Scanner

This doesn’t particularly involved education, but it does involve technology. Today was my first time using a scanner. My daughter was chosen by the Dallas Morning News to be featured in the paper. She had the opportunity to ask questions; however, they needed a picture of her immediately. I did not have time to take them a picture and didn’t know exactly how I would get the picture to them. “Light bulb” One of the teachers owns a scanner. I asked her if I could use it and she showed me what to do. I scanned my daughter’s picture and voila; I was able to email it immediately; in just a matter of seconds. AND IT WAS EASY!!! I was so impressed. The teacher told me it was great for emailing samples of students work to professors if need be. Someday I may purchase a scanner.

Visual Aids

We have a teacher, who is legally blind. She is such an excellent teacher and without the use of technology, she wouldn’t be able to share her ability to educate. She has a piece of equipment in her classroom that increases the size of the words in the books. This allows her to read to her students just as any other teacher does. There is a function on her computer, which allows her to magnify everything by 100. This is a great accommodation for her. It allows her to teach, which she would not be able to do, if this form of technology was not offered.

Recognizing How We Use Technology

I have to work with a group of kindergarten students who aren't grasping the concept of numbers, shapes, and patterns. I have been working with them for weeks using visuals and manipulatives. This past Friday, I decided to research a couple of math interactive websites for them. I discovered one that is excellent for them. There are tons of math activites for them to do; ranging from very basic to advance. The website offers games to help them identify their shapes. They can not move on to the next game until they get the previous one correct. There is also a lesson in which they must count the number of objects and match it with the correct number. This allows them to work at their own pace, while I am also able to work with them one on one. I think it is awesome that the computer assists with teahing students through interactive websites.

PowerPoint Feedback

Tonight we discussed PowerPoint. I would say that I could create a simple PowerPoint if need be. However, I did not think I was capable of creating a “fancy-smancy” presentation. Before our professor reviewed PowerPoint, I must admit, I was once again a bit intimidated by this assignment. However, I decided to put my fears aside and be very open. As a result, I am very excited about our assignment. It does not seem hard at all. I am excited to use the new techniques our professor has taught us. My only concern now is not using PowerPoint, but for which grade and subject I will create my PowerPoint.