Project #16: Professional Reflection

IX. Professional Reflection

1. How does this lesson build on the technological literacy of your students?

I feel that our lesson builds on the technological literacy of our students by allowing them to engage in the lesson by using technological tools. By navigating these tools they are developing a better understanding of how theses tools work.

2. In what specific ways does the project engage your students?

They are completing a project where research is required by using an iPad. Through this the children are able to work collaboratively with their assigned group to agree on the most important information. They also are interacting with the whole class by participating in a SMART Board activity.

3. What additional technologies and/or networked information resources may have further enhanced this lesson?

I feel that if the students would have been able to have access to their own Mac Book so that they could individually engage in the project at hand it would have further enhanced the lesson.

5. If I/we had the opportunity to present this lesson again to this same audience, would I/we do anything differently? What? Why?

If we had a chance to present this lesson again we would involve more technology so that the kids are becoming technologically literate on more than just on more than just one device.

Blog Post #16: Final Reflection Video

Project #16: SMART Board Lesson

Project #16: Presentation

Blog Post #5 Part Two: Summary of my PLN

My PLN

I remember writing the first part of this blog post being so confused on what the definition of a PLN even was. Now towards the end of the semester I am glad to say that not only do I know what a PLN is and how it is used, but I use it in my everyday life. I personally found Symbaloo to be most helpful in developing a PLN. It is now my homepage when I open Safari. It took a lot of hard work and dedication to create my PLN but I am proud to say it was worth it. I'm excited to use Symbaloo to help assist me in learning more about my content area. 

Blog Post #14: Teaching Our Children Can Be a Profession by Joel Klein

While reading  Teaching Our Children Can Be a Profession I came across different problems with teaching in our society that stood out to me the most.  

First problem: Teachers are being hired only because of a degree. 
Solution: Hire teachers who not only have a degree, but were in the top of their class.

I couldn't agree more that this a serious problem in schools all across the world. The solution to this problem is a step in the right direction, but personally I would add more to it.  Maybe not only look for teachers who were the top of their class, but also look for things such as teachers who affiliated themselves in activities and organizations regarding their degree.  

Second problem: Teachers who have had more experience will continue to be chose first because of seniority. 
Solution: To make teaching a profession by treating all teachers as equals, and allowing teachers to earn their levels of achievement.

This problem was occurring even before I entered college as a Education major. I personally feel like the solution to this problem is very obtainable. In the article Klein speaks of a  "national teaching exam" that gives teachers the opportunity to earn their raises and achievements through "knowledge-based" testing, having similarities to entry exams for doctors and lawyers. I think that this is definitely a fair way to allow teachers the goals of achievement they deserve.


I really enjoyed reading this article. It lifts a burden knowing that their are other Educators out their that feel the sam as me. Teaching is a highly underestimated profession that deserves more credit than what it gets. We educators are shaping the future of our nation, if you ask me that's pretty important. 

Project # 16: Teaching and Technology: My Philosophy

If you would have asked me months ago before I completed this course about using technology in my future classroom my immediate response would have been no. I saw no need for it, and I was not aware of the beneficial factors it brings to a classroom and to learning. Now that I have been able to research and witness technology being used in the classroom my answer to that same question would be absolutely, without a doubt!

Technology has come a very long way over the past several years, and it is going to continue to. Our students need to be actively engaged in learning and technology allows that. I feel that as a future teacher technology is a huge asset in developing a functional community of learners. The use of technology offers so many benefits to your classroom. It allows for your students to stay focused longer, they are also more engaged in the lesson because they enjoy using computers and iPads versus books. To me the biggest benefit technology brings is that it allows for students to be able to learn at their own pace allowing the student to become more self- directed which gives the teacher more time to accomplish classroom objectives.  This class has taught me a variety of ways to incorporate technology into my future classroom, and my most favored would be a class blog. I enjoy writing and expressing whats on my mind, and I want my students to find a love for that too. I want them to actually take pride in the work they create knowing that it will be published world wide. We teachers need to stop under estimating the power of technology being used in the classroom and just try it. A successful classroom is a classroom that incorporates technology.

