Hatch1's Weblog

Reflections this week.

hatch1 — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:52:42 +0000

This week I thought about how much I really enjoy answering the discussion board and blog questions. These are questions that we face almost everyday concerning technology. I am better prepared on my job to help students as a results of the discussion board questions.

What has slowed the widespread use of technology in education and how can those obstacles be overcome?

hatch1 — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:43:31 +0000

Problems:

• One of the two greatest problems in using technology is inadequate numbers of computers. Most teachers do not have sufficient numbers of computers in their classrooms. While almost all taught in schools with computer laboratories these were generally not available when needed which limited the teacher’s ability to assign technology based work or provide instruction.

• The second greatest problem was the age of the computers. From the responses, it appeared that many if not most of the computers were antiquated and not capable of running much of the educational software and more advanced programs.

• The age of the computers was a major factor in explaining the poor condition of the computers. Virtually all respondents noted concerns in fixing computer problems and obtaining replacements. With significant numbers of computers inoperable, the problems with inadequate numbers were intensified.

• There was inadequate technical support for teachers. The number of qualified technicians was severely limited meaning that machines remained unfixed, programs uninstalled and instruction interrupted or curtailed. The unreliability of computers and the inadequate technical support reduced the willingness of teachers to more fully employ technology in their classrooms. This was a major reason why teachers did not make greater use of technology in their classes.

• Teachers expressed a need for more training. Most had six or fewer hours of instruction in technology and felt that amount to be inadequate. With new and often more complex interactive programs available, constant updating of technology skills was viewed as a must.

• By far the greatest felt need by teachers was for more training in ways to integrate technology into the subjects they taught. Just transmitting skills to students does not provide the type of relevant instruction that students need to make the subject come alive. Ways to integrate technology is a most pressing and immediate need according to the respondents.

Solutions:

• More and better computers should be the first priority.

• Improved access at school and away from school is a necessity.

• Expanded ability to use the internet and more advanced software is essential.

• Emphasis on teacher training, particularity in integration and application is extremely important.

My two weeks ordeal

hatch1 — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 21:09:42 +0000

Well, my brother became suddenly very ill and stayed in the hospital intensive care unit for two weeks. I took annual leave from my job to go to be with my brother because the doctor was unsure about him pulling through it because his liver was so damaged. I stayed at the hospital 24 hours a day for two weeks and I did not go home for Thanksgiving nor did I have a thanksgiving dinner. I reported back to the office Tuesday, November 27, 2007 to discover much work to do in my technology class. Now, I need to regroup in order to complete assignments. I hope Mrs. Johnson give me a moment to regroup.

I also forgot to pay my bills before I left and I came back on Monday night and did not have any water to bathe. I sat quietly and smile knowing that tomorrow will come. I started to go to a hotel but I said no, what did we do long time ago. I went to the store and bought some water to flush the commode and take a bath. It was not so bad. My brother is doing okay and I am happy. I have gone through quite a bit this semester, but I am so grateful that all is well. I believe God is smiling and I am too. I love being back in school and I love my teacher, Mrs. Johnson.

Reflections this week.

hatch1 — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 20:58:41 +0000

I learned this week that in the 21st century classroom, we are going to get it or be unemployed. Too much is at stake concerning the children knowledge of using computers in the classoom. If future teachers need to go back to school and take a technology course, then so be it. I am 95% 21st century ready.

Does the digital divide still exist?

hatch1 — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 20:55:20 +0000

Does the digital divide still exist, and so, how can we overcome it?What is meant by a digital divide is a separate question from whether such a divide exists. Even the term “digital divide” is controversial. “Digital” focuses attention on technology over other factors. “Divide” implies a distinct split. Question: Can everyone really be separated into one group or the other, or is the difference more graduated?Disparities definitely exist, broken down along many demographic factors. Computer and Internet use correlate with family income, employment status, and educational attainment. Interestingly enough, there does not appear to be a gender gap in computer or Internet use, although there are differences in which online activities each group practices.There is a significant divide along racial lines. Blacks and Hispanics have much lower rates of computer ownership and Internet access than Whites and Asian Americans. This disparity holds true across income brackets and location. Education is a further component in the solution. This should be more than mere training in tool use (although that does play a role, too). People need to learn the basics of information literacy: searching, evaluating materials for quality, risk assessment, privacy protection… These skills go beyond online behavior to include mass media and everyday communications. This should be integrated into the schools, and be made widely available as adult education.People can still choose not to use the Internet. However, this would make it an informed decision. Many people choose not to read for pleasure. However the schools still ensured that everyone learned basic literacy. That’s how we need to think of the digital divide.

Reflections this week.

hatch1 — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:11:40 +0000

I am really excited about all of the things that you can do with googles. I am so use to using Microsoft Outlook. But there is a whole world of technology out there. Created a calendar in googles was fun. I wonder what else we can do in googles. I want to get all I can while Mrs. Johnson is teaching. I wished she can teach more on-line courses. But, she is too busy with the inservice center.

