Advantages include using computers as cognitive tools, students use the spreadsheets and databases to construct meaning. From-www.coedu.usf.edu/itphdsem/24.pdf - Similar
As a technology teacher, keyboarding is one area that I teach my students. I stress the importance of speed, accuracy, and proper technique. I could definitely create a student resource database that includes information on my students’ progress over time related to their typing speed and accuracy in order to better track their progress and see which students are excelling and which students need additional support.
Teachers are always facing the issue of meeting the needs of ALL learners, which can be very difficult. By having access to a database of specific learning needs, as well as the methods/styles in which each student learns best (visual, audio, etc.) it would be a great benefit to helping a teacher provide differentiated instruction to aid in student success.
It would be very beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases in order to 1)promote collaboration and group work, 2)encourage research skills, 3)foster self-esteem among students.
Discussion Question # 2
Advantages of using databases in the classroom include: Saves time, promotes independence, promotes collaboration. Disadvantages of using databases in the classroom include: Databases need to be constantly updated in order to current and relevant and they can often become overwhelming or frustrating to decipher.
Databases and spreadsheets are a great way to enhance student learning and promote collaboration. From a teacher’s perspective, valuable information on student performance and assessment history can be maintained and easily accessed. For classroom teaching, these tools can be used to help students store and search research data and retrieve meaningful information. They can used by students to create charts and analyze trends. Finally, databases and spreadsheets encourage students to use critical thinking skills and enhance their overall learning experience.
I use many data based websites in my classroom. They are a wealth of resources that teachers and other professional can share. Teachers are given many task to help educate each student. Databases give some wonderful ideas and even places where students can visit online. I like to use Scholastic.com and Sesamestreet.com both of these sites have an area for parents, teachers, and students. I have a variety of age groups in my class starting as young as three years old to six years of age. The ability of my lower functioning students really does present a challenge in the classroom. Particularly when it comes to age-appropriate activities. For example my four and five year olds are learning to write their name but a two or three year old would not be doing that because they are not developmentally ready for that skill. So while I work with students with large pencils and paper the databases can be playing games with younger functioning students to build phonemic awareness and get them ready for the next step.
I think that it is very beneficial for students to create their own databases. 1. Students can choose to collaborate with other students using data bases with research such as science experiment outcomes. 2. Students can use information researched in a database to write about a subject. 3. Students can keep an ongoing portfolio of student compiled projects for future students to use. “ Our students will be required to collect, store, and retrieve relevant information throughout their lives, and we need to give them the skills to do so effectively and efficiently”( Richardson, 2010). Source: Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved Mary Beth
Discussion Question # 1 Attached is an article on how to utilize databases for educational purposes to benefit both special needs and regular students. After reading the article, present an original idea of how you would develop an ideal student resource database to fit your current or future teaching needs. Please specify current concerns you face or think of possible issues teachers face (non-teachers) for which the use of a database would alleviate the situation.
If I developed a database, I would create a technology database. While creating a database is evidence of technology use, there are so many other applications of the technology available to us, it would be beneficial for teachers to have descriptions of the various technologies as well as possible uses. Since the same technology can have multiple uses, the database could grow exponentially. Of course, one of my concerns would be the fact that we would not have access to most of the new technology, on account of our favorite word (BUDGET!). Now, a current concern actually involves having the technology, but not knowing how to use it. Since receiving proper training is such an issue, teachers can access the technology database for ideas and help. This would alleviate many of the concerns of teachers who do not feel confident incorporating technology into the classroom.
2. Additionally, identify three reasons you think it would or would not be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases.
I would definitely consider a database for the students to access. In fourth grade, we focus on reading strategies (Before, During, After, Active Reading, Context Clues, Inferences, etc.) throughout the year, across the subject areas. Many of these topics are tough to fully understand. If I could begin assembling a database for the students that covers these topics, I think it would be very beneficial for them. They could contribute definitions and clarifications of the various terms, as well as examples. The most useful aspect of this database would be the examples, since students can always find new ones, whereas a definition can only be restated so many times! Additionally, this database would allow the students to take ownership of their work, so they would take more pride in generating entries for the database. Finally, having a section for student-generated strategies allows the students to share their own success stories. They may even come up with a hint or strategy that the teacher did not think of!
