In the article, "Children in the Digital Age" by Kathryn Montgomery, speaks about how children are being further manipulated into the multimedia through forms of advertising. They may not be aware that these services are designed for their eyes because they lack knowledge of what is being done. For example, in the article, she states an issue concerning the mulitimedia is that it is "targeted at children and could further compound the problems in the existing media that have troubled parents,educators, and child advocates for decades"(pg.1). This demonstrates that what children view on the superhighway influences them to have the opinions and ideas which they live by. Although, there are positive attributes of the new multimedia, in existence, children are suckered into things which should not be available to them and known by others. These new strategies used by the multimedia gives children too much advantage to the private lives of their families. Therefore, this should be monitored for children ordering from the multimedia can cause a conflict within the household and the purchaser. In conclusion, there should be more moderation on certain websites, in which children are exposed too.

The issue of whether the exclusion of digital media would be detrimental to a child's learning and their future in the labor market. Stated in the paper, questioned whether if those who are "not accessed to the communication system are likely to fall behind in education and be unable to compete in the job market". This answer lies within the economic level of the family. If the child lives in a household where the income is low and cannot afford a computer, one has to adapt to their surroundings. However, relying on the efforts of others would leave a community and school unconnected from the advancement of the multimedia because those who learn at home would be ahead. Therefore, there is more talk of inclusion through other forms of technical services. Children cannot afford these services if they are financially disadvantaged and therefore, are put at an advantage. got any ideas? I'm thinking maybe libraries or having schools opened late . ..

Also, mentioned in the article, is the quality of the mulitimedia and how it raises new concerns to children in ways of exposure. Therefore, mentioned in the paper is the risk of these services being overshadowed to the way the child's attention is captured. It creates an overspending on children and how they adapt to these products. In conclusion, the article tackled the issues of how children are being exposed to things forbidden to be seen by their parents and are used to increase the commerical market. Companies use them as gineau pigs and lure them to the sites that create problems not only at home but in society as well. The new multimedia should monitor their sites where children cannot have access but are limited. On the other hand, schools and communities should have available these services for children who are financially disadvantaged and maybe left unwanted and cared for. Advertisers should have a censor to know who is accessing what and from where, so children cannot view unauthorized materials within the home or school environment. Do you think they would do that?The federal regulations passed should be stricker to both the household and businesses. Those who do not abide by the rules, should be dealt with in a justifiable manner. It this means fines or jail time, so be it. In conclusion, the reform ideas should be ones carried out diligently and effectively. They should be practiced and placed under strick rules and regulations. The only way to help our children is providing them with positive services and resources that build up thier lives not bring them down.

Professor 's evaluation of assignment:

Great job, Sherma -- 3 points

How are you doing. I just wanted to let you know a little bit about myself. I am a graduate student in the Educational Administration Department. I am very interested in the school system and enhancing the ability to help students. My interest lies in the areas of developing software to help students get a better sense of learning. I hope this course will provide me with the ability to do just this. Me, too! This semester i will be working with an afterschool program which enhances children skills in reading, writing and interpersonal skills. Sherma: congratulations on this work! I spent almost a decade developing Community Technology Centers in Sch'dy; we did a lot of good work. Residents and families are currently operating one of the sites in HUD Steinmetz Homes, there...

When I learned about this course, I felt it would be helpful to develop my skills as an individual working towards a career in education. Children need someone to help them. As an educator, my goal is to help them, mold them and create a change for the better. The development of software will help them have a sense of direction and their learning abilty. Learning is fundamental to knowledge, therefore, computer skills is a necessity to incorporate into the classroom.

Professor 's evaluation of assignment:

Sherma: please paste this into an email body and mail it to me. If you have questions... raise your hand! ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 3

This grade is 3 percent of your final grade
 

Part 2: " Amazon Interactive, the History of the Ecuadorian Amazon"

http://www.eduweb.com/amazon.html

Part 3: General Topic: "Geography"

Discipline: "Learning the History of the Amazon"

Part 4 :Grade Level: Junior High School, sixth graders through eight graders

Lesson Groupings: The students will be learning as a whole class, but

then will divide them into small groups.

Population Characteristics: The students are eager to learn because it is something new added to their history knowledge. They would get to know more about a topic spent less time on or never ever mentioned before in the classroom. Isn't this an exciting aspect of this medium?

Part 5: This lesson fits into the curriculum because the previous classes before was speaking on the topic of geography of other countries. Therefore, this lesson fits, as into in the sense the students will get to know about the rainforest, as well. The curriculum would link with the outcome of the lesson, in the sense of to the extent that what the students did not know before, they would learn it through this lesson. I, as the instructor, would base (ground? reinforce?) their knowledge of the topic, through by constantly repeatedly(?) going over with them the points of the lesson.

Part 6: After this lesson is taught, I would like the students to be aware of the history of the Amazon, its location, the population who resides there, how do they go about making their lives in such a place, and what are their main crops. Besides history, these students would understand a topic that is not usually spoken much about in the classroom. The skills acquired would be both not only computer literacy, since they surf the net, but, concepts of the life and history of the amazon, values (is learning about the different people living in the Amazon) as well. and The attitudes of the students should be positive for they are learning about something that could broaden their knowledge.

Also, they will get to know more about the amazon through the game a

game called "Ecotourism Simulation". They would learn how to use the various tools associated with the computer. For example, the mouse. and using the template above (back, forth, home, etc.). On the other other hand, they would learn to work together in groups to answer questions relating to the topic. They would demonstrate their attentiveness, open-mindedness, and thier ability to work together with others who may not have paid close attention in the class and who may have different opinons about the topic. Very nice appeal to peer mentoring and constructive pedagogy. This medium seems to bring out these quality aspects of instruction, no?

