Pre-Algebra Companion Site Scavenger Hunt

The Pre-Algebra textbook we use in class has a wonderful website that corresponds with the textbook. This website can be extremely helpful as you try to complete various homework assignments or study for tests while you are at home. I have created a scavenger hunt for you to complete individually that will allow you to become more comfortable with the website. You can access this activity from the following link titled Worksheet. Worksheet

This information is also located on the Veenstra Math wiki.

Google Voice: GREAT tool for educators!

I have recently started using Google Voice to communicate with students and I LOVE it! It is the perfect way to safely interact with students. I love that it saves all messages online so I am protected and I can set the number to go straight to voice mail when I no longer want calls at night. Here are two websites that explain it more!


Innovative Educator

Google Teacher Academy

Angela Maiers- You Matter!

Account Reflection

Throughout this course I have been able to set up both a PBWorks account and a Facebook account (I already had a Facebook account!) Both accounts can be valuable resources for teachers to use in their classrooms. I have never used PBWorks before so I was interested in learning how to set up a wiki and how to edit pages. Overall, I found it to be slightly complicated and not very user friendly but I do see the benefits of using a wiki in my classroom. I plan on spending more time exploring this website to learn how to use it better and more effectively. I personally have had a facebook account for about five years so I am very comfortable with using this site. However, I personally would not choose to use it in my 8th grade math classroom because I feel it would be more of a distraction than a benefit for my students. I am not saying Facebook should not be used in schools, I am just choosing not to use it in my particular situation!

Facebook

This week in class we learned focused on discussing Facebook. I read an article discussing student and teacher privacy with regards to facebook. Also, I had the opportunity to explore many of the applications associated with Facebook. Facebook is a wonderful tool for reconnecting with friends and family. However, it can also be beneficial in education. There are many applications that teachers and students can use to extend the classroom educational experience outside of the classroom.

Privacy is a huge issue when it comes to social media. I am a strong believer that teachers need to be EXTREMELY careful and cautious with everything they post online. Even if they have private settings there are ways for others to view this information or see the images they post. Therefore only post information online that you are comfortable with everyone viewing!

Exploring Wiki's

During these past two weeks I have spent an extensive amount of time researching and exploring various wikis. I also have now created a new wiki using PBWorks. My Wiki will be used for a project in my classroom. In the next few weeks I will be developing a project that my students will complete by using my wiki.

In the past I have created a wiki using WikiSpaces. However, the wiki I created was basically a classroom webpage. I did not allow students or other individuals edit or change the site. I have now been exposed to the benefits of a collaborative wiki where students or other teachers can contribute information on the wiki. I am excited to see how this wiki will benefit students in my classroom this year!

I also have learned about three different types of wiki. Wikis can be created for a variety of collaborative projects within three main categories. Those categories are knowledge construction, critical thinking, and contextual application. All three of these categories have their benefits and can be useful in the classroom.

I am excited to spend next week focusing on social networking and learning more about the benefits of Facebook!