Wendi+W


 * Day 1 Morning

What are your feelings about video games in general?

I realize that there are many people who feel that those who play video games spend too much time in front of the tv, get lost in it, don't get enough outside time, etc. I feel that there are many positive associations with video games as well. I feel that that the hand eye coordination that is necessary to be successful is critical. I also believe that children as well as adults get alot of good mental/brain exercise, I am not sure of course what it does brain wise, but I do feel that they are good concentration exercises. They are also just good plain fun, and a great way to pass the time.

What are your feelings about video games as learning tools?

I feel that educators today really do have to compete with video games as well as all the other electronic devices that captivate children's attention. I feel I am always trying to find a new game or fun exercise in my math class. How awesome would it be to be able to combine both video games and subject matter. I think the concentration level and the level of engagement with video games would be very benificial to learning!!

Day 1 Midday

__What brings you here/why are you here?__

I am excited about the prospect of developing something that is educational and entertaining. The money and laptop are also nice perks.

What are you excited about?

I am excited to be able to construct a game, something that will help learning while being fun at the same time, also excited about the money, the laptop, and even the t-shirt and CEU's!

What are you concerned about?

I hope I can make one fun enough for the children. I know it will not be the same as the "big video games" but I really hope I can be creative and I also am concerned I can teach the children how to play it, hopefully without any internet snafus.

Shut down/power off

I feel that we have accomplished alot on this first day. We of course still have a ways to go. I hope everyone begins to understand we are a all a little part of a big learning group, and to be patient. I still feel that we have a chance to all be successful, with patience!

Day 2 Morning

How do you currently use technology in your classroom?

I visit the computer lab once a week to take the kids to study island, a computerized game that allows them to practice math problems while playing games. I also use various internet sites such as brainpop, and other sites to help teach different concepts. I also like to have the kids create powerpoints to help learn concepts. I use an Accelerated Math program that allows the kids to work problems on paper and scan an answer sheet for immediate feedback.

Day 2 Midday How does the technology you currently use enhance your student's learning and your teaching? How do you know?

I feel that the technology definitely positively enhances learning because it enhances my teaching. The students are much more engaged with whatever we are doing when technology is present. The most boring work can be made interesting when technology is applied. I know this because of their enthusiasm and I can tell on written assignments that there is a greater retention of knowledge. The students appear to be much more motivated, especially when they are allowed to be involved in the creation of technology processes. These are kids that are already technologically savvy when they come to us, we are just expanding on that and using it to build on.

Day 2 Shut down/power off I feel much better about today's ventures. Once I got my computer issues settled, I feel a little more confident. Some of my commands have been successful which has been nice! I am looking forward to tomorrow!

Day 3 Morning Describe your teaching style I try to vary my teaching up as much as possible. I typically do alot of lecture style, me demonstrating, students taking notes, working problems with me, etc. I also go to the computer lab to practice problems, cooperative group learning, games, etc.

Day 3 Midday Describe how your students learn best?

My kids learn best definitely by doing. When I give problems that they copy down and practice, they somewhat get it, but best retention occurs when they hook on to prior knowledge. They do better when they can talk it out, explain to others, teach to others, they do best when they can talk about it, which is sometimes hard for teachers to do! They learn best to when I allow them to do projects, choice projects which allows them show what they know. They use written, musical, kinesthic, oral, facets of the brain with their projects.

Day 3 Shutdown/Poweroff ARGGGGGGGGG!!!!! A little frustration, I am not sure if I accomplished anything. I know what I want to do, but I get frustrated a little too easy. I am trying, I'm sure I will have a different outlook in the morning!

Day 4 What do you well when connecting with your students? Do you have any concerns about connecting. Connecting is something that I tend to do well. I feel that what I lack in math/science knowledge, teaching ability, etc. I make up with connectivity. I try to get to know the kids on an individual basis, give good call homes, go to baseball games, really take an interest in them as individuals. I try to incorporate alot of humor as well. I try to really remember what it is like to a sixth grader. I don't really have any concerns about connecting.

Day 4 Midday What interests you about video games in your teacing. I see it as a great way to get kids to practice newly found information. I love to see them get excited with learning, and video games help them tie learning into fun. A great way for learning to occur!

Day 4 Shut down/ power off I feel much better about today's session, for me personally speaking that is. I was excited to learn how to incorporate sound, and initiate a semi story line, although it was not very educational! There were not as many kinks for me personally, I am excited about the new computer!

Day 5 Why do you think this video will help you connect to your students?**