ThingLink

https://twitter.com/sjgorman

Sue Gorman's webinar presentation on ThingLink what interesting and useful. The reason I say it was interesting is because either my internet connection or the host's internet connection was weak. Her words and sentences would become "choppy" and disconnected. Sometimes her presentation would speed up to the current time when I was lagging behind. After awhile, I decided that I need to try another resource, therefore I downloaded the mobile app that someone in the chat mentioned. After this idea, my presentation viewing went a lot smoother.

ThingLink is a practical tool for educators. Moreover, ThingLink allows a user to create images for exploration. Any person viewing this image can click and explore various components of the image that dig further into the image. For example, on the ThingLink website, there is a picture of the Wright Brothers and their plane/first flight. In the middle of the plane and picture, there is a exclamation point. When a user puts there mouse over the exclamation point, they get a summary of something important in relation to the picture. I really like this idea because I could use it for a unit like surface area and volume. Students could use this link as a template throughout the unit to discover and use the formulas. Each shape could have a connection to a formula or relationships between 2-D figures, which is a CCSS in high school math.

The only thing I would like to see would be a live demonstration of ThingLink is use. For example, a recording of the use of ThingLink in class, which would be live, but not really. Lastly, my message of the chat was missed or delayed, but I asked if ThingLink could be used for assessment purposes. I found Sue on Twitter and she was able to answer my question and send me links and examples. Overall, I was happy with the experience and her quick response.

Stages of Technology Integration

Many teachers might be unaware of the different stages of technology integration and where they might sit within the stages. The first stage is called the entry level. The entry level shows teachers are not interested in new technology and don't believe that technology can improve his/her teaching. The next level is called the adoption level. The adoption level states teachers are not comfortable with technology because they feel someone else should teach the students how to work the technology. Meanwhile, they will use technology for personal use. The next level is the adaption. Teachers at this level begin to try to technologies and add those technologies to the existing lesson plan. At this level, the technology does not replace student tasks. The next level is appropriation. At this level, teachers want all the technology available and are confident in implementing this technology inside their classroom. The last level is the innovation level. At this level, teachers are not using excess amount of technology. Teachers at this level are using technology appropriately and strategically. They want technology to drive student learning, engagement and success.

I put myself at the innovation level because technology is another tool to drive student success. I use a Samsung Tablet synced to a wireless device almost every day of instruction. Moreover, I love discovering virtual manipulatives and different tools of instruction to help my students become more confident and comfortable with the new material. Furthermore, students have the choice to use whatever technology they chose when doing a project.

The hardest stage, in my opinion, is the appropriation level. Teachers here could throw too much technology in a lesson plan and their confidence could be overwhelming for students. I believe it is very important for teachers to reach the innovation level, so they don't overuse technology and can use it appropriately and strategically. Lastly, I believe most teachers are on the appropriation level. It is hard to believe there are modern day teachers who do not buy into the use of technology inside the classroom.

NMC Horizon Report

The NMC Horizon Report is a very useful tool for any educator. The NMC Horizon Report maps out the newest/emerging technology within the next 12 months. Moreover, the Horizon Report shows technology that could potentially make teaching and learning more efficient. For instance, an emerging technology that could create efficient and creative learning is the 3-D printer.

I am very surprised that this report is well-known between educators around the world or U.S. This type of report and help educators reach their students on a more efficient level. Students are constantly exploring new technology. Some of this technology is useless for the sake of education, but some of this technology can help a lot of students learn. Furthermore, exposing students to the technology they will be familiar with college could better prepare those students for life after high school.

In my opinion, I believe is builds a relationship when students get the opportunity to teach their "teachers" something about a new technology. As educators and teachers, we are always showing the students the way instead of allowing them to show us a way. I think that this gives a heads up for new technology and we should allow our students to show us a way, which will build a stronger relationship.

A Little Something About Me!

As my students would say, "Mr. Burns is a Mathematical Boss!" This is definitely true, and I am one of many mathematical bosses at Chicago High School for the Arts. Currently, I teach geometry with ninth and tenth graders and this is my first full year of teaching. Over the last couple of years, I have been a teacher's assistant/math tutor. In addition, I taught ACT test prep for the Princeton Review. Originally, I started out as a Teach For America candidate, but didn't agree or feel comfortable with what I saw and felt as I completed the program, so I quit. I continue to do the same goal that TFA is attacking, but I am not part of the organization. I am in education because education has shaped and changed my life. I believe our education system is the greatest tool and resource one can use to become successful and get out of any situation that may be in. My job starts with opening my students' eyes to this idea of freedom through an education.

I love the challenge of teaching students that are trying to figure themselves out and who they are. To be part of their transformation is something I look forward to as a I mold the young minds of tomorrow. When I step into the classroom I am not just teaching geometry, I am teaching how to be a good citizen. I want my students to be socially comfortable and great at building relationships. I want my students to have an open mind and to respect the opinions of others no matter how different they may be. I feel we live in a society where others judge each other without critically thinking about the situation or setting the other person may be in. Lastly, I want all my students to have a growth mindset. I want each student persevere in every task, goal, or problem they encounter. I will know when I succeed when my students are making an impact in the world and striving for the very best at their highest potential.

On my off time, I am trying to learn new subjects and how to apply this knowledge to my everyday teaching. I love reading and I love playing various sports, especially volleyball. In addition, I love to visit museums like the Science and Industry Museum. Museums remind me up the success you could achieve if you work at a goal not stop. In 10 years, I want to make an impact in an aspect of everyday life.