Friday, October 10, 2014

Week 8: Twitter Reflection

I had never used twitter before taking this course. It has been quite a learning experience for me. I learned how user friendly twitter is, and really enjoyed connecting and following people. I was amazed at how many people use Twitter, people that I know and people that I wish I knew. The education chat for #gtchat was really insightful. I teach a student who is twice exceptional, so the information I gained about grouping and social interactions through this chat is something I can apply to practice.

The most interesting person I followed was TD Jakes. TD Jakes is a Bishop and inspirational speaker. For instance, he tweeted: "God has great plans of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. What ever your dealing with now will pass".I also watch his tv show during the week. It was neat following him on twitter because it gave additional information on topics addressed in his tv show. Very inspirational and fun to follow.

I will probably continue using Twitter on a professionally basis. It is a good source for collaborating on topics with people around the world. I don't have a lot of time to devote to Twitter so my activity will be very minimal.

Week Review 10/13/14-10/10/14 Review Game

Week Review 10/13/14-10/10/14 Review Game

Sunday, October 5, 2014

#522peru Week 7-Blogging

This week I explored Richard Byrne's site Free Technology for Teachers at http://www.freetech4teachers.com/. I began my exploration by viewing the tab options at the top of the screen and was intrigued by the topic "Alternatives to Youtube". I started my exploration here because I am always looking for ways to incorporate video snippets into my lessons and have used Youtube to serve this purpose. Richard points out that Youtube often has blocked access when using school access due to content. Indeed this has been my experience. While my district does offer a tedious procedure to access Youtube, it is more convenient for me to find other sources. So I was really excited about the resources Richard provides as an alternative to YouTube. After viewing his alternative resources for YouTube, I discovered CNN student news! I am excited about this website because I am always looking for ways that make instruction culturally relevant. For many years, I used time4kids to fulfill this piece, but I am always seeking other resources as well. I see myself using this website in class to keep students aware of current events, and to address issues in class discussions.

In regards to creating a blog as a resource for my students, I am not altogether comfortable yet with this idea. My students need a lot of support academically, socially, and behaviorally. My concern with blogging is whether the students will have the skill set to use the resource effectively and consistently. This is a skill I can teach and am willing to teach.