was absent.  He stated that he had to go to the hospital because he had gotten sick.  Finally, I will teach a professional development class in the Fall on Edmodo.  I believe that once teachers are shown what it is and how to use it, they will come on board.

Resource:

Driscoll, M. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction. (Third edition). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Module 4 Replies to Connectivism Mindmap

I have replied to Yolanda Lyons, Michelle D., and Dwanell Dibartolo

Connectivism Mindmap

Networking has changed the way I learn in the fact that I didn't know what a Wiki or a Blog was until I enrolled in graduate school. I also learned how to navigate and collaborate with classmates using Google Docs. It has enlightened me in writing and editing along with my classmates. I have learned how to skype and set up a group in order to call everyone at once. It has really changed the way I communicate with others. I would rather skype than send out emails, but I realize it is not always convenient. I have utilized blogs, wikis, and google docs. It has given me a new perspective on learning because I can get ideas and views from classmates. Because of networking I have been motivated to introduce Edmodo, a secure social networking site, to my students. The digital tool that best facilitates my learning is the discussion board. after posting my views and responding to my classmates, I gain insight on how differently we think. It is interesting to see how the similarities and differences among my classmates affect the way we teach. I have gained ideas to add into my classroom from the discussion board. The discussion board is a place where ideas are shared. We have such a diverse class which makes discussions interesting. I also gain insight from the Blogs and Wikis. There, ideas are also shared. Siemens (2006) states that in connectivism we create networks of knowledge to assist in replacing outdated content with current content. I have utilized some current content by introducing my students to Edmodo, a secure social network. I am the first teacher in my school to do so. I learn new knowledge when I have questions by googling them. I also check with my classmates. In this growing age of technology it is easy to google any information needed. We must be careful of Internet resources, though. The reliability and validaty must be verified. Resource: Siemens, G. (2006). Knowing knowledge. USA: Author.

Responses to blog 3

I responded to Tawana Stiff http://tstiff7105.blogspot.com/

and Heather Rogers
http://learningtheoryeducationaltechnology.blogspot.com/

Collaboration and Contructivism

7105 Module 3 blog: Collaboration and constructivist principles – Tracy Snow

I do believe that humans have a basic instinct to “interact and work as a group”. For the most part people are at their best when they are working with other people. The sharing of ideas and clarification of problems makes projects easier to tackle. Rheingold (2009) talked about a new form of wealth in the form of collective action. People work well together than alone. The goals of constructivist is to problem solve, reason, critical thinking, and active and reflective use of knowledge (Driscoll, 2005). The constructivist conditions should embed learning in realistic environments; provide for social negotiation; support multiple modes of representation; and nurture self awareness (Driscoll, 2005). Technology facilitates collaboration of this by way of online learning. Social learning or learning as part of a group is an important way to help students gain experience in collaboration and develop important skills in critical thinking, self-reflection, and co-construction of knowledge (Brindley, Walti, & Blaschke, 2009).

Resources:
Driscoll, M. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction. (Third edition). Boston, MA; Pearson Education, Inc.

Brindley. (2009). Creating Effective Collaborative Learning Groups in an Online Environment. http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/675/1271

paper ID: 241616132

Responses to Blog 2

My two responses for Blog 2 were to Michelle Martens-Dragalin
http://michellenotes.blogspot.com/2012/03/cognitivism-as-learning-theory.html#comment-form
and Yolanda Lyons
http://ylyonstechnology.blogspot.com/2012/03/cognitivism-as-learning-theory.html#comment-form

Blog 2 EDUC 7105 - Learning Theory and Cognitivism

Learning Theory -

Both blogs have the same concept that one ism does not serve all. Students have different learning styles, and it is up to the teacher to decide what type of learner each student is. Therefore, teachers must design instruction to meet the needs of learners. Behaviorism is effective to learning facts; problem solving theories describe how facts and experiences become solutions; constructivism is appropriate particularly when we are working on projects of interest, where creativity and innovation is called for (Kerr, 2007). It is suggested that lower level learning (lower cognitive load) requires a behaviorist approach (memorize, recognizing, labeling) as does the expectation of outcomes that must be measured. Procedural and rule-based learning requires an emphasis on Cognitivism and finally, problem-solving, collaboration and creativity require a view of Constructivism (Kapp, 2007).

I believe technology has caused the isms to evolve. Computers and the use of different technologies have changed the education system and how we teach our students. With videos, computer applications, and games the isms are more functional.

References:

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html

Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

Blog 1 EDUC 7105

1.What are your beliefs about how people learn best? What is the purpose of learning theory in educational technology?

I believe students learn best through best practices and hands on learning. If they can do it, they can learn it. Best practices is simply "what works". There are nine standards: A clear and common focus; high standards and expectations; strong leadership among teachers and administrators; supportive, personalized, and relevant learning; parent/community involvement; monitoring, accountability, and assessment; curriculum and instruction; professional development; and time and structure.

Driscoll (2005)states that theory about learning is a set of laws or principles about learning. They typically originate with a question. When I introduce a lesson, I start with an essential question. The object of my lessons are to answer the essential question. Technology is growing in education. With video games and social networking, students need to be meaningfully engaged in learning activities through interaction with others and worthwhile tasks. An interactive application that my students love to engage in is Education City Live. Students work out math problems in a race against students in their class or other schools. I often "play" to challenge them to beat me and learn their math facts.

resource:

Driscoll, M. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction. (3rd edition). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.