Project #9a TimeToast Timeline

Virtual Republic production studio for the Zurich Chamber Orchestra;Symphony composed by Ferdinand Ries

Eric Whitacre's "Virtual Choir" from the Blog Post #5 assignment impressed me so much that I was inspired to search for similar works. I discovered this remarkable Symphony Virtual Rollercoaster and believe that it's something that everyone should see at least once! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Source:http://www.geekrest.com/2012/01/classical-music-animated-as-a-virtual-rollercoaster/ and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IagHYJOPXIw&feature=youtu.be

Blog Post #5

The iSchool Initiative

It's both amazing and inspiring to me that a 17 year old high school student could identify so many critical issues within the education system. Budget cuts, fewer teachers, and larger classroom sizes are an unfortunate reality in all school districts across the United States. Travis Allen certainly appears to be on the cusp of revolutionizing education in classrooms. There are definite advantages to Travis' proposal the iSchool Initiative. While some textbooks may become outdated, current information on the web is only a click away. Apps like calendars, calculators, homework, and checking out books are just a few examples which can actively assist students, teachers, and parents. It is imperative that students become technology literate and proficient, as most all jobs require these skills. 

While I agree with all of the points that Travis addressed and would like to be a teacher who supports his initiative, I do have some concerns. I asked my daughter if her school uses apps to teach or supplement lessons. She replied, "We are lucky to have a Smart Board in each room. Our school has a computer lab, but they are so old that half of them don't work most of the time." She went on to tell me that when they do use the computer lab, the programs used are Word, Star Reader (used for Literature and Math testing), and internet access for research. While the iSchool Initiative will save schools and parents money in the long run, how will the schools be able to afford the conversion process if they cannot even afford to maintain the outdated computers they already own?

We would like to think that most students are responsible and respect school property. However, we know that this is not always the case. Even with responsible students, accidents can happen. Is there an insurance program that schools will be able to afford in order to repair and replace any technology instruments which become damaged or broken? Will the schools be able to afford a "back-up stock pile" to replace the devices which are not usable so that no student is without the tools they need to participate? Will schools be able to afford a technology support employee who can address these issues in a timely manner, or will they have to put in a work order and wait who knows how long to have the repairs or replacements addressed?

I don't mean to be a "Negative Nelly". I am only trying to approach what I think is truly a wonderful idea with a realistic point-of-view. In order to take these possible changes seriously, it is important to consider all of the questions that I raised. Imagine being a teacher in a classroom with 6 students unable to use their device. What then? Computers are great when they work, and we all know that issues come up from time to time. I would like to see Travis' vision become a reality, but I believe that books, paper, and pencil should still be a part of learning; even if they are used as a back-up plan. 

Virtual Choir

It's extraordinary that we are now able to virtually bring so many people together from different parts of the world and create something so beautiful. I'm glad that Jennifer Chamber shared Eric Whitacre's virtual choir. This is an example of an exquisite creation of technology. 

21st Century Teaching

There was certainly a lot of information to take in during this video. I liked how one topic was briefly expanded upon, but then it changed gears a bit too quickly for me when proceeding to the next topic. A few things that I was able to grasp were the differences between entertainment and engagement, concentration on the levels of Bloom's Taxonomy levels, and personal responsibilities of teachers and students when using technology.

As a teacher, it is not my responsibility to entertain my students, but keep them engaged in the learning process. Kevin Roberts obviously believes that this can be accomplished by implementing technological tools such as blogs, twitter, and podcasts. Integrating these suggestions into 21st century classrooms will keep students actively engaged while retaining what they have learned. This is a concept which I have already learned in EDM 310 through assignments and other videos. However, Mr. Roberts gave many good points to solidify this claim.

Students have always been taught the consequences of plagiarism. It is also import for them to learn that this applies to lessons involving technology as well. It is the teacher's responsibility to teach students the necessary steps to tag pictures, link to websites, and use proper quoting in order to ethically cite sources.  I don't see this as something new or additional I will have to do as a teacher, but a concept which already exists that will be expanded upon.