There are many benefits of using technology in the classroom, especially as students become increasingly digitally literate. The shift in worldwide computer usage and the need for computer skills in today's workforce have pushed the United States government to create guidelines, such as the Core Curriculum Content Standards, for educators to ensure that students are prepared to

Source: Boundless. “Advantages of Using Technology in the Classroom.” Boundless Education. Boundless, 14 Nov. 2014. Retrieved 22 Apr. 2015 from https://www.boundless.com/education/textbooks/boundless-education-textbook/technology-in-the-classroom-6/edtech-25/advantages-of-using-technology-in-the-classroom-77-13007/

There are many benefits of using technology in the classroom, especially as students become increasingly digitally literate. The shift in worldwide computer usage and the need for computer skills in today's workforce have pushed the United States government to create guidelines, such as the Core Curriculum Content Standards, for educators to ensure that students are prepared to

Source: Boundless. “Advantages of Using Technology in the Classroom.” Boundless Education. Boundless, 14 Nov. 2014. Retrieved 22 Apr. 2015 from https://www.boundless.com/education/textbooks/boundless-education-textbook/technology-in-the-classroom-6/edtech-25/advantages-of-using-technology-in-the-classroom-77-13007/

Blog Post #13: What Did I Leave Out?

What field trips are available to you as a teacher with out having to leave the classroom and/or school?

Read and/ or watch the following material to help answer the question.

Sharon Cromwell's article Take a Museum Field Trip -- Without Leaving Your Classroom

Connected Classrooms: Underwater Seasons with Seattle Aquarium

Connected Classrooms: Meet the Doodler


Blog Post:

Classroom field trips are something every teacher should at least experience once. Not only does it do a great job at incorporating technology into your classroom it also takes away some of the stress that you would have on an off campus field trip. With a virtual field trip you and your students are in comfort of your own classroom.

Sharon Cromwell's article Take a Museum Field Trip -- Without Leaving Your Classroom gives teacher a list of museums whose websites have been set up so that when educators access them it is like they are touring the museum but online. In this article she also gives suggested things to visit on the site and an activity you could do with your class while taking a virtual tour of the museum. This could be a great field trip to incorporate into lessons dealing with science, history and art.

Google+ has recently created an awesome feature called Connected Classrooms. This is where google pairs up with educational leaders and classrooms all over the U.S and they take virtual field trips. In the Connected Classrooms: Underwater Seasons with Seattle Aquarium video the Seattle Aquarium pairs up with an elementary classroom and they get a virtual tour of the Underwater Seasons of Washington exhibit. My favorite thus far is the Connected Classrooms: Meet the Doodler. This isn't a virtual tour, but it is an awesome virtual field trip. Students get too meet with some of the Google Doodlers and watch them show many pieces of there art work along with actually creating a Google Doodle activity.
The Google+ Connected classrooms is an fun a intuitive way to have a virtual field trip. 

C4T #4: DMLCentral

C4T #4 - Post 1: The Flaws of Online Course Testing 

Jade Davis posted a blog about the many flaws of online testing. One of her main complaints was that students at some universities are being monitored via web cam while testing. She proposed the question that what happens when something goes on in the background while a student is testing? What happens when a naked child runs across the seen? Are those images protected? I commented giving my opinion on the matter and thanking Jade for sharing the information because I had no prior knowledge about this going on.

My comment to Jade Davis:

Hey Jade,
I'm Johanna Logan a student at the University of South Alabama studying Elementary Education. Through my college experience I have noticed that most courses are blended which means you come to class in participate in the lessons and activities but your quiz and/ or exam is online. I personally do not agree with students having to be monitored by video throughout out the test, due to what could or does go on inside their home. I found your post to be very informational, I had no former knowledge of this going on in colleges.
Thank you for sharing.
If you have the chance you should take the time to look at my blog.
Johanna's Blog

- Johanna Logan

C4K: Summary for April

C4K #8: Jack R.

Jack is a student in Mrs. Lombard's 7th grade English class. The blog post I chose to comment on was titles Book Project. This post was about Jack's book report on the first 39 Clues Book. His summary was very impofromative with very minor gramtical errors.

My comment to Jack R:

Hey Jack!

I'm Johanna Logan, a student in EDM 310 at the Universtiy of South Alabama.
I have not read this books but your description makes it seem so interesting. I love books with good entertainment, it makes me want to keep reading. I'm impressed that you had very few gramtical errors.
Thank you for sharing, and keep up the good work!
If you get a chance visit my blog.
Johanna's Blog

- Johanna Logan



C4K #9: Paul


Paul is a student in Mr. Gardner's 5th grade class. Paul posted about why he felt that people were left handed. His assumption was that he felt that people were left handed because they used their left hand more than their right one. I suggested to Paul that he should do some research on why people are left handed to see if maybe his assumptions were right.

