This week has been one of the most stressful weeks of my life. My UK visa was refused two weeks to the day I am scheduled to fly out. Yikes. People who have known me for years may not have thought it was possible to stress me out - but, never say never - all things are possible!
This week was filled with urgency, phone call after phone call after phone call, research, tears, more phone calls, running around collecting documents from all over the world, pop and solitaire. Yes, pop and solitaire became my coping mechanism (healthy right?!)
As I played the countless number of solitaire games this week, I began to analyze my game play; my strategies, my problem solving skills, the cards themselves, the game in its entirety. I noticed a parallel between my present week and experiences with the cards I was playing.
First, you are dealt 7 cards. These 7 cards represent different things in your life. These 7 things, are key factors, have a large influence on your life. It is how you interact with them, how you interpret them, the choices you make surrounding them that dictate your next moves. When I play, I always manoeuvre these 7 cards first, play as much with what I call the ground as possible.
As you place cards, another card is always presented - a new event - a consequence - a reward for your actions. It becomes a new challenge in your life, something new to experience and interact with. This card has a chance of helping you, or posing a challenge. When these cards are flipped, it is your attitude that determines the effect of the card (pro or con), it is your attitude that determines the outcome and the play of this card. This card provides an opportunity of opening a new door, creating chances, or a moment of problem solving. When problem solving you must analyze the present cards and see how they can all work together - how can all of these things in your life work together? Is there something in your life not quite working?
My goal while playing is to create the open spaces down on the ground, make those chances, provide space for new experiences, new challenges, new things. By making these spaces, in solitaire, a king is able to be placed. In life, something exciting, something big can take place, like in my life right now I am moving to England in a week (fingers crossed on that visa!)
The pile, I think of as a life line. Things aren't working out on the ground, so you pull from the top - you ask someone for help, you pull out some resources. The pile presents three options, however you must clear the top choice to get to the next, or present yourself with three new options. This allows for some risk taking, and again some problem solving. But the main part it shows, and what I experienced this week was a big support system. The options, the way you proceed through the life line cards, everyone is there willing to help it is just up to you how you access it.
Finally, through combination of the ground cards, and the life line cards, you place cards on a shelf. This is much like displaying a trophy, hanging a degree, or simply making recognition of your achievements with a pat on the back. As you process the cards, organize them, you achieve something, you have things in order. As you process the events in your life, you achieve things, you have things in order - time management, happiness, stress free life - you become unstoppable.
But, what about that "Quit" button and start a new game. It's always there, it's always an option, and a tempting option at that when the life line cards just aren't there to help out the ground cards and there's really nothing else to do. So why not just quit and start a new game, be dealt some new cards - be dealt a new life? At the beginning of the week, closer to the crisis I hit that quit button. I hit that quit button every time there were "no" options, really, every time the slightest bit of problem solving needed to happen. As the week progressed, my support system gathered, the crisis dissolved and just became a card I was dealt I was no longer hitting that quit button, rather I was problem solving, looking at my options. This is when the real thinking of solitaire and life entered my mind. If I had just hit the quit button after being dealt a bad card, I would be getting new cards, starting a new game. A new game I don't want. I've planned, I've dreamed, I am going to move to England. If I hit quit button, I would be home, working some office job playing someone else's game of solitaire.
No matter what cards you are dealt, there is always a play waiting to be made. Don't be so fast to hit the quit button and start over when the going gets tough, play the game you've entered. Just keep your head in the game, use your life lines and don't forget/don't be scared to create the opportunities for new cards to be dealt.
As for my card game, my week of stress is over, that card has been passed on, put on the shelf and joined someone else's game. It is no longer in my hands. I am scheduled to move to England on the 27th and I can't wait for the cards I am about to be dealt starting in September.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Thursday, August 16, 2012
One Life Photography Contest
Photography has recently become a hobby of mine. I find pleasure in seeking the images and capturing the moments and scenery the world has to offer us. I travel a lot and relive my memories and share my stories through my photography. Photography is an excellent source of story telling, use of imagination, catalyst for wondering and an aid in day dreaming. Photography for me is in an escape into another world, a world where the images are captured and held onto; a world, where everything may not be perfect, but everyone and everything has a voice.
Shelby Steward: Click "Collect Me" to help me win a New York City photo exhibition and a$25,000 cash grant: One Life Photography Competition
Shelby Steward: Click "Collect Me" to help me win a New York City photo exhibition and a$25,000 cash grant: One Life Photography Competition
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Idealism
This past week of placement, hanging out before school with some of the teachers we were having a discussion about being that teacher - that role model, that teacher that can change the world. All of these teachers have been working for at least ten years and say they once had that dream, when they were in teachers college, but in reality it's just not happening.
I sat there and took in their words, listening carefully as they discussed one of my favourite movies Freedom Writers, and Saving Silverman, and movies where the teacher is a hero, where the teacher influences the children's lives immensely.
I walk around with that vision of being that teacher, my entire life has been based around being that teacher, i imagine my life as that teacher. Through my teacher I want to change the world, I want to help those children who need it most, I want to reach out to those children who feel lost, and make those who do not like school find some sort of interest in learning. I want to give everyone a chance to succeed.
I have been told before that my visions are too idealistic. The same thought always come to mind, John Lennon's "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one."
In my International Education class we had a guest speaker present his experiences in teaching in Aboriginal schools, and now in a Montessori school. He discussed the realities and politics that come along with teaching, but also the passions of the teachers that make learning excited. He said to always hold on to your idealistic vision, your teaching dream. Pursue that dream. There will be hard days and there will be amazing days, but carry your vision with you.