Flipping the Classroom

I absolutely L-O-V-E the concept of Flipping the Classroom! By posting a recording of lesson demonstration on your blog, say a week in advance, students have the opportunity to hear and see the information before it is presented in class. This can also be an enormous benefit to students who do not comprehend a topic and need additional help. Many times, parents are unable to assist their children with assignments. I cannot tell you how many times I have tried to help my daughter, only to hear her say "That's not how the teacher told us to do it Mom!". Now, parents can understand the concept and process taught by the teacher.

This is also a remarkable idea because it allows students who may be on a lower level of understanding to enter the classroom with confidence on an even playing field. Some concepts are more difficult than others to grasp and this allows those students who need more explanation to receive it. Videos also benefit the students who are absent. This is a point that Joe Dale addressed in his video "Benefits of Podcasting in the Classroom." I also love the fact that watching assigned videos puts some of the responsibility of learning on the students. 

During this semester of EDM310, I have been exposed to some teaching techniques that I thought were o.k., some that were rather creative, some I may possibly use, and some that I will definitely use. Flipping my classroom is something I KNOW I WILL USE!! I have already bookmarked the Friday Institute website!

My Sentence

Blog Post #4

Teaching the Millenial Generation

In researching this assignment, I learned that anyone born after the year 1980 is referred to as a "Millenial". These people have always lived with the effect of technology in their lives. Whether it's cell phones, desk-top computers, lap-top computers, gaming devices, reading devices; I think you get the picture. Technology has always been at the fingertips of this generation for convenience and entertainment. With that said, why would you not use it in the classroom?

Flat Stanley by Jim Brown is a wonderful children's book which encourages the students to use their imagination. I have seen many creative projects centered around this delightful book, but never one as exceptional as the Flat Stanley Podcast by Ms. Tolisano's first grade class! Instead of completing a writing, research, and report project, the students were able to bring Flat Stanley's adventure to life through their individual podcasts. The children used accurate geographic facts and lots of enthusiastic expression while recording their stories. Ms. Tolisano also points out that through this interactive process, students are more engaged and comprehend materials. This project has shown me to think outside of the traditional box when giving assignments to my students. 

Joe Dale's blog offered numerous advantages of podcasting which I had never even considered. I now see the benefit of podcasting lessons and test reviews. These can be posted on my teacher blog for parents and students to access for study purposes. This is also beneficial when a student is absent and would otherwise miss the material. When assignments are given to groups, the students enjoy role playing, comprehend, and retain what they have learned. The exciting thing to me as a future educator is the fact that this is easy enough for first grade students to achieve and it can be applied to any subject. I can't wait to put these practices into my own lesson plans some day!

Google Presentation

Blog Post #3

Positive Peer Review

Giving a positive peer review is a big responsibility. Classmates depend on your opinion and suggestions to aid them in their pursuit of a quality assignment. Taking peer reviews seriously show that you care enough to help a classmate. This is not only the right thing to do, but is also important because you just might need someone to review your assignment some day.


I especially enjoyed the video "Writing Peer Reviews Top Ten Mistakes". The kids were so cute and funny! The fact that students of this age can comprehend the concept of proper peer review and put together a video with examples of improper techniques speaks volumes. College students should have been conducting adequate peer reviews for some time.


Lindsay Parvin has been my assigned classmate for blog review/peer review. Lindsay is a student who is working toward her master's degree. She is an experienced teacher and exceptional writer. With all of that said, there was not much guidance that Lindsay needed from me. I enjoyed exchanging points-of-view with her as well as the comments she left on my blog. 

Technology in Special Education

Technology in the classroom is a vital tool for Special Education students. These students are often times closed-off from the rest of the world. Technological tools like lap tops open the doors of communication, providing an enriching learning experience. All students deserve the same educational experience. This is now possible with the assistance of modern devices.

I was extremely impressed with the techniques used by the Special Education teacher in the video. She was creative in her implementation of technology and utilized many tools including ipods, laptops, and power point videos. She encouraged her students and allowed them to speak for themselves. The pride and happiness they felt was shining in their faces. These devices should be available in all classrooms for Special Education students.

Educational Apps in the Classroom 

There are many apps which Apple currently has available to assist Special Education students in their learning experience. "Conversation Builder" can enhance the art of communication in autistic students. This app helps students expand their conversational vocabulary and learn to respond appropriately while participating in conversations. An exciting feature of this app is the ability to record a student's learning session. Some advantages of this feature are that students enjoy hearing themselves when played back, and sessions can be forwarded to parents or IEP administrators to monitor progress. I believe that this app would become extremely important to some Special Education students. Holding conversations with family, teachers, and peers can help these students feel like a part of the world they live in.

