Innovative Resource

Backchannels 

Throughout this semester in my Ed. Tech. and Design class we have been using "backchannels" in almost every lecture. I really enjoy using this resource because it helps me stay on task during class and I am able to voice my thoughts. This then got me thinking, if it helps me now how can it help with my future classrooms. Backchannels offer students a resource to express themselves on related topics being discussed. Also, it enables them to post information they discover over the topics. Backchannels allow students to return to them and retrieve the information that has been posted. There are numerous and innovative ways to use backchannels in the classroom for any age. Always keep your eyes open for new technology resources to use in your classroom.

Picture Retrieved from: http://www.socialsignal.com/blog/rob-cottingham/book-review-backchannel

Creative & Fun Educational Activity

QR codes Treasure Hunt 

With all the different technology in todays time there is no doubt that ways of teaching are change for the better. Technology allows students to learn at their own speed and at their own level. It also opens up greater opportunity to create fun and creative activities. With the use of QR codes, students can access information at their fingertips. Then that can be turned into a big game or puzzle. Having multiple QR codes for the students to use can allow them to complete the puzzle using the information they discover. It is a great way to intergrade new technology into the classroom. 

Picture retrieved from: http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/QR-code-quick-response-code

A new way to present Information

LessonCast

As an Early Childhood and Elementary Education Major I am always on high alert for new and simple ways to present students with information. Using the tool LessonCast I am able to record my voice while showing information about the topic. It is similar to presenting information off a powerpoint, but this way it is prerecorded and you are able to make the presentation flawless. Also, students are able to return to the final work to view over and over again incase they missed information the first time. LessonCast is a great tool to use for any age group. I am currently using it for a presentation in my Children's Literature class, which gives me the practice I need so I can to use in my own classroom some day. Feel free to check out my finished project!

Picture Retrieved from LessonCast website. 

Technology Changes Lives

Assistive Technology 

Kevin's Senior Picture

Through the advances in technology it has greatly benefited many people including my own brother. My older brother Kevin was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 3. He has never been able to speak or express himself with the usage of words. With technology development though it has enabled him to communicate more than he has ever before. Kevin has been working with a "talk box" for a couple of years now. The technology used for the talk box has been improving through the years and now he uses an iPad. He benefits greatly with this new development in technology. He is one of numerous of the disabled who are now able to communicate easier with others. There are many apps in existence, but one of the most popular is MyTalk Mobile, which help those with communicative difficulties express themselves.

Take the video I shared with you to see how advanced technology is now. It is amazing to see how far we have come when dealing with assisting the disabled. It is truly remarkable.

Picture Retrieved from my own collection.

Overview of Myself!

Miss Mary Kathryn 

Hello Everyone! This is my very first blog post so I think it is very appropriate to start off telling you a little bit about myself. I grew up in North East Iowa in a small little town called New Vienna. I attended Catholic school my entire life and graduated from Beckman Catholic High. Now I am Early Childhood and Elementary Education major at the University of Northern Iowa. I have an older bother and sister along with a younger bother. I was raised on a farm that has been in my family for over one hundred years. I love animals, being out doors, and traveling. 

I take my education very seriously and cannot wait to be in my own classroom teaching the youth. To find out more about my interests and myself follow me on Twitter!

Picture: retrieved from my own person collection.