Course  Reflection

I have been inspired to learn many new technology tools and am very thankful that I took this course. I have integrated technology in my science classroom by using new technology tools, resources, and ideas that I learned in this class.  I am intrigued especially with Google hangouts, and as a teacher, enjoy and am amazed that I can chat with teachers from all around the world.  I absolutely love this accessibility with the global community, as this is such a wonderful opportunity for teachers, I feel.  Just some of the technology tools that I have used with my science classes so far include padlet, flipgrid, google posters, screenshots, virtual tours (which my students love and is a great way for students to present their projects), and skyping.  I have learned more about instagram and twitter, and am starting to feel more comfortable, and not overwhelmed, with technology tools. By taking this course, I hoped to engage my students more with alternatives to standard tests.  I have offered them an assessment of their choice.  So far students are really engaged and enjoying the project on Biomes and Symbiosis. 

A big thank you to Deb and Karen for their continued support and constant help!  Thank you for offering this course.  I have enjoyed the fact that there was not a lot of pressure, and that help was always offered and available. As a teacher, I have learned much more about how to access information easily; to collaborate on a district-wide, yet also global level; and to experiment with different types of technology tools.  As a result, I definitely became more confident with the use of these digital learning tools; and this helped me in differentiating for my students.  I also really enjoyed earning the badges – this was a fun incentive!  Thank you again for a well-thought out class that offered so many useful digital learning resources for us!

Digital Learning

I have learned a great deal from Deb Klier about Digital Learning.  I used a screencast which was really useful to make a short video showing my students the many ways they can use Quizlet when studying for quizzes and tests.  I also used Google drawing for creating Energy Pyramids that my students will fill in with text and pictures.  I also learned how to use Pixiclip and Padlet, which are great technology tools.  I think my students will gain a lot from learning about these fascinating educational tools, and that it will challenge them in science and technology!

Inside a Computer

There are many fascinating lessons on Computers. We use them everyday, but most people don't know how they really work. I found the video and descriptions very interesting and could tie in very well with my Electricity unit.  I didn't know anything about the motherboard and all that this can do within a computer! I also did not know what an app was exactly and learned that it is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks.  I also read about physically taking care of your computer.  Dust can potentially damage or even destroy parts of a computer.  I would definitely suggest that others use this site as it is very informative.

Word Cloud

I learned how to create a personal word cloud today with just inserting a few words.  Really easy and so fun to do!