What does it takes to be a successful online student?

hatch1 — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 17:23:05 +0000

Some issues to consider being a successful on-line student:TIME –You need to be willing to dedicate sufficient time to the learning process. THINKING –An online course allows you the time to consider your opinions and responses before posting them for others to read. LEARNING –You need to realize that there IS a difference between the regular, traditional “campus life” and the “life” you have as a student in an online-learning environment. WRITING –Writing is KEY to succeeding in higher education today, especially in an online class. It is the primary method whereby you communicate your thoughts, opinions, and reactions to the subject matter. DISCIPLINE–However, the accelerated pace we offer students means you must discipline yourself to keep up with your assignments and to spend the time necessary both to interact with the online material and to complete the assignments in such a way that you’ll be satisfied with your effort—and your grade.EFFORT –Therefore, though it may be easier to “arrive” at class by sitting down at your computer, the amount of effort required is the same. It will take work on your part to learn the subject matter and to earn the credits that form the basis of your quality degree program.PROJECTS –Though you may never meet your classmates, your professor may still give you opportunities to work collaboratively in the completion of certain projects—just as you might in a traditional classroom. TECHNOLOGY –Inasmuch as you’re basically “exchanging” the traditional classroom for our high-tech online-learning environment, certain computer technology abilities and skills are essential. How does it differ from being a successful on-line teacher?The teacher has to make sure that assignments are posted in a timely manner giving students ample time to complete the work and grade the assignments. The teacher has to deal with flexibility, quality and relevance material posted on-line.

Reflections this week

hatch1 — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 01:14:18 +0000

I enjoyed learning this week information on copyright and fair use guidelines. I copy information all the times, I never look to see if I can copy it or not. If I copied anything illegal, I was unaware of it. My most concern would have been to get the information not is this is illegal to copy. But, it is interesting to know that some things are forbidden and by all means I know from your class, Mrs. Johnson don’t forget to cite your sources. The Fair use guidelines was stating how we don’t want to take credit for someone else work. I wonder does this tie in with plagarism. This class make you aware of so many things that you do everyday without thinking about it because we are prong to do things because other people do it. Being back in school is a very good thing for me. All I can do is learn and apply.

How can assistive technologies benefit a special needs student at your school?

hatch1 — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 15:23:30 +0000

If I had some students that needed some assistance with writing in cursing and speaking, my solutions to the problem would be for the students to practice cursive until they have mastered all the letters and can be more facile in using script. However, while they are still learning cursive, they will also need other means for responding in writing. For short written responses, they would be encouraged to use manuscript printing. When speed is important or when writing assignments are longer, they would have access to a computer with an adaptive keyboard (e.g., IntelliKeys). The adaptive keyboard is helpful for them because the “keys” are larger and easier to see. Using the keyboard requires only a very light touch so the students will find it easier to use than a standard computer keyboard.

In terms of oral reading, the students would practice reading into a tape recorder. I will work with them individually if they needed extra help on slowing down on their rate of speech and reading with expressions. When they have a good tape of their oral readings, they will submit it to me, the teacher for review.

Solution Summary

Practice cursive

Use manuscript printing for short assignments

Use computer with adaptive keyboard for longer assignments

Practice oral reading using a tape recorder

M9Blog What is Bobby?

hatch1 — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 15:19:13 +0000

It sounds like a girl’s name. But you did not say who is Bobby? your question is what is Bobby? I like this site because it allows you to think out loud with humor.

What is WebXACT (formerly known as Bobby)? WebXACT is a tool for analyzing your web page(s) for accessibility. It was developed by the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) and is available for free on the web. It is a legal requirement – Equality is a basic democratic right and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA), requires all publicly accessed websites to be compliant with Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) guidelines, an initiative set up by the Internet’s governing body, the Worldwide Web Consortium (W3C). Bobby is only an automated tool that points out where the guidelines appear to be broken. It can very well be that certain guidelines are indeed followed. Every website is unique and therefor, the Bobby accessibility report should not be taken literally. All information contained in the report should act as support in the process of improving accessibility. A human evaluation by the webmaster supported by the Bobby accessibility report are the optimal instrument one can use into identifying accessibility problems and finding solutions.

There are many ways to define web accessibility, but one simple definition is to allow equal access to information and core functionality of your website to all users. This does not mean that everyone will see or hear the same thing while visiting your website: that would be next to impossible, as people all access the internet using different methods or in different environments. It does mean that your website should be able to deliver the same service or information to all users, depending on your target audience and the service you provide to your users.

How does it affect your website design?

Of course, no matter how well organized your web site is and how effective it is at grabbing the visitor’s attention, they have to view your web site as important. You have to give them reasons to stay and browse your site, to bookmark your site so they can refer to it again and to tell others about your site so you can build new visitors. Offer something of value such as: newsletter, free tips, monthly coupons. Put effort into the words of your web site. If visitors can’t get around easily on your web site, they want stay very long.

Because it covers all accessibility guidelines, Bobby can identify problems which are ultimately easy to fix but often overlooked. It’s often the case where there was no one to point them out. At the end of the process webmasters will see that by thoroughly going through the report and making minor or less minor changes to their website, the degree of accessibility of their website will have improved significantly.

Improving accessibility should be a motivation alone. Even if a website does not pass the Bobby test it is not to say it is not usable or accessible to a degree or another. There are many very usable and accessible web sites on the web that pay attention to their users and yet do not get the Bobby Approved rating. Improving your web site for users is enough to start with. It is a step forward for your website and your users if you’ve just taken the accessibility path.