Source: Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved from Education Research Complete database.
Discussion Question # 2 This article provides specific information on how databases and spreadsheets assist teachers in their lessons. The article compares progress made by two teachers, using spreadsheets one who feels fluent using this form of technology, while the other does not. After reading the article, please describe the advantages and disadvantages to using databases in the classroom. Please use details from the text to support your answer.
I think this question meant to ask about only spreadsheets, since the article does not mention the word “database”. Also, I don’t know if the article was translated poorly, but it was pretty tough to follow, especially the dialogue (Since when does a teacher say “What happens to you…? No, no, do not make like that.”). I didn’t really find the article as helpful in answering this question, but it did offer limited insight on spreadsheets within mathematics. The two teachers used spreadsheets as tools to aid in calculations. However, since the teachers did not provide adequate scaffolding, they are frustrated by the students’ inability to complete the tasks in the manner that the teachers desired. If anything, this article highlights the dangers of assuming that students know how to use technology. They may be able to work the technology, but they may not be able to use it for academic purposes. So, that seems to be a disadvantage to using it. However, one advantage would be that students could use spreadsheets to perform more complex calculations as well as theoretical calculations (if you change one variable, what would happen to the results, etc.). This would be entirely dependent on the students’ understanding of the software, of course. Pretend you are asked to motivate your staff to using databases and spreadsheets in the classroom. How would you do this? Write a brief paragraph to your staff to motivate them to utilize this tool.
(I would use this paragraph after demonstrating some of the educational applications of spreadsheets, as well as some examples of resource databases).
As you have just been shown, spreadsheets have applications within mathematics. Once the students have an understanding of the tasks given to them, they can use spreadsheets to organize data and complete calculations. If they are able to set formulas up accurately, they can them experiment with the data to see how one variable may affect the result. Students love using technology, so you will find it easier to motivate them. Additionally, as I explained, if you feel overwhelmed by the technology, you can access our teacher-made database that has tips and tricks for using spreadsheets and other technology in the classroom. If you have your own information, we would love for you to contribute! It is simple and efficient, and I would never ask you to reinvent the wheel. Use the resources available to you, and you will succeed!
Source: Lagrange, J., & Erdogan, E. (2009). Teachers' Emergent Goals in Spreadsheet-Based Lessons: Analyzing the Complexity of Technology Integration. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 71(1), 65-84. Retrieved from ERIC database.
Discussion Question # 1 For my math classroom I would love to create a database where students can enter in example problems for specific skills along with their own reasoning for how to solve a particular type of problem. The biggest concern would be entering the problems. Writing math equations and formulas can be very tedious at times. Some simple solutions could be to either have the students write their answers on a tablet pc if available then uploaded into the database or the more reasonable way considering what technology is available is to have students write out everything on a piece of paper. Then scan the papers into the database for each child. This initial process does take more time from the teacher. However three reasons why this would be beneficial to the students include: clarification, review/ study guides, and students can see multiple ways that other students solved the problem. Discussion Question # 2 Part a. The obvious advantage is access to information. Since this is a database created by people you know have used the strategies with success then you can always go to them with any questions that you may have. Also once information is entered into the computer, it is organized and much easier to find then just searching the web. The disadvantages to using databases in the classroom is the amount of time and effort required to create the database. Also along those lines comes the issues of learning how to put information into it and retrieving it. Part b. To help motivate my staff to use databases and spreadsheets I would encourage the simple philosophy of “Work Smart, Not Hard” because many instructional strategies and lessons are used year after year with only slight modifications every time. So, I would talk to the staff about once creating an idea, then catalogue it so that it is easy to find in the future. Because imagine if every math teacher uploaded a lesson on fractions, then once a teacher came around to that unit, they could see what things have worked in the past and what things haven’t. So, instead of trying to reinvent the wheel each year, we just make slight modifications to the wheel so that it fits with the group of students you are now currently teaching.
