jessica’s blog

I have just read an article which was in The Daily Telegraph on April 23^rd 2008. The article is about yet another gadget that has been invented, proving to the public that technology is ever growing. This new gadget was created in the UK and is called the Bluetooth Vibrating Bracelet. It connects to your mobile phone and vibrates on your wrist when a call comes through. This article has just illustrated to me that technology is growing so rapidly… what will they think of next?

I just read an article about the effectiveness of computers used in the classroom, and how much it does lead to students’ improvement in their education. Some interesting students that have been done came up with a range of results, some of which include:

* Students usually learn more in less time when they receive computer-based instruction.

* Students like their classes more and develop more positive attitudes toward computers when their classes include computer-based instruction.

* It can help improve students writing skills

I strongly recommend taking a look at this website as it present many benefits of technology used in the classroom.

While browsing the internet, I came across an article about technology schools. It presented me with some interesting facts I did not know about technology schools. They prepare students for the change that is occurring in today’s society. Students are given the opportunity to learn ‘with’ technology in many aspects of their school as computers are easily accessed. Through the use of technology it states that student’s needs and interests are met. Even though this website is only in relation to technology schools, I still believe the need for online leaning is still important for all students, regardless of where they go to school. We need to give students all the opportunities to excel; this can be achieved through technology offered to them in anyway possible!

Through viewing Lou’s blogs I came across one of her blogs that drew my attention. It is about ESL students using podcasting.

Benefits that arose from the article, in relation to ESL students, is that it gives teachers an opportunity to put work and lessons on to an MP3. Students are then able to take it home, listen to the teacher’s requests and complete the work it at their own pace. I believe this to be very important for ESL students as they need to feel comfortable with how they learn and will enable them to complete their work at their own pace.

I would suggest taking a look at this article as it states the many benefits of podcasting for ESL students.

When viewing Lou’s blogs I came across her views in realtion to the relavance of podcasting, and I have to say I very much agree with her. When I first heard of Podcasting, I too wasn’t that interested and thought that it wouldn’t be that great. But like Lou, I was wrong! I found the expeience quite enjoyable and allowed me express what I felt in an easy way!! I too believe it is a great tool to use for students and would recommand the use of it in ones classroom. 

click on link below to view

jess-water-acticle2.mp3

jess-learning-in-action.mp3

jess-gifted-and-talented.mp3