My comment to Paul:

Hi Paul,
I'm Johanna Logan and I'm a student in EDM 310 at the University of South Alabama.
I think your reasoning for why people become left handed is very thoughful, maybe do some research on being left handed and see if your assumptions are right.
Keep up the good work, and thanks for sharing!
If you get a chance visit my blog.
Johanna's Blog

- Johanna Logan


C4K # 10: Sean

Sean is a student in Ms. Thomas's class at John Hanson French Immersion School in Prince Georges, MD. The post that I commented on was about Sean sharing how he felt he could leave his mark on the world. He feels that helping others with their finicial struggles and donating money to the cause would help him leave a powerful impact on the world. I suggested to Sean that maybe one day he can set up a charity for these causes so that people all over the world can benefit from it.

My comment to Sean:

Hey Sean,
I'm Johanna Logan, a student studying Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama. I think it's wonderful that you think you can leave your mark on the world by helping others with their problems. Have you ever though of maybe one day setting up a charity for these causes? Also, I think its wonderful that you want to be professional basketball player, sports are so much fun!
Thank you for sharing, and kepp up the good work!
If you get a chance visit my blog.
Johanna's Blog

- Johanna Logan

Blog Post #12: Assistive Technology

C4T #3: Quantum Progress

C4T #3 - Post 1: Best Class Ever - When I Leave the Room

In this post John Burke, a High School Physics teacher, shares a video of what happens when he leaves his class with a challenging problem while he goes to attend a meeting. He gets out of the meeting early and listens at the conversations that the students are having without them being able to see him. He is in shock at how much thought and effort they are putting in without out him there to hover. It makes him realize that the teacher doesn't always need to be in the lead, it is good for students to work to figure things out on their own or with the help of a classmate.

My comment to John Burke:

Hi John!
I’m Johanna Logan. I’m currently studying Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama. I loved this post! I was in awe while watching the video. Seeing the kids collaborate when you left the room shows just how important it is for the students to be able to work alone for a portion of the class; we as teachers don’t always need to be in the lead.
Thank you for sharing!
If you ever have some free time you should go take a look at my blog.
Johanna’s Blog

– Johanna Logan

C4T #4 - Post 2: Back to Blogging With My Best Class Ever

In this post John Burke, a High School Physics teacher, shares a video of him letting his students collaboratively working together to solve a stage 4 Physics problem. He leads them in the direction they need so when it comes time to solve the problem they know everything they need to solve it. These students work so well together and you can see that they are engaging in what they are learning.

My comment to John Burke:

Mr. Burke,
I’m Johanna Logan. I’m currently a student at the University of South Alabama as an Elementary Education major.
I think it is awesome that you are allowing your students to work collaboratively to solve the problems. We as teachers need to remember that sometimes students need to be able to work it out on their own and not constantly be assisted. I enjoyed watching your videos, it was neat to see the kids in action.
Thank you for sharing!
If you ever have free time you should visit my blog.
Johanna’s Blog

– Johanna Logan

Project #14: Project Based Learning Plan #2

Lesson Plan

Adjective Topic Cards

Adective Sentences

Adjective PowerPoint

Adjectives Photo Book Rubric

Blog Post #11: What can we learn about teaching and learning from theese teachers?

In Brian Crosby's video Back To The Future he teaches us the importance of having a project based learning atmosphere. His kids were so excited when they were actually get to experiment with the lesson they were learning. You could tell that they were a lot more engaged in the lesson than they would be if it were just a pencil and paper lesson. I admire him for finding away to include Celeste into the classroom activities rather than work just being sent home for her to do. Mr. Crosby's class is a leading example of how project based learning should be incorporated in a classroom.

I have never really been introduced to the the Blended Learning Cycle but  I found Paul Anderson's version of the Blended Learning Cycle to be very interesting.

Quivers - Paul Anderson's version of the Blended Learning Cycle

1. Question: Something that catches the students attention.
2. Investigation/ Inquiry: You want the children to investigate, you need to be able to incorporate inquiry learning.
3. Video: This allows more time for class activity by allowing the students to watch a video on the lesson individually.
4. Elaboration: reading and use of Venn diagrams allowing the children to go more in depth with the lesson.
5. Review: The most important part, this allows the children to be worked with in groups or individually so that you know they understand the material and are ready to be tested on it.
6. Summary Quiz: Once the students have moved passed the review and you know that they are  ready to be tested on the material you give them a quiz on the information to show what they know.

In Mark Church's video Making Thinking Visible he goes into more depth about his book. He teaches us that teaching goes beyond classroom instruction and lessons. Teaching is about motivating the children to think and understanding the culture in which you derive your lessons from. Your classroom needs to have evidence of how the students are connecting and moving forward. Guest should be able to come into your classroom and see what the students are learning.

