Two Favorite online games

My two favorite games were Wordle and Brain Pop.

http://www.brainpop.com/

and http://www.wordle.net/ 

What does research say about using Interactive Whiteboards? What are the pros and cons? Would you want to have one in your classroom?

Interactive whiteboards can be very useful. “They provide ways to show students any thing which can be presented on a computer's desktop (educational software, web sites, and others). In addition, interactive whiteboards allow teachers to record their instruction and post the material for review by students at a later time. This can be a very effective instructional strategy for students who benefit from repetition, who need to see the material presented again, for students who are absent from school, for struggling learners, and for review for examinations.” http://rmtc.fsdb.k12.fl.us/tutorials/whiteboards.html   I would not be opposed to having a whiteboard in my classroom. I have worked in a school that has Smart Boards and it would take time to get used to. I would have to remember that I have the ability to do so much more than just write on the board. Also to utilize the students and have them use it as well. They are great tools.

8. How does your current skill set compare to the NETS for teachers?

My current skill is up to par, it might take me more time to get used to creating lessons on technology but I know enough to be able to do it.

7. What are the NETS for students?

They are the technology based standards for students. Usually they are split into six different categories and taught fluently to the students.

How does motivation tie in to student success in the classroom? Give 3 examples of strategies to motivate today's students.

Motivation is a key factor to students being successful in the classroom. We are all human and there is nothing that makes us feel better than motivation, no matter how old you are.  Students feed off of success and motivation.  The positive feedback and atmosphere just makes students feel good and at home. They can feel like they are worth something and are knowledgeable. When students are struggling, motivation is even more important to help them succeed.  Examples 1. Give positive feedback, 2. Encourage them, even when they are struggling, 3. Never ever give up on them (the students).

How does the US compare to other like-minded countries in our education system? What are our strengths and/or weakness?

We are further behind than many of them.  Our struggles our keeping students in school and making it a program in which keeps them involved and wanting to learn.  “Comparatively high drop out rates in the United States are contributing to the United States’ relative standingagainst other countries. On average across OECD countries some 70% of those who enter tertiary-type A programmes go on to successfully graduate.” Dropout rates are high as it says in this quote. There was only a 1% increase in the US rates of graduating from high school. Our strengths are that we have the means to move faster and educate more. Yes our country is broke, but definitely not as broke as others, we just have to use our money wisely. http://www.angrybearblog.com/2007/08/education-united-states-compared-to.html

4. OPINION: Do we need more or less emphasis of either Core Knowledge or 21st Century Learning Skills? How would we go about it?

I think that more Core Knowledge could be useful and the 21^st century learning is inevitable so having more of both, sooner would probably be better. Seeing that a more rigorous education system is crucial for where our world is going to, and technology is going to be a part of it whether we “want” it to or not.  In the end having more of both would be nice, but both is not as realistic either.