Harness Your Student's Digital Smarts

Watching Vicki Davis' video outlining her approach to digital learning inspires me to sharpen my technological skills. It is truly amazing how she has opened the world up to her students in rural Georgia. Her students are learning to interact with students from other countries while learning a vast array of technology programs. Students who are fortunate enough to take Ms. Davis' class will have possibilities and opportunities available to them that they may not have had otherwise. She is an example of how one teacher can truly make a difference. 

I can only imagine how my educational path may have been enriched if I had a teacher like Ms. Davis. As a future educator, the example of this type of learning environment encourages me to produce something similar. The students were excited, engaged, interactive, and not only seemed to be applying what they learned, but teaching others as well. Anyone who watches this video can understand that the age old learning method of pencil and paper are no longer effective or sufficient. In order for students to be prepared for a life and career in today's society, they will need the knowledge and tools that Ms. Davis is providing in her classroom. 

C4T Assignment / Post #1 with Summary

C4T, Comment #1

I believe it was my great fortune to be assigned to read the blog posts of Mr. John Spencer. Mr. Spencer’s blog titled “Classroom Leadership: From Compliant Kids to Ethical Thinkers” was an incredibly insightful post for an up and coming teacher. Mr. Spencer drew attention to the responsibility of teachers to lead the classroom in a way that students may receive an education and also learn to make positive choices regarding their behavior. Many teachers make rules, give consequences for breaking rules, and reward students for good behavior. Mr. Spencer points out students should not be rewarded or bribed for behaving in a way that is already expected of them. Most importantly, Mr. Spencer states that sometimes it is necessary to overlook a rule infraction and get on the same level of the student, allowing that student to open-up to you as a teacher. This can form a mutual respect with students which enables the learning process to move forward.


Mr. Spencer’s post made me aware of a totally new approach to classroom management. As teachers, we are responsible for the education of our students, but often times, we are also teaching life lessons. I agree with his philosophy and can see the benefits of communicating with, rather than condemning, students.In my response, I asked Mr. Spencer  how a new teacher entering the classroom can implement this practice without losing control of their students. Let’s face it; if you don’t show students that you are in control, you may find yourself with a mutiny on your hands. I also asked for suggestions in creating an environment of ethical, responsible thinkers rather than compliant students. This assignment has allowed me to consider an alternative approach to classroom management.

**Update**
Imagine my surprise when I saw that Mr. Spencer had not only replied to my comment on his blog, but had also given me a link to download his book,"A Sustainable Start". This book relays some of his experiences as a teacher and provides readers with a different approach to managing a classroom. I believe this could be an especially useful tool for first year teachers. You should definitely check out his blog! What a nice guy!

C4T #1, Comment 2

As a follow-up to this assignment, I read Mr. John Spencer's blog post "Classroom Leadership: From Standardized to Personalized". This blog contains a touching story that Mr. Spencer shares about a personal experience of his from the third grade. He was a student who had a great deal of knowledge about Russia and current world events as a result of open family discussion and a grandfather who shared stories from World War II. Mr. Spencer's teacher did not appreciate him speaking out freely during class. Instead of having an appreciation for the interest and comprehension of such a young student and finding a way to teach him that speaking out was not acceptable, she punished him for being rude. 

Mr. Spencer believes that students can mature behaviorally when teachers lead the classroom in a personalized manner. Standardized policies and rules are very cut and dry; if you do this, then this is the consequence. This seems to be the standard approach to dealing with behavior because it's the way it's always been done. Each student is an individual with a unique personality and traits. If a teacher treats everyone the same, it's more like choking-out weeds instead of nurturing flowers. Individualism has to be taken into consideration when dealing with infringements. However, some situations can be discussed, having the student reflect upon their decisions while others, like students fighting, would require a more serious approach.   

I responded by saying that had I been Mr. Spencer's teacher, I would have been quite pleased and proud of his interest and comprehension. We have all had a doctor who is an extraordinary doctor, but just has a horrible bed-side manner. There are some professional educators who are wonderful at teaching, but just don't have that personal, compassionate element that is such an important quality to have when dealing with children. Students learn a lot by what they see and not just what they are told by teachers. If a teacher does not demonstrate kindness, compassion, understanding, and forgiveness, how can they expect students to be required to behave in those ways? 


