The Blue Nowhere #2

Phate's reflection on his school days can provide all teachers with a much needed lesson that should never be forgotten. Not every child possesses the capabilities of a social icon, and the lack of typical social graces are by no means an indication of a child's worth or intelligence. Phate eventually proved to own an intellect beyond question, and learned to cope by posing as various personalities. This coping mechanism (referred to as social engineering) eventually became a vital component of his personality, and his criminal procedures.
Social engineering is prevalent in our schools today. It is not uncommoon to encounter students, who cannot afford lunch or schools or supplies, dressed in glitzy bling and $70 baggy jeans.
As educators it is vital that we look beyond social engineering survival mechanisms. We must not forget that providing students with the necessary support to develop as individuals is more crucial than testing numbers and standardized test scores.

Is Technology Just for Boys?

This article is about the different perspectives girls and boys have regarding technology. The article suggests that boys are more interested in how technology works and girls are interested in how it can be used. Sherry Turkle feels that elementary educators must include technology and especially increase technology "fluency" in girls. Software that allows students to be active in building and designing may aid in this. I think it is very important for girls to have the same opportunities as boys. It is my job as a teacher to encourage and provide learning opportunities in technology for both boys and girls.

The Blue Nowhere #1

The Blue Nowhere begins with typical "good guy" "bad guy" tensions and conflicts. However, as the story progresses it employs a parallel I found most interesting.
Often, we as educators tend to overlook our student's schema regarding various topics. We assume that our mere existence and life experience override any possible contributions our students may have to offer regarding our classrooms. Much the same, in the story, the police were reluctant to admit that Gillette, a convicted hacker could or should be permitted or capable in assisting their investigation.
Who of us have not had the situation occur when a student was able to help us out of a jam? I am certain this has occurred for many of us whether it be in relating subject material to a lower functioning student, or assisting us with a technical issue in the classroom. Though we may be reluctant at first to accept their expertise, we are often grateful for it once the issue at hand is resolved.
As in our classrooms, the detectives were resistant in accepting the assistance Gillette offered. However, as the story progresses they actually become dependant and perhaps grateful.

Larry Magid: Keeping Kids Safe On-Line

Larry Magid is the editor in chief of the Web sites SafeKids.com and SafeTeens.com. These sites give kids and teens guidance on how to stay safe online and provide resources for parents as well. This article discusses Magid's views of on-line safety for kids. Magid believes that the Internet is a very valuable tool, but kids need to be taught how to use it properly. Magid believes that blocking devices are not effective because kids find ways to get around them anyway. He believes that today, the Internet is a necessity and kids need to be exposed to it, but, at the same time, taught how to be a good on-line citizen. Magid also feels that controlling what kids see on the Internet is up to the parents' discretion. I agree with Larry Magid's views. These days, there is not getting away from the Internet. Students need to know how to safely use it to benefit his/her learning. It is up to the parents to control what they are exposed to until the student is old enough or responsible enough to make his/her own decisions. As teachers we have to make sure our students have a good foundation of knowledge about the Internet to fall back on so they can make good decisions.

Assistive Technology Benefits All Students

This article discusses what assistive technology is and how it benefits students according to Steve Timmer, the founder of Premier Assistive Technology. Assistive technology is any software or hardware designed to make life easier for someone with any physical or learning disabilities. Steven Timmer emphasized the importance of meeting the needs of both struggling students and those without a "label" who just need a little extra push. I believe assistive technology has a very important place in the classroom today! The programs seem to be easy to use and have proven to be successful.

ISTE Rules

This is my third year of teaching and my first year in the district. I didn't even know these NETS standards existed. After reading them, I feel that I am capable of using and abiding by them in my classroom. My students are proficient in the use of technology and (I'm sure) know more than they show me in the classroom. I feel that I can do a lot more in integrating technology as far a planning units that include technology to maximize student learning. I do however, use technology for assessment and evaluation, especially with Accelerated Math. My students and all students really need to understand the social, legal, and human issues in technology. I think this will be a good thing to put into my "beginning of the year" unit.

First Posting

This is for my MAED class called Issues and Ethics of Technology. I hope I did everything correctly! This is my very first time doing anything like this.