Discussion Question 1a) After reading the article, present an original idea of how you would develop an ideal student resource database to fit your current or future teaching needs. Please specify current concerns you face or think of possible issues teachers face (non-teachers) for which the use of a database would alleviate the situation.
I think I would create a database on phonics skills. Since I help students become better readers and identify their phonietic struggles, I think it would be appropriate to create a phonics database. I think it would be very helpful to students if they had extra practice with phonics and in a new way.
1b) Additionally, identify three reasons you think it would or would not be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases.
I think it would be very beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases: 1) It would encourage student engagement 2) Motivational appearance to students 3)It would help keep students and data organized and focused
Discussion Question 2a)This article provides specific information on how databases and spreadsheets assist teachers in their lessons. The article compares progress made by two teachers, using spreadsheets one who feels fluent using this form of technology, while the other does not. After reading the article, please describe the advantages and disadvantages to using databases in the classroom. Please use details from the text to support your answer.
A disadvantage I found after reading the article was that it could be confusing at times when entering data in the correct cell. A lot of the advantages I found were that it saved time, compares information easily, has great security, simplifies data, and reduces redundancy. When using technology there are always going to be ups and downs, but through it all it is usually worth it in the end.
2b)Pretend your are asked to motivate your staff to using databases and spreadsheets in the classroom. How would you do this? Write a brief paragraph to your staff to motivate them to utilize this tool.
Tierd of always getting out your notebook to write the grades down, take attendance, plan lessons, or maybe you are tierd of trying to create an easy looking chart to display research & study skills. Well that was the old way to do things, NOW we have the technology to move forward. Using databases and spreadsheets will allow you to easily organize information such as your grade book and the attendance charts. It also creates reports and summarizes automatically. You will save time, energy, and stress! You can easily create a chart using the chart wizard which will take you step by step. No more getting stressed out writing everything down just use the new resources availible to you (databases & spreadsheets) and you will never break your pencil trying to figure out why your grades don't match up or stay up half the night planning for tomorrows lesson!
Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved from Education Research Complete database.
I would develop a plagiarism prevention database designed to detect unoriginal content in students’ papers. A plagiarism prevention database could be used as a deterrent against plagiarism as well as to educate students about the importance of proper citation of sources. The school database would act as an archive of papers submitted by the students in the building. These student papers would be compared to other papers from other supported content databases or the Internet to search for and locate any blocks of matching text.
Three reasons I think it would be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases are collaboration, research, assessment and of course plagiarism prevention.
Spreadsheets are “programs designed to organize and manipulate numerical data,” whereas databases are “programs that allow users to store, organize, and manipulate information, including both text and numerical data” (Roblyer & Doering, 2010).
If students need to analyze data and put it into a chart, they should use a spreadsheet. For example, parent information, grades or concept maps and graphic organizers. Students can use databases to organize, file and access information they learn in class. Databases can be used as a way to organize and make data easily searchable for planning and reporting purposes.
In the classroom, spreadsheets can be used to collect, sort, compare, and calculate data. They can also be used to generate charts, tables, and graphs (Steffen, 2006). A relative advantage of using spreadsheets in the classroom is that they provide students with a visual, manipulate-able way to read and share information, improving calculations, and increasing organization (Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom, 2010).
In the classroom, databases can be used to keep track of students or projects. They can be used with tech-savvy students (or any students, if the database is set up beforehand) to compile customized sets of information. A relative advantage of using databases in the classroom is that they allow users to organize and manipulate large amounts of information. Students work at higher cognitive levels to compare and contrast data, rank importance (Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom, 2010).