Taylor Mali's video, What Teachers Make is one of my favourite videos. For me, talking from an idealist perspective, in snaps back the realists vision into the bigger picture of the difference they're making.
The teachers began their conversation because of some disappointment in a couple of the students attending that school. The disappointment was not a product of a lack of effort from the teachers, but more of a defeated sensation. They were frustrated and lost on how to reach these particular students. Taylor Mali's speech presents the small things that teachers do that lead up to the bigger picture, the idealistic vision.
Watch the video of What Teachers Makes. This version is a production the beautiful words.
I sat there and took in their words, listening carefully as they discussed one of my favourite movies Freedom Writers, and Saving Silverman, and movies where the teacher is a hero, where the teacher influences the children's lives immensely.
I walk around with that vision of being that teacher, my entire life has been based around being that teacher, i imagine my life as that teacher. Through my teacher I want to change the world, I want to help those children who need it most, I want to reach out to those children who feel lost, and make those who do not like school find some sort of interest in learning. I want to give everyone a chance to succeed.
I have been told before that my visions are too idealistic. The same thought always come to mind, John Lennon's "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one."
In my International Education class we had a guest speaker present his experiences in teaching in Aboriginal schools, and now in a Montessori school. He discussed the realities and politics that come along with teaching, but also the passions of the teachers that make learning excited. He said to always hold on to your idealistic vision, your teaching dream. Pursue that dream. There will be hard days and there will be amazing days, but carry your vision with you.
Taylor Mali's video, What Teachers Make is one of my favourite videos. For me, talking from an idealist perspective, in snaps back the realists vision into the bigger picture of the difference they're making.
The teachers began their conversation because of some disappointment in a couple of the students attending that school. The disappointment was not a product of a lack of effort from the teachers, but more of a defeated sensation. They were frustrated and lost on how to reach these particular students. Taylor Mali's speech presents the small things that teachers do that lead up to the bigger picture, the idealistic vision.
Watch the video of What Teachers Makes. This version is a production the beautiful words.
Without people dreaming, we would achieve so little. Hang onto your visions, don't let anyone or anything stop you. Pursue your dreams. Wish it. Dream it. Do it.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Conflict of Technology
Today at work I was verbally insulted and abused by a customer. As the sales associate I am allowed to do nothing, but stand there and smile politely.
However, as this man continued to yell at me I realized that this was an act of anger due to a lack of knowledge; a lack of knowledge of technology.
This issue was his chip on his credit card did not work, our store policy and payment system does not allow us to override chips due to security reasons. This man swore that it would work and I was not listening to him and I should believe him that it would work. However, he was not listening to me in my telling him of the way our system works. But that is besides the point. This man was mislead about the technology.
This had me thinking - I understand the technology of chip readers and magnet swipes and the payment systems, but all because I work in retail. If I didn't I would know how they work, but not really understand how they work.
This is a piece of technology used everyday, for many of us, multiple times a day. Yet, what do we really know about it? What do we know about how the payment system responds to our card? Reaches the bank? We all just stand there waiting for that "Approved. Remove Card" message.
How are we supposed to learn about this technology, or fully understand this technology?
I cannot fault that man for yelling at me, I am sure he is a lovely guy. He was just arguing for something he believed in and the way he thought the system worked. He did not know any different, or understand why we, as a store, cannot do what he was asking and override his chip.
I find this relates back to a comment I made earlier about teaching our students about social media. They all know how to work the machine, but they don't know how the machine works. Technology is something that needs to be taught, to everyone, at any age.
However, as this man continued to yell at me I realized that this was an act of anger due to a lack of knowledge; a lack of knowledge of technology.
This issue was his chip on his credit card did not work, our store policy and payment system does not allow us to override chips due to security reasons. This man swore that it would work and I was not listening to him and I should believe him that it would work. However, he was not listening to me in my telling him of the way our system works. But that is besides the point. This man was mislead about the technology.
This had me thinking - I understand the technology of chip readers and magnet swipes and the payment systems, but all because I work in retail. If I didn't I would know how they work, but not really understand how they work.
This is a piece of technology used everyday, for many of us, multiple times a day. Yet, what do we really know about it? What do we know about how the payment system responds to our card? Reaches the bank? We all just stand there waiting for that "Approved. Remove Card" message.
How are we supposed to learn about this technology, or fully understand this technology?
I cannot fault that man for yelling at me, I am sure he is a lovely guy. He was just arguing for something he believed in and the way he thought the system worked. He did not know any different, or understand why we, as a store, cannot do what he was asking and override his chip.
I find this relates back to a comment I made earlier about teaching our students about social media. They all know how to work the machine, but they don't know how the machine works. Technology is something that needs to be taught, to everyone, at any age.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Professional Advisory
Although the information heard in the attached advisory is known and commonly mentioned, watching and reading the advisory was one of the last assignments of my technology class. Once we've embarked on our digital footprint journey and hopped on the educational technology train we are warned about the implications that can come along with using educational technology.
However, I believe this was done intentionally. Many of my peers came into this class with fears; fears of technology, fears of breaching our new found standards of practice, fears of leaving behind a permanent mistake. It would not have been right to start the class off only reiterating those fears or misconceptions. Starting the class off with this advisory would have been a steep fall off of the ed tech bandwagon.
