John+James

=Welcome to my Wiki Space for ISTC 301- Spring 2012=

media type="custom" key="12715620" width="100" height="100" This voki explains the importance of technology standards for teachers.

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This podcast is short yet insightful. Democracy By: Langston Hughes is a great poem for an African American History class for High school or even a U.S. History class during the units of the Civil Rights and even Harlem Renaissance. This poem deals with the notion of "Democracy" and how persons of color felt during a period of time when democracy was for white males, 21 yrs of age or older, and property owners. I believe this poem will bring forth a healthy discussion during the class period.

Since entering college I have always tried to find ways to help enhance my learning and study habits. For the longest time in high school I would try different ways that just didn’t fit me. Some time ago I took a learning styles test, which told me I was a visual learner. Taking the learning styles survey for this class was just an added assurance to my previous test. The difference for me was this survey actually gave you strategies you could use to enhance the learning style. In the short time of using the suggested tools, I have been able to comprehend lessons and chapter readings better. Looking at the UDL model from the viewpoint of a pre-service teacher, you look with the hopes that this model can be a useful tool for the future. The CAST website was impressive because there was a wealth of information and resources. I was introduced to this model last semester not realizing it had been a part of my educational career for years. This website was able to enhance my understanding of the model and how effective it is for different school systems around the country. As I continue to use this website I hope to learn more on using the UDL to strengthen my way of learning that I may be able to better service my students. The UDL project we were assigned did a couple of things for me as a pre service teacher. First, this project allowed me to get a full understanding of the learning model and its effectiveness. Secondly, it allowed me to collaborate with my classmates. I think it is a great thing when you can come together, looking at the same model but receive different revelations. Thirdly, it gave us the chance to put the model to action as we will present our chapter to this class. It is a model that is very beneficial for a pre service teacher. Not for the simple fact it provides technological assistance, but it challenges you to incorporate other styles of learning in a better way.
 * UDL Reflection**


 * Assitive Learning**

As a pre-service teacher I am always looking for different strategies and tools to use in the classroom. Each year teachers are faced with the reality that at least two or three students in their class have a learning disability or physical handicap. This reality then makes it the responsibility of the teacher to us assistive tools and lessons that will better service their students.

After browsing each website and looking at the videos my eyes have been open to the array of sources readily available to me. In the second video the director of the “do-it” program made a very accurate statement; “there is a wealth of information for teachers out here, but many are not aware of it.” Prior to taking this class I was not familiar with the resources available. I feel enriched now because I am able to go to the websites and not only get lesson ideas, but find materials that I can bring into the classroom to make it more authentic for my students.

Technology is slowly removing the barriers that surround those with disabilities. There are new inventions and additions taking place all over as we are becoming more aware of their needs. In the future I foresee classrooms filled with technological materials that will help improve student learning and teacher development. Even now as I work in a Baltimore County public school I see how technology is playing a big role in their learning via Fast Math to Smart boards. It continues to stretch even in faculty meetings through edline, outlook, and other resources.

From this assignment one thing I can carry with me is the word resource. I feel like this word embodies all that I have learned through this assignment. The resources rather it was materials or lessons, I am able to reflect back on the websites and videos at any time in my career. The greatest thing is the resources will increase, new things will be added, and my teaching ability will be strengthened.


 * Virtual Field Trip **

The virtual fieldtrip is a really resourceful tool for teachers especially when an actual fieldtrip is not an option. I found it very useful; I can bring the place of study into my classroom as if we are actually there. I really enjoyed the Smithsonian Museum website. It allowed me to view each area of the museum and you are able to zoom, moving from floor to floor. If I was teaching a middle school social studies class I could use this site for a presentation. The Lewis and Clark trail was another useful site. My students could learn more about the two and visualize the paths they took during the exploration. I really like this idea of a virtual fieldtrip. Now my student’s have an added source for research.

Toon Doos Project



Below is my power point presentation version of the lesson. Please feel free to view. ==
 * Keystone Project**


 * MY STORY : Little George and the Cherry Tree**
 * By: Paul Perro Narratted by: John K. James, Jr.**

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