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc
Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom. (2010). Retrieved July 26, 2010, from word press: http://k8baker.wordpress.com/2010/02/22/spreadsheets-and-databases-in-the-classroom/
Discussion Question # 1 One of my dreams as a Social Studies teacher was always to design a curriculum based solely on primary sources. I think a database would be ideal for this endeavor, and very useful for any teacher. Sources could be indexed based on topics, themes, as well as standards to which they relate. A reference database would be a great tool for students to create. As a student, I am constantly referring to sources I have used in previous classes. For any specific project, a database would help students keep their research organized. As lifelong learners, students would be building a searchable inventory of self-discovered knowledge. Categorizing the information in the database would also push students to analyze what they have read. Discussion Question # 2 In the two classrooms discussed in this article, spreadsheet use was mandated by the school system. One teacher used it solely as tool for application of knowledge after instruction had taken place. The other teacher embraced the technology, using as a means of discovery and cooperative learning. For the teacher that used the software solely for application used the time to engage in 1:1 interaction with her students. She found that students were more likely to do calculations mentally or by hand then they were to use the spreadsheet and that they struggled to understand how the spreadsheet could be beneficial. The teacher that embraced the technology also found that, when given the option, her students also reverted to traditional calculations. She, however, was able to modify her instruction and use the spreadsheet to promote a better understanding, of not only the technology, but also the mathematical concepts as. I know it is often difficult to break out of our comfort zones and use new tools. Ironically, we typically find that when we do, our work becomes easier and our lives less stressful. I would like each of you to think of a task you currently have that you would like made easier or a unit of instruction you would like to improve. As my goals are to assist you in better serving our students while at the same time simplifying your lives, I will help devise a way to apply these new tools to help each of you meet your goals.
Advantages include using computers as cognitive tools, students use the spreadsheets and databases to construct meaning.
ReplyDeleteFrom-www.coedu.usf.edu/itphdsem/24.pdf - Similar
Discussion Question # 1
ReplyDeleteAs a technology teacher, keyboarding is one area that I teach my students. I stress the importance of speed, accuracy, and proper technique. I could definitely create a student resource database that includes information on my students’ progress over time related to their typing speed and accuracy in order to better track their progress and see which students are excelling and which students need additional support.
Teachers are always facing the issue of meeting the needs of ALL learners, which can be very difficult. By having access to a database of specific learning needs, as well as the methods/styles in which each student learns best (visual, audio, etc.) it would be a great benefit to helping a teacher provide differentiated instruction to aid in student success.
It would be very beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases in order to 1)promote collaboration and group work, 2)encourage research skills, 3)foster self-esteem among students.
Discussion Question # 2
Advantages of using databases in the classroom include: Saves time, promotes independence, promotes collaboration. Disadvantages of using databases in the classroom include: Databases need to be constantly updated in order to current and relevant and they can often become overwhelming or frustrating to decipher.
Databases and spreadsheets are a great way to enhance student learning and promote collaboration. From a teacher’s perspective, valuable information on student performance and assessment history can be maintained and easily accessed. For classroom teaching, these tools can be used to help students store and search research data and retrieve meaningful information. They can used by students to create charts and analyze trends. Finally, databases and spreadsheets encourage students to use critical thinking skills and enhance their overall learning experience.
Sherry Mobley
I use many data based websites in my classroom. They are a wealth of resources that teachers and other professional can share. Teachers are given many task to help educate each student. Databases give some wonderful ideas and even places where students can visit online. I like to use Scholastic.com and Sesamestreet.com both of these sites have an area for parents, teachers, and students. I have a variety of age groups in my class starting as young as three years old to six years of age. The ability of my lower functioning students really does present a challenge in the classroom. Particularly when it comes to age-appropriate activities. For example my four and five year olds are learning to write their name but a two or three year old would not be doing that because they are not developmentally ready for that skill. So while I work with students with large pencils and paper the databases can be playing games with younger functioning students to build phonemic awareness and get them ready for the next step.
ReplyDeleteI think that it is very beneficial for students to create their own databases.
