Mobile Devices and Apps: Some Personal Cons & Educational Pros

Image Acquired by securedgenetworks.com

There are multitudes of apps available on the web today.  Apps that range from pure enjoyment, to those that are educational.  Many of the game-type apps are so enjoyable, in fact, that they can become addictive. People can often times spend a great deal of money on acquiring apps or features within them.  There are even those who would dispute that the possible habit-forming natures of these apps are much the same to that of other addictive activities and can cause some players to overlook important responsibilities.

Just recently, a close family member related to me their own example of this addiction to a popular game app.  He had been introduced to this app on a well-known social networking site.  He became enthralled with the game during a time he could not work due to a disability.  He found himself playing this game more and more.  As the days went on, he told me of how he would go back to the game every hour in order to earn more money, and buy more items to build his city. Soon after, he made an online purchase in order to "earn" more money to make his city bigger.  He continued to play the game around the clock.  Just last week, after a couple of months of playing the game daily, he admitted that he had to stop playing the game because he realized he was spending way too much of his time on it.  He also said that he knew once he was back to work he could not continue to maintain that level of play.

 

I personally have avoided games and many social networking sites.  Why?  Because I saw others get so engrossed in those activities, that I didn't even want to begin to get involved in them.  A couple pieces of advice to anyone who is considering any of these types of apps: Excercise caution, discretion, and self-control.  Beware, lest you get drawn in beyond what is beneficial for your life.  In God's Word (Proverbs 3:21) I am told, "My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion."

Now, on another note: With the emergence of the smart phone and tablet over the past several years, applications (apps) can now be used on smaller devices and with a fraction of the cost that was once linked with these kinds of devices.  Diverse amounts of apps that are available today are designed primarily for educational use, offering differing levels of interaction and content rich material.  In addition, there are also apps that are designed to provide adjustments for students with special needs. These apps are very beneficial in the classroom as they provide supplemental activities and material. 

 

In surfing the web, I have found many apps that I would love to use in my classroom.  I believe they would enhance the content, as well as be fun and educational for the students.  I'd like to share several of them with you . . . Oh, and feel free to leave your favorites in my comment box at the end of my blog!

 

One of my favorite units to teach in my K4 classroom was on the nighttime sky.  I (along with the help of my husband and daughter) would put hundreds of glow-in-the-dark stars on the classroom ceiling and upper portions of the walls.  I'd also pitch a tent in the classroom where we'd hold some of our lessons.  When the kids came in they were surprised and excited over our cool nighttime sky, complete with a few well-known constellations.  Now that I have my tablet, using Google Sky Map would be so fun to add to the material.  Check it out and see what you think! 

 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6znyx0gjb4&feature=player_embedded

  

 

How Rocket Learned to Read

 

As described on the website below, this "New York Times Bestselling picture book that is teaching kids to read is now available as a playful interactive iPad app. Featuring the original story and artwork by Tad Hills, with delightful animations, lots of interactivity and two additional games to play will make this a captivating app. Children will be able to make Rocket jump and wag his tail, blow leaves off of a tree, draw letters in the snow, play in the mud and uncover other surprises. The two additional games ALPHABET DROP and BIRD’S WORDS will help children hone their letter skills and learn to spell sight words.

Here is an app that will promote reading in young children, individual words are highlighted as the story is read.

TWO WAYS TO READ:

- Watch and listen as words are highlighted while the story is read aloud by Hope Davis.
- Turn off the narration and read at your own pace. Tap on the words to hear them read back to you." 

 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/how-rocket-learned-to-read/id410674362?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Math Bingo
 

Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division have never been more fun. The object of Math Bingo is to get a pattern of five Bingo Bugs in a row by correctly answering math problems. Math problems are presented at the top of the game screen. Feedback is presented at the bottom of the game screen. Correct solutions to problems answered incorrectly will be displayed.