This exercise would enable these students to build team spirit, use information acquired wisely and utiltize thier (sp) thinking ability.

Part 7: The material used for the lesson is pen and paper, and computers connected to the internet to scan to the site. This gives the students the time to work together in small groups. They would take turns searching the web.

Also, the students would receive a map, a word list(identifying words that may be unfamiliar to them, and measuring stick to identify the amount of water in which the amazon receives every year.

This lesson would take approzimately 30-45 minutes, including surfing the web.

Part 8: Although, there is an online game giving a tour of the amazon, the focus of the lesson is on the history of the amazon itself. The students could play the online game, which is the tour, but this is after they have an understanding of the topic itself.

"The Geography of the Ecuadorian Amazon"

The lesson consists of the following:

First, I would ask a question of assessing whether the students know what is the Amazon is and where it is located? If they cannot answer the question, the next step is taken. I'm unsure of what this "next step" is; have I missed something in your design and task flow?

Second, Is the Amazon a rainforest?

Third, How rainy is the rainforest?

Fourth, Who lives in the Rainforest? What is the population of the people who lives there?

Fifth, How do the people there make a living?

Sixth, What is are the main agricultural methods used there?

Seventh, After these six steps, I would want the students to know more about the amazon.

Part 9: The students would get a handout with about fifteen questions about the rainforest. They have to transfer the information they received from both the instructor and the web onto paper.

They have to partake in the group activities and discussion regarding the topic. Within the web page itself, they have to identify several things about the amazon.

At the end of this, the students would have to evaluate the site and how helpful was it to their learning. Did they learn more about the amazon or not.

The information given about the amazon is compressed and very helpful to a class such as this. The students would have time to absorb the information and retain it for a long time.

Part 10: The evaluation of the lesson would be done in various steps:

The evaluation of the students would consist of a grade from the handout, which would be done by myself the instructor. The questions I compose in the handout, would be complied from the information both viewed and read in class.

Since there are fifteen questions, they are on 6.5 point for each question. If the students do not answer about eight right, they did not absorb the information. (Is this 50% mastery cut too low?)If they got twelve to fifteen right, the lesson was useful. (Oh, I see, it was useful, but maybe not mastered). Therefore the grading system would be on 55-100 basis. Also, the lesson would give students culture awareness never exposed to them, and see how other people in different countries have their own way of life.

There would be extra credit given to those students who took an extra initative to evaluate the website.

Part 11: The evaluation of the lesson would consist of how well the students answer questions given on the quiz.

Then, I would give them various words from the wordlist and ask them the definition and use them in a sentence. Nice technique for remembering

Finally, I would give a questionnaire regarding how well did the lesson go on a scale of one to five. Also, if they found the website useful or not. Always an excellent idea, this assessment & feedback for the instructor...

Professor 's summary evaluation of assignment:

Sherma: you put a lot of effort into this plan. I appreciate the sense you have for grouping students and encouraging peer mentoring and exploration in small groups. This medium is too engaging a thing for individuals. Remind me to mention Tom Snyder Educational software and how some good software out there helps to encourage real-time grouping and social cohesion within the lesson. He wrote a book/tape on "The One Computer Classroom you may find useful... Nice job, overall; proof your writing style a bit more, but don't let formalities dilute your content, which is quire fine.

Grade for this assignment: 5

This grade is 5 percent of your final grade.

Please evaluate the Instructional or graphical web page you are considering, according to the criteria below. Please answer yes or no to the following questions: Sherma, this is a wonderful assessment rubric. Nice format.

Criteria

ACCESS
.What web browser are you using?
.What is the name of the Website?
.What is the URL of the web page you are evaluating?
.http://www________________________________________
.Is it open for everyone, or do people need a membership or access code?
.Can users navigate easily through the web site?
.Does the page take a long time to load?
DESIGN
.Does it supports user controls through elements such as: research index, site locator map or help screen?
.Does it look well designed and carefully composed?
.Do the graphics and art, serve a function or are they decorative?
.Does the visual graphics distract you from the content?
.Does it look user friendly?
.Do graphics enhace the basic instructional design of the site?
CONTENT
.What is the purpose of the site and what does it contain?
.Is the section of the page labeled with a heading?
.Does the content stimulate your creativity and imagination?
.Who is the intended audience?
.Is the site appropriate for the intended audience?
.What kind of sources are connected to the links?
.Is the program objective clearly stated and implemented?
.Is the text easy to read?
.Are the pages of the text too long or not informable?
.Is the information readable or understandle?
.Is the source convenient and effective to use?
.Are all aspects of the subject covered?
.When was the site created or last modified?
.Is the information updated?
How current is the information?
.Does it seem reasonable or unfairly biased in any way?
Authority
.Who is the author of the site?
.Is the information found on the website in collaboration with the author's field?
.Does the website gives the user the ability to speak or contact the author of the site?
.Where did the website idea originate/
Professor 's evaluation of assignment:
Sherma: I am impressed with this work. Not only have you topically offered these criteria in a sensible typology (classification scheme, by type), but you have additionally compiled a cogently sufficient listing to effectively evaluate a given site. I hope you can use a version of it in your teaching. ;-} rap.
Grade for this assignment: 3
This grade is 3 percent of your final grade.

hirley Alexander, Institute for Interactive Multimedia, University of Technology

Http://www.scu.edu.au/ausweb95/papers/education3/nash

The article, "Teaching and Learning on the World Wide Web", by Shirley Alexander speaks about the use of technology and its impact on students' learning in the classroom. Alexander, states the development of new technologies, does not always guarantee a positive outcome, for technology can stump one's learning ability. For instance, [she questions if the use of computers and other teaching tools in the classroom enhances a student's learning or are they detrimental.] Sherma: this is a restatement of the prior sentence content. One or two "quotations" or examples of her doubts serving to illustrate would have been expected, here, as you do in the next passage. --> Also, Alexander,speaks on various topics that would help develop the potential of students in the classroom environment. For example, she mentiones hypertext/hypermedia, and discusses the different approaches it has on learning. She examined hypertext/media as being "useful features used for teaching/learning to create documents which contain links to follow in a sequence, an advantage of the interactivity, a capability whch it is claimed for active learning andn to encourage learners to be collaborative authors."(pg.6) Now, I'm wondering all the more (rather, an uninformed reader would) just what her reservations, in fact, were (see my note previous)...