1. Students can choose to collaborate with other students using data bases with research such as science experiment outcomes.
2. Students can use information researched in a database to write about a subject.
3. Students can keep an ongoing portfolio of student compiled projects for future students to use.
“ Our students will be required to collect, store, and retrieve relevant information throughout their lives, and we need to give them the skills to do so effectively and efficiently”( Richardson, 2010).
Source:
Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies
Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved
Mary Beth
Discussion Question # 1
ReplyDeleteAttached is an article on how to utilize databases for educational purposes to benefit both special needs and regular students. After reading the article, present an original idea of how you would develop an ideal student resource database to fit your current or future teaching needs. Please specify current concerns you face or think of possible issues teachers face (non-teachers) for which the use of a database would alleviate the situation.
If I developed a database, I would create a technology database. While creating a database is evidence of technology use, there are so many other applications of the technology available to us, it would be beneficial for teachers to have descriptions of the various technologies as well as possible uses. Since the same technology can have multiple uses, the database could grow exponentially. Of course, one of my concerns would be the fact that we would not have access to most of the new technology, on account of our favorite word (BUDGET!). Now, a current concern actually involves having the technology, but not knowing how to use it. Since receiving proper training is such an issue, teachers can access the technology database for ideas and help. This would alleviate many of the concerns of teachers who do not feel confident incorporating technology into the classroom.
2. Additionally, identify three reasons you think it would or would not be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases.
I would definitely consider a database for the students to access. In fourth grade, we focus on reading strategies (Before, During, After, Active Reading, Context Clues, Inferences, etc.) throughout the year, across the subject areas. Many of these topics are tough to fully understand. If I could begin assembling a database for the students that covers these topics, I think it would be very beneficial for them. They could contribute definitions and clarifications of the various terms, as well as examples. The most useful aspect of this database would be the examples, since students can always find new ones, whereas a definition can only be restated so many times! Additionally, this database would allow the students to take ownership of their work, so they would take more pride in generating entries for the database. Finally, having a section for student-generated strategies allows the students to share their own success stories. They may even come up with a hint or strategy that the teacher did not think of!
Source: Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved from Education Research Complete database.
Discussion Question # 2
ReplyDeleteThis article provides specific information on how databases and spreadsheets assist teachers in their lessons. The article compares progress made by two teachers, using spreadsheets one who feels fluent using this form of technology, while the other does not. After reading the article, please describe the advantages and disadvantages to using databases in the classroom. Please use details from the text to support your answer.
I think this question meant to ask about only spreadsheets, since the article does not mention the word “database”. Also, I don’t know if the article was translated poorly, but it was pretty tough to follow, especially the dialogue (Since when does a teacher say “What happens to you…? No, no, do not make like that.”). I didn’t really find the article as helpful in answering this question, but it did offer limited insight on spreadsheets within mathematics. The two teachers used spreadsheets as tools to aid in calculations. However, since the teachers did not provide adequate scaffolding, they are frustrated by the students’ inability to complete the tasks in the manner that the teachers desired. If anything, this article highlights the dangers of assuming that students know how to use technology. They may be able to work the technology, but they may not be able to use it for academic purposes. So, that seems to be a disadvantage to using it. However, one advantage would be that students could use spreadsheets to perform more complex calculations as well as theoretical calculations (if you change one variable, what would happen to the results, etc.). This would be entirely dependent on the students’ understanding of the software, of course.
Pretend you are asked to motivate your staff to using databases and spreadsheets in the classroom. How would you do this? Write a brief paragraph to your staff to motivate them to utilize this tool.
(I would use this paragraph after demonstrating some of the educational applications of spreadsheets, as well as some examples of resource databases).