I also believe the process we went through, and the pedagogy of the technology we were exposed to steered us in the right direction. We were not driving blind, but had all the guidance and support of our peers, our teacher Zoe Branigan-Pipe, and all of those who joined us along the way developing our professional learning networks. We were in a safe environment to explore and learn about the technology, without the fear of making a costly mistake. We were exposed to the educational side of technology rather than the mere entertainment side.
One of my first posts was about the two types of users of Twitter and my hesitation to get an account. This hesitation was a product of the lack of knowledge of the tool. From this class I have now gained a full understanding of the power of twitter, have fully adopted the social network and participate in weekly chats, gaining and sharing resources.
My Twitter experience is what students need to experience. 21st century students are lucky to be learning at such an innovative time, but they need to know how these sites are properly used and how they can truly benefit from them. I still hear people discussing exactly how I used to feel about Twitter - why do people care what I am doing every second of every day? People do not understand the networking it creates, the amount of learning that takes place and the relationships made. Students understand how to work the machine, but they don't really know what the machine does. Integrating these social media sites and other technologies in the classroom can open students up to be always learning, always creating and always building. I find my school day never ends anymore because of all the social networking outlets I now have. I find myself feeling accountable and needing to research new ed tech tools to contribute to my network rather than just taking the resources from others.
However, I believe this was done intentionally. Many of my peers came into this class with fears; fears of technology, fears of breaching our new found standards of practice, fears of leaving behind a permanent mistake. It would not have been right to start the class off only reiterating those fears or misconceptions. Starting the class off with this advisory would have been a steep fall off of the ed tech bandwagon.
I also believe the process we went through, and the pedagogy of the technology we were exposed to steered us in the right direction. We were not driving blind, but had all the guidance and support of our peers, our teacher Zoe Branigan-Pipe, and all of those who joined us along the way developing our professional learning networks. We were in a safe environment to explore and learn about the technology, without the fear of making a costly mistake. We were exposed to the educational side of technology rather than the mere entertainment side.
One of my first posts was about the two types of users of Twitter and my hesitation to get an account. This hesitation was a product of the lack of knowledge of the tool. From this class I have now gained a full understanding of the power of twitter, have fully adopted the social network and participate in weekly chats, gaining and sharing resources.
My Twitter experience is what students need to experience. 21st century students are lucky to be learning at such an innovative time, but they need to know how these sites are properly used and how they can truly benefit from them. I still hear people discussing exactly how I used to feel about Twitter - why do people care what I am doing every second of every day? People do not understand the networking it creates, the amount of learning that takes place and the relationships made. Students understand how to work the machine, but they don't really know what the machine does. Integrating these social media sites and other technologies in the classroom can open students up to be always learning, always creating and always building. I find my school day never ends anymore because of all the social networking outlets I now have. I find myself feeling accountable and needing to research new ed tech tools to contribute to my network rather than just taking the resources from others.
If we begin teaching our elementary school students about networking, proper online etiquette, the power of Google Plus, the educational side of technology versus the entertainment side - imagine the networks they can start building. Imagine the possibilities these students will have when they graduate high school or university. Sheikha Al Mayassa on a recent Ted Talk discusses Globalizing the Local and Localizing the Global. Social networking has the capabilities to do so - if students start learning how to use the tools properly and effectively - now.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
My First...
Imagine
yourself in a place completely outside of your comfort zone, somewhere new and somewhere unrecognizable. Now imagine everyone looking at you with eyes of
curiosity and wonder, whispers of questions and pointed fingers all directed in
your way.
This
was my first experience in El Salvador.
This
was my first experience as a minority group.
For
the first time in my life, I am that completely unique, foreign body. The
traditional roles of a Eurocentric upbringing have been reversed. I am no
longer the majority. An aura of enquiring,
marveling and curiosity was felt lingering in the air. However, there was never
a feeling that I did not belong there. Sometimes I forgot about my skin colour
difference and thought the curious looks were because I was wearing shorts (something
not common among the locals, especially for a female).
This
was until one my students reminded me - a 22-year-old university student asked
me why my skin is white.
At
first I did not even know how to answer this. I had never been asked that
question before, but in my broken Spanish I began to discuss our British
heritage and family lineage, as well as geography and Canadian climate (this
then lead into a discussion about the cold and snow, but that’s for another
time!)
Before
answering this question I had to take a minute and think about it. I was not
thinking this was something to be offended by; I was focusing more on about the
reasons it was asked. This was not an act of discrimination, but rather an act
of curiosity. This student had never seen a person with white skin before. In
fact, this was also a first for these students.
At
that moment, our firsts became unified and we shared this experience together.
This first experience as a minority no longer felt that way as we embarked on a
learning experience together. Our differences were embraced and explored.
Things were taught and things were learned.
My
first experience as a minority was not even known as that. Although the stares
and the questions, and the curiosity remained it was our first experience as
students working together from two different countries and cultures. It was our
first experience of sharing. It was our first experience of learning. It was my
first time going through a life changing experience.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Popplet
In tech class we have been exploring a collection of the many Web 2.0 options for classroom uses. I have always used mind maps to organize my ideas when writing an essay, or as a part of a study sheet of key concepts, so I decided to explore the uses of Popplet.
Popplet is an interactive, creative mind map tool. Popplet allows you to brainstorm ideas, collaborate ideas, and visually represent ideas. Multiple students can work on one Popplet, engaging in one brainstorm and compiling a class full of ideas.
This can be a great tool to co-construct a success criteria, or a diagnostic assessment of a unit. I have created a Popplet which you can see below about other uses in a few classroom subjects.