Alexander's research demonstrates both the positive and negative outcomes of the use of technogy as a teaching tool in the classroom and learning. On the contrary, other educators look at the use of computers in the classroom as "patient tutors, scrupulous examiners, and tireless schedulers of instructions."(pg.2) And, that they are, it seems to me, as well... They look at the use of these new teaching tools as a way of for students to increaseing their achievement levels, learning at a pace they can understand, and using it at a pace whereby they can reach their full potential. This can be good for some students, but detrimental to others. Although, students do not learn on the same pace, those who are behind because of a certain

disabilities may drop further behind learning on their own time. While, those who are already on a high achievement level, may be acquiring more skills and knowledge than others. Once again, the importance of a master teacher in the milieu: No? I advised my teachers to let no more than 5 minutes go by without some interaction in the flesh. Some need this, some do not--my point: at the very least, the teacher should need it for proper assessment & monitoring of individualized process.

In the article, Alexander looked at various educators and how they defined learning. Saljo, used a study in which he placed learning into five different categories. The categories looked at the understanding of learning as a "quantative increase in knowledge, learning as memorizing, and storing information, a process of acquiring facts, skills and methods retained and then used, learning as making sense or abstracting meaning and learning as interpreting and understanding reality in a different way." (pg.4) I, too, agree with Saljo as seeing learning as a process because one cannot attain information which would useful unless they grasp the initial concept and meaning behind it. Therefore, learning is about making sense of information in which is acquired and useful to society or reality as he states to be. Hence, Ramsden(1992), an educator uses learning as "something external to the learner and something that you do in order to understand the real world, rather than something done by someone or something to the learner."(pg.4) Sherma: this is an extremely well constructed summary paragraph! It recovers much of what was lacking (in structure) in the last one.

Also, the article speaks about various approaches to learninig. For example, Alexander mentions the approaches of deep and surface. The deep approach looks at learning for as "a task with the intention of understanding or seeking meaning, while, the surface looks at the "task with the intention of memorizing information." A worthwhile distinction, indeed. This surface approach fits into the categories in which Saljo mentions. ...i.e. the transmission model of instruction, a la Gagne.When a student fits into the surface approach, [you acknowledge their] the quality of learning is regarded as low and grades are correspondingly low. While, in the deep approach, the quality of learning is high and so are their grades. As a result, other educators and researchers suggested strategies in which will help foster the deep approach in the classroom. The strategies mentioned in the article include: the apprehending structure, integrating parts, acting on the world, using feedback and reflecting on goals-action feedback. These strategies help teachers and other educators design a learning experience in which all students can learn and develop a positive way of communicating and learning. Sherma: excellent usae of illustrative examples to make the point (again, see paragraph 1, above)

On the other hand, educators look at this new learning opportunity as instruction assisted by computers. They assessed this type of learning as a being effective because of the time factor. The time used in the classroom to teach subjects such as math, science and other areas is decreased because the computer makes the presentational time less. According to the article, learning and the world wide web is an experience that may start off positive, but ends up negative. Why the negative?The world wide web is used as new opportunities for students to learn, to visualize, to understand, to see complex relationships in ways that are not possible using any other media." (pg.3) Sherma: you lost the direction of your argument in these last two sentences. You didn't illustrate (once again) the negative dimensions (in this case, of thew WWW experiences).

Some educators feel the use of these technologies often expects "magical improvements in learning only to be disappointed at the results, and discouraged when the critics of technology point to its failures". This statement shows educators speaking both from a "pros and cons" point of view. In conclusion, I think this article was well-written and detailed. The information provided on different aspects of learning, and teaching tools, and the computer, has been useful. As a future educator,I feel that teachers need to use a method that will enhance the student's knowledge as well as their learning ability in the classroom. If some feel the computer can help increase the learning ability of a student, so be it, but let it help every student not just those who are already high achievers. This seems like a wholey democratic and fair expectation. However, recall the discussion topics in the Telecom Module... Schools is an environment which where (or, in which) students are to acquire useful information in different subjects. If the computer could provide the same information in a different time span, let it be accomplished and done. The children of the future need people who care about them and are willing to learn.
Professor 's evaluation of assignment:
Sherma: this is another good reflective critique. I indicated where I felt improvement could be made. Attention to some of the finer points in construction, etc. I've indicated should help make these reflections more consumable by others, particularly others who are not so familiar with the turf as you seem to be...
Grade for this assignment: 3
This grade is 3 percent of your final grade.

The lesson plan is created from MasterMind Typing from the internet. It is downloaded from the demo ftp.dnai.com

http://www.turnquist.org/

Part 2:

Get MasterMind Typing for beginners, Version 1.07

Part 3:

Topic: Language Arts

Discipline: Typing Tutor: Get the hands show Fingering

This software is designed to help students improve their typing skills.