As you have just been shown, spreadsheets have applications within mathematics. Once the students have an understanding of the tasks given to them, they can use spreadsheets to organize data and complete calculations. If they are able to set formulas up accurately, they can them experiment with the data to see how one variable may affect the result. Students love using technology, so you will find it easier to motivate them. Additionally, as I explained, if you feel overwhelmed by the technology, you can access our teacher-made database that has tips and tricks for using spreadsheets and other technology in the classroom. If you have your own information, we would love for you to contribute! It is simple and efficient, and I would never ask you to reinvent the wheel. Use the resources available to you, and you will succeed!
Source: Lagrange, J., & Erdogan, E. (2009). Teachers' Emergent Goals in Spreadsheet-Based Lessons: Analyzing the Complexity of Technology Integration. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 71(1), 65-84. Retrieved from ERIC database.
Discussion Question # 1
ReplyDeleteFor my math classroom I would love to create a database where students can enter in example problems for specific skills along with their own reasoning for how to solve a particular type of problem. The biggest concern would be entering the problems. Writing math equations and formulas can be very tedious at times. Some simple solutions could be to either have the students write their answers on a tablet pc if available then uploaded into the database or the more reasonable way considering what technology is available is to have students write out everything on a piece of paper. Then scan the papers into the database for each child. This initial process does take more time from the teacher. However three reasons why this would be beneficial to the students include: clarification, review/ study guides, and students can see multiple ways that other students solved the problem.
Discussion Question # 2
Part a. The obvious advantage is access to information. Since this is a database created by people you know have used the strategies with success then you can always go to them with any questions that you may have. Also once information is entered into the computer, it is organized and much easier to find then just searching the web.
The disadvantages to using databases in the classroom is the amount of time and effort required to create the database. Also along those lines comes the issues of learning how to put information into it and retrieving it.
Part b. To help motivate my staff to use databases and spreadsheets I would encourage the simple philosophy of “Work Smart, Not Hard” because many instructional strategies and lessons are used year after year with only slight modifications every time. So, I would talk to the staff about once creating an idea, then catalogue it so that it is easy to find in the future. Because imagine if every math teacher uploaded a lesson on fractions, then once a teacher came around to that unit, they could see what things have worked in the past and what things haven’t. So, instead of trying to reinvent the wheel each year, we just make slight modifications to the wheel so that it fits with the group of students you are now currently teaching.
Discussion Question 1a) After reading the article, present an original idea of how you would develop an ideal student resource database to fit your current or future teaching needs. Please specify current concerns you face or think of possible issues teachers face (non-teachers) for which the use of a database would alleviate the situation.
ReplyDeleteI think I would create a database on phonics skills. Since I help students become better readers and identify their phonietic struggles, I think it would be appropriate to create a phonics database. I think it would be very helpful to students if they had extra practice with phonics and in a new way.
1b) Additionally, identify three reasons you think it would or would not be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases.
I think it would be very beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases:
1) It would encourage student engagement
2) Motivational appearance to students
3)It would help keep students and data organized and focused
Discussion Question 2a)This article provides specific information on how databases and spreadsheets assist teachers in their lessons. The article compares progress made by two teachers, using spreadsheets one who feels fluent using this form of technology, while the other does not. After reading the article, please describe the advantages and disadvantages to using databases in the classroom. Please use details from the text to support your answer.
A disadvantage I found after reading the article was that it could be confusing at times when entering data in the correct cell. A lot of the advantages I found were that it saved time, compares information easily, has great security, simplifies data, and reduces redundancy. When using technology there are always going to be ups and downs, but through it all it is usually worth it in the end.
2b)Pretend your are asked to motivate your staff to using databases and spreadsheets in the classroom. How would you do this? Write a brief paragraph to your staff to motivate them to utilize this tool.
Tierd of always getting out your notebook to write the grades down, take attendance, plan lessons, or maybe you are tierd of trying to create an easy looking chart to display research & study skills. Well that was the old way to do things, NOW we have the technology to move forward. Using databases and spreadsheets will allow you to easily organize information such as your grade book and the attendance charts. It also creates reports and summarizes automatically. You will save time, energy, and stress! You can easily create a chart using the chart wizard which will take you step by step. No more getting stressed out writing everything down just use the new resources availible to you (databases & spreadsheets) and you will never break your pencil trying to figure out why your grades don't match up or stay up half the night planning for tomorrows lesson!
