TED+Talks

media type="custom" key="20443784" As a developing teacher, I have learned the importance of using technology in schools. With SmartBoard technologies becoming more popular, it is likely that schools will have some type of technology available for classroom use. However, not all schools can afford new technologies, let alone SmartBoard technologies for each classroom teacher in the building. Watching this episode of TED Talks helped me to see that I can make use of a Wii remote to create a "SmartBoard" in my classroom. The total cost of this project is much less expensive than purchasing a SmartBoard. This option also is easier to install and set up in classrooms. This is important so that the teacher can easily take this option with them if they have to move classrooms between years.
 * Johnny Lee: Wii Remote Hacks**

media type="custom" key="20443866" This video really makes me step back and think. Throughout the education program, I have been taught to start where my students are and to plan lessons that fit their needs. So, this video really hits home with the fact that teachers need to embrace what all children enjoy doing, and use that to their advantage in the classroom. If children like to play video games, then let them play video games in the classroom (educational video games are available, and more will become available if we show that there is a need for them). Also, if the student wants to write about their video game, then let them. I see no harm in allowing a child to follow his or her inspiration in school. I do draw the line at violence. I understand that a student playing a violent video game, or writing a piece about violence does not mean that the child is violent; but, this could be a precursor to children thinking that violence is acceptable in society today.
 * Gaming to Re-Engage Boys**

media type="custom" key="20443986" I liked that this video addresses that learning occurs in different ways. This really hits home with differentiated instruction in the classroom. This teacher has had several experiences that are worth sharing. She has been part of a one-to-one program in which students are given laptops to bring back and forth to school so they have digital access in the classroom. This allows all students to have equal access to technology which can be extremely beneficial in addressing individual student needs. Students can review what they need more help with, they can look forward if they already grasp the concepts that have been presented in the classroom.
 * How to Learn from Mistakes**

media type="custom" key="20444072" This video is something that is already being used in the world today. Textbooks can be costly for students to buy and use for courses. It is easier and more accessible for students to be able to find their text online versus a hard copy textbook. In the past few years alone, e-books have become more popular and more widely used. I like the idea that the web can be used as an open-source so that several authors can update and edit the same content so that every student across the nation/world has the same materials to learn from. I understand the concerns that anyone can update/edit the site so the information portrayed may not be accurate. I foresee open-source learning becoming more popular as security is figured out so that only authorized users can update and edit the materials posted for learning.
 * Richard Baraniuk: Goodbye, textbooks; hello, open-source lea rning**