Blog Post #10

What I Learned from Mrs.Cassidy's Students
They love their blogs. Blogs get the kids really excited. I think that this is replacing the old way of writing in a notebook and then reading out loud to the class. This is a better way for kids to write because a) they can get comments from much older students and even other teachers and b) they aren't as nervous about what they write. I think reading in front of peers sometimes makes kids nervous and holds back their writing skills. They don't think so much about the people reading their blog so they are more open to writing what they really think.
They are learning to write good critiques. They are being taught how to respond to other people's blogs by seeing how people respond to theirs. They understand that it's best to critique someone in a kind but firm way. Point out what they did good first then help them find their flaws. It's much more effective than a rude comment or just saying what all was wrong.
They are learning to use so much. These kids probably know more about computers than I do. They are learning about webpages, how to navigate their own class webpage and how to use wikis, and even skype.
They like making videos. Videos are a great tool for learning because kids can go back and watch them and see where they made mistakes and where they excelled.

What I Learned from Mrs.Cassidy

Stand up for your ideas. Not everyone will be totally on board with your ideas. She says in the video that a lot of her principals weren't discouraging but they didn't really help her out. However, the parents loved it and the students absolutely love it so sometimes even though not everyone loves an idea it doesn't mean it isn't a good one.
Stick with the times. Things are changing. Teaching will be different now than it was when I was in school. You have to stay on top on understanding new things, especially about the internet because there's so much on it that can help. You have to keep up with the new ideas people are coming up with for learning in schools.
Be open to blogs. People really love blogs. Kids love blogs. Blogs are just good all around because these students know they have a huge audience and the amount of people that read it can be pretty astounding. It's a great confidence booster for writing.
Use what you like. The best way to get connected with the internet world is by getting involved in an area that you really enjoy. Example: if you like writing, blog. If you like photography, use Flickr.
Use the internet to establish PLNs. Using new sites can be weird and confusing at first, but once you get the hang of it, it can really help you later in your career.
Blogs can be used in every class. People don't think blogs can be used in every class but they can. They can be used just to get a message out there. But even for P.E. they could use it to post inspirational videos and quotes dealing with a certain sport. Or in math, they could post complicated problems and fun word problems for everyone to try to figure out. The use of blogs is limitless.
Make cheating either difficult or preferably impossible. I'm not quite sure how to do exactly this yet, but it'd be helpful to try in the classroom.
Protect your students. No last names, no pictures, teach them to be kind. Keep them also from other websites. Give them very specific rules on what to click on on the websites they use. They should not go to any other websites without permission.
Balance your time. This was kind of random, but spend time with your kids. Don't use your computers 24/7. Just something good to remember.