In Sam Pane's Super Digital Citizen he teaches us the importance of being safe on the Internet. He defines a safe digital citizen as someone who is safe, respectful, and responsible on the Internet. The students got to create a comic book character and use it in a story where their superhero demonstrates safe Internet use. I found this to be a good way to get students engaged into learning about being safe on the Internet.

I found the teachers in the Project Based Learning video to be very interactive, and wanting their students to learn in the best way possible. These teachers in the video pushed for their school to allow them to teach more than one subject with a group of students so that they would have more time with the students to be able to allow the students to engage in Project Based Learning. The teachers in this video stressed the importance of time in learning especially when its project based.

In Roosevelt Elementary's PBL Program they teach us the importance of PBL in the classroom and the benefits it brings to the children. It takes away the fear of public speaking because they have been used to PBL classrooms. They get to create and interact in projects and it allows them to gain skills that will use and apply in the real world. They become proud of their work. PBL at Roosevelt now enjoy working together and are performing well academically.

Project #12: SMART Board Instruction

Blog Post #10: What can we learn from Ms. Cassidy?

In the video Little Kids...Big Potential it was obvious that the students in Ms. Cassidy's class enjoyed learning in a technology based atmosphere. I think it is so rewarding all the things these students are being allowed to do and that they are learning in the process. I often wish that growing up I would have been in classrooms that incorporated this much use of technology, and since I wasn't it makes me so eager to have a classroom of my own so that I can present students with this opportunity. Ms. Cassidy has taught me the importance of technology inside the classroom. In the Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 1 Ms. Cassidy explains that we cannot continue to teach the children of this generation the way we taught kids 10 or 20 years ago. Technology in the world today is changing and so therefor so is learning. By not allowing your students to have this opportunity and not giving them access to theses tools you are not only handicapping them, but you as a teacher as well. I personally love the use of blogs in the classrrom, I feel that having an audience to wrtie to makes the writting expereince that much more enjoyable. I also enjoyed the part in the Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 3, where she let her students create a class Facebook paeg. I felt that that was a great use of social media in the classroom. and  Kids enjoy technology and if we as teachers begin to incorporate it in our lessons, the children are going to be more excited to learn. A successful learning experience is what we want and with the use of technology we will find that.

C4K: Summary for March

C4K #5: Nolan

Nolan is a student in Mrs. Maslowski's 4th period. The blog post I chose to comment on from Nolan's blog was titled Driving at a Young Age. In this blog Nolan talked about how there is a controversy between kids being able to drive at 16. He stated that he thought kids should be able to drive at 16 so they can have a job, but he never put anyone elese's opinion. At the end of his blog he asked for a feedback on what he could improve.

My comment to Nolan:

Hi Nolan!

I"m Johanna Logan. I'm currently a student at the University of South Alabama studying to become an Elementary teacher. I found your post to be very interesting, it was nice to see your point of view on driving at a young age. But, I do think that adding others perspectives on the topic would have enhanced your essay to its full potential.
Thank you for sharing!
Here's a link to my blog. 
Johanna's Blog



- Johanna Logan


C4K #6: Luis

Luis is a student in in Mrs. Maslowski's 8th period. The blog post I chose to comment on from Luis's blog was titled High School Advice. In this blog Luis spoke specifically to those who are or about to entering High School. He warns them that need to be outgoing and friendly so that they can meet a lot of friends. He had very few grammatical errors that I suggested he correct, but other than that I thoroughly enjoyed Luis's advice.

My comment to Luis:

Hey Luis!
I'm Johanna Logan. I'm a student at the University of South Alabama studying to become a teacher. I enjoyed reading your blog and found it very informative to incoming high school students, but you did have a few grammatical errors. For example, your second sentence that begins with if, the i in if should be capital. Also, the word its should have an apostrophe after the t and before the s, to state it is.
Besides your easy-to-fix errors your blog was very well done. If you ever have some free time, you should take a look at my blog.
Johanna's Blog

Thank you for sharing!

-Johanna Logan


C4K #7: Connor A.

Connor is a student in Mrs. Lombard's 7th Grade English class. The blog post I chose to comment of from Connor's blog was titled Julie and the Wolves. Connor summarized the book and expressed what type of audience he felt the book would attract. He had very impressive writing skills.

My comment to Connor A:

Hey Connor!
I'm Johanna Logan. I'm currently a student at the University of South Alabama studying to become a teacher.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog. I am impressed with your writing skills. You did very well at creating a summary. I too have read Julie of the Wolves, and I think your summary fits it well.
Thank you for sharing!
If you have any free time you should take a look at my class blog.
Johanna's Blog

Blog Post #9: What Can Teachers and Students Teach Us About Project Based Learning?

