I enjoyed working on assignment 3.
After looking at the criteria standard of the unit, I used my experience and
knowledge gained from all the work covered from this module to help me with my
planning. What worked best for me was taking each section aside; after doing that I was
able to carefully assess each criteria standard. This helped me to plan more
effectively and it worked out well with time management and the standard of
work I put in. Overall, I did my best on the assignment and I'm awaiting my result.
Saturday, 7 December 2013
Reflection on Module 4_Activity 8
In activity 8 there was no request to submit a file. However, we were asked to complete the reading on the activity and then use the
information to complete assignment 3. The information gathered from the reading
helped me to better identify the criteria standards in assignment 3 which I used to plan my unit successfully. The guiding principles reminded me that ICT correlated
outcomes must always be considered in my planning, teaching and learning
process. Thus, I will use these strategies to develop more unit of work to enhance the teaching/learning process.
Monday, 25 November 2013
Module 4_Assignment 2_ Reflection on Assessment Tool
Assignment 2 challenged my competency and my ability to perform at a high standard. In the assignment results, I fell short of the standard I set for myself and because of this I had to reflect on where I went wrong. Through reflection and feedback given from the assessor, I was able to see what I did not do to achieve the high grade I wanted for myself.
The saying goes, 'When something pose a challenge you either give it up or practice until you become perfect', I, for one, am going to practice more and more until I become perfect. I am learning so much from this module on assessment and I know it will benefit me greatly in my teaching career.
The saying goes, 'When something pose a challenge you either give it up or practice until you become perfect', I, for one, am going to practice more and more until I become perfect. I am learning so much from this module on assessment and I know it will benefit me greatly in my teaching career.
Module 4_ Activity 7_ Reflection on Giving Feedback
In activity seven we were asked to look at each group member’s
work and give feedback on it. I had to be both subjective and objective in my
comment. I tried to look at each member’s work and critique it the best way I
can using certain assessment criteria. I also got feedback on my work from my colleagues and this was where I had
a better approach to see my work through someone else’s view. Through the
feedback given, I was able to spot my strengths and weaknesses in relation to
my activity and the assessment tool I designed. Overall, it was a learning
process for me.
Sunday, 10 November 2013
Module 4: Activity 6 (Assessing Information Literacy)
Activity 6 was very easy to complete and I had fun doing it. I chose 6A and use the
information presented to design a class activity on Caribbean leaders where
students were asked to use google search engine to help them find the answers
to selected closed ended questions. In this activity students were assessed on
their internet literacy skills .The checklist I designed helped to assess students’
internet research competency and provided feedback based on their performance. Overall, it was a good activity.
Wednesday, 6 November 2013
Reflection on Module 4_Activity 5
Assessment Tool
In this activity most of my colleagues and I misunderstood the activity requirement. However, we were guided as to what was expected of us and clarity of the activity was made by each member. Designing an assessment tool was not difficult to construct but the instruction given was misunderstood and cause confusion amongst many.
This was a learning experience for me and I really enjoyed constructing my own assessment tool. In future I plan to design many more assessment tools which can help to enhance learning in the classroom and in my teaching career.
In this activity most of my colleagues and I misunderstood the activity requirement. However, we were guided as to what was expected of us and clarity of the activity was made by each member. Designing an assessment tool was not difficult to construct but the instruction given was misunderstood and cause confusion amongst many.
This was a learning experience for me and I really enjoyed constructing my own assessment tool. In future I plan to design many more assessment tools which can help to enhance learning in the classroom and in my teaching career.
Friday, 25 October 2013
Module 4: Reflection on activity 4
Assessment Methods
This activity focuses on various important basic principles
of assessment. These assessment principles and methods are used to gather
evidence of learners’ work and help to give accurate feedback base on their
performances. In the readings the traditional standards and methods are
discussed along with other methods such as; individual assessment, peer
assessment, self assessment, group assessment, and many more. I have
learnt that these standards and methods give innovative ways of gathering evidence for assessment and can be
done in the form of observation; interviews, open book test, simulation,
portfolios, prepare learning materials, and many more. These methods and
standards cater for diverse learning intelligence and can be used either with
the process or product form of assessment.
I am more appreciative of the experiences gained from
completing these activities and assignments. The experiences gained are helping
me to become more efficient in my teaching career. I am learning new ways and
means to apply myself better in the teaching and learning process, also the learning
experiences have brought home to me what I need to do to become a more improved
educator.
