As a high school mathematics teacher, the prospect of learning new technological strategies for the classroom is very exciting to me. I'm one of those educators who preaches comprehension of "the basics"; but at the same time understands the need to ready our students for an ever-changing society. I'm hoping to gain several different strategies that will help my engage and facilitate the learning of my pupils during the next eighteen months. The only example I have of utilizing technology in my classroom would be activities provided by Texas Instruments (graphing calculator lessons). Along with aiding my classroom instruction, I'm excited to become more computer literate as an individual. I feel like I will be able to learn so much useful knowledge from not only the professors, but also from my peers.
In regards to our first classroom session, I somewhat feel like Owen Wilson from Armageddon. I'm 98% excited, and 2% scared...or maybe it's other way around. The discussion of Google Docs, blogs, and multiple browsers was fascinating because I'm not overly familiar with any of them; but also intimidating for the same reasons. However, my apprehension is somewhat subdued by the congenial nature of Dr. Loeffler and my peers. For example, when I revealed I was one of few who had never blogged before, I received a warm reception of understanding, and that was comforting. I thought it was fitting that our first class was spent discussing some of the various tools that will allow us to collaborate and express ideas collectively.
Thanks for reading my blog, I look forward to your input and comments!
Hi Jared,
ReplyDeleteI saw your comment on my blog and wanted to get back to you. I am not currently teaching math, but I did the past few years for LD students. I did not have a Smartboard, but I did have an Interwrite board. I used it almost everyday. I would put problems up on the board in the beginning of the class that the students would have to work out and then I would call four students to come up and answer the problems. What was nice about this was that I could erase the work they did after we were done and save the questions on my school drive for the future. I also did the same for daily notes. I also stored the notes from the Interwrite in the students' drive so they can access them whenever they needed too. If you have any other questions, please let me know. I am happy to help!
Hi Jared
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog. HIgh School math....... hummmm, that brings back a lot of memories for me. I like your comment about the calculators. I think I still have mine from high school.
You're right about this program being exciting! I'm just a little nervous about the work load. Hope to find some balance.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend!
Jaclyn
Hi Jared,
ReplyDeleteDo not be too concerned that you have not used a lot of the technologies from the class. Tehcnology is like any other tools. At first it seems strange to use and takes some getting used to. However soon with practice it becomes second nature. The key is to keep trying, and don't worry too much about any mistakes you might make initially (like the one where I just deleted my first reply to your post :)
IF you need any help with technology questions please let me know. I have worked with computers for many years and can help. Of course I do not have the extensive teachning background that others in class do, so I will rely on you for help with those assignments.
I look forward to working with you in the coming months.
Hi Jarad and welcome, nice job in starting off your blog and good comments to you as well! We are more than graphing calculators, though they certainly have done something great in math instruction. What tool do you think will impact your field the most?
ReplyDeleteHi Jared,
ReplyDeleteOur school has interactive calculators, however, I have not used them. Are you able to see who answers what and when? I'm feeling overwhelmed this week with the workload and also because I haven't used much of the technology we used this week. Until this class I have never read, responded to, or set up a blog. It seems like you are off to a good start.
Tammy
Hi Jared,
ReplyDeleteI can completely relate to much of what you posted in your blog so far. There are going to be a lot of firsts along the way in this coursework we're just getting started on. It really is exciting and I would say probably a little more than 2% scary! Now that you have set up your first blog, can you see yourself using something like this with your high school math students? Just curious...Good luck and I look forward to hearing more from you along the way!