 

 

://itunes.apple.com/us/app/math-bingo/id371338715?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

 

 

Intro to Letters, by Montessorium

 

Children can learn to trace, read, write and record letter sounds, names, and phonograms, based on the proven methodology of Montessori.

CHILDREN WILL LEARN:
✔ Basic foundations of language
✔ To read, write and understand letters from a-z
✔ Lowercase letter symbols and their sounds (phonics)
✔ Phonograms - writing and pronunciation
✔ Capital letters - letter names, writing and pronunciation
✔ Consonants and vowels
✔ Fine motor skills

 

 https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/intro-to-letters-by-montessorium/id387232375?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

 

*Kidroid

 

(*Please be patient as this site opens; it may take awhile.)

 

Kidroid is an educational game for kids of ages between 3 and 5 years, it improves their recognition skills. With Kidroid, you can teach your kids how to match images, read or listen to an object name and match it with its image.

 

 

Image acquired from migrantsoul.net

 

 

These educational apps were found on the following two websites:

 

http://www.onlinedegrees.org/top-25-android-apps-for-education/
http://www.apple.com/education/apps/

 

Copyright and Fair Use: As a Christian, What's the Bottom Line?

Image Acquired from http://www.businesswings.co.uk

 

Before addressing the importance of observing Copyright and Fair Use, I feel that it's important to define the terms correctly. I have to admit, before this topic was recently presented to me, I did not understand much of it.  Some aspects are still confusing and unclear but, certainly worth taking a closer look at.  I have also included a video clip at the end of this page that may help you to understand these concepts more fully.

According to Bing.com, copyright is defined as, "creative artist's control of original work: the legal right of creative artists or publishers to control the use and reproduction of their original works."

Fair use, according to law.yourdictionary.com, in relation to copyright laws, is defined as, "the doctrine that one may use a small portion of a copyrighted work without the author’s permission, in scholarly works, reviews, or other contexts where the use is considered reasonable and limited."

Now that the two terms have been clearly defined, are they relevant to us as educators?  And more importantly, how imperative is it to adhere to these laws if we are Christian educators?  Why is it important to observe copyright law?  Why is it important to exercise fair use properly?  After all, abiding by them completely and exclusively is very difficult and can be very frustrating as well. To understand, let alone follow, the letter of the law when it comes to copyrighting, is a daunting task. 

Many people, Christian educators among them, question the importance of following copyright law and fair use.  Their thinking is that the owner of the copyrighted work is making enough money from their work, so why does it matter?  Other educators may presume that no other teacher or school has been sued for what they want to do, so why worry about it. And countless other teachers think that copyright law is ridiculous because they are just using the information or images to put together interesting lessons for their students.

Copyright law was written and implemented for a reason. From my understanding, the purpose of copyright law is not so much to protect the interests of the authors/creators as it is to promote learning and creativity.  By adhering to copyright law we promote creativity, and provide people with the incentive to create, whether it be music, written work, or art.  Additionally, by following copyright law, we are supporting capitalism in that those who have created a particular work are able to make money from it, whereas, otherwise it might not be possible.  Even though it is not the main reason for the law, another important factor in following copyright law is that we are supporting the creator and giving them credit for what they have created, and preventing others from taking what was produced by someone else and getting credit for it. 
 
Aside from the legal consequences, a couple of things to bear in mind when considering the potential use of copyrighted material, are the viewpoints of both the owner and the user of the copyrighted material. From the perspective of the owner, ask yourself what kind of respect and adherence of copyright law would you want others to follow? Additionally, from the frame of reference of the user, ask yourself what kind of consideration and compliance you should follow if you are going to use another person's copyrighted material. Also ask yourself how it would affect you if someone stole your original work without your permission to make money. When you approach the situation in this manner you show that you are putting into practice Matthew 7:12, which says, "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you . . . ", and that you are taking into account the ethics of trust (in anyone who may be given the chance to use your material) and respect (for the rights of others). 

