Post #7 (Extra Credit)

Chapter 6 and 7 in the text go hand in hand somewhat. Chapter 7 is all about various ways to use and integrate different types of technology in the classroom. Finding programs and activities that are grade-level appropriate as well as entertaining is a hard thing to do. This chapter talks about different ways to access new lesson ideas, and how to search the web for fun new technological tools to use in the classroom.
Throughout this course I have learned and been refreshed on many skills that I have either forgot about, or ones that i never knew in the first place. Things like the Imagination program, Wiki, and even blogging have all helped me open my eyes to many new things available in cyberspace.
I believe this is the last blog we have to do. In the beginning of the semester I thought i was going to hate having to write a stupid blog every week, but looking back, I am glad we were required to have a blog. I have never written a blog before, and in having to keep up with one I was able to better understand the blogging world. It is nice to know what is going on in other classmates lives, as well as learning what they are hoping to accomplish throughout their lives as educators.

Post #6 (Extra Credit)

Chapter 6 talks all about Educational Technology and various Integration Strategies. Some ways in which educators are able to evaluate certain aspects of technology within the classroom is by deciding whether the technology is appropriate and if it enhances the teaching and learning process. Determining if a program or technology related activity is appropriate, the educator must decide if it is suitable for the educational situation, if it is motivational, and if it promotes learning at the correct grade level being taught.
Some new skills I have learned, or have brushed up on since my last post would have to be just basic ways that technology is accessible within the classroom. While we have been working on completing our final projects, I have had to do a lot of research on the internet. It always amazes me how much information is literally at our fingertips, and how many of our daily lives would be so much different without it.
The end of the semester is almost here, and I am so excited. I am getting so burnt out on school lately, and I am really ready for a break from all the craziness. I don't have too many exams or major papers due, but I just feel like I have so much to do, and nearly no time to do it in.