EDLD 5363
This week we had an interesting assignment that asked us to select a video edtiting software and evaluate its effectiveness, and then create a podcast tutorial that explains how to use the software. For this assigment, my experience was definitely a learning experience because I ran into quite a few "technical difficulties." However, Dr. Abernathy put me at ease during this week's web conference when she explain the flexibility of the assignment.
I'm very much a perfectionist, and I like to try to follow directions to the letter, and make sure that I have done quality work. However, with this assignment, I was facing computer difficulties with software that wouldn't download, files that wouldn't convert, and copyright laws that governed my actions. Thankfully, Dr. Abernathy discussed with us the flexibility of technology, and how different converters such as LAME, could help us share files on our eportfolios. She also talked to us about the importance of us trying new things to challenge ourselves. I like that she is was so encouraging toward us during this project, because it is easy to get frustrated when you have no idea if you're completing the assignment correctly.
After she explained the assignment in further detail, I was able to finish my project and post it to youtube successfully. The most important lesson I've learned this week is that since technology has the capability of being flexible by providing different codecs applications and software choices, we too should be flexible users, and prepare for the unexpected. Besides, it is after all, a learning process.
Windows Live Movie Maker:
http://explore.live.com/windows-live-movie-maker
Windows Live Movie Maker Tutorial:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMrQvrXztOA&feature=youtu.be
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
My Superhero Story
EDLD 5363
11/17/2011
This week, our assignment was to create a video using software like Photostory 3. When I first saw the assignment, I have to admit, I got scared! I am not the biggest fan of manipulating presentation software to make movies, because I've never done it as well as I've seen others do it. However, after I took a second, and told myself that I had no choice, my attitude changed, and I took this as an opportunity to relive some very personal times.
I think what made this process the most difficult was deciding on what to create a movie about. I can talk to you all day about certain topics, but condensing my ideas into a format that would effectively share a story was not as easy as I thought-- and I'm supposed to be the English teacher. After bouncing some ideas around and getting feedback from my partner Shannon, I decided to tell about my journey of becoming a teacher, since I think it's such a cool story.
I looked at model videos and sites for inspiration and tips on creating videos, and I asked people who knew how to create Photostory projects what to do. Within hours, I had my script ready, and some ideas for photographs as well! I took advice from the Digital Storytelling Cookbook and tried to shape my story around an emotional connection that contained a controlling idea or theme. What better theme than being a superhero?
Essentially, creating this digital media presentation gave me a new appreciation for technology. I definitely learned a lot in the few days I spent creating this video. I'm proud of its message and its reflection of the education culture.
I've posted a link below you can use to view it now:
Ekena Wilkins- Superhero Story
Enjoy!
11/17/2011
This week, our assignment was to create a video using software like Photostory 3. When I first saw the assignment, I have to admit, I got scared! I am not the biggest fan of manipulating presentation software to make movies, because I've never done it as well as I've seen others do it. However, after I took a second, and told myself that I had no choice, my attitude changed, and I took this as an opportunity to relive some very personal times.
I think what made this process the most difficult was deciding on what to create a movie about. I can talk to you all day about certain topics, but condensing my ideas into a format that would effectively share a story was not as easy as I thought-- and I'm supposed to be the English teacher. After bouncing some ideas around and getting feedback from my partner Shannon, I decided to tell about my journey of becoming a teacher, since I think it's such a cool story.
I looked at model videos and sites for inspiration and tips on creating videos, and I asked people who knew how to create Photostory projects what to do. Within hours, I had my script ready, and some ideas for photographs as well! I took advice from the Digital Storytelling Cookbook and tried to shape my story around an emotional connection that contained a controlling idea or theme. What better theme than being a superhero?
Essentially, creating this digital media presentation gave me a new appreciation for technology. I definitely learned a lot in the few days I spent creating this video. I'm proud of its message and its reflection of the education culture.
I've posted a link below you can use to view it now:
Ekena Wilkins- Superhero Story
Enjoy!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Action Research Plan 11/05/11
As this course comes to a close, I'm finding myself somewhat nervous, and somewhat excited. I know that this research is going to birth something great that will possibly change the way I look at not only technology's role, but my role as an educator. But in the meantie, as I make my final tweaks and preparations to begin my research, it is best that I reflect on the things this course (5301) has taught me about action research altogether.
Practicality, Cooperation, and Functionality.
Practicality in a nutshell means that the research obtained is not only relevant for one person's situation, but it is also applicable to many other people's situations. I don't want my reseach to just end up being "a good read" for teachers to consider and then never act upon; I want my research to spark action-- change in education, no matter how small.
Cooperation is sometimes a struggle for me only because I am a perfectionist who loves to be in control. With action research, I cannot take control of everything, the research and results will essentially control the journey, while I simply adjust and become flexible to its changes. With this in mind, I am glad that I'll have reinforcement in my site mentor and department colleagues as I take on this research topic.
Functionality can help translate the flexibility, effectiveness, and relevance of research. It is imperative that a shared vision and application be put in place regarding this research, because as I stated earlier, my goal is to spark a change, not just temporary interest.
With that in mind, this week, I made some final changes to my action research plan, and submitted it online for review. I have also begun looking at data collection again. Using interviews with a few student teachers and veteran teachers, as well as samples and observations of student work, to shape the lessons I want to create based on the objectives I want to look into (critical thinking and inquiry skills). I have also pulled a few articles that are based on technology's role in assessing deeper knowledge skills, and am reading those intently for direction on how to pursue my next step in implementation.
I hope to be able to share those findings as well as my ideas on possible lesson strategies and assessments with you all soon.
Any and all suggestions are always greatly appreciated.
Practicality, Cooperation, and Functionality.
Practicality in a nutshell means that the research obtained is not only relevant for one person's situation, but it is also applicable to many other people's situations. I don't want my reseach to just end up being "a good read" for teachers to consider and then never act upon; I want my research to spark action-- change in education, no matter how small.
Cooperation is sometimes a struggle for me only because I am a perfectionist who loves to be in control. With action research, I cannot take control of everything, the research and results will essentially control the journey, while I simply adjust and become flexible to its changes. With this in mind, I am glad that I'll have reinforcement in my site mentor and department colleagues as I take on this research topic.
Functionality can help translate the flexibility, effectiveness, and relevance of research. It is imperative that a shared vision and application be put in place regarding this research, because as I stated earlier, my goal is to spark a change, not just temporary interest.
With that in mind, this week, I made some final changes to my action research plan, and submitted it online for review. I have also begun looking at data collection again. Using interviews with a few student teachers and veteran teachers, as well as samples and observations of student work, to shape the lessons I want to create based on the objectives I want to look into (critical thinking and inquiry skills). I have also pulled a few articles that are based on technology's role in assessing deeper knowledge skills, and am reading those intently for direction on how to pursue my next step in implementation.
I hope to be able to share those findings as well as my ideas on possible lesson strategies and assessments with you all soon.
Any and all suggestions are always greatly appreciated.
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