Chapter 8 Working in the Online Classroom
More Power to You- Working in the Online Classroom.
According to the text, online learners should become aware of their typing and writing skills. Thinking and writing is an essential part of taking an online course. The online learner must also be able to read with understanding. For some online learners, understanding assignments without presence of a human teacher can be difficult. However, one must know his/her strengths and weaknesses before becoming an online learner. Knowing one’s strengths and weaknesses will help the students avoid many obstacles that online learners face.
In addition to reading difficulties, one may find that there are several differences in which online learners may find in the online classroom and the traditional classroom. The author explains how the online course materials may be more difficult to read because students may not like to read information while scrolling down the page. This may cause one’s eyes to be strained and they may also suffer with blurred vision or eye fatigue. With this in mind, one may find reading a bit easier if course information is printed. Having the physical text at hand allows learners to highlight and flip through pages making notation.
Chapter eight also mentions the importance of having good typing skills an online learner, after all students will experience a significant amount of typing. For the online learner, typing skills are just as important as reading skills. If a learner’s typing skill is not where they should be, then students should get additional typing practices as an effort to improve typing skills. According to the author, good typing skills can also contribute to the success of the online learner. Learning online requires other skills such as being able to use proper grammar/ punctuations, correct spelling and using a variety of sentences. To meet these requirements, the online learner should always use the spell checker to verify the correct spelling, and even if the spellchecker is use students should still proofread the final draft. Students may find that their write will be much better if they apply all of the rules of grammar. Another skill is sentence structure. Student should remember that they are college student and that they should try to use strong sentences and make sure that each sentence flows smoothly.
Chapter 9 Thinking and Researching Online
More Power to You- Thinking and Researching Online
Chapter nine mentions the importance of making sure that the online learner pays attention to what is being taught. It also says that learner should try to process information by putting what they read into his/her own words. According to the author, learners must not take what they read at face value, but they should be critical researchers. The author also reminds the readers that all information found on the Web is accurate. With this in mind, the online learner must make sure that his/her research is accurate. In reading this chapter, I found that the author express concerns for strategies that should be used when researching. It gives the most important techniques, and it tells learners how to make the best of these techniques.
This chapter gives a cognitive perspective to the way online learners should research the course. It explains that the reader should process information that has been read translate the information into his/her own words, have a holistic and personal view about information, pay attention to thought process, and ask questions. It also place emphasis on how learners gather information from multiple sources such as classmates and teacher.
According to the book, learners may utilize critical thinking skills by asking questions because the basis of critical thinks is questioning. It is important to use questioning for clarity. Although the online learner may or may not receive the information needed when asking questions, it is always good to know what others are thinking to see if you are within reason in your critical analysis. In addition to questioning, learners must understand the importance of using critical thinking through the use of searching engines.
There are several search engines available for researchers. The chapter mentions Google and Boolean searches. The commonality in these search engines is the fact that readers must use critical thinking skills to get accurate information. This chapter give readers instruction on how to accurately uses search engines and how to the most out of research. The author tells learner the importance of getting accurate and updated information rather than a plethora of information. The chapter also explains that primary sources are the best sources.
This chapter explains how to cite sources and give readers information on how to avoid plagiarism.
Chapter 10 Strategies for Successful Online Learning
More Power to You- Strategies for Successful Online Learning
Chapter 10 stresses the importance of giving/receiving feedback, keeping time in mind and the much needed study skills. These factors are vital in the success of the online learner. It is up to the learner to monitor these factors and make sure that he/she effectively uses these strategies to his/her advantage.
Online learners should view their ability to give and receive feedback. Learners should also understand that not all feedback is going to be positive, but the learner who is giving the feedback, should be tactful. With this in mind, it is necessary to make sure that if you are giving feed back on line it is clear what is being said. One’s comments should not be offensive to the person receiving the feedback. All comments should be clear specific and not general because general comment may leave the not know exactly what the feedback is actually instructing. According to the text learners should look at feedback as a tool to help improve skills. One way to do this is to try and set all other emotions and feelings aside and only listen to the constructive criticism. If the criticism is not clear and does not give the learner a way of making corrections, then the learner should ask questions.
The author states that online learners should be time conscious. She also puts to rest the old misunderstanding that the online course takes less time than the traditional classroom. In fact, the text states the online class takes as much time as the traditional class if not more time. Therefore, it is necessary for the online learner to pace themselves and be reminded of the fact that this class should be treated the as if it were a traditional class. This means that if the traditional class is a three-hour credit course, the online course is the same. You study time should be the same also.