Part 4 :Grade Level: High School (tenth grade-twelveth graders)

Population: Students who need to enhance their skills in the typing area

Lesson Groupings: Small groups

Part 5:

This lesson fits into the curriculum in many different ways. Students will acquire the necessary skills to type out various projects given to them in the classroom, use this skill in the job market, and give students a feel for the typewriter.

Part 6: The main objective of this lesson plan is to help students complete the various stages of touch typing. Each student would be monitored to see how well they are learning to type. The lesson would be broken up in various sections to accommodate the amount of hours to obtain perfection. The students would know the keyboard by the end of the lesson plan.

Part 7: The materials used for this lesson plan would be as following:

-Computers with an operating system of Windows 3.1, Windows 95, a PC

with 2 megabytes RAM and 2Mbytes free on the hard disk. A Power Mac

with Virtual PC software Nice to see some of these emulation cards actually working wrt compatability...

-A CPU of 486 speed or faster:CD-ROM, Mouse and the Mastermind Typing CD

The time allocated for the lesson is forty-five minutes in the morning and forty-five minutes in the night. The number of days will be three in a time span of three weeks.

Part 8: The lesson would consist as the following:

1. A brief introduction to typing

2. Students would be taken to the computer lab

3. At the lab, they would be given instructions on how to start their typing lesson.

4. They would be given a demonstration of the software.

Part 9:

They would be given a sheet of the letters on the computer and what fingers should go to what keys. Does the software provide this as well, as in Mavis Beacon? you know, the HOME KEY placement of the fingers, etc.?

Also, they would be given a warm-up on the keys on the computer.

This section is quite treadbare and devoid of content, Sherma.

Part 10: The evaluation of the lesson would be graded on how well the students learn the keyboard and how fast they would be able to type.

The grading system would be based on an typing test at the end of the weeks of typing. The passing time and keystrokes is 20-30 a minute. If the students do not exceed these strokes, they have to take the classes over again.

Part 11: The students would be given an evaluation sheet of the software, the lesson that was taught, and how well they learned to type.

Professor 's summary evaluation of assignment:

Sherma: reflect for a minute upon the process by which you constructed this lesson plan. Then, go back and review the one you did NEXT for the Extra-credit Project Lesson Plan, this Module. Do you detect a difference, as well?

After reading this plan, I still had little idea of how the software was constructed, what were its features, and pretty much ignorant of what it was that you were useing. If you prefer, I can release this for your editing and a second assessment on my part. It's up to you. I know how much pride you take in your work AND what your potential is. Let me know by e-mail or journal entry whether or not you need to revise this plan. ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 3

This grade is 3 percent of your final grade.

The two ideas which the authors stated in the article, spoke about the "mind not being comprised of a single representation, language but rather on numerous internal representations in the mind/brain"(pg.2). Relating this with the mulitiple intelligence theory mentions that everyone may possess multiple intelligence but every individual is different. No two persons have the same mmental representation or intellectual languages as anothers. These representations are divided into eight intelligences which vary from how one attains information, retain, manipulate and understand what is being taken in. Some people may have a difficult time with this, while others would not have any problems. Everyone has their own symptoms of difficulties or strenghtths. Some people may be stronger in one area, while another is having problems in that same area. This boils down to the fact that everyone has their share of their representation and multiple intelligence, and when it works for them and when it does not. Relating this to an educational enigma, you have to know that everyone understanding of media is not the same. Good observation! multiple intelligences <--> multiple audiences and representations of what is...While other people can go and work technolgy and understand it, there are others who have no clue. This relates to the course itself, because some people may not know how to work specific software for practicums in the course, while others understand exactly what to do in every area. Right you are. Technology is a difficult area which people have to learn and understand, because being computer iliterate brings problems for your mental representations. When you sit down at a computer, you may think that you understand what you are doing, but when the mind cannot grasp the information, as sense of frustration takes over you. You have to be prepared to deal with media and technology because it constantly changes over a period of time. Nice reflective transitional paragraph, Sherma.

The second idea relates around the mind being opened from one's early mental representations and how it can cause a difficulty to bring changes. Veema and Garder, stated that "early representations are very powerful and prove very hard to change. In the first years, the mind becomes engraved with a certain scheme or frame by which it apprehends parts of experience"(p.3). This is the start of problems. When you have to change something, it makes matters confusing. The mind becomes confused because it has to transform information that has been around for a long time. Sometimes, the changing of information may not work because the individual has gotten so use to it, the information automatically sticks. Although, this may cause difficutly, the mind is very sensitive to a person's first mental representations. This is because the first is the most memorable to keep. In relating to both of these ideas, you could note that the use of technoolgy does not have anything to do how well one succeeds through education. Nice synopsis

As a result, the two educational goals mentioned in the article, speaks about the "encouragement of deeper forms of understanding within and across various disciplines and the "opening up of the educational process to the widest spectrum of children, especially those who do not stand out in the traditionally canonical intelligences of language and logic"(pg.4). Modern technology can be a positive thing if everyone could relate to it the same way. It could help children engage their attention in the classroom, but then when the use of technolgy is present, what would happen to the children attention span. It would go down the drain because children like to engage in information which are of interest to them. If it cannot catch their attention, then you have lost them forever. This is a good rendition of their content with respect to these issues.

