Session+I

=﻿Organizational Learning and Technology Collide-Session 1=

Ben Grey-Presenter

The presentation focused on using [|Chris Argyris's Theories of Learning]. Grey discussed how we should apply the theory when developing lesson plans and determining whether or not to use technology. He theorized that we, as humans, tend to do the things that we enjoy and that what we say we will do versus what we actually do is often diametrically opposed. He further stated that we must reflect on the gap between esposed theory and theory in use. Grey stated that there are "Guiding Variables" that should lead to "Action Strategies" that will lead to "Consequences" both positive and negative. When a teacher allows his or herself to examine consequences and reflect, it will allow him or her to focus on the outcomes and learning. In regards to technology, Grey stated that "It's not just about the technology." Furthermore, sometimes, technology is not useful; we must choose the strategy to most accomplish our goal. If technology is used just for technology sake, it is a mistake. Teachers must seek to look at and reflect upon the needs of the learning community, the information gathered from past lessons and evaluation, and curricular goals to plan in ways that challenge students and move them forward.

I think for me personally, I really needed to hear the part about using technology for technology sake not being a wise decision. In a school where technology is greatly valued and noticed, it is tempting for me to incorporate every new thing I learn whether it is the best way to teach a skill or not. This relieves some of that pressure.

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=﻿The I-Pod Touch in the Classroom-Session 2=

Kern Kelley-Presenter

The second presentation focused on how to use the I-Pod touch. I was a little disappointed in that more of the presentation was about basic usage and less about educational usage. The session began by showing how to unpackage the gadget and then went through the basics of how to sync it. It did discuss I Tunes U briefly. Additionally, the built in apps were discussed and users were shown how to get to the App Store where over 100,000 apps are available. Kelley told a little about Stanza, a free app, that can be used for downloading e books and newspapers, as well as the Kindle app that allows users to buy books. The Storykit app would definitely be beneficial in the classroom with younger children allowing them to put text and images together to create stories. Google Mobile features were also discussed: specifically creating forms. He ended the presentation by discussing the equipment including case, screen cover, A/V cable, ear buds, and thumb tac microphone for recording.

All in all, I am not sure that I will ever use the I-Pod touch as a teaching tool since it is both expensive and easily broken. I did gain new personal knowledge, however, on some really cool apps. View Kelley's site at: http://sites.google.com/site/kernkelley/itouch