The chapter also mentions that study skills are very useful to the online learner. Two study skills talked about in this chapter are paying attention and taking notes. The chapter gives learners information on how to study including, making sure that there are no distractions when you are trying to study, learners should not try to multitask during study time and do not rush through study time due to being tired. The author leaves note-taking strategies to the learner. One may want to print out materials or copy and paste notes or one may not choose to take notes with an online class.
Chapter 11 Computer Concerns
More Power to You- Computer Concerns
Chapter 11 is centered on two major concerns which are computer issues and working with computer documents. The computer is the main sources for communication in the online class. Students should make sure that their computer is capable of performing at optimum level, because without the computer you cannot come to class in the virtual class. Students must also be aware of how to organized document on the computer. This includes knowing how to send and receive information in email.
The author breaks down the computer from monitor to the memory. The text gives learners information on what the different components are used for. It also explains that it is not the size of the monitor that is important, but it is the resolution that matters. Learners do not want to get a large computer monitor but not be able to read the information on the monitor. The text also stresses the importance of the memory. It all depends on for what purpose the computer will be used. It is noted that if learners purchase a large amount of memory their computer will last for five or six years.
In order for a system to run smoothly for the learner it must have software programs such as Word Processing, Presentation Software, and Spreadsheet Software and internet connections. These programs tell the computer what to do, and what is needed from the user. The internet connection is necessary for taking online courses. This is true because much of the class work for an online learner will be posted on the World Wide Web. This chapter outlines how to connect to the internet.
In addition to internet usage, the chapter gives information on how to create and format documents. When clicking on word document, it will offer a blank screen. The online learner must practice using the different formatting options. This includes setting margins, adding page numbers, insert headers and footers, save documents, cut, copy, paste, use bullet numbering create new folders and many other features that helps the learner format documents. In the online classroom students may be asked to do many of these formatting tasks if not all of them.
Chapter 12 Creating the Ideal Personalized Study Environment
More Power to You- Creating the Ideal Personalized Study Environment.
Chapter 12 elaborates on how vital a good study environment is to the online learner. As mentioned in chapter 10 learners should be free from distractions and other interruptions that may cause the learner to get off task. The author states that the study environment should be well lighted, and close attention should be paid to the seating, desk height and organization. Learners should not have a cluttered desk. It is also important to know that as an effort to take advantage of time, learners can access wireless internet in many places. Therefore students may continue to work even when they are on the go. This chapter also tells the learner about guarding his/her privacy. It states that students should use a secured network when using other wireless connections
This chapter expounds on personalized workspace. It states that personal workspace allows learners to be more efficient. The author recognizes the fact that some students are comfortable with an unorganized workspace; it just might be comfortable for them. As long as the student is comfortable mentally and physically, then their work environment is the ideal place for learning. Due to the number of hours students may sit at an online environment it is necessary to have adequate lighting, comfortable seating and correct desk height. According to the text a good part of being comfortable in productive depends on the learners themselves. Students should always sit up straight, change positions occasionally and take a deep breath.
In addition to personalized workspace, the student should make sure their study environment is conducive to learning. With this in mind student, should avoid setting up workspace in a place where the student may have to leave in the middle of studying. Moving around sometimes causes supplies and information to be misplaced, according to the text. It is not recommended that workspace is set up in the kitchen, but a workspace with a window and a view is quite acceptable. This allows students to take a moment and take a deep breath as mentioned earlier. This chapter gives details on working remotely. It tells readers the differently locations in which they can connect; such as, hotels airports, restaurants and libraries. With the different locations the online learner can connect to their class, they must keep in mind that there is a downside to this convenience. With convenience comes the issue of privacy. When traveling makes sure that you always carry your computer. If necessary, students should work offline until their destination has been reached.
Chapter 13 Preparing for the First Day of Class
More Power to You- Preparing for the First Day of Class.
Chapter 13 begins by getting the online learner prepared for class. It states that learners should be prepared mentally and physically. It also states that the online learner should use excitement and anxiety to his/her advantage. Excitement and anxiety can both be used as motivational tools. One the first day of class, according to the text, the online student should be prepared with textbooks and documents ready to read. It is also necessary to print and read the course syllabus. Be careful in knowing which documents are necessary to print out and which document are necessary to save in the computer.
