Blog Post 10

In First Graders in Ms. Cassidy's Classroom we see how she is incorporating technology to help her students learn. Her students work with a SMARTboard like the one we are learning in EDM310. Each of her students have individual blogs where they discuss what they are learning. She has also set up a class web page. One of the students talked about how they are able to go home look at what is upcoming. I thought that was a great idea because it would allow not only the students access to their work but the parents could take a more active role in their child's education. Other types of technology Ms. Cassidy's students are using is Wiki, making videos, skyping with other classes, and playing educational games on the Nintendo DS. They are not only learning critical thinking but they are learning how to share. Ms. Cassidy is a great example of how we as future educators can incorporate technology.

Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 1

Ms. Cassidy is being interviewed by Dr. Strange and he begins the interview by asking how she got involved with technology. Ms. Cassidy talked about how she got involved about 10 years ago when 5 computers where given to her classroom. She first learned about webpages and blogging and her technological journey took off from there. She created her webpage 10 years ago, she had her students start blogging 5 years ago, and began making videos 2 years ago. Each year she has parents sign consent forms that give permission so she can post their work, photos, etc. to the internet. She only post her students first names and makes sure the names do not directly match the pictures. Parents typically enjoy being able to see their child's progress throughout the year not just at scheduled meetings. They can check their blogs and the class webpage whenever they want. The students are excited about having blogs because it allows other students, in and out of their classroom, to comment on their work. Another comment Ms. Cassidy stresses is how technology is here to stay. When you do not take advantage of technology you are only handicapping yourself and your students.

Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 2

Ms. Cassidy discusses how she does not use technology in the same way most people would use Facebook. She tends to use it for more educational purposes and to find others with similar educational interest. She talked about how the best way to utilize technology is to relate it to our own personal needs or interest. She also discussed how it is important to build a Personal Learning Network or PLN. She has started using Twitter most recently as a resource to add to her list.

Interview with Kathy Cassidy Part 3

In the third interview Dr. Strange allowed EDM310 students to ask questions. She talked about how students this particular year were only required to blog once a week. There are certain blogs that are required for students to do although they are free to do extra. She tries to keep things flexible in her classroom. One of the EDM310 students asked how she was able to protect students while on the internet. Ms. Cassidy stated that she goes over precautions with her students like not writing their last name, not posting personal photos, and the importance of staying positive. She also explains to them what they should and should not click on while on the internet. She also discussed how she wants all her students to be good digital citizens.