Reflective Blog #2

These are some articles on technology used in classrooms that I found informative for any science teacher.

Cavanagh, S. (2009). Web Connects K-12 Students with Scientists. Education Week, 29(11), 12-13.
            Retrieved February 25, 2010 from EBSCO Host Academic Search Complete.

Technology is being used effectively, by bringing together students in K-12 and scientists, in a live webinar. The article describes the topic of H1N1 flu pandemic as it was presented to exceptional students. Two scientists from John Hopkins University presented information in an entertaining way that so captured the attention of their audience that questions and comments poured in. One student from Auburn High School in Rockford, Illinois, commented favorably on this medium for education.

Putman, S.; Kingsley, T. (2009). The Atoms Family: Using Podcasts to Enhance the Development of
          Science Vocabulary. The Reading Teacher, 63(2), 100-108. Retrieved February 25, 2010 from
          EBSCO Host Academic Search Complete.

Putman is a teacher at Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, and Kingsley is a fifth-grade teacher at Sand Creek Intermediate School in Fishers, Indiana. They conducted experiments that revealed how podcasts accessed outside of school were useful in reviewing and strengthening science vocabulary skills.  Using creative and entertaining activities, these podcasts were enthusiastically received by all ages.

Qian, Y. (2009). 3D Multi-User Virtual Environments: Promising Directions for Science Education.
          Science Educator, 18(2), 25-29. Retrieved February 25, 2010 from EBSCO Host Academic
          Search Complete.

Dr. Qian is an assistant professor in the School of Leadership Studies at St. Thomas University. She teaches and writes articles on recent learning technologies. Aware of how children learn and play with new game media, she encourages discussion and suggests the use of virtual environments in science education.

Taylor, H. (2010). Teaching in Any Century. Connect Magazine, 23(3), 7-9. Retrieved February 25,
          2010 from EBSCO Host Academic Search Complete.

Heather Taylor began as a teacher in  multi-age classes in Vermont before her present position as editor of Connect Magazine. Taylor outlines four areas that are often spoken about when defining 21st century skills. They are: using digital technology to collect and anylize data, thinking and solving problems creatively, having skills in core areas of education (e.g. math, science, language, history, and the arts), and being able to work collaboratively to produce ideas or a product. However, she regrets that the emphasis for acquiring these skills is to compete in a global economy rather than education for all.

Yoder, M. (2009). S'Cool Tools: 5 Great Tools to Perk Up Your Classroom and Engage Your Students.
          Learning and Leading with Technology, 1(11), 12-15. Retrieved February 25, 2010 from
          EBSCO Host Academic Search Complete.

Maureen Yoder teaches a course in Emerging Technologies that shows ways to promote imagination and creativity . She found products that use software in Lego Robotics, interactive learning centers, virtual environments, and a Google Apps site for worldwide teacher collaboration. (The prices are listed and may appear daunting, but educational grants might be a possibility.)