Looking at the numerous blogs available, I stumbled upon a new innovative way to learn. Click on the following blog to explore “siftables” http://leekraus.blogspot.com/2009/02/new-learning-tool-siftables.html. In this blog, the siftables are presented and demonstrated. If we open our minds to new possibilities, this is just one of the results. These little tools can open limitless opportunities for students to learn from elementary to high school. It is an amazing tool!
-Jolandra
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March 22, 2009 at 1:24 pm |
I think the technology behind siftables is fascinating. I think the line is going to continue to get more blurred as technology is more seamlessly integrated with our everyday life. It is already occurring with such technologies as the Nintendo Wii and smartphones with touchscreens and accelerometers.
March 23, 2009 at 12:34 am |
Jolandra,
Speaking of stumbling upon blogs that are interesting, I found one that should be of interest to both of us. It is a librarian/technologist’s blog. Check it out:
http://heyjude.wordpress.com/2009/03/21/empowering-new-learners/
March 25, 2009 at 2:00 am |
I am always looking for updates of library/technology. I find that I never can find current research of how we impact education with technology. I look forward to reading more and discovering what is occurring in the lives of other librarians.
-Jolandra
March 24, 2009 at 8:17 pm |
Jolandra and Peggy, I enjoyed your student empowerment theme. I am not yet able to view the video, probably because of some plug in I have not realized I need. I did like the empowerment concept presented by Cavanaugh (2009). He teaches web design to students in Florida. Cavanaugh describes his mix of students as being from “different worlds.” For example, he describes Brianna as a bright young women who loves art and drama but who has no computer at home. Kevin on the other hand is only 12 years old but has a computer at home and has studied JavaScript and HTML to build his own website.
But, Cavanaugh’s web design course helps bridge this gap in Internet access by giving them technical know-how in a student-centered learning environment. They get to make their own decisions, work as members of a team, and gain valuable skills that translate into other academic endeavors.
They get to use Dreamweaver, Fireworks, and Macromedia Flash where Brianna can transfer skills over to art and drama that she loves so dearly. Cavanaugh says his web design course has progressed from 6th grade introduction to web design, 7th grade web design, and 8th grade web animation. I wish I could transform my skills so quickly.
The teacher had to first evolve before the teacher could transform the learning environment to empower students to evolve. Students get to learn about the web, networking, servers, digital communication, software used to create or control the web and how to organize and present websites.
This is a lifelong learning skill that will benefit their careers and lives especially if they end up in the web design field. Cavanaugh listed about 8 learning traits students acquire from problem-solving, independent thinking, complex concepts grasped, expressing individuality through creative outlets, working in teams, organizational skills, building confidence, to addressing education’s goals.
I think this is what Dr. Sugar is having us to do and we are evolving into these 8 traits as we move through our studies.
Reference
Cavanaugh, K. (2009). Teaching web design: empowering learners with technology. Retrieved March 24, 2009, from http://www.adobe.com/devnet/education/articles/empowering_learners.html
March 25, 2009 at 2:07 am |
I agree that all of our courses are leading up to the evolving practices you mentioned. Many students, like the advance student and the student with no computer, can be found in our classes. Many adult learners are becoming more aware of the technology available to transform their practices with technology in the learning environments and work environments.
-Jolandra