Popplet is an interactive, creative mind map tool. Popplet allows you to brainstorm ideas, collaborate ideas, and visually represent ideas. Multiple students can work on one Popplet, engaging in one brainstorm and compiling a class full of ideas.
This can be a great tool to co-construct a success criteria, or a diagnostic assessment of a unit. I have created a Popplet which you can see below about other uses in a few classroom subjects.
I created a Popplet about the uses to understand the user ability of the program and simplicity of the program. It offers a tutorial as you create your first mind map and the buttons are clearly displayed about what to and how to do it. All you need is to come up with the ideas for the text!
During my first placement I was teaching persuasive writing. We were writing an essay as whole class at first. In order to organize our ideas we created a mind map to develop topic sentences and the proofs supporting those statements.
During my first placement I was teaching persuasive writing. We were writing an essay as whole class at first. In order to organize our ideas we created a mind map to develop topic sentences and the proofs supporting those statements.
If I were to teach that lesson again, I would use the Popplet tool. I love the collaboration aspect and that multiple students can work on this together. Individuals can create their own Popplet and then add collaborators to add more ideas.
Tying in with my EduBlog; Miss Steward's Gymnasium, I have created a popplet to incorporate my students' learning throughout the unit. This Popplet teaches the skill of collaboration, and team work while reflecting on their classroom learning. Collaboration and teamwork are commonly used skills in Physical Education. This collaborative mind map is to introduce the skill into all aspects of life, rather than merely in an athletic atmosphere.
Tying in with my EduBlog; Miss Steward's Gymnasium, I have created a popplet to incorporate my students' learning throughout the unit. This Popplet teaches the skill of collaboration, and team work while reflecting on their classroom learning. Collaboration and teamwork are commonly used skills in Physical Education. This collaborative mind map is to introduce the skill into all aspects of life, rather than merely in an athletic atmosphere.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Legacy
This week the world celebrated the 200th birthday of Charles Dickens. Charles Dickens was born February 7th, 1812 and died June 9th, 1870, 142 years and we're still celebrating the life of this incredible man.
The events and articles commemorating this man's work had me thinking of what it takes to leave behind such a legacy.
The journey of becoming a teacher all began with a dream and desire to make a difference in a child's life, to aid in their success and the betterment of their being. But is this a legacy?
Many conversations of the first week of Teachers College focused around memorable teachers and the role models we had that influenced our decision to become teachers. To us, those role models left an impression of legacy in our lives. They had enough of an influence to shape my life and get me to the place I am today and possibly heading to.
In my International Education class we had a guest speaker talk to us about idealistic visions and holding onto your dreams. This involved creating and leaving behind your own legacy. However, creating your own legacy sounds like a lot of pressure. How do make such an impact? What actually defines a legacy?
Ideally, everyone secretly would love to be famous, and if it was because you had a huge impact on the world like Oprah or Nelson Mandela would be incredible. But is it actually realistic to dream that big?
I live life through an idealistic perspective. I carry dreams with me that are ultimate goals. I have a vision of making a difference. I have a dream of helping people. I have an optimistic view and a heart full of hope and inspiration.
I believe that anyone who wants to make a difference can, on any scale whether it be large or small. If you wish to make one person smile a day or help a whole population of those in need, the choice is yours. The choice in legacy is yours. The definition of legacy is yours. You make your own legacy. You create your own definition of legacy.
So what is a legacy? Whatever you want it to be. Go out there and make a difference for someone, or many!
The events and articles commemorating this man's work had me thinking of what it takes to leave behind such a legacy.
The journey of becoming a teacher all began with a dream and desire to make a difference in a child's life, to aid in their success and the betterment of their being. But is this a legacy?
Many conversations of the first week of Teachers College focused around memorable teachers and the role models we had that influenced our decision to become teachers. To us, those role models left an impression of legacy in our lives. They had enough of an influence to shape my life and get me to the place I am today and possibly heading to.
In my International Education class we had a guest speaker talk to us about idealistic visions and holding onto your dreams. This involved creating and leaving behind your own legacy. However, creating your own legacy sounds like a lot of pressure. How do make such an impact? What actually defines a legacy?
Ideally, everyone secretly would love to be famous, and if it was because you had a huge impact on the world like Oprah or Nelson Mandela would be incredible. But is it actually realistic to dream that big?
I live life through an idealistic perspective. I carry dreams with me that are ultimate goals. I have a vision of making a difference. I have a dream of helping people. I have an optimistic view and a heart full of hope and inspiration.
I believe that anyone who wants to make a difference can, on any scale whether it be large or small. If you wish to make one person smile a day or help a whole population of those in need, the choice is yours. The choice in legacy is yours. The definition of legacy is yours. You make your own legacy. You create your own definition of legacy.
So what is a legacy? Whatever you want it to be. Go out there and make a difference for someone, or many!
Miss Steward's Gymnasium
"They say you never know how much something means until you lose it", but I also believe in "You never know how useful something is until you try it."
This year I took on the new task of blogging. Blogging became a whole new experience, and something I quite enjoy. But on top of this experience, I was then given the task of an EduBlog.
An EduBlog is a blog that carries an educational responsibility. It acts as a resource for students, parents and teachers. A solid form of communication between the classroom, school and community. An interactive, web 2.0 tool for classroom communication both inside and outside the classroom. This process provides more opportunity for student choice, and student, parent and teacher collaboration.
I created a blog to represent my idealistic situation of being a physical education teacher. Throughout my tech class I have been constantly thinking of ways of how to integrate physical education and technology. This EduBlog role play became a source insight to me of how this could be done.