Module 4: Reflection on activity 3
Diversity
I found the readings of Howard
Gardener's theory of Multiple Intelligence very useful. It helps to categorize the different levels
of intelligence and also the different learning diversity of learners in the
classroom and in everyday life. If we were to use one method/ tool to implement
in the classroom among the diverse learning style of learners, then there will
be problems resulting from this because not everyone learns the same way. As
educators Gardener’s theory helps us to employ differentiate teaching method in
the classroom to bring about learning.
I know at times, I fail to implement
the different teaching strategies which cater for the needs of my students with
mixed ability. However, the readings by Gardener and Bloom reminded me
that my students are all different and that they don’t always learn the same
way. Am also reminded that I should always cater for diversity within my
classroom with proper planning, analysis and assessment methods.
This activity helps to reinforce Gardener’s
theory of Multiple Intelligence and as an educator I have to address these intelligence
levels within my classroom. Therefore, I will implement Gardener’s theory of
intelligence into my teaching and learning process. I will review my syllabus
and learning outcomes more thoroughly and find ways to execute the intelligence
levels suitable for my learners as identified by Gardener.
Sunday, 13 October 2013
Module 4: Reflection on Activity 2
At first I looked at the activity
and then went on to the readings to get a better idea of where I was going. The
readings were based on process and product assessment. In my view both
assessment methods are important in the teaching/ learning process. It is good
to assess students using the process method which gives a better assessment of
the students' work. This approach helps teachers to gather evidence of
students' abilities and performances; it diagnoses students' strengths and
weaknesses. Teachers can then employ a strategy approach to help students get
to the final stage which is the product stage. The Product assessment on
the other hand gives an overall evaluation by the teacher of the students’
progress, for example the Common Entrance Examination. At this stage the
students are evaluated based on what they have learnt throughout their primary
school years and the product assessment’s (Common Entrance) result shows their
overall performance.
Module 4: Reflection on Assignment One
As I looked back at the task I had to accomplish in
assignment one, I felt confident in the first three steps of the assignment
because of the rubrics and other methods I use in my everyday teaching/
learning process. The on-going assessment I employ in Language Arts (Literacy)
has helped me to think critically and answer what was expected to be achieved
in the assignment. However, I was not as confident in the last section of the
assignment, where I had to outline the changes in assessment practice that I think
are most important to implement. I honestly thought this part would have been a
challenge; however, I was wrong and was able to score full marks on all areas.
My tutor gave me some positive
feedbacks which I used to my advantage and in the end it was worth it.
I enjoyed working on assignment 1 and I have gained more knowledge and
experience analysing surveys. Overall, it was a good challenge for me.
Module 4: Reflection on Activity 1
In this activity I carried out the survey on assessment methods/ tools with the grade 6 students and one of myself to analyse my teaching methods. After comparing the students' survey to mine, most of the students had a higher result than mine. This revealed that most students thought average or above average of my teaching methods, whereas I seemed to have been quite harsh/ bias with my own survey. This is an indication that my students are aware of the ongoing assessment approaches that I use in my teaching/ learning process. Hence, the teaching methods I employ are beneficial to my students because they help students develop their critically thinking and learning skills based on the feedback given from the assessment.
Sunday, 16 June 2013
Module 3 :Reflection on Assignment 3
I really enjoyed this assignment because of the love I have for constructing lesson plans. As I looked back at the way I used the criteria to work on my assignment I can truely say that I have accomplished my task. I am pleased with my grade on this assignment and I have gained more valuable information on integrating ICT into my teaching and learning process. This assignment have given me the boost that I needed and I know if I teach with the same enthusiasm my students are going to love the activities that I have set out for them. I am so happy for the opportunity given to me to complete this course.
Monday, 3 June 2013
Module 3: Reflection on activity 11
In the Initial Stage I was not
sure what to do concerning this activity. However, I figured it out and was
able to navigate my way around it without help. I created a twitter account but
because of my first trial I had to take my time navigating it. While surfing
through the site I was able to pick up and learn using the tweet and other
comments made by followers. The advantages of using social media is great
because they help in developing users self confidence and at the same time
educating them on various aspect in life while academically building their
learning process. There are several ways in which social media/ network can
enhance learning and this can be done through collaboration of ideas. You can
use twitter, facebook, Youtube, skype and diigo as PLN (personal learning
network) to collaborate which would help other teachers and myself in the
process.
