Word Processor and Excel

Week 8

This week was just a reinforcement for me. But it was still an interesting time in class as we focused on the use of Word Processor and Excel.

What is Excel? This is a software program which consists of  rows and columns. With EXCEL, we identified ways in which it could be used in the classroom which were for making tables, keeping class attendance, storing grades , etc. The entire class was encouraged to do an example of a grading table and did a "mini beginner's course" in class, where we watched an instructional video showing us how to create the table and the appropriate formulas that will calculate the total average for the students' grades. This is easier to use because the teacher would not have to calculate the grades on her own which would consume more time. So this is easier and quicker to use.

 

 

A picture of the Excel software.

With Word Processor, the class was asked to write a reflection of our journey Before EDET, during EDET and after EDET. Other documents such as print screens, our Vark Learning Styles, ASSURE Lesson Plans and Checklist, etc. from the class were place in Word Processor also. We were encouraged not to leave the documents plain but to put our own personal flair to them. We coloured the backgrounds, inserted borders and even our own personal water marks. It was excited for everyone, not only the beginners but also the active Word Processor users who never created these things before.

                                      A picture of a Word Processor Document


Overall, this week was appreciated and I was glad that it happened this way because there were things that I never performed on Word before. I will definitely be using these software in my class not only for me but for my students as well.

Thought of the Week: Education is a never ending journey. The Technology Cycle.

Planning Ahead with Creativity

Week 7 (ASSURE Model and Movie Maker)

        This week's sessions were based on the ASSURE Model and using movie maker to bring the lesson alive. What is the ASSURE Model? The is a type of lesson plan which gives a detailed and outlined information on what the lesson is about and the structure in which the lesson will be brought about. It's a procedural guide for planning and delivering instruction that integrates technology and media into the teaching process.

•      A systematic approach to writing lesson plans.
•      A plan used to help teachers organize instructional procedures.
•      A plan used to help teachers do an authentic assessment of student learning.
•      A model that can be used by all presenters.   

ASSURE Abbreviation                             

A- Analyse Learners
S- State Objectives
S- Select, Modify, design Methods, Medias & Materials
U- Utilize Methods, Medias & Materials
R- Require Learner Participation
E- Evaluate and Revise

      The class participated in a group assignment, which involved making a lesson plan using the ASSURE Model and maker a video that related to the topic of the lesson using Windows Movie Maker.
My group based our lesson plan on "Careers linked to the Tourism Industry in Antigua and Barbuda"  and made a video using Movie Maker which displayed the different types of careers and the historical site etc. Each student was then asked to do an individual lesson plan  following the same methods.

     Overall these sessions have shown me that anyone can become creative and original in making and creating both a lesson plan and a video. This will enhance the lesson and stimulate an excitement and enjoyment of the students during the lesson.

Thought of the week: Be assured!!! Technology is the way to go.

Anytime! Anywhere! Anyone!

Week 6 Reflection

Our class was visited by a outside human resource who gave us a lesson based on;

1. What is a Podcast?
2. How can it be created?
3. In what ways can this be beneficial in and outside of the classroom?

What is a Podcast you may ask? 

It is a form of media (amateur) used to record auditory information that could be done anytime, anywhere or by anyone and can be taken with you in the form of a mp3 on devices such as an ipod, phone or any other appropriate device.                                                                                                                                                              

Below is a picture of the software used to record information which is called Audacity. 

How can this be used in the classroom?

A Podcast could be used to;

• Record a portion of a lesson and allow the class to listen
• Record the whole class session and give students to take home for revision or reinforcement purposes
• Record presentations in class (Keep for documentary purposes).

The class was divided into groups and were asked to create a Podcast of our own. We presented it to the class and everyone had a great time showing off their creations. Personally, it was exciting and refreshing to know that creating such is easy and fast. I will therefore continue to use this as often as possible whether in or outside of the classroom. 

Thought of the week : Taking Auditory learning to the next level. Technology Forever!

What is your learning Style?

Week 2 Reflection

This week's lesson was based on the types of Learning and Learning Styles. 

I have discovered my learning styles after filling out an online form given by the lecturer. To my surprise, I have four main learning styles and two I really dominate in.

The following was my discovery on My Learning Styles;

 In the classroom, there will be different types of learners and it is up to us as teachers to know the types of learners and the tools to use to make learning effective. This has been an eye opener.

Thought of the week: "Try to learn something about everything and everything about something"       Thomas Huxley

Week 1 Reflection

My first day of EDET was inspirational. Knowing that technology plays a major role in education in today’s world, it was refreshing to be notified that a course like EDET is available which focuses on ways to involve technology in our classrooms.

What Is Technology and Educational Technology? What are the Roles of Technology? Those were the questions asked as we were able to identify each.  

I defined Technology as any tool or strategy that is used to communicate with others that helps to enhance everyday life. Educational Technology was defined as any device or material used that allows you to bring education to life or to help enhance the forum for education (makes it easier).

             

The Roles of Technology in Education

• To make learning/ teaching easier
• Provides a quicker way to access information
• To provide a creative and effective way of teaching and learning which makes it easier to share knowledge and cater to the needs of every individual.

As I proceed in my EDET journey, my goal is to gain the knowledge needed to make learning more creative in my classroom and to be able to use that technology to bring across my lessons and to stimulate a positive learning environment that I can in turn be proud of.

I’m excited to learn new things this Semester!!

Thought of the week: Empowered through Creativity. Technology rules!

Blessings

Zeleka

Chop, Chop start some blogging sweetie!

Hey Zeleka from viewing your blog I realized that you are a little behind in your EDET assignments I'm encouraging you to try your best to keep on top of your work so we will all be able to successfully complete this program. So my dear start blogging and lets excel together.

Much Love
Marion

Journey

Happy to see that your journey have began. Please do not forget to update your blog with the information given by the lecturer. Keep on exploring and learning.