The author explains how to handle the different emotions felt when staring a new online class. The student may feel nervous, but this is normal and students can expect that other students enrolled in the class may experience the same emotions. The online learner may also experience excitement, but should use this emotion to his/her advantage. According to the author, the student’s excitement about taking the course may inspire others to become an online learner as well. Other feeling including intimidation and a sense of pride may be experienced, but regardless of the emotion one must always consider the purpose, goals and convenience of taking online classes.
The chapter goes on to speak on the preparations for class. It is necessary to purchase the textbook and give much needed time for study. Students should already be familiar with some of the content covered before logging in to class. The online class may require several reference books and the students should make sure that these additional recourses should be obtained before school starts also. It may be more economical to see if these resources can be bought at a reasonable price such as the price for used book. Make sure that if you purchase used books the ISBN number is matches the book that the teacher requires. Not having materials on the first day may get you off to a bad start. Which means you may have to play catch up. This chapter also speaks of orienting yourself online. You may be asked to post a brief bio so that the teacher and student may get information on who you are. It author states that it should be brief
Online students should also familiarize themselves with the syllabus so that they will be able to meet deadlines and stay abreast of how to present information for the class.
Chapter 14 Maintaining Your Online Success
More Power to You- Maintaining Your Online Success
The final chapter of “Power Up” helps to prepare the student for the next online course. It places emphasis being prepared for emergencies, backing up files, thinking twice before discarding books, taking time to relax in between classes, remembering that each course and instructor may be different and maintaining a positive outlook. This chapter elaborates on the importance of not giving up by reiterating what it takes to be a successful online learner and how to maintain this success.
One thing that the author suggests is to stay organized. By organizing the author means that the student should keep a filing system. Students should keep a backup system. Students may prefer using hardcopy files, but the author suggest saving work on the computer. Students should use back up files just in case their computer crashes. Students may use flash drive, or backup disk. It doesn’t matter what back up students chooses as long as they backup files often. Students should keep all class assignment and notes because they may be of good use later for other classes. The author also suggests that students never discard textbook because some books will become good references for other classes as well.
This chapter states that students should plan ahead and make sure that he/she is preparing for upcoming holidays and events. They should also be aware of family needs and make sure that everything is balanced. Students should always remember that one class follows another and one should already be prepared for the next class before it starts. The first class gives the online learner an idea of what to expect and how to prepare for the next. The learner should take advantage of this experience and keep it in mind for the next class. It may even be necessary to change any habits that did not work well during the first course. Now that this course is over the chapter states that the online learner should celebrate his/her accomplishments by going out and treating oneself to lunch or dinner and remembering what has been done and preparing to do it all over again. This celebration is what helps student to continue the journey and look forward to the continued success.
Part B—10 Points
Explore the following websites:
According to the site technology initiatives serves as a single point of contact in school system technology planning. This office implements the Alabama Technology Plan for K-12 Education, provides support and assistance in filing for E-rate discounts, leads the ACCESS distance-learning program, and supports LEAs in technology planning. The Technology initiative site is implements federal grant programs that promotes technology for K-12 education. It is used to help organizations that are in need of technology data, and maintaining a database of technology compiled from yearly survey reports. This site give good information on how to get technology in the classroom; however not everyone will be a recipient of grand funds. Impact is a good tool for measuring progress, but the downside to this is that many teacher are not aware of the services and have not have necessary train in the some of the technology being presented.
Alabama Learning Exchange
This is a good site in that it has the Alabama course of student standard placed on it; it also has hundreds of lessons that will help teacher teach the standards that are required to pass state exams. I found it quite interesting that some of the information on this site is very useful and it also has lesson plans that will serve as a guide to help teacher implement the lesson in his/her classroom. It is an excellent tool for teacher, student and parents. The downside to this is not much, but many teachers like to create their own activities and assessments. Teachers may uses some of these sources but not many because they are dated and due to diversity in the in the classroom teacher may have to use several different resources.
This site give much need information on the changing world and how often technology changes. It gives information on blogging and conferences. It has an online store which the materials will help educators stay abreast of the ever-changing world of technology. It has podcasts and webinars and it allows readers to connect to other members. The downside to this site is that it is not free and teachers are usually online looking for economical resources.
This website focuses mainly on teachers who want to implement student centered teaching. According to the site it gives several different approaches to learning. It also gives several other websites that can be used in conjunctions with teaching. This site offers a different way to learn it is helpful for the teacher as well as the student. Teacher should not be based solely on web instruction. Teacher should always maintain some control of the learning environment. This type of instruction will not work will all learners.