The CD-ROM that is of Antietam/Sharpsburg does fit these educational goals because it gives students an opportunity to learn about the battleele through reprsentations and artifacts. It allows them to use these representations as examples for writing and brainstorming ideas that gives them the capability to present both a pictural and narrative perspective. It makes the single representations form sensible and factual thoughts that erases those that were misconceptions in a child's early life. Thoughts which a child obtained earlier in life, may not have been as true to when they actually experience it. With changes, brings new thoughts of life. The battle which the CD-ROM presents makes a child develp a strategic way to understand the geographic terrain of the battle. They would go step by step, and understand what is going on and relate the fighting, fires, miconceptions through a different communication. If a child has various steps to go through to learn about a specific discipline, if it is of interest, they would complete the task. Again, children like to engage in information that could be useful to them and is of some interest. Wonderful reflective summation, here. It is accurate and tailored to fit within the overall strategy of your critique.

Within this battle of Antieman/Sharpsburg, there are four levels which a child must go through. From the structured to exploratory, to the learning of the map, observers, battlewalk, archives, ending with different activities. Each level uses some sort of representation to get the point across. It gives them different ways to interact and understand the material through browsing and enrich their knowledge with the text files. The overall goal of this is to "help more students know an event in its complexity, in ways that encourage richer mental representations and forms of understanding"(pg.7).I believe such as this opens up the mind to absorb knowledge that may become useful and helpful in the future. If a student could use various technologies to get an understanding of a certain subject, let it happen; for they may learn more because their attention would be focused.

In conclusion, the CD-ROM gives students the opportunity to learn about this battle in different ways. They could learn more about it either through, questions and activities or relating the battle with their own experiences. If a child could relate material with their own lives, they could understand it better. They would know what it was like in the battle, as well as their own. Although, there might be some dissention with this CR-ROM, I feel it is good in a way for students to learn. For example, some educators believe there are "risk and benefits of this product because, students might seem to engaged but understand little because their response reflects more an attraction to the medium than an understanding of the battle"(pg.8). Thus, some believe that these experiences will "enable students to engage in rich, textured material in ways that give a more rounded understanding"(pg.8). It never hurts to learn more about something. You cannot just learn a little about one area and not another because it may be helpful to your education in the future. The article relatively boils down to how children would fair on their own without depending too much on technology to fight their educational battle. If children constantly use technology to give them the answers to their questions, would they be able to think on their own? Therefore, as educators, the use of technology should only come into our classrooms if we want to give an example or expand on the subject matter. What an effort. It paid off. too. I was compelled to reconsider their ideas anew and afresh. It was helpful for me so to do. A fresh representation of their material was the result. Nice job.

The article "Computer Assisted Instruction" by Kathleen Cotton and Karen Reed Wikeland, speaks about how children and achievement relates to the use of educational computer usage such as CBE(Computer-Based Education), CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction), CMI(Computer-Managed Instruction) and CEI(Computer Enriched Instruction). This article mentions the research findings done to see <indicating?> how the use of computers could enhance a child's learning ability to academically achieve. The use of computers does help children who are at a learning disadvantage because it gives them the opportunity to learn and further learn material that has given them difficulty in the past. The research findings was <were> based on the different educational use softwares stated above. In the findings, it was demonstrated that children who used CAI was <were> more at an advantaged to achieve higher than students who use the others. This was a comparison to students who get the traditional teaching which is in the classroom. But, then it stated that the use

of CAI: gives students incentives to do better on final examinations, failure at which are detrimental to if students are left back or moving ahead in school. Also, it states that CAI gives students the ability to excel in learning as compared with to conventional learning. This speaks about a child being able to learn a substantial amount of material or more material than someone who is being taught in the classroom.

Throughout the article, it states how well CAI is for childen to use and how it benefits them in many ways. It helps them enhance their learning ability, accomodatates both handicapped and disadvantageds children. Its main objective is to help students relate to information not before understood in the classroom. I think that it helps lower level learning children because it gives them the opportunity to learn on their own pace. Indeed, I've found this to be true in all my work with such populations. They learn to relate to information that was difficulty before in a form understood by them. Children who are lower level is better appreciated of learning such as this, because in the classroom they are not given the attention needed and ignored. They are placed in special education classes because they cannot learn on the same level as other children. It makes a difference to them because the material learned through the computer, is interested to them and would enhance their learning ability and achievement at a level never before reached. While some researchers observe this type of teaching as a positive, some people like Richard E. Clark does not. He feels that you cannot say the use of these different medias are <behind but> <subordinate to?> the designing of the instruction. He has a point in the sense that the way which the information is structured helps a child learn better. But, this may be true to a certain extent. Any information which a child has to learn must be structured a certain way, because they have to learn and understand what they are doing. They cannot put material that cannot be understood, because if a child is being helped by a teacher, she has to understand it herself. Therefore, I feel that it is important that there are some sort of computer technology in the classroom because it could help an instructor get their point across and explain the material thoroughly. Especially important to me is the economy afforded my effort. I can pay better attention to the instructional design due to the mechanical advantage the medium offers me as a reflective practitioner.

Although, there are all thes positive outcomes for the use of CAI, the most important has not yet been researched as yet. For instance, there has not been enough research on how important it is to achievement, retention rates and attitudes. Whence, there may be good outcomes to the learning rate for some students, every student does not learn on the same pace, have positive attitudes about learning material through technology or how much students is sticking with learnig on the computer. Again, this depends on what students you are teaching, what area and what is the population. All children do not have the same access to computers as another. In the inner city, students do not have the available resources to help them learn at the same pace. They are still being taught material that is outdated and has not been updated in years. This research only based it on the younger population. Therefore, these educational improvements may not work for the older children because they may feel that it is too late and their minds cannot be changed. Quite perceptive, Sherma. We have to be careful with research because the sample and population in which they are studying may not reflect who these opportunities are given too. Also, each academic discipline cannot work for everyone at the same pace. Some children pick up material in one subject faster than another. Therefore, CAI coudl <sp.> work in areas which children need more help in such as science and languages, but may not work well in mathematics and so forth.

