Blog Post #10

"Adventures in Pencil Integration"  is a blog post by John Spencer. Below is the picture that is in his post. I think this is a humorous picture, it's like comparing a PC to a Mac. There really isn't any. The papermate is a PC. You can buy them for a cheaper rate, but they won't last long. The Ticonderogia is, of course, a Mac! It may be pricey, but it sure is worth it. I never knew much about Macs until EDM 310. After seeing how much better they are, I want one soon!

"Why Were Your Kids Playing Games?"

This is a short story about a teacher, Tom, and his principal, Mr.Brown. Tom is called into Mr.Brown's office for a talk. When Tom walks in he knows his boss isn't happy. Tom sits down and gets told that he has been playing games in his class instead of teaching. Tom jumps back quickly saying they weren't games, they were advanced simulations where students had to read different things, and reply to various students. Mr.Brown does not care what he says, it is still a game to him. Tom has kept up with technology, and was applying it to his classroom, which Mr.Brown knows nothing about.

I totally agree with Tom. I think he is doing the up to date teaching. His students have to state their own opinions to other students all over. It is a great way for students to interact. Mr.Brown needs to get educated on new technology.

"Pencil Quest"

This is a short story about John Spencer. He tells about a field trip he went on, and will always remember. His teacher called it the "Pencil Quest". The students had assigned routes they had to go to, and fill out questions about various sites. His teacher told him it's like a moving textbook. He said, he was so excited to start his adventure now looking back he's a little embarrassed.

Mr. Spencer shows how excited he was about a pencil. Now as a teacher, he says his students are excited about plogs, pen pal networks, and problem-based learning. Times sure have changed a lot. I hope when I become a teacher, students are required to blog. I like that they get to talk to people all over the world.


"Don't teach your kids this stuff. Please?"

This post is by Scott McLeod. This "link"will tell you a little more about Scott. He addresses his post to parents, teachers, administrators, and board members. He talks about people who do not want technology integrated in schools.  He states many points showing how technology is great for education. Students don't have to waste paper, they can make videos, blogs, PLNs, twitter, and much more. Scott says people worry about cyber bullying, their student/kid watching porn videos, and predators online. Some people need to realize stuff like that can happen anywhere, not only on the internet. Students need technology in their schooling for their futures. Scott tells this story with a great sense of humor.

I agree 100% with Mr.McLeod. I think if schools provide the student with devices certain sites will be blocked. That should take care of people who freak out about the things I listed above. It is a great change for education. It will also keep student's attention, instead of listening to their boring teacher lecture.