According to the Bible, in Romans 14:12, we are told, "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God."  This verse tells me that if I knowingly choose to infringe on a copyright law, I am held accountable before God, irregardless of whether or not anyone else is aware that I have done so.  I am also told in 2 Corinthians 8:21, "For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man."  Not only should I do what is right in the eyes of God, but also my fellow man.  In closing, Ephesians 4:25, states, " . . . put off falsehood . . . "  We are to be straight and honest with others and do what is right. That is my bottom line.  What is yours?

Podcasting in the Classroom: Useful or Useless? Help or Hinderance?

Podcasting . . . what exactly is it?  Technically different than merely posting files on the web, it is a means of publishing audio and video content on the web as a series of episodes with a common theme.  Many schools are utilizing the means of podcasting in three main ways.  The most common being creating audio or video archives of classroom lectures.  Another way of implementing educational podcasting involves the delivery of supplemental course materials, usually designed to be listened to before coming to class.  Lastly, many instructors use podcasts in a creative way by developing assignments for the students in which they are required to make and submit their own podcasts.

 

Image acquired from jagoe.ca

 

 

So, the million dollar question is . . . does podcasting enhance education?

 

 

Speaking from the perspective of a K4 teacher, I could use podcasting to help me differentiate and enhance my teaching for those who are struggling in the classroom, to those students that are considered "average," as well as for the "advanced" students.  What are some ways a teacher can do that? 

 

For the struggling student, a classroom podcast could be used as a way for the them to take the content in again, in the hopes that it would help them gain a better understanding of the lesson. A supplemental podcast for the struggling student might bring the content to them from a different tack and help them grasp the material. Podcasts would also allow for the parent of the struggling student to be a part of the learning process for their child. The material would be made available for them to use at home, and to review with their child at their convenience.

 

As for the "average" student, a classroom podcast could be used as a review of the material at the end of each unit. It would also be a medium through which their parents could be informed about what they are learning in the classroom. Because, let's be real . . . what do most kids say when asked by their parent, "What did you do/learn at school today?" Frequently the answer is, "I don't know." Or, my personal favorite, which my own children have used on more than one occasion: "Nothing." Being a teacer, I know that not to be true, so I would've loved the opportunity to have watched a podcast of one of their lessons. 

 

The "advanced" student, who doesn't need reinforcement or review, can watch a supplemental podcast to  take them farther in the lesson than the rest of the students could go.  These students could be assisted in putting together a "mini review podcast" of the lesson, from their perspective, for the other students to watch. This would be a great opportunity for them to begin understanding how technology works in addition to reinforcing the content. As a parent, it would be exciting to see them complete an activity like this.

                   

                                                                                Image acquired from www.army.mil

 

In addition to what we've already discussed, there are a couple of other advantages to podcasts in the classroom.  One would be for those students who had missed class for whatever reason.  They could watch the podcast at home and have the opportunity to get back on track in a quick manner.  This would keep them from getting behind in their work, and in staying up with the curriculum with the rest of the class.  Beyond that, students who generally process information a bit more slowly than the majority of the class can use podcasts to re-watch the lesson at their own pace.  They would have the ability to pause the podcast, and also re-watch particular portions until they understood what was being taught.  Both uses would be advantages producing win-win situations.

 

 Image acquired from mcdonaldroad.org.

 

In closing, as a Christian, something I think about is biblical principles that are important when it comes to establishing rules in, as well as outside of, the classroom in regards to the use of technology related to my particular classroom.   The Bible would obviously not specifically say, "Thou shall/shalt not allow technology in thy classroom."  So, what DOES the Bible say that I could apply to this situation?  The Bible is very clear when it comes to what it says about living a life that is obedient to God and is God-honoring.  Very vital aspects in living that life would include the use of discernment, self-control, restraint, good judgement and accountability.  These are things I would need to keep in mind as I establish rules in regards to technology that my students would be expected to follow both inside and outside the classroom.

 

Some Scriptures that I need to personally keep in mind, are:

 

Titus 2:12 "It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age . . . "

 

Phillipians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."

 

James 3:1 "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly."