In other research, it was found that CBE, computer-based education, produced a higher percentage in academic achievement than traditional instruction and CAI itself. It seems that these findings vary depending on where and what year that it was done. Right. Remember, much of it, particularly Bangert-Drown's WP meta-analysis was done before CD-ROMS & Sound Cards... According to the research by Dalton and Hannafin done in 1988, he stated that the computer based education and tradition based instruction goes hand in hand and complements one another. Some relate if a teacher teaches a subject to the best of their ability, it can have great outcomes. It speaks about reseachers who think the manner in which a student writes, determines how superior the teaching was done. Some students may have good writing skills but this may not have nothing to do with the teacher. This could do with how well a student understands and put their thoughts to paper. Again, quite perceptive: a fine pont you've noticed, once more.The use of this is through word-processing. Instead of using a piece of paper and pen to do their, work they type out what they want to say. And the editing capacities are astounding in their prospects for engaging student writing & composition. No?

Overall, children have thier own reasons why they could relate to the inforamation on a computer to those in the classroom. For example, some children may not have the patience to sit in the classroom and hear what is going on, but they would rather stay on a computer all day to learn the information. Harkening back to the prior article, right? Also, they may not like when the teacher does not gives their full attention to them, but on the computer they know they are alone and would go through it step by step. Another reason is that it gives them reason to stay focused and motivated. They do not have to feel embrass when they get something wrong, but recollect themselves and try again. In conclusion, the objectives for the use of CAI is to help produce higher achievement, enforce positive attitudes toward learning, allow students to use word processors to enhance their writing skills, increase the school attendance, motivation of students who are at risk, and gives students from low-income families an opportunity.

Professor 's evaluation of assignment:

Sherma: this is a first rate effort. I know you appreciate the benefits from the extensive amount of time expended producing this wonderful critique. Your work continues to blossom. Most appreciated in this piece is the fastidious use of quotes and citations. Thank you for another job well done... ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 6

This grade is 6 percent of your final grade.

Title of Software: "Lemmings"

Let me begin by saying, Lemmings, Lemmings and more Lemmings. This is an effective introduction--cute & nifty, engaging.

They were all over the place. This software is not only interesting but makes a person want to try their best to beat all the stages. There is over 120 levels in the whole software. Although, once you start playing, you do not want to stop. The game is challenging the student intellectually, as one tries to find different ways to guide these green haired critters on their romp. The age for which the game is appropiated for is third graders and up. The bad thing about the game is that there was no instructions found in the box of the software. On the other hand, the thing that made me laugh was when it mentioned that "they are not responsible for the loss of one's sanity, hair, sleep. Playing this game, I certainly agree. Nice voice & presence, Sherma.

I thought this game was the most interesting since pac-man, which made me loose sleep because I wanted to play it all the time. This, alone, tells you that the journey which you were in for, is going to be a long one. When I started the game, it took me forever to figure out what to do. The function may be simple if there was directions, but without it what else can you say. Each function that was mentioned before the start of each level was to help you get to the next stage. Evidence of a structured design and progressive flow. The Installation of the game was straighforward and quite easy to do. After completing the installation, you would find that there were six areas presented. The player is given a game access code which allows you to go back to the level which you ended up with, this was quite interesting to me.

When you look at the box which the software came in, you would think that it was an easy game. Boy, you would be proven wrong, at the first level of play. Sometimes, I got so frustrating that I wanted to stop, but realize this is something I am interesting in and must get to know about. I appreciate this persistent bent in your characrt, Sherma--it shows in so many ways...The funny thing about the software is that the concept behind getting the lemmons to fall into the space without falling, is using your imagination. This is what technology is all about. Once, I got the hang of the game, I kept on playing until i was tired of those green critters getting the best of me. I enjoyed this feeling like a child again. Suffer the little children... Each level of the game for one to move on was to get a certain percentage. Some levels exceeded mroe than 50% sometimes, while others may only had ten percent because of the difficulty of the game. Some of the lemmings went through bashing, digging, floating, mining or climbing. The game challenged you to the fullest because each of the six function make one get to the exit quicker. However, there is a maxiimum of twenty functions. This is for each of the functions listed on the top of the page in the game. Therefore, to survive in the game, you have to use your functions very wisely and chose the function that goes with the level you are playing. This is an educational as well as an entertainment experience due to this toolbox aspect of the strategy.

In conclusion, this game is very useful for both children and adults. Adults will get a kick out of it. They will want to play for hours losing their minds to a game based on intellectual usage. This game should be used in the classroom because it helps children think on the spot and motivate their minds. If a child's mind is up and ready, they are more into what is going on around them and make use of it. Software is the way to go if the child is going to learn something in the end. the hidden message behind the game is always think before you make a move. Life is about taking chances, but the chances you take must be valuable to you in many ways. This game would give the child the motivation and determination to never give up, but stick it through no matter how many trials and tribulations going against them.

This game is one of a kind. I'm gonna hafta check it out. Your review was compelling, Sherma.

Professor 's evaluation of assignment:

Sherma, I am impressed with the wide variety of voice and presence you've developed in your wrtten style. It comes across nicely in this medium. Remember: you can review software, and submit it to manufacturers and developers. Ask if they will be interested in sending you their beta stuff to use (for free) and become part of their development team, thereby. The only thing I think you left out here is the platform requirements for which it was written, like you did in the last module lesson plans... ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 3

This grade is 3 percent of your final grade.