Saturday, 1 June 2013
Module 3: Relection on activity 10
The readings that were done in activity 10 focus on social network/ media. The Social media allows me to meet other expert in my industry and gives me an opportunity to research and add my own ideas via the media. Social media provides a platform where we can connect, communicate, support, collaborate and ask and answer questions, also it provides a pathway where we receive and share ideas, resources and experiences, and it helps us solve problems through various exercises / activities and gives us an opportunity to brainstorm together.
As I reflect on some of the questions asked pertaining to this activity I know that we can be as smart as we want to be depending on our goals and objectives towards a particular task. Smart workers are highly motivated, committed and are dedicated to their work, they have a clear desire to do their job well and aim to improve their performance. Smart workers interface with effective networks for their own self development and for further improved productivity in their place of work. Social media can also be an effective learning tool for engaging with learners and communicating with parents, students and communities. I am now at a stage where I can truly say because of social media/ network, the opportunity is given to me to take part in this online course which requires the use of social network/media.
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Module 3: Reflection on assignment 2
At
first when I saw the assignment criteria I was fearful of not doing a good job on it because of the different
criteria I had to used to evaluate each website. However, I read the
instruction over and over and discuss with my working partner what is really
expected of us to do in order to achieve the task set out before us. I was then
able to use the criteria listed to evaluate each website thoroughly and finished
my work in due time.
The
criteria used for evaluating the websites were very useful because they have
taught me to be critical in my observation and use of information. Also the
different criteria used, helped me as a teacher to look beyond the information
given and to go more in-depth to learn more about the criteria used for evaluating
each site found.
Module 3: Activity 9
Reflection on activity 9
This activity was based on criteria
used to evaluate websites. There were four criteria used in the activity and
each one serve a purpose. The websites require much reading, evaluation and understanding
because they were evaluated on the purpose, accuracy, creditability and bias.
This exercise has taught me how to better recognize and understand websites
with authentic information and what to look for in each website.I can now use my gained knowledge to critique a wide range of websites found when doing my research.
Thursday, 16 May 2013
Module 3: Activity 8
This activity was very easy to
construct with the knowledge gained from doing all of the other activities and
assignments from this module. Using spreadsheet in the lesson is a good way to
grab students’ attention and at the same time get students actively involved in
the lesson. Creating tables, charts/
graphs in excel has now become more of a fun activity than a challenge and with the help of
the teacher students will become more comfortable constructing their very own
spreadsheet. This software also helps them to organize, calculate, analyze and present
data collected with confidence. Also the group’s collaboration in the drop box is very helpful because group members share their lesson plans and ideas
with each other and build on each other strengths and weaknesses.
Moduke 3: Activity 7
This activity was based on the
use of spreadsheet where teachers’ aim to get students to learn how to create
charts/ graphs. The just-in-time approach to learning is also very helpful;
this is where tools and skills are introduced for relevant activity. I know
students in Grade 5 and 6 are going to benefit greatly from this software
program because they have to use spreadsheet to organize, calculate, analyze
and present data for their school projects and other activities. I also enjoyed
the group discussion where many ideas are shared among teachers. Each day I am gaining
more knowledge and my understanding to the different software programs is
indeed broadening.
Wednesday, 15 May 2013
Module 3: Reflection on assignment 1
I am happy to have gotten back my assignment with a good
grade. Looking back at the steps I took to the get the assignment completed was
not difficult but time consuming. However, I can say that hard work does bring
success. As Educators, we sometimes forget the roles that we have to play to
bring about learning in the classroom and in everyday life. This assignment has reminded me of the seven roles and how importance each one is in helping our
children to succeed. The mediator, the interpreter and designer of
learning programmes and materials, the leader, the scholar,
researcher and lifelong learners, community, citizenship and pastoral,
the assessor and the learning area/ subject specialist.
I
mostly like the role of the mediator because my role as a mediator is to understand the needs
of my students, acknowledge how learning environment may affect them and find
ways and means to solve whatever problems they may encounter. At times it may seem
very difficult to accomplish but this course has taught me that anything is
possible with the right frame of mind. Hence, I will help my students organize their thought processes and
channel them in a meaningful way whenever I see failure written on their faces.