In the Seven Essentials for Project Based Learning article it teaches us that we need to stray away from the old fashioned pen and paper style learning and incorporate Project Based Learning into our classrooms. Students feed off of the teacher, and if we as teachers don't show interest and interaction into the lesson or project that is being presented, then neither will they. 

Project Based Learning For Teachers informs us that Common Core is the WHAT and Project Based Learning is the HOW. Meaning we are given standards on what the students need to be learning and we need to use Project Based Learning to show how they have learned it. 

In What Motivates Students

it was neat to see the different things that motivated the different students. the classroom store was my favorite in particular. Personally, I fell that the reward pushes the child to be more involved so that they can learn in order to pass what ever assessment or achievement they have to in order to get the reward. The reward lets the students know that the teacher is willing to give credit when effort is put in. 

The Two Students Solve the Problem of Watery Ketchup By Designing a New Cap

video was by far my favorite. I  love how a problem so small in the ever day life of Jonathan and Tyler became such an important project. Through this project theses two boys were able to figure out how to create a solution to their problem, and even got to use a 3D printer to print their finalized project. 

I found the Ten Sites Supporting Digital Classroom Collaboration In Project Based Learning article to be very helpful and informative, especially as a new teacher. Though a lot of the sites we have already been introduced to in EDM 310 there were a few that we haven not. Even for teacher who have not had a course like EDM 310 this sites gives insightful knowledge on helpful sites to use in your classroom while incorporating Project Based Learning.

Project #9 - Video Book Commentary

Blog Post #8: What Can We Learn About Teaching From Randy Pausch?

Who was Randy Pausch? 

Randy Pausch was an overall very inspiring man. His full time job, the one he put the majority of his time and effort into, was being a professor in Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. Alongside being a professor he was the co - founder of the Entertainment Technology Center and also instructed the researchers that founded a program that taught students about computer programming, called Alice. In 2007 Randy Pausch was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. He knew that one day this disease would take his life, but until that day came he would continue to live the life he wanted and would still strive to follow every single dream he had.

Randy Pausch's Last Lecture reminds us that dreams are not always dreams, sometimes with hard work and dedication they come true. He teaches us that even the silly absurd childhood dreams you never think will come true, can. In the lecture he shares with us his own personal child hood dreams and what he did to achieve them. He taught me to teach with honesty and sincerity. 

Randy's Childhood Dreams:

• Being in zero gravity
• Playing in the NFL
• Authoring an article in the world book encyclopedia
• Being  meeting Captain Kirk
• Winning stuffed animals
• Being a Disney Imagineer

His last lecture was very powerful in that he was giving the advice he felt others needed from him before he would leave this world. He spoke to the audience about how he never gave up on other things other than his childhood dreams, like getting into his dream school. My favorite part of the lecture was towards the end when Randy said "Teaching college students to have fun is like a fish teaching others about the importance of water." What he meant by that was that even though he was dying he was still living a fun life, and he would continue to until he couldn't anymore. This quote stuck with me through the whole lecture. Nothing held this man back, NOTHING. I am thankful I was introduced to his work, bust most importantly his humor. 

Important tips Randy left behind:

• Decide whether you at a Tigger or an Eeyore.  
• Never lose your child-like wonder.
• Help others.
• Never give up.
• Listen to feedback.
• Always show gratitude. 
• Don't complain, just work harder.
• Be good at something, it makes you valuable.
• Work so hard people ask you what your secret is.
• Find the good in everybody; no matter how you have long you have to wait for them to show it.
• Be prepared; "luck" is where preparation meets opportunity

C4T #2: Teacher Tom

C4T #2 - Post 1: Smart and Happy Kids

In the post Smart and Happy Kids Teacher Tom basically gives advice to parents on how to parent. He states that as a parent you need to be honest and caring. He also says to show them love when they need it but also discipline. Teacher Tom had a lot of great advice, I really enjoyed reading this blog.

My comment to Teacher Tom:

Hi Tom!

I'm Johanna Logan, a student a the University of South Alabama studying to become a Elementary teacher.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post. I loved when you said "If you don't know the answer, be brave enough to say, "I don't know." If you don't want to answer, say, "I need to think about that," because that's what you're going to be doing right up until you inevitably do answer."
Parents try so hard to be the "right" parent instead of just naturally being a parent. It's okay not to know everything.
Thank you for posting, I look forward to reading more.
If you ever have a chance, take a look at my blog.
Johanna's Blog

C4T #2 - Post 2: Off Into the World

In the post Off Into the World Teacher Tom talks about how one of the hard parts of being a preschool teacher is having to let your children go you have invested so much time into them. But also knowing that they are moving up into the world and being happy for their success. 