I had some difficulties with this process originally; struggled to think of content and how or what to put on the blog. I found myself taking on a different form of the role play; I took on the position of parent and of student. I thought about as the parent or the student what information would I like to see and what I would like to be informed about. From this, I took on the role of teacher and thought about how I would like to run my classroom - or gymnasium.
Despite the initial struggles, I enjoyed this assignment and resource that I have built. I find this to be an effective pedagogy in keeping everyone aware of what is going on.
Please check out Miss Steward's Gymnasium and provide any feedback or suggestions you may have to improve this resource.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Imagine
As per requirement for Tech class I was to make an Ebook. However, this experience turned into much more than an assignment. It turned into a reflection, an expression and a learning experience.
When first assigned an Ebook I had no idea what to do. I don't consider myself an overly creative writer, but I knew I wanted to use my pictures. This is why I chose song lyrics.
John Lennon's Imagine has always been a favourite of mine, and the lyrics are meaningful to my life philosophy. These are words I live by, and words I explore in my daily endeavours. The words explain choices I have made, career path I have chosen and my desire to teach internationally and explore the world.
In the classroom I can see an assignment being mad similar to this. This Ebook covers art, music and language curriculum. Exploring the lyrics and the moods created by the imagery and the stories that can develop through a single screen capture.
Enjoy and Imagine!
When first assigned an Ebook I had no idea what to do. I don't consider myself an overly creative writer, but I knew I wanted to use my pictures. This is why I chose song lyrics.
John Lennon's Imagine has always been a favourite of mine, and the lyrics are meaningful to my life philosophy. These are words I live by, and words I explore in my daily endeavours. The words explain choices I have made, career path I have chosen and my desire to teach internationally and explore the world.
In the classroom I can see an assignment being mad similar to this. This Ebook covers art, music and language curriculum. Exploring the lyrics and the moods created by the imagery and the stories that can develop through a single screen capture.
Enjoy and Imagine!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
It's a Book
This summer my Mum bought this book as she found it rather amusing given the recent technology shift. Some people carry a fear of the existence or potential lack thereof, of paper books. This book mocks those techies and addiction to the devices.
This video was shown in my english class. It's a trailer of the book - the trailer reads and acts out the book.
A little ironic that a book mocking technology has now integrated technology...
But nonetheless, a cute, entertaining story holding onto the idea of paper books.
This video was shown in my english class. It's a trailer of the book - the trailer reads and acts out the book.
A little ironic that a book mocking technology has now integrated technology...
But nonetheless, a cute, entertaining story holding onto the idea of paper books.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Back Channelling for Classroom Discussion
I attended 3 workshops; Teaching Technology by Microsoft, Web 2.0 in the classroom and Google. All were great (minus showing up to a Microsoft workshop with a Macbook!)
The most engaging of the three was Royan Lee's Web 2.0 in the classroom. He created a chatroom for the day using TodaysMeet.com. A simple tool that requires no account and creates a temporary chat room (will last as long as the teacher requires it). A URL is created and sent out to students.
Royan used TodaysMeet as a source of back channelling. Through this tool he promoted classroom discussion, higher order thinking and questioning. As a guide he used FQR - Facts, Questions and Responses. These three letters guided the discussion and ensured accountable talk. The FQR process was encouraged during all activities of the class.
This chatroom allowed a platform for all students to participate in. Shy and outgoing students become alike and everyone's answers are heard. This then becomes an important tool for assessment. Royan described situations of diagnostic assessment and formative assessment all through questioning and FQR process.
As a participant in the workshop, I found myself more engaged in the story telling because of the constant questioning and discussion taking place on TodaysMeet.
Overall, the Technology Showcase truly was a showcase of all things technology. I was exposed to a variety of tools and technologies all guided towards students. It truly is an exciting time to be a student and to be a teacher facilitating this new paradigm.
New Look
As you may have noticed I've given my blog a new look.
I was playing around with the choices and found the birds. I felt the birds best suited the journey I am on. As they fly, I fly. We are not too sure where the birds are flying, just as we cannot be sure where I am flying to.
Life is full of excitement and opportunities, it's just up to you to choose which opportunities to take.
Through this blog we'll soar together and fly high.
I was playing around with the choices and found the birds. I felt the birds best suited the journey I am on. As they fly, I fly. We are not too sure where the birds are flying, just as we cannot be sure where I am flying to.
Life is full of excitement and opportunities, it's just up to you to choose which opportunities to take.
Through this blog we'll soar together and fly high.
Universal Language
Have you ever heard a presentation start with "Everyone, please open your Facebook."? Probably not. I hadn't until Monday, when a few peers began their presentation.
The reaction of the students was rather shocking. No "Woo Hoos", no "Ah mans" and more importantly no "how do I do that?" or "what is Facebook?"
Facebook is just one technology tool and it was great to see it used in an educational sense. But it wasn't how it was used, rather why it was used that got me thinking. As a 21st century teacher candidate, majority of our population has a Facebook account and is Facebook literate. Facebook was chosen for this presentation for that reason. It is a common ground, and something familiar - a universal language.
Typically, coming from a physical education background, I have always thought of sport as a universal language. Any one from any country, speaking any language can pick up a ball and play. Technology has now become that ball. Anyone from any country, speaking any language can pick up a tool of technology and play.
Children can navigate iPads, cell phones and gaming systems better than they can navigate their own neighbourhoods. Technology - especially those educational technology tools are becoming more and more user friendly. All it takes is a little exploring.
Technology is a language of the world. Whether you believe it or not - everyone understands it. (You had to navigate the technology to be able read this post!)