Mr. Spencer's stories have helped me realize I need to remember to consider my students as individuals; humans who make mistakes, and find creative ways to help them learn from those mistakes. A lesson learned would seem to be far more valuable than missing recess for two days. By getting to know my students and appreciating their unique personalities, I can teach a respect for rules while helping each student learn from their mistakes. After all, I know I still make a few mistakes of my own from time to time.... 

Blog Post #2

Did You Know?

Two must see horror flicks every educator should see are "Did You Know? 3.0 - A John Strange Version" and the original "Did You Know 3.0" by Karl Fisch and Scott McLeod. Both videos can be viewed at . I refer to these videos as horror flicks because the statistics covered in each are frightening! Technology has advanced throughout the world in every aspect of our lives. Evidently, other countries, like China and India, are surpassing the United States in intellect and technology use. The solution in bridging this gap would appear to be in education; beginning in the classrooms. If you are majoring in education, intimidated by technology, and afraid of using technology in the classroom, you may want to watch both of these videos with the lights on!


It is amazing to me that 8 minutes and 57 seconds of video could open my eyes to a an aspect of teaching that I had never before realized. I have always pictured myself in the classroom responsible for teaching my students the required curriculum. The future of my students would be dependent upon their success in school. I now understand the importance of my students' success in technology as well as state required curriculum.


The technological advances already made within my lifetime are astounding. I recall classrooms with blackboards, over-head projectors, type writers, and computers with floppy disks. Jeff Dunn posted a fascinating visual perspective of the evolution of technology. Mr. Dunn's post can be accessed at the Edudemic.com Site. You may be surprised at what you see!


It is apparent that in order to be the best educator possible, my education will continue beyond my graduation from the University of South Alabama. It will be necessary for me to remain abreast of the latest technology. An informative website which could serve as an extremely beneficial resource to anyone interested in using technology in the classroom is http://edudemic.com/. While I found Jeff Dunn's post entertaining and informative, I also read many posts containing technology lesson plans, interactive learning games, and more. You may also find this site on facebook or follow on twitter @edudemic.

Mr. Winkle 

Mr. Winkle had a lot to absorb when he woke up! I'm sure he was fascinated by all of the technology he experienced in the office, hospital, and highway. Unfortunately, he visited the wrong school. For anyone who hasn't seen Mr. Winkle Wakes, it's a must see!

If Mr. Winkle had visited Hutchens or Dawes Elementary in West Mobile, he would have found students taking A.R. tests or playing interactive learning games on the Smart Board in classrooms. He may have passed students in the hallway as they excitedly proceeded to the computer lab for a lesson in photosynthesis. I have been fortunate enough to frequently substitute at both of these schools. Their technology programs are inspirational. 

It would be nice to invite Mr. Winkle into my classroom someday and have him observe young students using technology as a learning tool. Perhaps before he left, Mr. Winkle  could Skype Dr. Strange to give a report of all that I, and my students, were able to teach him in our technologically advanced learning environment!

Sir Ken Robinson: The Importance of Creativity

Raise your hand if you have been in a classroom with at least one child who seems to have a problem focusing on a lesson. Even if you are doing a group activity on the Smart Board and you choose that student to be your special helper; a positive approach has not helped, a consequence for disruption will probably make things worse. So what do you do?


Sir Ken Robinson gives some good advice. You need to stand back, observe, and evaluate the child (or children) who have an issue with focus and productivity of direct instruction. As a substitute teacher, I have seen some of the cutest, rambunctious students in classes that I have taught in. Some respond well with a little attention. Sir Ken Robinson is right; if you can find something they enjoy doing, shape that to the lesson, they become productive and extremely proud of themselves. 


I know that even as an adult student, I grow tired of sitting still and listening to a lecture. It's hard enough for some adults to do this, but what happens when we expect this of young students? Everyone learns in different ways. I believe this lecture has helped me realize that a problem may not be a problem; it may be an opportunity. The prescription needed may not be Adderall or Ritalin, but an art class, sports, or dancing. 


