Multimedia

What are the benefits of using multimedia in the classroom? Are there any drawbacks/problems with using multimedia? What are some specific ways you might use multimedia in your classroom?

The use of multimedia in the classroom is as commom to students as having a desk. They are probably more up to date on the use of all the multimedia tools than teachers. To deprive out students of their use would be a terrible injustice. Our world depends on the capabilities of multimedia. I feel as teachers we need to keep our students current on what is available to them. One of the main problelms is the cost of getting the multimedia tools into our classrooms, and the dollars it takes to keep our teachers trained with all the new and changing technology. Another drawback are the limitations some students suffer because of not having access to the multimedia at home. I do not feel teachers should require homework that involves their use at home. I think to be fair, students should be allotted time in the classroom to do their assignments. I plan to use multimedia in my classroom. Students enjoy doing research on the internet, using powerpoints, graphing and making charts. These experiences in our classrooms will make a better prepared student for the future.

What are the advantages of using the Internet in our classrooms? In what ways might it be used? Are there any concerns or problems with using the Internet? How can these problems be overcome?

The Internet is a great source of information. Researching a certain subject not only gives the student tons of information, but teaches them how to manuever on the internet and filter the important facts that are needed.
Students should be monitored while surfing the internet. Students will be more apt to wonder off task if not monitored. When students are aware of being watched it solves alot of problems.

Blogs in School

Can blogs be beneficial in an elementary/middle/high school setting? How are they being used in these settings? Do you see any problems or concerns with using them in any of these settings? What do schools need to be concerned about? What might parents be concerned about? If the school you work in will allow it, will you use or consider using blogs with your students?

I can see using blogs in high school might be beneficial. I think it would take alot of time and monitoring by the teacher to make it work and be kept clean. I don't think blogs should be used in elementary or middle school. I feel students at this age are not old enough to take on the this kind of responsibility.

High school students could use this as a way of journal writing, again with close monitoring by the teacher.

I feel students of all ages are more proned to say something malicious or cruel if they are not face to face with another person. They do not feel accountable for their actions or words. This should be a concern of all schools using blogs as well as the security of the students. I think this would be the main concerns of parents also.

I hope to teach elementary so I don't think I will use blogs in my classroom. The concerns stated above are serious,and can have devasting affects on students. I think it is an extra worry that can be excluded by not using them. I do not want to be closed minded about it, I can change my mind if it is proven to be effective and useful. Our school doesn't allow the use of blogging, so right know it's not an option.

Behaviorist Theory

I believe the Behaviorist Theory fits the human development best. I think we are conditioned from the earliest stages in life that molds our behavior. Even as adults we are conditioned to perform or not to perform an action in order to get a positive response. Students want to be praised and accepted by their teachers and peers. We show them our approval by our response to their actions. This conditions students to behave in an acceptable manner. Students as well as adults function better when we have routine, stability and acceptance in our lives. This repitition and stability in our lives makes us feel secure. Therefore we are conditioned to reinforce this behavior that satisfies our need for consistency and acceptance.

Introduction

Hello fellow classmates. I had such trouble last night in class trying to get set up, I didn't get to write anything. Thanks to Angela Black I am now with the program.
My name is Doris, I have three children. My oldest is Gary, (Rufus) age 34, Rachel is 27, and Hannah is 19. I'm not your typical student, I am much older than all of you, but it was important to me to finish my degree in Elementary Education. I hope to graduate in May of 2011.

About Me

Hi, my name is Doris Skaggs.