Blog 3 Response - Technology infused classroom

     I have multiple thoughts on what I think a technology infused classroom should like. First, the actual physical plays an important role and should reflect a clean and professional setting. To achieve this it should have a carpeted floor, much like a real office work environment, and well-sized individual workstations for the students – the overcrowded computer tables that students share in pairs are outdated, ineffective, and inefficient. I currently have no control over the actual look of my classroom, but my plan is to use my laptop cart that I got based on a grant I wrote last year.  I have established well-structured procedures and policies for my students to follow when they use the laptops to keep the neat, clean, and in good shape for years to come. My classroom almost always has some sort of technology infused into the lesson or unit we are currently doing, as this teaches and enforces computer and digital literacy as well as keeps the lessons fun and engaging for the learners. I seek online resources and forums to keep current with my knowledge and skills, as to not get stale. This type of content changes and evolves rapidly, so it is important o keep up to date with current literature and research. 

Blog 2 Response - Visual literacy and the use of Internet

Visual literacy and the use of Internet can impact the teaching and learning process by making it more authentic, real-world, and more up-to-date than ever before. For example, students can now collaborate with other students or even professionals from around the world! In addition, they have access to more web-based applications and software that can teach them skills and knowledge they couldn’t otherwise learn, such as coding and software design. Some visual thinking strategies I would like to use in my classroom include the use of video tutorials. For example, I do a lot of software units in my class, and each day builds upon the previous. Due to absences, it became stressful to re-do yesterday’s lesson every day for the few kids who missed it due to illness, a music lesson, or travel. Student absences are becoming an issue with schools across America. More than ever, kids miss more and more school. Check out this info graphic to get an idea of how bad the problem is becoming.

Now with videos, they can log on and go catch up very easily. This also helps the kids who need frequent reminders as they can go re-watch them as they need. I want the Internet to act as a tool and resource, not quite something I rely on to exploit the kids or take over my facilitative role. I want it to supplement my teaching and their learning. Below is an example of one of my video tutorials. Let me know what you think!