So don't be afraid, go ahead, pick up that ball and play!
Monday, January 30, 2012
My TPACK Journey
Throughout my Technology in the Classroom course we have been exploring the system of TPACK. TPACK refers to the pedagogy, content and knowledge associated with using technology in the classroom. In order to gain an understanding of TPACK we were exposed to SlideRocket. SlideRocket is an online presentation tool and works much like the traditionally used Powerpoint.
Attached below is My TPACK journey. This presentation includes graphics, videos and animated text. But more so exemplifies my understanding of TPACK. I have always been rather tech literate, so the actual technology itself was not something I needed to learn; I already had the knowledge of using the program. For me, this was more of an exploration of the pedagogy chosen and becoming familiar with the content. Zoe, my instructor chose the pedagogy of making this assignment self guided. She provided excellent step by step instructions for those that needed them, but made the study of TPACK essentially an independent study.
I personally enjoyed this approach. I enjoyed working at my own pace, exploring the tool and the content. It was nice to have Zoe there for questions or to show other neat tricks SlideRocket has to offer. But the completion of the project (as with all projects in this class) are student lead. I believe this approach was chosen because when it comes to technology everyone is at different rates, all different levels of experience, understanding and how fast people can pick it up. By allowing us our own time to work on it we were spared listening to redundant instructions and able to use our time effectively. However, through Google Documents those instructions were provided. This approach is excellent in terms of its differentiated instruction.
During this reflection, I was also able to realize the impact and everything accomplished in such a small task. Through the creation of this SlideRocket presentation I have generated and understanding of TPACK and its place in the Technology Classroom. We could have had a few dry lectures given on the theory of TPACK and created some final project, but instead we explored TPACK and the TPACK process. We were engaged and the lesson was interactive. I have an understanding of TPACK rather than a mere knowing of TPACK.
This process brings back the age ole saying of "It's not what you teach, but how you teach!"
Attached below is My TPACK journey. This presentation includes graphics, videos and animated text. But more so exemplifies my understanding of TPACK. I have always been rather tech literate, so the actual technology itself was not something I needed to learn; I already had the knowledge of using the program. For me, this was more of an exploration of the pedagogy chosen and becoming familiar with the content. Zoe, my instructor chose the pedagogy of making this assignment self guided. She provided excellent step by step instructions for those that needed them, but made the study of TPACK essentially an independent study.
I personally enjoyed this approach. I enjoyed working at my own pace, exploring the tool and the content. It was nice to have Zoe there for questions or to show other neat tricks SlideRocket has to offer. But the completion of the project (as with all projects in this class) are student lead. I believe this approach was chosen because when it comes to technology everyone is at different rates, all different levels of experience, understanding and how fast people can pick it up. By allowing us our own time to work on it we were spared listening to redundant instructions and able to use our time effectively. However, through Google Documents those instructions were provided. This approach is excellent in terms of its differentiated instruction.
During this reflection, I was also able to realize the impact and everything accomplished in such a small task. Through the creation of this SlideRocket presentation I have generated and understanding of TPACK and its place in the Technology Classroom. We could have had a few dry lectures given on the theory of TPACK and created some final project, but instead we explored TPACK and the TPACK process. We were engaged and the lesson was interactive. I have an understanding of TPACK rather than a mere knowing of TPACK.
This process brings back the age ole saying of "It's not what you teach, but how you teach!"
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Connectivity
On Monday I attended a National Geographic lecture on genealogy. Dr. Spencer Wells gave a presentation on the genealogy project and his research through DNA and family generations. His research finds the latest ancestors in one's family through DNA mutations. As a total biology nerd I found this information absolutely fascinating.
Wells confirmed Darwin's theory of everyone being descendants from Africa, as well common ancestry amongst people. He was able to find migration patterns due to climate and culture and map out a genetic lineage. Essentially, Dr. Wells has presented tangible, viable evidence to theory of everyone being related.
This had me thinking of the two classes I am currently enrolled in; Technology in the Classroom and International Education.
The obvious parallel, International Education - Dr. Wells spoke of the rapid loss of culture and language amongst small indigenous tribes all over the world, and the creation of cultures through climate changes. This got me thinking of how each culture is just a branch off of one main culture. Through stories, adaptations to climate and migration culture has been transformed, defined and redefined for each specific area. This has sparked an interest within me to begin travelling more, but not just to teach and to sight see, but to experience the different cultures, the authentic cultures of the land - and to find the parallels with my culture.
The comparison to technology came for me through the whole idea of connectivity. Dr. Spencer Wells discussed everyone being connected through their genetic code and these genetic mutations identify a relative. Everyone being connected through their DNA is much like everyone in the education world being connected through technology. The computer is much like a little human body with the internet being the DNA. Through the internet we are all connected, we are all or can be related through technological educational experiences, such as Skype or Google Hang Outs. We can build a network through Twitter and Facebook, and these trends keep replicating. Just as DNA replicates and evolves, technology is continually replicating and evolving.
Dr. Spencer Wells has made groundbreaking research in terms of genealogy, the impact he has made with this information is remarkable. Just as the opportunities education has for the entire world through technology.
For more information on Dr. Spencer Wells and the Genographic Project click here
Wells confirmed Darwin's theory of everyone being descendants from Africa, as well common ancestry amongst people. He was able to find migration patterns due to climate and culture and map out a genetic lineage. Essentially, Dr. Wells has presented tangible, viable evidence to theory of everyone being related.
This had me thinking of the two classes I am currently enrolled in; Technology in the Classroom and International Education.
