2/5/2013

Post 1 of 3

Last week, you were able to explore the world of Student Response Systems by using a website called Socrative.  This a free website that allows you to engage your students with customized educational activities and online quizzes.  There are many wonderful settings and features to this website.  I happen to like the fact that your students can access the quizzes you've created by logging into to an iDevice, Tablet, Laptop, or Computer that has Internet, in order to complete their assignment.

Please use Socrative to create a quiz about the 9 Elements of Digital Citizenship.  We covered most of this material in class last week but you should also have read about this in Chapter 1 and 2 of your textbook.  Please create this quiz as if you were addressing students...be creative with your questions.  Try to use different types of questions (i.e. multiple choice, short answer, true or false).  I will expect to see these next week in class (February 12, 2013).

You will need to create a free, Login with the Getting Started tab.  Make sure to watch the Video on the Home Page to help give you some guidance.  Then you will continue to the Teacher Login and create your quiz.   

www.socrative.com

Please respond to this blog post with your reflection of this assignment.  See the following questions to help guide you.  

What features did you like?  dislike?

Was it user friendly?

How do you see this being used in your classroom?  

Explain why you don't see this as a beneficial tool?

What features would you like to see added?

1/22/2013

Post 2 of 2

"Those who can't do...teach." 

I'm sure most of you have heard or overheard that quote somewhere before. Maybe in a joke, or from a disgruntled student, at a dinner party, or during a parent/teacher meeting. I take this type of "joke" very personally! Teaching has been and will always be a huge responsibility. This profession is one of the few that requires a Masters degree and forces you to continue with professional developments. Admittedly, I have run across educators who I believe were not dedicated to providing the best education to their students. I have come into contact with FAR MORE teachers who are passionate about their work and are eager to make a difference!!! 

In this role, you become a nurturer, confidant, facilitator, coach and most important you begin to help this child shape the type of learner and individual they will continue to be far after high school. I know teachers who have provided food or clean clothing for students when there was none available, given Christmas gifts when Santa wasn't going to make it this year, and shown support to students who were struggling through parental divorce or death. I know teachers who have saved lives by fighting against abuse, and bullying. Overall, teachers fight hard to ensure a safe environment where kids can build relationships, learn from mistakes, dream about their future, and consider the types of citizens they would like to be. 

Check this out: Taylor Mali on "What Teachers Make" 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxsOVK4syxU&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Do you know a teacher who has gone to great lengths to support one or more of their students?

1/22/2013

Post 1 of 2

Can it wait?

Click on this link http://itcanwait.com, to take the pledge.  Spread the word!

I know that I've been guilty of using my phone while driving and I've taken this pledge very seriously.  I really had to stop and think, "is it really that important for me to answer my phone right now?"  Many of us answer our phones or even text while driving as a natural reaction and do not necessarily think about the consequences of our actions.

Please share your reaction to this pledge!