Being better prepared will help me as a teacher to meet the needs of my
students and in the long run they will be better equipped with the knowledge
gained from it.
Also the role of an assessor is very
important because his/ her job is to identify the needs of the learners, planning
and designing learning programs, tracking learners’ progress and diagnosing and
implementing new methods. Not only should educators monitor the learning
patterns of their learners but also their own teaching patterns because
learners are affected by teaching methods as well as classroom environments and
other factors. Therefore, as an assessor my objective is to be on cue with my
students performance, noting that assessment is an essential feature of
teaching and learning and should continuously be integrated into the teaching
and learning process.
Friday, 3 May 2013
Reflection on Module 3 (Activity 5)
Activity
5 had much application software to choose from. I like the work that my
colleagues presented, especially the newsletter article by Maxim and Chad and
the video clipping by Elicia. As for myself, I did something that I was
comfortable with. I use Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Publisher
to design and plan my activities. Although I use those software programs and
enjoyed planning activities with them I would like to try the newspaper article
and the video clipping because they had my interest. I am learning so much and
I am filled with ideas of what to do in the classroom when teaching ICT.
Reflection on module 3 (activity 4)
Using excel to do activity 4 emanates
interest. I always use it to prepare my class record but never master all of
its functions properly because of lack of practice. However, while doing the
activity I have learnt some new additional information which I had never used
before, like the “COUNTIF”
function which looks at a specified range; for example, (G5 to G15) the COUNTIF will check each
cell in the range against the criterion given after the comma ">79.5%".
The brackets and comma are very important. The quote marks ("") are
necessary because it has specified more than just a number on its own. Example,
=COUNTIF (L5:L15,">79.5
%")
The “=IF” function
was not new to me because I use it constantly when preparing my class record. This
function can be used to record the students’ competence or not competence, pass
or fail. For example, =IF (L5>40%;"competent";"working
towards competence")
This exercise has improved my knowledge and
ability to use many of the features in spread sheet comfortably. I really like
the outline and the steps that were given, which helped excel users and beginners
in the activity. I can definitely say I am better able to prepare class records
as part of my evaluation and assessment method.
Monday, 29 April 2013
Module 3: Reflection on Activity 3
I
find Activity 3 to be a very simple exercise. In part one of exercise 3, word
processor software was used and I enjoyed using it to construct activities for my
students to do through the use of certain applications. I also liked the different samples
of activities that were done by the other teachers. It was inspiring
for me and I got the opportunity to see their work represented through emails,
dropbox, or goggle drive. Through the group's collaboration we are able to
build on each other strengths and weaknesses and also help each other along the
way.
The
lesson plan in part 2 of exercise 3 was easy for me because of the numerous
lessons I have to plan per week. However, incorporating ICT into lessons will
have to be a must, for ICT helps students of mixed abilities to learn
better. As teachers we should be
aiming to provide learning experiences for our pupils that ultimately lead them to the development of skills and attitudes that equip them to become
independent lifelong learners, effective collaborators, efficient workers and capable
communicators. I see ICT as a powerful learning tool that, in the hands of
confident, capable and creative teachers, can greatly enhance many teaching and
learning situations. Effective use of ICT across the curriculum results
in significantly increased levels of pupil engagement which in turn raises
levels of attainment, particularly with struggling learners.
Wednesday, 24 April 2013
Reflection on Module 3: (Activity 2)
This activity was not difficult to construct and did not present a challenge, since we are accustomed doing lesson plans and worksheet as part of our teaching/ learning activities. However, the worksheet will help me in my assessment with the students when teaching.
Reflection on Module 3 (activity1)
I find activity 1 was easy to manipulate because we had on sight instruction from our tutor. I was able to complete the activities without difficulty. However, because of my confidence I did not look over my work and I made a few errors on the assessment form. This has taught me a valuable lesson and in future I will make sure to double check before posting.
Saturday, 13 April 2013
Reflection on activity 9: STaR Chart
I
find the STaR Chart very relevant. I was able to use it to assess my school’s
technology and readiness framework. As compared to the STaR Chart my school is basically
at the development tech stage. At this stage the basics have been mastered and we
are now at a more developed stage. However, we are at the advanced stage with hardware
and connectivity because the school has enough computers to accommodate a 5:1
ratio among students to computers.