The obvious parallel, International Education - Dr. Wells spoke of the rapid loss of culture and language amongst small indigenous tribes all over the world, and the creation of cultures through climate changes. This got me thinking of how each culture is just a branch off of one main culture. Through stories, adaptations to climate and migration culture has been transformed, defined and redefined for each specific area. This has sparked an interest within me to begin travelling more, but not just to teach and to sight see, but to experience the different cultures, the authentic cultures of the land - and to find the parallels with my culture.
The comparison to technology came for me through the whole idea of connectivity. Dr. Spencer Wells discussed everyone being connected through their genetic code and these genetic mutations identify a relative. Everyone being connected through their DNA is much like everyone in the education world being connected through technology. The computer is much like a little human body with the internet being the DNA. Through the internet we are all connected, we are all or can be related through technological educational experiences, such as Skype or Google Hang Outs. We can build a network through Twitter and Facebook, and these trends keep replicating. Just as DNA replicates and evolves, technology is continually replicating and evolving.
Dr. Spencer Wells has made groundbreaking research in terms of genealogy, the impact he has made with this information is remarkable. Just as the opportunities education has for the entire world through technology.
For more information on Dr. Spencer Wells and the Genographic Project click here
Thursday, January 19, 2012
International Learning
I am now taking an international education class and travelling to Africa in April for my 3rd placement. I will write about my journey through this blog to open your eyes not only to technology in the classroom, but international and alternative education opportunities!
After class I was amazed by the amount of international knowledge shared amongst such a small group. It gave me a sense of excitement and motivation for the classes to come. Everyone has so much to offer and so much to share. The stories each of us can bring will definitely make the class very interesting. However, this also kind of clouded my judgement on the international knowledge most people possess. Sitting in a room of people with the same views and dreams as me I began to believe everyone has the international education bug - or at least the travel, explore and learn bug. But I was jolted back to reality a few days ago. Waiting in line - a long line that was not moving - ahead of me and my friends was a group of German exchange students. Being a natural social butterfly I began to talk to them and their time in Canada and why Canada, etc. These students had only been in the country for four days. But there was one particular individual that stood out. This gentleman was to put it bluntly - rude. He showed an ingnorance for learning Canadian beliefs and traditions and was accustomed to his German ways and those were the only ways he wanted to go about life. However, that wasn't it. Although he was not willing to learn - he apparently knew everything about Canada and proceeded to tell us about our laws and regulations and even some history (all of which was incorrect).
From this experience I realized that there are some people - no matter how well traveled still have little to none international education or global perspective. To me, it doesn't make sense to go to a new place and only be willing to stick with what you know. Travel is a learning experience - probably the best one you can ever have. I know from my experiences it has definitely shaped who I am and where I am today.
This is why this class excites me and I am so interested to take it. I have done international teaching, but I have not fully learned about it in theory. I am interested to find more about it and hope that this class can then bring that much more to my experiences. I am also excited that I am so fortunate to be in a class with people full of stories and experience.
This is why this class excites me and I am so interested to take it. I have done international teaching, but I have not fully learned about it in theory. I am interested to find more about it and hope that this class can then bring that much more to my experiences. I am also excited that I am so fortunate to be in a class with people full of stories and experience.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The King's Speech
Special Education and Technology seem to go pretty much hand in hand nowadays. Typically when people think of medicine, some sort of science and technology connection is made. But what if you were to ask to someone from the 20th century? What about the 19th century? They probably would not see the connection. Personally, I never really thought about the technology available then (even though the foundations of our technology today came from then).
This weekend I was watching The King's Speech. For those that have not seen the movie, it explores the journey King George VI goes through having a severe "stammer" (also known as stutter). The movie shows the emotional battle he has as he rises to the throne and the self confidence issues that arise by having a disability and a job that requires public speaking. Excellent movie - I would definitely recommend everyone to watch it!
King George VI embarks on his battle with the help of doctor Lionel. I was amazed to see the use of technology to aid in the King's speech. With the help of music and a recording device the King was able to hear himself read. This was the first time in his life he heard himself speak without a stammer. The look on his face was a mixture of disbelief, amazement and hope. The technology played such an important role in helping the King gain his confidence.
Compared to today, this technology is minimal, but it was available and worked for the betterment of someone, all because another was willing to help and knew how to use the technology.
I consider myself rather competent with technology, but watching this movie, I was given a new appreciation for technology and for my technology class. Having the opportunity to explore a fraction of what is out there and learning how to use it inspires me to do what the doctor did.
Technology is a part of a 21st century learning journey. As 21st educators I believe we owe it to our learners to know the technology, present other opportunities and allow all possibilities. Who knows how it may help our students - but lets try give them that same feeling of amazement and hope King George VI had.
This weekend I was watching The King's Speech. For those that have not seen the movie, it explores the journey King George VI goes through having a severe "stammer" (also known as stutter). The movie shows the emotional battle he has as he rises to the throne and the self confidence issues that arise by having a disability and a job that requires public speaking. Excellent movie - I would definitely recommend everyone to watch it!
King George VI embarks on his battle with the help of doctor Lionel. I was amazed to see the use of technology to aid in the King's speech. With the help of music and a recording device the King was able to hear himself read. This was the first time in his life he heard himself speak without a stammer. The look on his face was a mixture of disbelief, amazement and hope. The technology played such an important role in helping the King gain his confidence.
Compared to today, this technology is minimal, but it was available and worked for the betterment of someone, all because another was willing to help and knew how to use the technology.