The lesson plan is created by VTech Industries, Inc.

http://www.worldvillage.com

Part 2:

Title: Shades and JB's Color and Shapes Workshop

This is one of three programs used to help enhance student's identification skills with shapes, colors and alphabet

The other two games are Shades and JB's Alphabet Workshop and Shades and JB's Numbers Workshop

Part 3: Topic: Art

Discipline: How will it go round in circles, or squares or hexagonal

This software is designed to help student identify different shapes and colors in a various ways.

Part 4 :The Grade level of students will be Pre-Kindergarden to Kindergarten

(1-3)

The Lesson Groupings of the students will be in small groups

The population characteristics of the students are positive in the sense of learning to relate to different shapes and colors.

Sherma: population characteristics have to do with things like demographics, handicapping considerations, factors deviating from normal population characteristics of a larger population, etc. As such, they are generally neither positive nor negative, though the effects of some of these characteristics with respect to achievement, for example, might be. What did you mean, here, Sherma, by this statement?

Part 5: This lesson fits the classroom curriculum in many different ways._It would give them a sense of satisfaction, for they will be able to compete with the other students in the classroom and not feel out of place. The students can also learn with their parents, as well. They can help their child relate these shapes and colors to things around the house. Quoite an important characterisitic of a constructivist lesson plan: generalize the learning by applying it to the intimate lived-world of the learner. Nice consideration, Sherma. Each program could be suited to fit the child's need. This lesson links to the prior knowledge of the students because they see objects such as the moon, house and sun. They may know how it look, but may not recognize the color or the shape of it.

Part 6: They would be ahead of the game, once they are in the classroom, and make it easier for the teacher. The students would be able to recognize and identify any shapes and colors based on the lesson.

The main concepts of the lesson are:

-How well can students identify various shapes and colors

-how many sides does a square and hexagon have

-What is the shape of a circle? Is it round or not?

-It will give them confidence in the classroom with using objects to describe things around them.

Part 7: The materials used for this lesson plan would be as followed:

-Computers with an operating systems of Windows 3.1 or greater

-A CPU of 386DX-33, but 486 is recommended

-SVGA 640x480, with 256 color mode, soundcard and mouse

-4MB Ram (8MB recommended) 2x CD Rom

-Windows 95 installed

^ Thank you for transcribing these essentials. ^

This software cannot work on a Macintosh Computer for program is not yet available for its use.

The time allocated for this particular lesson plan wouldbe forty-five minutes in morning, afternoon and on special days

Part 8: During the lesson the students will go through different stages of the software.

-The students would be spilt into different groups

-The teacher would give them an outline of the lesson and tell them what exactly will happen Pre-teaching is effective.

-The students would be taken to the lab

-At the lab, they would be given different objects and colors to identify

These students aged 3-5 would learn to identify different shapes and colors in different scenaries in the program. The game match the shapes would encourage the child to recognize and name primary shapes within a set of different scenes.

For example, the lesson would begin with an introduction of the software. The students would have a chance to pick one out of the six games installed in the software

Part 9: The supplementary material given to the students would be a handout identifying all the shapes

A box of crayons so they would learn the colors that they would see on the screen

A chart of their progress through each stage. Nice use of graphic displays, reinforcing Gardner's insights with respect to Multiple Intelligences, No?

Also, the different stages are "Find the Colors game, Coloring Book Game, The Patterns Game, Match and Shape Games and Build a Toy game".

Part 10: The evaluation of the lesson [would be tested on how the teacher playing a game with the students of identification]. Sherma, the preceding phrase is unclear due to its construction. Could you re-phrase it for me (pop it into an e-mail, if it's easier, OR, better, yet: write another journal entry, this Module & recompose it there. Thanks) In this game, the teacher would put shpesa <sp> and colors relating to the software behind a board (like "Family Feud" or "Memory"). Then, the students would be spilt on different teams. Each team would be pick a captain. The team with the most points win. Also, the students will be given a quiz the following day testing to see how much did <-switch order-> they learn. This would give the students an opportunity to work with others and see how attentive their classmate was <were> during the lesson.

Part 11: The success of the lesson would be successful based on the number of diplomas each student gets after finishing each stage. Since there are six stages, if the student gets four to six diplomas, you know they enjoyed and completed each stage. If they get three or less, you know that the student needs help identifying certain objects and shapes. Also, the lesson could be successful if the students would like to play it in their free time or recommend to their parents. Sherma: this is an effective use of mastery cut scoers for determining proficiency. Is there a rationale you used to determine the cut scores? Sometimes, various methods are used, usually variants of using expert knowledge. Now, this does nor preclude YOU as being the expert Reflective Practitioner. My point is that some rationale would be good here. But, I like the second criteria you used in conjuntion with the first. Constructing multi-dimensional criteria for assessment is a novel AND effective device for assuring the practitioner of a proper assessment of youth achievement AND engagement with the curriculum. Nice assessment rubric, all in all...

Professor 's summary evaluation of assignment:

Sherma: I hope you get the job you like AND the peer and administrative support for your insights. You are intensely perceptive of the dynamics of learning & instruction. Make sure you interview prospective employers as they interview you to ensure your milieu to be the most supportive of these demanding lessons that you design!

As a note: I noticed you did the extra-credit reading. Were you aware that there were two reading assigments, this module, worth 3 points each? If so, OK. I know that you've already planned your "A", and are progressing nicely. Please attend a bit more to spelling/grammar checks such that the quality of your communication, and therefore, your work does not slip. ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 5

This grade is 5 percent of your final grade.