My comment to Teacher Tom:

Hi Tom, 

I'm Johanna Logan a student at the University of South Alabama studying to become a Elementary teacher. As a preschool teacher myself I can second the fact that it is hard to see them leave after spending so much time in your care. But oh the joy you feel when you know they are prepared to move on to bigger things. 
Thank you for sharing, I enjoyed reading! 
If you ever get a chance take a look at my blog. 

Johanna's Blog

Blog Post #7

What are the things that you believe you will need to know AND do to prepare for your career as as teacher before you graduate that will enable and support your ability to use technology effectively as a component of your classroom instruction and to foster student participation and learning?

Technology in the world today is constantly evolving allowing us to consistently learn new things. As a future educator there are several things I feel I need to learn and experience before I can say with confidence that I am ready to be a teacher. This class has helped a great deal with that by allowing me to start gaining the background knowledge on PBL that I will need once I have a classroom of my own. Starting this class I was very iffy on having a classroom based around technology, but now that I have seen the importance and the success it has brought I know that it is a necessity.

Video Summaries

Using iMovie and the Alabama Virtual Library in Kindergarten

Kindergartners are interacting with technology more and more as time progresses. Students in Ms. Tuck's Kindergarten class are completing full iMovie book trailers for books they have read in class. Alabama Virtual Library is free to everyone, it teaches students basic research. AVL searches for images, encyclopedias, books and etc.

We All Become Learners

When incorporating technology in the classroom you are constantly learning. With technology teachers are becoming learners, and children are becoming teachers. Children are becoming so eager to figure out how to work the technology given, such as an iPad, that once they have mastered how to complete something they want to go around the class and teach everyone who dosen't know how, even the teacher.

iPads in the Classroom

In this video each student is given his/her own iPad to follow along with while the teacher is teaching. Studies have shown that students are more engaged and excited to learn when they know that they are using the iPad. I liked how one teacher said that using the iPad in the classroom was like going on a virtual field trip. Proficiencies in classrooms with iPads have gone up allowing teachers to become more efficient. Teachers who have actually experienced using the iPads in their classes have argued that using the iPads have increased the number of child interaction in their class.

Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education

"Teachers will not be replaced by technology, but teachers who don't use technology will be replaced by those who do."

1. Students love it, whether its the cool factor or just a general interest in new technology. 
2. It engages the four key components in learning, active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real word experts. 
3. Professional development: technology allows them to learn a new skill set.
4. It makes things easier for teachers. 
5. Improves test scores, students are allowed to move at their own pace. 
6. Helps students with low attention spans. 
7. Learn from the experts.
8. Encourages homework.
9. Saves money.
10. Removes obstacles. 

Project #7: Four Movies Part B

To the Parents....

To the Students...

C4K: Summary for February

C4K #1 - Keegan

Keegan is a student in Mrs. Smebys 5th grade class. The blog post I chose to comment on from Keegan's bog was about superpowers. Mrs. Smeby asked the class if they were able to have any superpower what would they want it to be. Keegan stated that he wanted to have superman powers because he could do more than just one thing.

My comment to Keegen: 

Hi Keegan!

Superman is one of my favorite superheroes too! I think it awesome that he can do more than just fly. If i had to choose just one favorite superhero it would Cat Woman, because girls can have superpowers too!

Do you have a favorite villain?


C4K #2 - Hailey H.

Hailey is a student in Mr. Boylen's 8th grade class. The blog post I chose to comment on form Hailey's blog was titled Intro to the World. This blog post was Hailey introducing herself to the readers of her blog. She let the readers know what she was interested in doing outside of school and how even though she didn't enjoy the work that much at school she enjoyed being able to come to school to see her friends and teachers.

My comment to Hailey H:

Hi Hailey,

I'm Johanna Logan, I'm a student at the University of South Alabama currently studying to become an Elementary teacher. I enjoyed reading your blog. I find it interesting that you enjoy hair and makeup along with skate boarding and camping. Having a versatile personality is a good trait to have, especially as you get older.
I also like to go camping. What are some of the places you have been camping to? Do you have any future places you would like to go camping to?
Here's a link to my blog.
Johanna's Blog
 

C4K #3 - Hailey N.

Hailey is a student in Ms. Leatherwoods 8th grade Language Arts class. The blog post I chose was titled "An Unsual Pet". This post was about Hailey talking about how her Yia Yia, which is Greek for grandmother, suprise her with an unsual pet. A Australian Sugar Glider. Hailey talks about how she loves to antagonize her sugar glider when shes bored, and how she's thankful to have him.