The
STaR Chart was very useful because when it was compared with my school, it gave a
thorough evaluation of the level at which my school is functioning with ICT readiness. The STaR Chart was a guide use to show where we are as a school in terms of ICT and where we
can be in tomorrow’s classroom. However, the chart did not give pointer as to
how the school can be developed to the advance stage. Therefore, the parents,
teachers and students can work together to develop the advance stage of ICT
school readiness and this in turn will assit in reaching a wider cross-section of the community.
Thursday, 11 April 2013
· Reflection on activity 8
This activity
it mainly focussed on teaching spaces. Although
it is not entirely necessary to wait for ICT to examine our teaching practices,
the use of ICT in the classroom could help us to be more effective and better
prepare in our teaching and learning practices, assessments whether formative
or summative and evaluating our teaching spaces. It is best that teachers
arrange their classrooms in such a way to integrate ICT and to facilitate changes.
Thinking differently about teaching spaces, the arrival of even one computer in
the classroom can have a profound effect on the way students learn and the way
the classroom operates as compared to the traditional setting where the lecture
method was mainly used. When students have a classroom that is ICT friendly it
motivates them to learn and at the same time creates an atmosphere conducive
for learning. Although the classroom spaces we operate in were designed to
reflect the traditional, transmissive style of curriculum delivery we can still
create space in the classroom for computers, projector, printer, internet
access and for group work which will help to initiate a rethinking process by
the teacher, leading him/her to re-evaluate how classroom activities and
learning experiences work best. Also the anytime, anywhere access to
information enables students to engage directly with expert sources when they
are needed and the sight, sound, touch experience becomes a powerful motivator
in learning.
I am now challenged
to go back to my school to create my ideal classroom space and I know it will
be a gain for everyone!
Reflection on Assignment 2
When asked to choose one of the lesson from the list of lessons to do a critical review, I was not sure where to begin. However, I chose one from the language aspect and broke it down to to get my analysis. First I looked at the assessment criteria to see which section earns the most marks. After that I got my lesson and did a thorough evaluation on it. I was then able to answer each statement based on my findings in the lesson plan. I use my knowledge gained from assignment 1 to build on my assessment and it had helped to answer each segment of the assignment beautifully. The lesson itself had lots of integration and the use of the mind mapping, word processing and power-point presentation were integrated into the lesson. It was very effective for the teacher to incorporate those methods into the lesson because it helped to enhance learning and students were able to do lots on hands on activities with the computer and the different software programmes used.
The assignment activity helped me a lot as a teacher and now I can use some, if not all of these ICT teaching strategies when planning my lessons. I can proudly say I am learning and loving ICT more and more each day!
Sunday, 7 April 2013
Reflection on activity 7
Doing the activity using
PowerPoint presentation was very delightful for me as I use PowerPoint presentation
in delivering my lessons on a regular basis. However, I find the reading on
activity 7 to be quite a lot and most of it was not really needed for the
activity presented. What caught my interest though while reading was the part
where changes occurred in stages that ACOT has labeled; for example: Entry, Adoption, Adaptation, Appropriation,
and Invention?
In order to really explain the
stages we tackled them in sections, with Entry being the first section. It is
important to note that in this stage, instructional technology had already
existed, which was text-based with common tools and traditional schooling was
firmly in place. ACOT teachers began with little, if any experience using
technology, yet most were experienced users of traditional methods and materials.
As the teachers moved through these stages, traditional methods were first
strengthened by technology and then gradually replaced by more active and
engaging learning experiences. The second stage was the Adoption stage. In this
stage, the teachers tried to accommodate the new technology, encountering challenges,
which were thought to have had an effect on the students’ performance within
the classroom; however, the adoption stage did not show an increase or a
decrease in students’ performances. It also resulted in student attendance
rates being up and reports of discipline problems in the ACOT classrooms were
zero to few. The use of ICT has basically changed their classroom environments and
they spent most of their time establishing order and learning to use the
equipment.
I am in agreement that implementing
change in education must include changing teachers’ practices beliefs. This
does not mean abandoning beliefs but gradually replacing them with more
relevant beliefs shaped by experiences in an altered context. And it is this
altered context that may make the difference. When teachers work with colleagues
and administrators who actively support fundamental change, there are far
greater opportunities for successful growth of new beliefs and practices. Teachers
deeply hold traditional beliefs about schooling and the underlying of the institution’s
resistance to change. In order to successfully change a teacher’s practice
belief, I must start within the classroom, using the ACOT development stages.
