Tomorrow I drive down to Virginia for my final intensive of the semester. It should be fun. We get to watch group presentations regarding technology. As far as my group goes, I hope it goes well. I have worked on finding gaps in literature for a month with little reply from my group members. So, did I do all the work to find the gaps? I hope not. But, I'll have to wait and see when I get to Lynchburg.
The literature I had to look at was on gaming and it motivation to learn. Although I am not a big gamer, I have learned a lot from this project. The biggest being that it WILL be unavoidable in the future classroom. But, as a health teacher, I am going to look at helping senior citizens improve their health. There is wii fit plus as well as many EA sports games which they can use. This is because I feel this is where the gap is. Of all the research, I did not read any being conducted on senior citizens. I know I play wii fit with my wife and it is fun to compete with her in the games. We have a fun little rivalry in the ski jump game.
But, getting back to class. It was great to learn new things I could do with Microsoft and recording videos. I have never heard of sreenr.com but I can see where it can come in hand for my classes I teach. Basically I can take a video of my screen as I use my computer to show people how to do things. I am already using it for classes I teach on how to navigate the course. I have also heard from students that they love it better than the course guide since it is more personable.
I can't wait to see what is in store for my class tomorrow. Not only what new things I will learn, but also to see what my group has done. I'll let you all know in my next post.
As for now. Let's pray for Boston. It was a horrific incident. As a runner I feel saddened that such an event could occur. When I run the Cleveland marathon in May I will think about Boston. I'll also be worried and fearful as I approach the finish line. I am asking my family to watch me not from the finish line, but from the course. Even then, I will not know they are truly safe until I see them. I pray nothing happens in Cleveland. But, you can never be too sure.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Thursday, March 21, 2013
The day before the drive
Today is Thursday. Tomorrow is Friday. Why does this matter? Well, I have to finish three assignments, pack, get my car ready, and shower all before I go to bed tonight. All because I have to wake up by 5:30am to drive nearly 9 hours to get to school. It sounds like I may be complaining, but I am not. I enjoy the drive and looking at the scenery. There are beautiful parts of the drive and one day I hope to take my family on the same drive.
I'll be driving down for my intensive course, EDUC 730 - technology in the classroom. The last class I learned a lot about Word. I knew little about using headings in the tool bar but now I feel more comfortable about it. I also enjoyed learning about Web Quest. I never heard of it before, but now I may try and use it more in my classroom. I am also glad I got to meet my group. I am the only guy in the group but that doesn't matter. What does matter is that we are all getting along and are supporting each other. Tomorrow will be interesting because we have a group project and, to me, I feel we are a little behind. But I am sure we will pull the pieces together and finish it up by the final class (which is also our last class).
In regards to technology. Sure I am learning about it and it's use for the classroom. But I can also think how much it has changed just to help me get to school tomorrow. I was able to book a room through the Internet. But even before that I was able to view various rates and look at hotel reviews. I was also able to map out how I will be going using Google maps. Even then I could chose a route in which I can avoid tolls. I was also able to see various buildings and surroundings using the street view and satellite view.
But even in the car there is technology. My car has anti traction control. It can tell me the temperature outside and adjust it in the inside so I am comfortable. I have a GPS to guide me along so I don't need to look at any maps. But if I do, I can pull out my smart phone to see a map. These little things make my trip so much easier. I can imagine how much more difficult it would be without it.
I can also imagine my class if I did not have the technology we do now. I would be spending days upon days in the library searching for material to support my literature review. My group would be calling each other on a phone to gather and collaborate. We would be faxing instead of e-mailing. It's sometimes hard to imagine, but at the same time how easy it is to realize how well off I have it. It also makes me wonder where technology will be taking us in the future. There is so much more out there that I don't even know. Maybe I'll learn about it in this class. Maybe I'll learn more on my own or from friends.
Driving down to school for a technology class learning about ways to use technology all the while utilizing technology. Maybe the idea of a "Jetsons" world isn't so far off.
I'll be driving down for my intensive course, EDUC 730 - technology in the classroom. The last class I learned a lot about Word. I knew little about using headings in the tool bar but now I feel more comfortable about it. I also enjoyed learning about Web Quest. I never heard of it before, but now I may try and use it more in my classroom. I am also glad I got to meet my group. I am the only guy in the group but that doesn't matter. What does matter is that we are all getting along and are supporting each other. Tomorrow will be interesting because we have a group project and, to me, I feel we are a little behind. But I am sure we will pull the pieces together and finish it up by the final class (which is also our last class).