My comment to Hailey N:

Hi Hailey!
I’m Johanna Logan, I’m a student at the University of South Alabama studying to become a Elementary Teacher.
I enjoyed reading your post. I never really knew what a Australian Sugar Glider was until I read your post. They seem like a really neat pet to have!
I have a rabbit, her name is Eloise. Pets make the best friends!
Do you have any other pets? Here's a link to my blog.
Johanna's Blog


C4K #4 - Joey

Joey is a student in Mrs. Maslowski's class. They were to choses thier favorite famous African American and write about why they felt they were important. Joey chose Kevin Hart and explained why he liked Kevin Hart. His reasoning for liking Kevin Hat were because he was a funny comedian and a good actor.

My comment to Joey:


Hi Joey!
I'm Johanna Logan a student in EDM 310 at the University of South Alabama studying to become an Elementary teacher.
I enjoyed reading your post about Kevin Hart. I agree that he is very funny and well known for his comedy. He is also a very good actor!
Do you have any other African American actors/ comedians that you enjoy?

Thanks for sharing.
Visit my blog, Johanna's Blog

Project #8: Book Trailer

Blog Post #6: What do you learn from these conversations with Anthony Capps?

The videos between Anthony Capps and Dr. Strange were very insightful. I gained knowledge on several things I previously did not know about. I enjoyed taking the time needed to watch these videos because I know as a new teacher I'm going to need all the background knowledge and help I can get.

In Project Based Learning Part 1 and Part 2, Anthony Capps did a great job at explaining what PBL was. He explained that we think PBL is when you have project following a lesson so the children can recreate what they learned, but PBL is really a means of learning a lesson. Project Based Learning should be the lesson, not necessarily following the lesson. When creating a project, you must create a project that not only incorporates what you want them to learn, but it must also include the standards that the state needs the kids to be accomplishing. Projects that students interact in must be content driven. What I enjoyed most about this, was in Part 2 the students had to research and write what it would be like to be a child in Afghanistan. He had a student whose parents did not want him to research what life was like in Afghanistan because he was a soldier and knew what went on. So Capps came up with a way for that student to learn what was required but without having to research about the country. To me this showed that as a teacher, Capps wanted to make the parents happy as well as the student.


iCurio was something I found to be very neat. Capps explains how iCurio is a curated search engine that allows students to surf websites safely in a kid friendly way. iCurio doesn't search for just text, it also searches for audio, video, and images related to the search and that also meet state standards. iCurio also has a storage capacity feature that allows students to create folders saving what they found from different sites. You can even search iCurio by criteria using the Historical feature. Capps did a great job a expressing the importance of iCurio if you are using search engines in your classroom. iCurio is a good site to use if you are trying to help students develop virtual organization skills.

Discovery Ed allows you to generate background pictures, audio, and video related to the text you are teaching. Capps explains how he used it in his classroom by allowing the students to research plants because he didn't know much about plants, so he let the students use Discovery Ed to search all they needed to know about plants. I thought this was a great way to incorporate Project Based Learning into the classroom, because even though Capps didn't have much background knowledge on plants the children were still able to learn what they needed to learn.


The six essential tips I learned from The Anthony - Strange Tips for Teachers Part 1

1. In order to be a good educator, you must be willing to learn. 
2. Flexibility is key. 
3. Start with a goal. 
4. Regardless of how hard it gets, have fun with what you do. 
5. Engagement, make sure ALL of your children are engaged in some way. 
6. Reflect on your own work.                          

Technology is everywhere, and having a classroom without technology not only is a loss for your students but also for you as a teacher. Capps said in Use Tech Don't Teach It that he gives the students a chance to navigate and learn about the device and then gives them the project they are supposed to do. I think it is important for students to learn using the technology around them so that when they enter the real world they are not oblivious to the way technology works. Dr. Strange couldn't have been more accurate when he said that Capps 3rd graders could probably learn how to work iMovie in a shorter amount of time than I could. When I was growing up the only thing I was learning how to use on the computer was Word, Excel and PowerPoint, any other technology I have had to learn how to use on my own, including iMovie which I am just now learning how to use. This video taught me to never teach technology, to just introduce it wisely.

Project #7: Four Movies Part A

Blog Post #5: PLN's What Are They? 1

What are Personal Learning Networks (PLN's)? How can they help you as a teacher? How are they formed? How can you create your own PLN? Who will be the additions to your PLN?