 

Online Games for the Classroom

In learning more about the use of technology in the classroom I am seeing more positive reasons to integrate online educational games with the curriculum in order to enhance the learning process for the students.  Many parents are doubtful when it comes to the benefits of online gaming.  Be that as it may, researchers have established that when balanced and supervised properly, students learning can be aided greatly in this way. 

Although I know that this is a controversial topic, as a mom, and as a teacher of pre-kindergarten aged children, I too see the benefits of online educational games.  I'd like to share several of my favorites with you.  Have your child try them, and see what you think. I've also included a link below, and some benefits of online games for children.  Enjoy!  Let me know your thoughts.  How do you stand on the topic of online gaming in education?

Some of My Favorite Online Educational Games

*Find the Pair

Student finds and then clicks on the matching pair.  They have the opportunity to go from level 1 to level 10.  In the classroom this game could be used as supplemental material to help the students learn how to create pairs, and assist in learning how to count.

http://www.knowledgeadventure.com/games/find-the-pair.aspx

* The New One

Student selects the object that wasn't there before.  This game is an excellent mental challenge.  "The New One" could be used in the classroom, once again, as supplemental material.  This game ,would encourage concentration, in so much, that the student will pay close attention in order to determine which object was newly introduced to the page. 

http://www.knowledgeadventure.com/games/the-new-one.aspx





* Amazing Alphabet Match-Up

A fun and challenging memory-type game where students find the matching alphabet letter and picture that begins with that letter.  (i.e. B and balloon) Easy, medium or hard levels available.  In the classroom, this partuicular game could be used as reinforcement as letters are recognized and sounds are learned.

http://pbskids.org/superwhy/#game/alphapigconcentration

 





* Letter Sounds Match-Up

A game that challenges students as they match the alphabet letter with the sound it makes.  Easy, medium and hard levels are available in this concentration-type game.  As students are learning individual letter sounds, "Letter Sounds Match-Up" is a great way to reinforce what sounds each letter makes and connect that with an object that begins with that sound.

http://pbskids.org/superwhy/#game/princessprestoconcentration

* Number Train Game

An ordering numbers game where the student "drops" the numbers 1-20 into the correct train car in the proper order.  Only three numbers are given at a time in order to allow the child to be successful.  Towards the end of the school year the "Number Train Game" would be excellent in either the introduction or reinforcing of number recognition, counting in order, and placing numbers in the correct order. 

www.softschools.com/counting/games/number_train/

 

http://www.more4kids.info/673/online-games-for-kids/

The benefits range from developing social skills in the virtual environment, increasing the ability of the child to successfully maneuver around and operate a computer, increasing emotional intellect, and assisting in the academic endeavors of the child.

1. Children who play games online are able to enjoy the reward and satisfaction that comes with the small goals that are often established in games.

2. If children engage in online gaming that involves playing with other children from other areas of the world, they can benefit in that they learn the importance and fun when it comes to sharing and taking turns.

3. The next advantage to playing games that involve other players is that your children will learn how to cooperate in a team setting.

4. There have many conclusive studies that indicate that children who play games that are video based on a regular basis have better eye-hand coordination than those children who do not play video games.

5. There are a number of games that are available online that focus on challenging the mind of the individual who plays it.

6. When a child plays online games, it has been found that the technology skills that are necessary to live in today’s world are greatly enhanced.

7. Children who play online games can learn how to multitask in an effective manner.

Video Library List/Biblical Integration

Online Video Library List

* Preschool Prep Company

    Preschool Prep Company produces books and DVDs that are created to help educate children in their early years.  Their items help children develop a strong foundation for learning how to read.  Preschool Prep products teach basic concepts such as letters, numbers, shapes and color recognition, sight words and phonics skills. 

http://www.preschoolprepco.com/h/a/index.php

* Brain Tofu

     Brain Tofu combines "school cartoons" and "cartoon education" shows to teach younger children about science, math, English and art.