As teachers, we may need to be prepared to think outside of the box that society is painting around these children and evaluate  behaviors and performances in a different way. Watching Sir Ken Robinson's Lecture has taught me that not all children learn by sitting still and being quiet. I will need to consider different teaching approaches in order to accommodate the learning experience of some students.  

Classroom Disruption

Wow! Talk about two totally different learning environments! While watching the Classroom Disruption Video  I had horrible flashbacks to lectures of feeling like I was in a foreign language class, except I wasn't, and feelings of fatigue imposed by tremendous boredom to the point of holding my eyelids open. It's obvious that any student would rather be in the interactive, computer based classroom.

Watching this video gave me many visual examples of what I know I should and should not do in order to be an effective teacher. 

• Engage with students: The teacher who interacted with students, extended different communication methods using technology, and incorporated technology into lessons while stopping to ask and answer questions as needed was able to maintain the interest and participation of his students.
• Be excited: The teacher using technology seemed excited about what he was teaching his students. His attitude was obviously infectious, as you saw students asking questions, smiling, and a majority participating in activities outside of class which were not required. 
• Be prepared: The "technology challenged" teacher came into class after students were already seated.  He entered the classroom in a disruptive and domineering manner and proceeded to prepare to give his presentation. This did not seem to impress students.

• Dress Professionally:  While it may be cute or funny to wear that red reindeer sweater, it makes you look like a goof-ball and will not earn the respect of your students. When a teacher dresses professionally, it shows they take their job seriously and place value in their profession. 

In closing, I would like to share a personal teaching experience. I was teaching a 4th grade Alabama History lesson, and the only resource I had to work with that day was, you guessed it, a text book. Rather than just have the students read to themselves, we read as a group. I encouraged the students to think about the people they were reading about and incorporate accents and emotion as they read. We stopped on occasion to discuss the unfolding story. Students became interested and excited with the lesson. I can only imagine what they would have been able to comprehend if I had access to a video and interactive exercise on the smartboard or a program on classroom computers.

It is my goal to be the kind of teacher shown on the video who brought excitement and technology into the classroom. I will most certainly have to put forth extra effort in order to find useful technology based lessons for my students. As a teacher, I believe that extra effort will always be a win-win situation; students will enjoy learning and obtain more information and I will enjoy teaching. "It makes total sense when you just think about it."

Project #2 Wordle

Blog Post 1

A Bit About Me

Hello everyone! My name is Christie Mason. I am 40 years old, originally from Hattiesburg Mississippi, happily married for 15 years, have two daughters, and two grandchildren. I like to think of myself as a young grandmother and a student who has a bit more life experience. I have a very outgoing personality, sense of humor, and I never meet a stranger! My hobbies are collecting antiques, gardening, reading, crafts, and I love anything southern!

I have often felt that I should have been born and become a mother in a different time. Many friends tell me that I seem like a 1950's housewife with my love of antiques, weekly cleaning schedule, volunteer activities, and cooking hot meals each night; right down to wearing my grandmother's vintage aprons. This was a huge compliment, as I always found pleasure in caring for my family. Now that my children are older (13 and 21), I have decided to do something for myself. It has always been my desire to become an elementary school teacher. After many years of substitute teaching, I have chosen to pursue my dream of obtaining my degree in elementary education.

I am both excited and encouraged to learn the skills which EDM310 offers, as I know they will provide me with the tools needed to be a successful employee and engaging teacher. When I reflect on school days of "Turn to page this and read that. Now answer questions this through that at the end of the chapter", I still roll my eyes and get bored! Teachers are now so fortunate to have creative, useful technology at their fingertips. Why would we not use these tools to get students excited to learn? We've all heard that this class will require a lot of our time. Anything worth having is worth working for. I encourage any student reading this to become excited, determined, and confident! This experience will make us better teachers. Let's do this ya'll!

Time Management

Randy Pausch's video gave me the reassurance that I am already doing several things to effectively manage my time like keeping a planner and making a to-do list. One suggestion Mr. Pausch made was to do the thing you dread first in order to have it out of your way. This is something that I will definitely implement!

Mr. Pausch looked familiar to me. As he spoke, I realized that I had seen his story on ABC's news program 20/20. His upbeat attitude, passion for life, love for his family, and fight against pancreatic cancer was inspirational.

Practice Post

My first post.