Blog Post #3

When creating my lesson plan, I would definitely use technology to teach to my class. The type of technology I would use would be computers. I feel as though computers are the most efficient form of learning and communication. I would want to teach music to high school students. It doesn't matter what grade level anywhere from 9-12. I feel as though the students would know more about computers at this level and would be more willing to learn something they actually want to learn. For my music class, I would use databases, presentation software, notation software, and also the MIDI to teach. All these programs are easy to teach with the technology of computers. It would allow all of my students to use hands on learning with trying different programs on the computer.

A website in which I may use while teaching my class would be a music theory site that I found. http://www.musictheory.net/. After reviewing this site, I have realized that it has many beneficial tools with learning to appreciate music, learning the theories behind songs and instruments, and also it has exercises on how to train one's ear to further oneself musically. This site is very easy to navigate through. It is simple in text and very straight forward. I think this site would be a great tool for giving assignments and homework to my class. Also, it would be a great reference for studying for the students. 

I personally don't feel as though copyright laws are that harmful towards teachers. I have taken many courses in which the teachers would show certain videos and clips in the classroom. If the teachers were distributing the videos to the students then I believe it would be an issue. However, if I was a teacher, before I showed any videos, I would definitely double check and review the exact copyright laws. I also would only be showing the videos in class. I wouldn't distribute any videos to my students. There are also many websites in which allow certain distribution. I would just be careful with the material I was teaching to my students even though I don't think it would ever be that big of a problem.

Blog Post #2

I have been using Microsoft Word as a student ever since I could remember. Anytime I've had an essay or a paper to write, it has been on MS Word. I am very used to using it. I pretty much grew up knowing the basics to using MS Word. I also like the newer versions to MS Word because it is easier to navigate around. Also, teachers that I have had used MS Word all the time. They use it to make and print out assignments, test, quizzes, etc... They also use it to teach computer skills in computer classes like this one.

In chapter 9, the book starts off with introducing the basics of navigating around MS Word. It examines each different and easier ways to get things done when creating MS Word documents. It then goes into more in depth usages to enhance one's skills with MS Word. I especially like the part when chapter 9 explains how to create the newsletters. It was very helpful when performing and completeing the Word Assignment 3. I never knew how to use most of those functions when creating a newsletter. The examples of the newsletters look like they would be difficult to do, but with these intructions on chapter 9, it makes it a lot easier.

I have learned a few new skills so far that will help me with my educational career. I have learned how to contruct more of a professional and overall better looking paper fo any class assignment I wil have ahead of me. I have learned how to use columns easier for any projects I will have to do. Also, the shading in the columns makes the paper look very nice and this tool will be helpful for me in any classes in which I might have to create a paper on word for project. Even if I have to make up a test for any future classes, I will have the skills to do so. Also, adding hyperlinks and emails were very helpful for when I will have to put my email on a paper or whenever I email a teach I can insert a hyperlink with no problem at all.

#1 Post

I think computers are especially an important part of the educational experience because in this day and age, we live in a technology thriving society. Almost every single individual in America owns a computer. It offers easier ways of communication and faster ways of learning. In education it also helps students to prepare themselves for the world of work with teaching e-mail, spreadsheets, databases, the internet, and tons of other tools. One main concern dealing with teachers and students using computers in that it is possible that a child can hack into his school's network. Another concern is that a student may send an inappropriate e-mail to someone. I definitely agree with these issues raised in Chapter 1. There are many students who are great with computers and like to cause trouble. As much as I believe that computers are an amazing form of education in schools, I also believe that they might serve as a huge distraction in classrooms. With a computer right in front of a student during a lecture, it is much easier for them to not pay attention.

I would definitely use computers in my classroom. It would be a much easier way of communicating with my students. It would also be easier for them to submit assignments. As our country grows in technology, I feel that there would be no use in not growing with it. Computers in classrooms also helps with classmate interaction. Students can ask any questions to their teacher that they might have forgotten while they were in class. It also helps the students to check up on their progress throughout the course by checking up on their grades regularly. I hope to learn more about Excel in this class. I have taken computer classes in middle school and in high school and I have learned about Word and Powerpoint, but am not too confident in using Excel. I know Excel is a great program for organizing spreadsheets such as personal finances as well as other things. Expanding my skills on Word and Powerpoint will also be helpful for future classes and assignments. I have already learned new skills in this class so far dealing with Windows.

For my major, Creative Writing, I know this course will help with to navigate around word easier when typing papers. I am glad to be a part of a school in which incorporates technology like computers as our world is depending more and more on them. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge of computer education in general. Also for my music career, being computer savvy will help me to communicate with people while on the road. :)

#0 Post

My first experiences using computer technology was in elementary school. They taught a simple Windows computer class which was helpful in learning the basics of computer technology. I also always had a computer around my house so when I got to middle school and high school, I would spend a significant amount of time chatting with friends on AIM. I also had a LiveJournal account so I am familar with blogging. In high school, I took a three different computer class which taught the skills to use Word, PowerPoint, Excel, HTML, and Photoshop even though I don't remember much of it.

Since I have a somewhat basic understanding of the skills using the different Mircosoft Office programs, I would like to develop my skills in order to expand my knowledge of computer technology. Learning these programs will help with future classes and assignments dealing with Word and Powerpoint. Also, learning more about Excel will be very helpful with managing personal datas such as finances. Although I am not familiar with the program Inspiration, from what I've heard, it seems interesting and I would like to learn more.

Based on the activity done in class today, I have learned that my style of learning in mainly visual, untuitive, and global. I learn much easier when I see things rather than hear them. I can remember faces and data charts much easier and better than I can remember what someone has said. I also tend to look at the big picture of an assignment rather than examining all the details leading up to it. Solutions and the details tend to fall into place for me when completeing tasks. I also tend to form ideas and connections to them rather than just learning the straight facts.