Blog Post #2 (1-24-23)

     As a student, I have predominately used Microsoft Suites, especially Word, as my main word processing software. I have had to use Google docs for a few years while living in Michigan, but for the most part I still prefer Microsoft word systems because they have a larger array of editable settings. One thing that Google docs has that make it more accessible is the ability to share documents and work on them at the same time as peers. This tool makes group work much more efficient and goes further to guarantee every student participates in projects.

    Going through the different ISTE standards, it's clear to me that the collaborator plays a most pivotal role in the success of teachers and students, though all of them are critical elements. The part of the collaborator ensures that not only is the teacher themselves well learned on varying perspectives, but students can see a wide variety of information that can show the importance of opposing viewpoints. Focusing on working together, receiving other opinions with kindness, and referencing materials will all help students broaden their understanding of the world and create connections with other students and teachers. The experience of working with new people and connecting with a cultural digitally is a modern way that teachers can bring new understanding of the world into the classroom.

    I do agree that many youth today could be considered "digital natives", with many of the defining  characteristics of the term matching those of the new generations. Being digital native means mainly that the person is fluent in their understanding of the digital world and its culture. As we dive deeper into the era of technology, next generations will grow up with an ever increasing exposure to media and technology. I personally grew up with somewhat minimal technologies, neither of my parents had any video games, iPads, or anything that could be considered entertainment technology, so I just never used them until I needed such items for school. Even so, digital literacy is difficult to avoid in this age so most born after 1999, have a deeper understanding of the digital world than older generations. My students will likely have a deeper understanding of new technology, but I believe that having at Easton overall understanding will allow me to communicate my lessons to my students using technology.

                                    "Living In The Future #technology #futurepast #retro #lols" by InertiaCreeps is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.

Blog Post #1 (1-17-2023)

     My name is Kylee Sykes, I am a first semester junior, trying to achieve my History major along with an Education minor. I was born in Florida but lived for a few years in northern Michigan, I hope to move back up north, but to Oregon after completing my degree. My goal is to finish my masters before moving on to teaching high school, then college courses in History, with an end goal of achieving my PhD and teaching masters-level programs. Some of my other passions include throwing pottery, physical therapy, and reading.

    I don't have much experience using technology with the aim of bettering education. I have utilized presentations on speech focused classes to increase the clarity of my argument, but could have definitely gone farther to make the actual PowerPoint more educational itself. Furthermore, I have  created a few presentations that include voice over for in depth explanation of the topic being discussed. I look forward to understanding how technology can act as a tool for better teaching and how I can implement that into my own teaching. 

    My personal learning network has grown a lot over the many years of being within the education system. I have kept contacts with many of my old teachers, especially those proficient in my Major, along with using the resources that they gave me when taking their classes. I try to follow history and education pages on websites such as linkedin, which keep me in the loop with professionals in the feild. Finally, I enjoy buying books in my topic for learning development and personal interest.