In regards to technology. Sure I am learning about it and it's use for the classroom. But I can also think how much it has changed just to help me get to school tomorrow. I was able to book a room through the Internet. But even before that I was able to view various rates and look at hotel reviews. I was also able to map out how I will be going using Google maps. Even then I could chose a route in which I can avoid tolls. I was also able to see various buildings and surroundings using the street view and satellite view.
But even in the car there is technology. My car has anti traction control. It can tell me the temperature outside and adjust it in the inside so I am comfortable. I have a GPS to guide me along so I don't need to look at any maps. But if I do, I can pull out my smart phone to see a map. These little things make my trip so much easier. I can imagine how much more difficult it would be without it.
I can also imagine my class if I did not have the technology we do now. I would be spending days upon days in the library searching for material to support my literature review. My group would be calling each other on a phone to gather and collaborate. We would be faxing instead of e-mailing. It's sometimes hard to imagine, but at the same time how easy it is to realize how well off I have it. It also makes me wonder where technology will be taking us in the future. There is so much more out there that I don't even know. Maybe I'll learn about it in this class. Maybe I'll learn more on my own or from friends.
Driving down to school for a technology class learning about ways to use technology all the while utilizing technology. Maybe the idea of a "Jetsons" world isn't so far off.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Flexibility
This semester has started off weird for me. For the classes I am taking and the classes I am teaching. Let's start with the classes I am taking at Liberty University. My technology class was cancelled and my professor taught the class via Skype. Not too bad - since I "attended" in my pj's! But, with the complications of the sound and with my kids playing downstairs it was hard to concentrate. I was also upset that I couldn't stay in my choice of augmented reality for the class project. I had to move to game based technology. Although somewhat similar, I guess I'll have to see what the group decides on. I did like that everyone in the class was able to get on track with what we need to do and I can't wait until next month when we can meet face-to-face.
So, how about the classes I teach? Well, in my health course I was having trouble with a quiz I posted. It didn't show up to the students. I was lost and so were they. After figuring out I had to check a small box to make the quiz available everything was back to normal - or so I thought. Some students didn't read the questions correctly and then got mad at me. After letting them plead their case, I still didn't change their score. But, being the nice guy I am, I gave them prompts of what to study for ahead of time. They seemed to like that.
Now, for my swim class. Not a semester goes by when the pool is not closed. Sometimes the water level is too high. Sometimes it's the chemicals. Today, the pump. Or should I say, lack there of. The pumps went down and the water turned brown. Not too sure when the pump will be fixed which means my swim class may turn into a fitness class since. I'll just take them upstairs to the fitness center to do a "swimmers" workout.
I guess that's what you call flexibility. I am a pretty flexible guy. I kind of go with the flow. I think this helps me see what God has in store for me. I am not too consumed on one thing or another. I look at the big picture. And when I start to narrow my focus, God helps me break out of it to see the big picture. I like that. I like God surprising me and making me "work," work to be a better man for Him, my family, my coworkers, those I teach, and basically everyone else.
So, even though things have happened over the past few days, I adjusted. With God's help.
So, how about the classes I teach? Well, in my health course I was having trouble with a quiz I posted. It didn't show up to the students. I was lost and so were they. After figuring out I had to check a small box to make the quiz available everything was back to normal - or so I thought. Some students didn't read the questions correctly and then got mad at me. After letting them plead their case, I still didn't change their score. But, being the nice guy I am, I gave them prompts of what to study for ahead of time. They seemed to like that.
Now, for my swim class. Not a semester goes by when the pool is not closed. Sometimes the water level is too high. Sometimes it's the chemicals. Today, the pump. Or should I say, lack there of. The pumps went down and the water turned brown. Not too sure when the pump will be fixed which means my swim class may turn into a fitness class since. I'll just take them upstairs to the fitness center to do a "swimmers" workout.
I guess that's what you call flexibility. I am a pretty flexible guy. I kind of go with the flow. I think this helps me see what God has in store for me. I am not too consumed on one thing or another. I look at the big picture. And when I start to narrow my focus, God helps me break out of it to see the big picture. I like that. I like God surprising me and making me "work," work to be a better man for Him, my family, my coworkers, those I teach, and basically everyone else.