This method introduces teachers to the ACOT program and gradually makes the teachers,
as well as the students more comfortable with the understanding of technology.
Saturday, 6 April 2013
Reflection on Assignment 1
As I looked back on assignment 1 and the many challenges that were faced completing it, I can now say that through trial and errors I have learnt a great deal. The part of the assignment that I liked the most was the survey section where I had to formulate my statements around my hypothesis and then distribute them to the primary schools chosen. All of the teachers contributed positively in answering the Statements and that was a plus on my side. I like the assignment activity a lot even though it was a challenge, I have learnt things that I had forgotten. However, I had some difficulty with analysing the data thoroughly and that part was a learning process for me. Although I analysed it according to the requirements it wasn't sufficient enough and therefore cost me some point. I am proud to say that this ICT course is indeed enhancing my learning skills as a teacher.
As I looked back on assignment 1 and the many challenges that were faced completing it, I can now say that through trial and errors I have learnt a great deal. The part of the assignment that I liked the most was the survey section where I had to formulate my statements around my hypothesis and then distribute them to the primary schools chosen. All of the teachers contributed positively in answering the Statements and that was a plus on my side. I like the assignment activity a lot even though it was a challenge, I have learnt things that I had forgotten. However, I had some difficulty with analysing the data thoroughly and that part was a learning process for me. Although I analysed it according to the requirements it wasn't sufficient enough and therefore cost me some point. I am proud to say that this ICT course is indeed enhancing my learning skills as a teacher.
Reflection on activity six
I
enjoy the reading done by Mr. Wheeler's on the role of the teacher. I
think the article is very informative and it helps to prepare us in the field
of ICT (in the classroom and our everyday lives). What stands out most to me in
the article is his abstract statement where he mentioned 'teachers need to
adapt to change if they are to survive and keep pace with new methods and
technologies.’ This is so true because in a developing world like this where
technology is on the rampage we have to be prepared. I know too many teachers
are comfortable with their old teaching practice and do not see ICT as a better
method as compared to their way of teaching and hence it is difficult to get
them to think differently where ICT is concern. I know I am one of those
teachers who use to complain a lot about too much work, but now I am learning
to appreciate the use of technology in my everyday situation/ experiences and
what it can do for me especially in my teaching and learning practice. As
teachers we need to upgrade ourselves to the use of ICT skills and we will be
better able to present and deliver our lessons effectively and in turn the
students will benefit greatly because we are their guides. I know with the
right attitude toward ICT integration we can make teaching and learning a very
successful one.
Monday, 25 March 2013
Reflection on Activity 5
In this activity I have gained
more insight on computer literacy and the integrated approach. At first I
thought as long as persons know how to operate the computer they were considered
computer literate. I was so wrong! I am more aware of what computer literacy is
right now. It’s knowing about the history
of the computer, its functions (how the computer works, its hardware and software,
maintenance and being able to manage programs easily). However, the integrated approach
is not separated by itself, it is used by learners to gain computer literacy
where students acquire computer skills in a practical or meaningful way, like
using the computer to solve problems and also construct their own knowledge through
hands on activities and through real life experience.
Even though I do not see myself
as computer literate I am going to use the integrated approach to enhance my teaching
and learning skills so I can be better equip to deal with the challenges being
face in the classroom. Also acquiring more knowledge using the integrated
approach will definitely help me to be more computer literate. Therefore, the integrated approach should
be included in schools' curriculum at all times as a guide to help teachers and students in the teaching and learning.
Thursday, 14 March 2013
Reflection on Activity 4
I enjoyed the readings on both Vygotsky and
Dr. Mitra. I think they were both fabulous pieces of work and will benefit
the way we teach our students. I have gained more knowledge on the spontaneous
learning strategy and how students actively construct their own knowledge.
However, we as teachers have to incorporate these strategies in our teaching
and learning situation to help our students reach their goals and
objectives. Although, students go about experimenting, discovering
and exploring to find answers, we as teachers must be there to guide, support
and give feedback where necessary. We must also link what they know
to what is being taught in the classroom and the students understanding will
develop more quickly.