The second principle relates to "youths building on their own interests". This focuses on methods of teaching. It gives different ways to motivate a youth and help enforce positive incentives to increase a child' performance in classroom environment. The reason behind these incentives is to help increase the attention span of these youths. Many of the youths tend to have a problem staying focused in the classroom because they are being introduced to anything that is of interest to them. Instead, they are bored to what is being taught, and shifts their focus elsewhere. The main objective of this principle, is to find other ways to teach a youth about information useful to them without forcing them to do it. They need to be taught without someone constantly telling them if they do not pay attention, they would fail. The incentive has to to be in place to teach them without badgering them. As stated in the article, "Youths have short attention spans in schools that often displays great concentration on projects that truly interest them"(pg.5). If you demonstrate different strategies to them to connect and develop their attention. Therefore, supporting them in what they are interest in is a positive reinforcement. If one provides youths with support, it would reflect in them developing a deeper understanding of their interest and talents and a new way of self-directed learning. Hence, the use of technology in the classroom or clubhouse helps bring about a more diversed atmosphere, bringing forth room for development for new ideas. The clubhouse tries to enforce a place to exchange and expand one's knowledge and ideas. It tries to encourage those in the clubhouse to do the same. The overall message of the principle is to support our youths in what they feel is interested to them. If they are supported they are more interested to learn and motivate themselves. Here you get into the heart of your critique and have used quotes andcitations from your source, quite effectively engaging the reader in the cadence of your reflections.

The third principle is about htethe cultivating of an emergent community that becomes familiar with the product being used in and outside the community. This kind of community is established when the people involved comes from all different walks of life. They could be mentors, college students and professional people. When youths are surrounded by people who look like them, they feel there is a need for them to succeed as well. These roles models could have ideas that are innovative and could construct a new model of design. The article mentioned about having a community that is "ditigal interacting with technology only with people who know how to explore and experiment, but those who express themselves with technology as well"(pg.7). When the people and the community are on the same levels of technology age, this gives youths more valuable insights. They can look up to the older generation to generate ideas to be implemented to the younger generation. It demonstrates a kind of leadership role. Therefore, youths imitate what they see others who look like themselves. This should not be the case, but the way society has made it out to be, it is reality. When the community and different people from "All styles, all Cultures and all times"(quoted from my LCS class)are represented the ideas are more well developed and mind working. The community learns together bringing forth learning and experience both outside and inside the clubhouse. When a community sticks together, it makes it stronger against all opponents. But when the community is divided, anyone could come between it and destroy it. Now, comes your reservations which the reader is more willing to receive as you intend, again well supplemented by effective citations, reinforcing the authority of your voice...

The final principle is about creating an environment where is a structure of compromise, respect and trust. When you are in an environment where people respect what you have to say, you tend to bring your deeper thoughts into it as well. You try to make an impact that will benefit not only you but eveyone else around you. This prinicple is very important because it gives an important value instilled in us by our parents. As a child, you are always told to respect others and give them the mutual understanding of being able to trust unless otherwise told. When you trust and respect the people you work with, the environment is free of any childish or disrespected behaviors. Good point - quite sensitive. Everyone knows that they cannot<should not> talk about someone and cannot<oughten't> criticize someone's idea [do you mean unfairly or behind their backs, here, Sherma? aren't we encouraged to engage in these behaviours? aren't you now?]. Every individual is entitled to having their own thoughts and ideas, even if some people do not agree with it. We are all individuals, therefore, we all have our own feelings, understanding and thoughts. When you respect someone, you and them have an understanding to bring your questions and ideas to be discussed. You can count that person would hear you out and not ignore you. If they are taught to respect those involved in the clubhouse, they would bring the same mannerisms to the classroom. It is like discipplining a child, but doing it in a way they would not feel offended.

As a future educator, iI believe these principles used in the clubhouse are very valuable not only to youths but the community as well. If children are taught these values in the clubhouse, they would bring it back to thier neighborhoods and try to implement change. They try to help bring youths ideas to the forefront to show that every youth out there is not doing wrong but engaging in something educational. I think these ideas help develop new advancement in technology because they are inputed by those who are the future. They know best what the younger generation is into and what they like and dislike. The clubhouse vision is powerful and brings positive outcomes. Helping our youth to be motivated anout learning is a plus, for youths in society today are not focused on education. On the other hand, these clubhouses are geared toward one group of youths. To get the full effectiveness to our youths, we have to get all of them involved with projects such as these. I know that youths in the inner city may need these clubhouses more, there are children out there who need a place to go to feel love and understood. The more of our youths involved, the better society would become, because the youths would be doing things to advance themselves and their communities. This kind of environment is healthy because it is giving youth a motivation to do better for themselves both inside and outside the classroom. Once an incentive is developed to help our youths, we must stick with it and developed to help everyone else.

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The internet is a very valuable resource but must be used and monitored. Information found on the internet may not fit their sight for children and could cause more harm than good. On the other hand, if the internet is monitored, children could learn a lot about different subjects and expand their knowledge. The internet provides children with information that they could use throughout their educational careers. It is not information only used once and thrown away, it could be recycled and passed down from generation to generation.

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In conclusion, I think the clubhouse vision is a positive reinforcement to make a different in our classrooms. If a child is motivated through computers, there must be some sort of lesson plan to help carry out this in the classroom. Also, teachers should accepts what the child learn in the clubhouse and tell others about their experience. This can create an environment for everyone to learn. The teacher could learn what changes they could make for the youths to cooperate with them, the children could learn from each others with the different ideas brought forth and the environment would be fit to teach and taken seriously. Sherma: I have been to this site and know the folks who opperate it. They are affiliate members of the CTCNetwork (see Shared Resources)

Professor 's evaluation of assignment:

Nice effort, Sherma. This is a well researched and strong critique. I am impressed with the extent to which your voice and presence has grown and prospered across this curriculum this semester... ;-} rap.

Grade for this assignment: 3

This grade is 3 percent of your final grade.                         Go Back to Sheila's Home