So, even though things have happened over the past few days, I adjusted. With God's help.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
A New Year, A New Me
So, I am sitting here starting my blog again not because I want to, but because I have to. You see, I am taking a class at Liberty University and a requirement is to write a blog. Since I already had this one, I figured should just start it up again.
The reason I stopped writing the first time was due to time. I had so much on my plate and just put it on the back burner. But now, because of this class, it is back on the stove with the burner lit. It kind of reminds me of my exercise program. I signed up for a marathon which would force me to train (even in the dreadful Cleveland weather) which in turn would help me lose weight and become more healthy. It reminds me of work. Many times I put off grading until the end only to find students upset at me and me upset at myself for having to sit hours on end grading. It also reminds me of how I treat my friends and family. Sometimes, due to my procrastination I can't spend time with them.
So, here is my new goal and I hope those of you reading this can help me achieve it:
I want to stop procrastinating and utilize more time management techniques.
I saw this because I want to be able to have time for family, devotions, exercise, work, grading, homework, and last but not least myself.
But first let me get back to this blog assignment. I have to write about my thoughts about technology in general. What are they? Well, I am glad technology exists to help make things easier for people. Take for example not only the computers today but the software as well. They can help me write my dissertation a lot faster and with less errors. And my GPS? It helps me get to school in VA without having to read a map (which I still can do!). My cell phone? It keeps me connected to my wife and work as well as reminds me of various meetings/classes I may have. Even though it is called a "Smart Phone" it can't do anything until I program it. So, what are my real thoughts about technology?
I think people are getting dumber - me included. Ask anyone to tell you a phone number and they will need to look it up. How many people actually dial a phone number anymore? Ask a simple questions and the response may be: "let me Google that!" Yes, technology is making things easier for us. But it is also hurting us. Remote controls for example prevent us from walking and moving - even if it is a few feet to the TV. Text messaging prevents me from having a real conversation (I mean talking - not writing).
But even with these few "gripes," I can say I am thankful for technology. It helps me connect with my pen pal who lives in Australia. It helps me keep track of my runs and my exercises. It helps me remember to do my devotions (as long as I enter a reminder). It helps me get in touch with my family. And for all the above reasons, I am thankful.
So, with the start of this blog, and the continuation of this year I will live by the following verse:
Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me.
I look forward to keeping you up-to-date with my class, my marathon training, and my family.
The reason I stopped writing the first time was due to time. I had so much on my plate and just put it on the back burner. But now, because of this class, it is back on the stove with the burner lit. It kind of reminds me of my exercise program. I signed up for a marathon which would force me to train (even in the dreadful Cleveland weather) which in turn would help me lose weight and become more healthy. It reminds me of work. Many times I put off grading until the end only to find students upset at me and me upset at myself for having to sit hours on end grading. It also reminds me of how I treat my friends and family. Sometimes, due to my procrastination I can't spend time with them.
So, here is my new goal and I hope those of you reading this can help me achieve it:
I want to stop procrastinating and utilize more time management techniques.
I saw this because I want to be able to have time for family, devotions, exercise, work, grading, homework, and last but not least myself.
But first let me get back to this blog assignment. I have to write about my thoughts about technology in general. What are they? Well, I am glad technology exists to help make things easier for people. Take for example not only the computers today but the software as well. They can help me write my dissertation a lot faster and with less errors. And my GPS? It helps me get to school in VA without having to read a map (which I still can do!). My cell phone? It keeps me connected to my wife and work as well as reminds me of various meetings/classes I may have. Even though it is called a "Smart Phone" it can't do anything until I program it. So, what are my real thoughts about technology?
I think people are getting dumber - me included. Ask anyone to tell you a phone number and they will need to look it up. How many people actually dial a phone number anymore? Ask a simple questions and the response may be: "let me Google that!" Yes, technology is making things easier for us. But it is also hurting us. Remote controls for example prevent us from walking and moving - even if it is a few feet to the TV. Text messaging prevents me from having a real conversation (I mean talking - not writing).
But even with these few "gripes," I can say I am thankful for technology. It helps me connect with my pen pal who lives in Australia. It helps me keep track of my runs and my exercises. It helps me remember to do my devotions (as long as I enter a reminder). It helps me get in touch with my family. And for all the above reasons, I am thankful.
So, with the start of this blog, and the continuation of this year I will live by the following verse:
Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me.
I look forward to keeping you up-to-date with my class, my marathon training, and my family.
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