I think that the comercial gaming could be somthing that would easily be utilyzed in the classroom. this keeps the competitive edge in the students. Competition is always a good thing in schools if kept to a positive form. Virtual reality does have a place in k-12 in my opionion. I think that a big key to this installment is socialization/community which encourages formation between groups and clubs. This is a teamwork format that helps bring togetherness in the schools. I think that for the most part virtual reality seems safe. I mean im sure that there could possibly be some flaws but that is why to keep it important to stay focused on it. i wouldnt consider it just a fad because there seem to be some good stuff that is involved with the idea behind virtual reality. This could be somthing that could utylized well in the school systems if used correctly.

blog 3

http://ed-tech-axis.blogspot.com/2009/04/technology-tools-for-future-teachers-vs.html

software

http://blogcritics.org/archives/2008/05/22/164005.php

I recently came across an interesting software package called Microsoft office. This is a brilliant tool to have involved in the classroom because every student should be able to use this software. It is a very beneficial tool to install in their brains and can be used in everyday assignments. With this software there seems to always be a great review on it because Microsoft as a whole is always has improvements always being added to help make the use and access to things easier. It is easy to discover what is all involved in Microsoft office. Microsoft word, power point, and excel are the key programs in office. This software can be found in most computers but be utilized in order for it to be effective.

how are you using technology in your schools?

http://www.techlearning.com/blogs.aspx?id=15830

comment 1

http://www.techlearning.com/blogs.aspx?id=15862

When it comes to computer software the most important applications, in my opinion, would be ms word, powerpoint, excel, iphoto, and video editing. The reason for my selection order is because ms word is key because every program that is made available including research, articles, resources, and academic drafts are created in the word application. Along with word, powerpoint is used on a regular basis because of its easy access to creative organization. With the knowledge of powerpoint, students are able to make fixed presentations for major events, with their presentation ususally being what determines the event success. The importance of these applications continue on through excel, iphoto, and video editing. In my opinion, each one of these apps are essential to learn to compete as a professional. There is no reason why 6th and 7th graders should not be introduced to these programs because these programs make learning and applying what is learned easier. The resources are available therefore children should be educated on how to use them.

Blog #1 -- Online Learning

My impression on this class so far seems some what relevant to what I expected. I mean Have never had an online class before and for me it seems a little difficult. I am not the best with computers and it shows. Though i must say that my learning is getting better everyday. I like how the first thing that pops up on our website is the class content for the week, and I absolutely loved how what was supposed to be done for the entire week 5 was specifically posted right away instead of having to read the entire weekly content just to find out the assignments through the six steps. This way I can see my assignments for the week and then read through all the steps and readings, knowing that I have not missed anything, like assignments. If I could change somthing it would be that. Post first all thats due for the week, like week5, and then continue on to the weekly content.

To me this does not compare to a hands on or face to face class just because I enjoy the physical interaction with my teacher and classmates better than through a computer. I have to say though that class seems to be as close as possible to being in the real classroom. I did not expect that. I will have to see how this class results for me and see how much I learn about these online classes before I will determine whether or not Ill take another class like this one. I mean as of now I continue to tell myself that I will never take another online class, but things seem to be improving for me everyday in becoming more confident in what Im doing with this online class. Directions seem to be laid out well enough for me to even understand and as a professor you have been very patient with me and responded well to make this process easier for me.