Storybird

Sample - Daniel to the Rescue
Daniel To the Rescue by jendelucabrown on Storybird

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Google Docs Reflection

Google docs is absolutely amazing for both students and teachers!!!   The benefits of using Google docs seem endless while I can only think of one drawback.  You have to be connected in order to use it, and some of my students still do not have a computer, Iphone, etc.  I really don't see this at too problematic because these kids have to make other arrangements to complete assignments anyway.  When they have a project or paper they already must use the library or a friend's computer.  Now they don't have to even buy a flash drive to save their work, it's done automatically for them...I guess this drawback also has some benefits too. 

As I think about the benefits of Google docs, my list keeps going on and on.  Benefits for students include:

• access files anywhere with the Internet
• no software to download
• work is saved automatically
• makes group work and peer editing easy
• helps students stay organized
• group work can be done even if the kids cannot meet together
• students can work at their own pace on their own time
• no problem with different software at home than at school

There are also many benefits for teachers including:

• collaboration on lesson plans, tests, etc.
• share files with fellow teachers
• publish announcements and assignments
• monitor students work before they are finished, offer suggestions for improvement
• you can easily see who contributed to group work

Anyway, like I said before - Google docs is AMAZING!!!  I am a huge fan and will be getting my kids to use this:)

DNA Extraction Lesson Plan (Google Docs)

Check out my lesson plan on Google docs here

Google Doc Lesson Plan

Here is our lesson.

Test Hyperlink

Check out my test Google doc here.

20 Things Homework

I have frequently heard the words malware and phishing, but up to this point I honestly had no idea what they meant.   I now know that a malware attack happens when corrupt software takes over a computer in order to spread the virus.  A computer can actually then be controlled by the "bad guy" and then used to spread the virus.  A phishing attack would steal your login and password, allowing the "bad guy" to control email and other accounts.  I am sure most people are like me and use the same password for almost everything...time to set new passwords:) 

The information on cloud computing was the most interesting part of the reading.  I think that this would be a huge asset to my teaching, but I am afraid that our district will continue to lag behind the times when it comes to technology.  Our science classrooms only have 6 computers for 24-30 kids.  I have not used them as much as I'd like to because it is difficult for 5 teenagers to crowd around the screen.  Also, they are a few years old and many of the current interactive biology programs will not run properly. 

My district made it's last technology plan in April of 2009 (it will be up for review in spring of 2012.)   In the past a technology plan like this made a lot of sense because updating technology was usually very costly.   Now much of the current software can be run through "the cloud" or is inexpensive/free.  I think schools should stop continually replacing old computers and start to use the cloud.  This would give us more flexibility to use a desktop compter, a laptop, and iPad, or even an iphone-which many students already own.  The district would also save money by reducing the amount of technical support staff needed.  Hopefully this will catch on in the education world sooner rather than later!     

  

first day of class