I consider myself rather competent with technology, but watching this movie, I was given a new appreciation for technology and for my technology class. Having the opportunity to explore a fraction of what is out there and learning how to use it inspires me to do what the doctor did.
Technology is a part of a 21st century learning journey. As 21st educators I believe we owe it to our learners to know the technology, present other opportunities and allow all possibilities. Who knows how it may help our students - but lets try give them that same feeling of amazement and hope King George VI had.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
When Twitter first came out I was one of those sceptics, didn't quite understand it or it's purpose. But now after having it for a few weeks I have lost all scepticism and am a complete fan. I find myself continually checking it and fascinated by the resources I have now obtained. I sometimes get caught up in the information and forget to post and share resources.
As I continue to explore, I have noticed there are two groups of users; those who use it as another social media outlet and those who are interested in networking. Originally, I thought Twitter was just another social media outlet.
Those in the first group only follow their friends and celebrities. They have conversations using Twitter and update us on their every move.
Those in the second group use it to expand their digital footprint, resume and create a global network. My view changed in discovery of the second group. It changed because of a posting saying NOW HIRING. The job is in all areas of the United States including Florida and Hawaii. This tweet wasn't even from an organization I follow, rather a retweet by OPHEA - an organization I follow. This showed me the power of networking and the opportunities it provides.
I have become a complete Twitter fanatic and advid user. (But, I still don't understand why those in group one use Twitter - does anyone really care if you're brushing your teeth right now?)
As I continue to explore, I have noticed there are two groups of users; those who use it as another social media outlet and those who are interested in networking. Originally, I thought Twitter was just another social media outlet.
Those in the first group only follow their friends and celebrities. They have conversations using Twitter and update us on their every move.
Those in the second group use it to expand their digital footprint, resume and create a global network. My view changed in discovery of the second group. It changed because of a posting saying NOW HIRING. The job is in all areas of the United States including Florida and Hawaii. This tweet wasn't even from an organization I follow, rather a retweet by OPHEA - an organization I follow. This showed me the power of networking and the opportunities it provides.
I have become a complete Twitter fanatic and advid user. (But, I still don't understand why those in group one use Twitter - does anyone really care if you're brushing your teeth right now?)
A 21st Century Canadian Student
In a recent technology class I was introduced to Google Plus and all of the pluses Google offers. Google is no longer just a search engine, but rather an all service tool. Calendar, e-mail, circles, documents, scholar are just a few of what Google has to offer. Google has become a revolutionary tool. I believe this revolution will begin in the field of education.
A part of particular interest is the aspect of Google Hang Outs. This is a part of the Google Circles field. Google Hang Outs is a webcam conversation tool. Typically Skype, or Google Hang Outs is used between friends in replace of a phone conversation or a more economical resource to have a conversation with someone on the other side of the world.
Now, just imagine Google Hang Outs as a tool for education. What does this mean for pen pals? Video conversations with anyone, all over the world? Online classes for elementary school?
Google is becoming a common tool in many schools - a form of communication between peers and students, a way of submitting documents and an area for resources. But what about Google Hang Outs? At first I thought, what a great tool for group work. Rather than meeting in the same place, meet at the same time and work via web cam. But that thought expanded in my technology class.
Snow days.
Every Canadian students favourite day. The anticipation the night before, the excitement finding out there's no school, and a day full of playing in the snow.
Google Hang Outs now provides the teacher the opportunity to run class for students. School has now become accessible from anywhere for students. Education is all around us.
As a teacher in training I love the idea. Being able to reach students on those days. Continuing classes as if Mother Nature was never a problem. However as a Canadian child, snow days were some of my favourite days. Some of my greatest stories with my friends happened on snow days.
The technology to me is fascinating and I continually am mind blown by the possibilities and opportunities it provides. But how do we integrate traditional with modern? How do we instil the life lessons learned from snow days while still using the technology? Do we just move forward and hope there will be new experiences for children today, or try and hold onto those experiences we had growing up?
I am curious to hear your thoughts and ideas on the tradition vs modern battle.
A part of particular interest is the aspect of Google Hang Outs. This is a part of the Google Circles field. Google Hang Outs is a webcam conversation tool. Typically Skype, or Google Hang Outs is used between friends in replace of a phone conversation or a more economical resource to have a conversation with someone on the other side of the world.
Now, just imagine Google Hang Outs as a tool for education. What does this mean for pen pals? Video conversations with anyone, all over the world? Online classes for elementary school?
Google is becoming a common tool in many schools - a form of communication between peers and students, a way of submitting documents and an area for resources. But what about Google Hang Outs? At first I thought, what a great tool for group work. Rather than meeting in the same place, meet at the same time and work via web cam. But that thought expanded in my technology class.
Snow days.
Every Canadian students favourite day. The anticipation the night before, the excitement finding out there's no school, and a day full of playing in the snow.
Google Hang Outs now provides the teacher the opportunity to run class for students. School has now become accessible from anywhere for students. Education is all around us.
As a teacher in training I love the idea. Being able to reach students on those days. Continuing classes as if Mother Nature was never a problem. However as a Canadian child, snow days were some of my favourite days. Some of my greatest stories with my friends happened on snow days.
The technology to me is fascinating and I continually am mind blown by the possibilities and opportunities it provides. But how do we integrate traditional with modern? How do we instil the life lessons learned from snow days while still using the technology? Do we just move forward and hope there will be new experiences for children today, or try and hold onto those experiences we had growing up?
I am curious to hear your thoughts and ideas on the tradition vs modern battle.
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