Kasey Hunter
References:
http://www.slideshare.net/alaasadik/applications-wordprocessing-spreadsheet-database-presentation
Hodges, D., Mandlebaum, L., Boff, C., & Miller, M. (2007). Instructional Strategies Online Database (ISOD). Intervention in School & Clinic, 42(4), 219-224. Retrieved from Education Research Complete database.
Question 1
ReplyDeleteI would develop a plagiarism prevention database designed to detect unoriginal content in students’ papers. A plagiarism prevention database could be used as a deterrent against plagiarism as well as to educate students about the importance of proper citation of sources. The school database would act as an archive of papers submitted by the students in the building. These student papers would be compared to other papers from other supported content databases or the Internet to search for and locate any blocks of matching text.
Three reasons I think it would be beneficial to have students create their own student reference databases are collaboration, research, assessment and of course plagiarism prevention.
Question 2
ReplyDeleteSpreadsheets are “programs designed to organize and manipulate numerical data,” whereas databases are “programs that allow users to store, organize, and manipulate information, including both text and numerical data” (Roblyer & Doering, 2010).
If students need to analyze data and put it into a chart, they should use a spreadsheet. For example, parent information, grades or concept maps and graphic organizers. Students can use databases to organize, file and access information they learn in class. Databases can be used as a way to organize and make data easily searchable for planning and reporting purposes.
In the classroom, spreadsheets can be used to collect, sort, compare, and calculate data. They can also be used to generate charts, tables, and graphs (Steffen, 2006). A relative advantage of using spreadsheets in the classroom is that they provide students with a visual, manipulate-able way to read and share information, improving calculations, and increasing organization (Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom, 2010).
In the classroom, databases can be used to keep track of students or projects. They can be used with tech-savvy students (or any students, if the database is set up beforehand) to compile customized sets of information. A relative advantage of using databases in the classroom is that they allow users to organize and manipulate large amounts of information. Students work at higher cognitive levels to compare and contrast data, rank importance (Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom, 2010).
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc
Spreadsheets and Databases in the Classroom. (2010). Retrieved July 26, 2010, from word press: http://k8baker.wordpress.com/2010/02/22/spreadsheets-and-databases-in-the-classroom/
Discussion Question # 1
ReplyDeleteOne of my dreams as a Social Studies teacher was always to design a curriculum based solely on primary sources. I think a database would be ideal for this endeavor, and very useful for any teacher. Sources could be indexed based on topics, themes, as well as standards to which they relate.
A reference database would be a great tool for students to create. As a student, I am constantly referring to sources I have used in previous classes. For any specific project, a database would help students keep their research organized. As lifelong learners, students would be building a searchable inventory of self-discovered knowledge. Categorizing the information in the database would also push students to analyze what they have read.
Discussion Question # 2
In the two classrooms discussed in this article, spreadsheet use was mandated by the school system. One teacher used it solely as tool for application of knowledge after instruction had taken place. The other teacher embraced the technology, using as a means of discovery and cooperative learning. For the teacher that used the software solely for application used the time to engage in 1:1 interaction with her students. She found that students were more likely to do calculations mentally or by hand then they were to use the spreadsheet and that they struggled to understand how the spreadsheet could be beneficial. The teacher that embraced the technology also found that, when given the option, her students also reverted to traditional calculations. She, however, was able to modify her instruction and use the spreadsheet to promote a better understanding, of not only the technology, but also the mathematical concepts as.
I know it is often difficult to break out of our comfort zones and use new tools. Ironically, we typically find that when we do, our work becomes easier and our lives less stressful. I would like each of you to think of a task you currently have that you would like made easier or a unit of instruction you would like to improve. As my goals are to assist you in better serving our students while at the same time simplifying your lives, I will help devise a way to apply these new tools to help each of you meet your goals.