http://www.braintofu.com/

* Christian Preschool

     Christian Preschool provides video tutorials of crafts that are geared for younger children, but are especially good for the Christian school classroom.  Explicit directions are given, from the materials needed, to step-by-step instructions.  Some book reviews are also included.

http://www.youtube.com/user/ChristianPreschool


* Mother Goose Club

     Mother Goose Club was created by a mother of four and former teacher.  It makes classic nursery rhymes accessible to what they call "a modern, global audience."  The live action and animated videos and songs were designed with today's classroom in mind.  The videos and songs feature six colorful characters and engaging content that promotes pre-literacy in a fun way. Mother Goose Club began airing on local PBS stations in 2009, and has since grown to become a multimedia resource, with a website that delivers learning tools and entertaining videos, as well as a YouTube channel.  On their very professional site you will find access to rhymes, videos, songs, lyrics, coloring sheets and more.

Image Acquired From mothergooseclub.com

http://www.mothergooseclub.com/about.php


* Super Simple Songs

     At Super Simple Songs you will find children's songs that are easy-to-teach, easy-to-learn, and super fun for the children. Their site also offers options such as a super simple learning website, kids songs, free flashcards, free ABC worksheets, and teaching tips.

http://www.youtube.com/supersimplesongs

 Biblical Integration

Image Acquired From Worshippingchristian.org

What biblical wisdom provides clarity on the role of a parent or guardian in monitoring a child’s practices and activities? How does this apply to the use of technology? What role does a teacher play regarding this issue? (Use at least one scriptural references in your response)

In Proverbs 22:6 parents are told, "Train up a child in the way he should

go . . ."  There is a great parental responsibility to instill the right things in a child.  In this day and age one very important way to put this principle into practice is to monitor a child's activities, whether it be with their friends, extra-curricular, or online.  Children need boundaries.  It is proven that a child feels safer when they know what their boundaries are.  A parent's job is demanding, yet one crucial role of being a parent is that of monitoring media in their family.  One of the greatest responsibilities a parent or guardian has is to protect the heart and mind of their child from words or images that threaten their values.  The task of setting boundaries in regards to media has become even more challenging due to the fact that the availability of ways for children to access the internet, especially away from home (including school), has greatly increased.  A teacher comes in to play here as the parent is entrusting their child to them while they are in the classroom.  A teacher then becomes responsible for what each student has access to while under their supervision.  Teachers must also set boundaries for their students.  For those teachers who are Christians, James 3:1 should be very convicting.  It states, "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly."  As adults, God holds us accountable, whether it be in the role of parent, guardian, or teacher, for those under our authority.  That role should not be taken lightly. 

Collaborative Tools Blog Assignment

Image acquired from: weboffice.com

WebOffice is a collaboration suite that uses the web to allow others to work together in an easy and cost-effective manner.  It was designed to allow a person to share and collaborate with co-workers, etc., across the world. Working in real time, from the office or car, WebOffice organizes and manages schedules, hosts web meetings, shares documents and accesses data bases.  This collaboration tool also allows one to present proposals, conduct trainings and even share their desktop with another.  

WebOffice would not only be beneficial in an office or corporate setting but, in the classroom as well.  An educator could use this tool to conduct a project that would connect their students with another classroom on the other side of the world.  This same teacher could also post and share ideas with thousands of teachers across the country.  WebOffice would also allow a teacher to easily stay connected with students, parents, and co-workers with up-to-date assignments, newsletters, reminders, school year calendars, and parent-teacher conferences.  In addition, a teacher would be able to complement a lesson by including classroom polls.  WebOffice can be used in a myriad of ways to enhance the classroom experience for both the educator and the student.

http://www.weboffice.com/index.html

My Very First Portrait

 

 

 I drew this from my mom's 1959 senior picture.  I gave it to her for Christmas 2012. 
It made her cry.  We matted and framed it, and it will hang in her home. 

This is my very first portrait. 

I hope to draw more when I have time . . . LOTS of time!