This ICT integration
course is definitely a challenge, one I am happy to be doing. Constant research
and insight to so many different ways of integrating ICT in the
teaching and learning in schools will allow me to be more effective and
efficient in teaching and delivering of my lessons. In today’s society students
are constantly interacting with different ICT tools. Therefore,
teachers need to motivate them to use these tools effectively and efficiently
to improve their learning skills.
Tuesday, 12 March 2013
Self -Activity 4:
List of skills and behaviours students learn prior on entering school.
1. A child on entering school may have learnt various things like:
List of skills and behaviours students learn prior on entering school.
1. A child on entering school may have learnt various things like:
- Speaking his/her home language and knowing the names of objects
- Being able to identify signs and symbols use in his/ her surrounding.
- Use sound to interpret the name from which it comes from (e.g. barking, the child interprets it to the sound of a dog.)
- Wash and clothe himself/ herself without help.
- Run and play with a ball
- Use his / her motor skills to scribble on paper
- Recognize size and shape and can group them to an object.
- Learn to use a range of technologies like playing games on the computer, turning on and off the television and switching between channels and so on.
2. How has the child learnt these things?
The child may have learnt these things :
- Through everyday activities and experiences
- Through socialization ( interacting with peers and with others)
- Through the media (television shows)
- Through observation what goes on in his/ her surrounding and likewise adapt to doing them.
- Through trial and errors
Monday, 11 March 2013
Reflection on Activity
Three
This
activity helps me to focus on the many different approaches teachers have to
use when teaching. We cannot use the same approach when we are dealing with
mixed ability students. Hence, we have to put in place the right planning and
preparation when teaching ICT.
ICT enables learners to function effectively in
a technological world; it also provides an opportunity where learners seek way
to improve the processing of information to use in their everyday lives. Some
students learn better in school with computer- based technologies while some
may find it a challenge. We as teachers need to be trained so we can implement
what we have learnt in the classroom to help students better understand the
concept of ICT and its uses.
This
course is not about competition and who is more skilled than whom. It is about
sharing, collaborating, team work, communication and growing as a team.
When I read through the article, I focused on the roles of learners and I
have learnt so much. Through group participation, active engagement and frequent
interaction and feed backs more effective learning had taken place.
Some
of my colleagues and I guided each other when we were unsure about something
and through our interaction I have grown as a teacher. Therefore, we need to
give the same support to our students in the classroom and they too will grow
and learn.
I
like the mindmeister collaboration mind mapping. It reminded me of a concept
map where many different ideas came out from a topic. This activity can be use
with the students in my class where they can work and collaborate whatever
ideas they have on a given topic.
Thursday, 7 March 2013
Reflection: Activity one
After
reflecting on the topic in activity one, I can truly say that it is not
impossible for a developing nation to compete with developed nations in the
field of ICT as long as appropriate training is given to educators and students.
Our
first priority must be planning and preparing. If we plan and prepare ourselves
in the field of ICT, we will have a better understanding of what is to be done
and how to get it done. We can also take the knowledge we gained from our
training sessions to educate the students in our schools. In most schools here
in St.Vincent, we have a computer lap with several computers and
projectors. We also have internet access in all primary and secondary
schools where information can be easily accessed at any time. There is also the
one net-book per child which the government has given to each student.
Therefore, no child can be left behind if we carry out our objectives
effectively and efficiently. These factors contribute to our nation being on
par with other developed nations in the field of ICT.
Wednesday, 6 March 2013
Two generation of teachers differences in attitudes towards ICT,
Reflection
on activity two
After
reading through the article on “Two generations of teachers differences in
attitudes towards ICT," by Silvia Ferrero. I now have a new perception of
how I see older teachers. Before I used to look at them as not being capable or
equipped enough to learn everything they need to know in ICT. I had believed
that the younger teachers were the ones with the drive and enthusiasm to
perform the task using the necessary skills and knowledge they have learnt in
ICT training and courses.
However,
this article has taught me to have an open mind and to think critically. I believe that a lack of professional and technical
assistance impedes the progress of the older teachers who are sometimes held to
ransom by the more computer literate younger teachers. Research has shown with
training and expertise in the ICT skills, older teachers are not as fearful and
illiterate as I had thought. Instead they show perseverance and willingness to excel.
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