Reflective Searching-Blog #3

As I enlightened myself with digital resources about Search patterns and strategies, my thoughts took me back to my classroom.  I thought about my students' search patterns.  I thought about my search patterns when I am in the midst of teaching and utilizing the smart board.  One phrase came to mind: "Quick, fast and in a hurry".

Oftentimes, educators are bombarded with the pressures of remaining on schedule and covering all pertinent information; according to the state standards.  Therefore, Google and/or Bing remain on the forefront of our Bookmarks bar, Top Websites poster hanging in our classrooms and the search engine of choice for all research needs.  In fact, I found the 'Google Tips and Tricks' or quick Google tips resources confirming, helpful and delightful.

It is unfortunate that we have placed so much pressure on ourselves to have the answers expeditiously. In the past, we had patience.  I remember when I used to ask my mother to drive me to the main downtown library to conduct research using...THE CARD CATALOGUE AND THE DEWEY DECIMAL SYSTEM.  Notice how I spelled 'catalogue' and capitalized all of the above words (I am telling my age).  Searching via internet has made these two things obsolete.

With this mini confession, I will admit that I have helped to annihilate the memories of the card catalogue by desiring a quick answer and skimming through the passages or pages of the web.  My filter bubble creates an unnecessary 'glass wall' for all of my searching needs.

Transformation must take place.  A new search pattern of patience and scrutiny should arise.

Blog #2-FRIT 7234-Reflective Reflection: Shifting Paradigms

Mind/Shift: How We Will Learn blogger posted an outstanding 'blog article' entitled, "Creating Classrooms We Need: 8 Ways into Inquiry Learning."  If an instructor and/or teacher has encountered challenges concerning inquiry-based lessons, this blog is a great place to start!

Overall, I find that the majority of what was written is beneficial to educators mandated or interested in inquiry-based learning.  This 'blog article' provides sensible tips to aid in shifting one's paradigm as it relates to creating a learner-centered classroom.

Take precautions and do not proceed blindly with these 8 ways in Inquiry Learning.  It is not as easy as it sounds.  Teaching and Learning should be enjoyable, however, there are times where the lesson may pose a challenge and "lose steam".  In addition, all of your students may not accept the inquiry-based learning classroom atmosphere.  It is essential that you discover your student's learning modalities, multiple intelligences, learning strengths and/or interests.   (Read the 6th Way listed)  http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2013/03/creating-classrooms-we-need-8-ways-into-inquiry-learning/

I found this 'blog article' beneficial to my own interests as a teacher of gifted and talented students.  In addition, I will share this with my worksite colleagues.

FRIT 7234-Blog #1 Technology is in the Hand of the Beholder-My Goals

Hello Colleagues and Classmates,
I am Rita McGlothin and I have listed below a few of my learning goals.

After reading through the syllabus and viewing the SLO's for my concentration, my learning goals for this course became much more vivid.  I believe that all of the Student Learning Objectives (SLO) are essential to my successful growth in the class.  However, it would be advantageous to only list a few.

Learning Goal #1: To effectively keep my PLN "fresh", refreshed and up-to-date.  In addition, I would like to learn how to identify relevant and beneficial articles to post and share.

Learning Goal #2: To become fluent in the use of research-based, learner-centered strategies, especially in the area of diversity.

Learning Goal #3: To effectively identify and use research-based best practices in instructional design; collaborating with online classmates and worksite colleagues;

Fluency in technological tools and information is truly in the hands of the beholder.  Therefore, the time has come to move toward accomplishing each goal established.

Many teachers and/or educators are no longer cowering at the phrase, 'technology in the classroom'.  They are meeting the challenges head-on.  As I research and peruse the nation's school districts and their initiatives, I observe that they have taken the "technology bull by its horns".  Well done!!  

Web 2.0 is becoming a household, or should I say classroom name for many school districts.  Oftentimes, the technology push is started by one or two brave teachers with vision and prowess. 

I would like to use this blog to highlight and celebrate teachers for their tenacity and vision in the area of technology.  Go forth, colleagues.  

This is my first blog post...or introductory blog post.  Stay tuned, there is more to come!