A Personal Learning Network, also known as a PLN is a personalized network of resources you use on a daily basis. The beauty of PLN's is that they are constantly changing as you grow as an educator. A PLN can include both real life relationships as well as relationships you develop with people over social media. Personal Learning Networks let you personalize who you are as a teacher. You will find new things that you feel help you become a better educator and add them into you PLN. You will also find things that you might have added a long time ago that no longer suit the type of educator you have become. I personally found Symbaloo to be really helpful in establishing a social media PLN. It was very organized and user friendly, especially to beginners. It gave easy access to all the sites I use on a daily basis on one page. Now that I have a clear understanding of how PLN's work, my additions will be the teachers I comment back and forth with as well as a the kids I have been commenting back and forth with. Another great addition would be some of the blogs I have been reading lately, a lot of them have given supplemental information I feel would help me as a future educator.

Project #3: Google Presentation

C4T #1: Buck Institute for Education - Experts & NewBIEs

Authenticity to Self: Engaging Students’ Identities in Project Based Learning

Sam Seidel's blog was about introducing an authenticity step to PBL's eight steps. His step is called Keep It Real. Keep It Real is about students being able to incorporate things into PBL that relate more to  their everyday life. He posts and example project of high school students using the Keep It Real step and it blew my mind. Isaiah the student in the video sings a song about his life and how he grew up, he uses facts and credited information to inform the viewer about a child's growth and development as well as telling about how he grew up and what it was like for him.

My comment to Sam Siedel:

Hey Sam, I’m Johanna Logan currently a student majoring in Education at the University of South Alabama. I just wanted to take a moment to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog. As a Education student I am learning more and more about PBL and the more I learn the more I’ve come to believe in it. I love the authenticity your Keep It Real additon brings to PBL. Seeing the tears in Isaiah’s face let me know how real this experience was for him.
I also enjoyed the three questions you left for teacher to ask their selves when incorporating PBL.
Thank you for sharing! I look forward to reading more.
Here is a link to my blog if you are ever interested in a good read.
BLOG

Viewpoint on PBL: What Students Say

This blog post was written by Miles, Gaby, Ethan, Lauren, Madison, and Aiden from Novi Community Schools District, in Michigan. In this post the six children give their viewpoints on PBL. One of the main reasons these six kids enjoyed PBL was because they were "secretly learning". They enjoyed what they were learning so much that they didn't realize they were learning. Another major reason why these kids enjoy PBL is because they were given tips about what they were going to be learning about but actually got to learn abut it on their own, and this sparked an anticipation in the kids. they actually began to look forward to learning.

My comment to Miles, Gaby, Ethan, Lauren, Madison, and Aiden from Novi Community Schools District, in Michigan:

To Miles, Gaby, Ethan, Lauren, Madison, and Aiden.
I'm Johanna Logan, I'm a student studying Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama. I wanted to take a moment and let you all know how much I enjoyed reading your blog. I am currently learning about PBL so that I can use it in my classroom one day. I myself LOVE all PBL has to offer. It excites me to know how much you enjoy PBL. I am hoping, and I think you are too, that PBL begins to be incoporated in every classroom.
Thank you for sharing! I look forward to hearing more about your thoughts on PBL.
Here is a link to blog if you find yourself wanting to read.
MY BLOG

Blog Post #4: Asking Questons: What questions do we ask? How do we ask?

What do we need to know about asking questions to be an effective teacher?

Asking questions is a vital part of learning. Ben Johnson states in The Right Way to Ask Questions in the Classroom that "we as teachers need to come to grips with the fact that we really do not know everything, and there is no reason for us to assume that the students know nothing." Which couldn't be more correct. I think we as teachers get in front of the class thinking we have all the answers and expect the students to not know anything at all, when in reality we probably learn just as much form them as they do from us. It is important for teachers to stress the importance of question asking in the classroom. I can remember back to when I was in elementary school where the majority of my teachers had a motto, and that was that there is no such thing as a stupid question. Now as a future educator myself I realize the importance of that. Question asking sets the stage for the type of student you will have. If teachers address children's questions in a positive way, then the student is going to think positive about asking questions. The Teaching Center has an article, Asking Questions to Improve Learning that gives several effective ways on how to respond to questions. One I found most important was "show that you are interested in students’ answers, whether right or wrong. Encourage students when they are offering answers by nodding, looking at them, and using facial expressions that show you are listening and engaged. Do not look down at your notes while they are speaking." I feel like this is the where most teachers go wrong. Children become disengaged in question asking because their teachers are not showing encouragement in their answers, regardless of the accuracy. As educators we need to focus more on making sure the children understand, instead of rushing to move on to the next lesson. Just because you ask if everyone understands and they all nod yes, doesn't necessarily mean that they all actually understand. Patience is key, make your classroom an environment where students aren't afraid of asking questions.