Part C- 15 Points
Draft and Submit your resume to this module/ assignment slot. You can use the Resume Wizard in Microsoft Word or download one of the templates from the Microsoft Templates website- http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/FX100595491033.aspx?pid=CL100632981033
Please be detailed.
Frederica Willis
429 2nd Street
Fultondale, Alabama 35068
(205) 6023902
Objective
Seeking an excellent career opportunity utilizing training and applicable skills
Education
2009 to present
Alabama State University- 925 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 63101 Seeking a degree in School Counseling
2003 to 2008
Miles College-5500 Myron Massey Boulevard, Fairfield, Alabama 35064
English/Language Arts Education Double Major: Received a BA in English and a BS in Secondary Education Language Arts
1997-1997
Jefferson State Community College, 2601Carson Road Birmingham, Ala 35215
General Studies
1984-1986
Southern Junior College/Phillips College Hancock Plaza Gulfport MS
Medical Office Assistance: Associate in Applied Science Degree
Work Experience
2008- Present
Birmingham City Schools- 2015 Parkplace, Birmingham Alabama 35203
7th Grade Language Arts Teacher
1997- 2007
Baptist Health System- Consolidated Business Office 800 Montclair Rd Birmingham Alabama Contract Management Analyst/Biller/Collector/ER Admitting Representative/Pharmacy Technician/Employee Training /Collections, Bookkeeping
2003-2005
Victorious Spiritual Warfare Church, 138 Pinson Plazas, Pinson Main Street. Birmingham, Alabama 35215: Church Administrator
1989-1997
National Computer Print-5200 East Lake Boulevard Birmingham Alabama 35207. Trainer and assembly supervisor
Qualifications and Skills
Microsoft Office-Word, Excel, Power Point, Windows 95 & 98, Typing 55wpm, FMS/CMS Financial Programs, Certified Patient Accounts Representative, Contract Management Software, Collections/Billing, Blue Cross On Line programs.
REFERENCES
Mario Lumzy, Principal
Arrington Middle School
2102 Jefferson Avenue SW
Birmingham Alabama 35211
(205)234-1130
Sandra Short, Supervisor
BMC Montclair
800 Montclair Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35203
(205) 599-4874
Pastor Jeffrey Willis
1122 Tuckawanna Drive
Birmingham, Alabama 35215
(205) 902-4270
Part D - 10 Points
A) Please review this section and write a one paragraph on the topic of your unit plan.
B)
My unit plan will design learning experiences that engage learning styles and multiple intelligences. I will administers valid, reliable learning style assessments and uses the results to design lessons and units of study that respond to the needs of all learners. My unit plan will provide learners with the opportunity to choose learning experiences that build upon and enhance the effectiveness of their learning style strengths. My plan would also teach learners how to strengthen and/or compensate for learning style weaknesses.
C) Complete the Intel Unit Checklist and attach to the module
Completed and attached
D) Complete and attach to the module the following on your draft---- Intel Unit Plan Project Title , Name/Grade, subject/Topic/Establish learning objectives, Plan Instructional Procedures, Develop Curriculum-framing questions, Essential Questions and content questions
You will be completing your project during this course. You will develop a theme-based unit plan using the template provided as a guide.
Part E 20 Points
Visit this site and review each area (Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Presentations and Internet &Communication) write a paragraph on each topic and state what you learned by going through the tutorial. You will complete the actual assignments in the next module. Write your response in this section of the module and post to your blog under your glossary of terms.
- This site gives a plethora of information on how to use word processing. It is a great tutorial for teacher and students. It shows teachers how to paste pictures on a document. It allows teachers to download conference brochures. This site gives information on technology not only for now but for the future.
Spreadsheets
- This site gives information on how to use the spreadsheet. It gives instructions on how to make calculations. It shows teachers how to make a grade book for their class and how to calculate the progress of each class. It also gives the formula for calculations. It makes viewing data easier.
o There is an example of a presentation of the Civil war and it show what students and teachers can do with this took. Teachers are able to present their lesson through presentation and it save time. It example show how student may place his/her own voice on the presentation. They can also place animations on the presentation also. It is a great tool for teacher and students.
- This tool allows users to find credible resources that help them answer copyright issues in the classroom. It also allows students to find video clips Students will use this tool to locate certain internet files. Students can also use advanced search techniques and find images on the web.
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