Got Frustration?

In EDUC504 we were asked to share our thoughts on the use of technology in the classroom; specifically the use of blogging. We began this activity by breaking into small groups and sharing our feelings on the topic. As people in my class know, my group took a fairly negative outlook on blogging. Unfortunately, I believe our thoughts were misinterpreted and they eventually created a whirlwind of angry comments.

Foremost, I want to apologize to Jeff. I believe our class' comments turned into attacks and forced Jeff to take a defensive stance. But, if i can speak for the class, I would like to say that EDUC504 is one of the favored courses in the program and Jeff and Liz are some of the best instructors this program has to offer. With that said, I think people felt comfortable enough around Jeff to release their frustration from the rest of the course. So again, I apologize for starting these "attacks" in class the other day.

However, I do not think we can completely sweep this idea of frustration under the rug. We all knew that this program would be difficult at times, but these difficulties should not stem from inconsistencies between teachers or a lack on information (instruction) given to students. From my multiple talks with several of my peers, a reoccurring theme arrives. People feel that they are not learning as much as they should in a graduate program, they feel at time the instructors are unprepared, in disagreement with one another, and often not in tune with the student's concerns.

In summation, take this blog as you want. Everyone has their own experience and should create their own feelings toward this program. I just hope that we can keep a positive attitude throughout this year. We will have many more ups and downs but we are in it together. So find a friend, complain a little, but don't lose sight of all the great moments we have had. This year is going to pass by so quickly, we will all head our own ways and I'm sure we will miss the moments that have come and gone.

So keep your heads up class,
keep smiling,
and don't forget...hugs!

The other day my group gave our presentation on societal changes and how that affects education. In the presentation we included the use of newer technology (Skype and Twitter). Although the use of technology provided a "WOW" factor in our presentation it also added a side of nerves. Prior to the class, these forms of technology gave us a fair amount of headaches. Initially the video did not work. Next the sound went. Twitter was confusing. It didn't take long for the snowball effect to start and for our group to start questioning our presentation structure.

Finally, the day of the presentation arrived and the technology Gods must have been on our side. Everything went smoothly. The video worked! The sound came in clear! People were able to figure out Twitter. And yes, I believe people enjoyed our presentation.

With all that said, I encourage people to consider the use of technology in their teaching. However, I recommend caution when using such imperfect systems. They can be your best friend or your worst nightmare.

Science Is Fun!

So you want to know why I think science is the best subject matter to teach. Well, I think it's because we have the best opportunity to have the most fun. Take for example the videos posted below. In the first video (below) you can watch waves as their best. Take careful notice to what happens around minute two. In the second video, available here, you can watch the popular mentos and diet coke experiment. Enjoy!

MY IDEAL CLASSROOM...I think

To be honest, I'm not sure what my ideal classroom would incorporate. Based on my previous knowledge I would enjoy having the following items:

• a projector
• an impressive sound system
  
• a large white board
• computers for all my students
• an online homework system
  

However, more important than utilizing technology I hope to have a classroom with a lot of space. As a future physics teacher I want to begin every (or at least most) class period with a demonstration that pertains to the subject matter that will be taught that day. I think demonstrations are a great way to engage students and to bring the concepts to life.