Pickett,+Tammy

﻿Glog [|Glog]

media type="file" key="Cheyenne_0002 smaller.wmv" width="300" height="300"

**Voki**

[|Tammy Voki]

**Link to HTML page** Student HTML Pages


 * Annotated Weblist Pickett, Tammy **

**Learning Styles** I have done the Learning Styles test on several occasions so I wasn't surprised at the results. I'am a visual learner. I learn best by seeing things done not just being told how their done. I learn and retain things best if I organize them into charts and/or graphs. I need to process the information and then organize it into something that makes sense to me. This is especially true when the information or subject area is completely new to me. What did surprise me was their observation that I prefer to work on my own as opposed to a study group. In truth I prefer to work with at least one partner. It is especially helpful if the person is either better at the subject matter or worse than myself. If they are more knowledgable than me then they help me to understand it better. If they are less knowledgeable then I learn the material much better myself by helping them to understand it. I find either of these situations very helpful. I think it is beneficial for everyone, as well as their educators, to be aware of their learning style.

There is a ton of good information on this site. The book builder is a great tool for students that struggle with reading. It will aid them in getting the correct information despite their learning difficulties. I really like the science writer, students like my son would benefit from this greatly. Writing is a weakness for him but his science knowledge and interest is strength. This program would be great for any kind of writing. I will present my information in a variety of ways. I will also use several different ways of assessing my students. I can gauge their understanding of the material using tests, projects and portfolios of their work.

I feel that I have a good grasp on my strengths and weaknesses. I learned a long time ago that my grammar and writing skills are less than desirable where as my math skills are my true strength. I have found that most people I talk to have either one or the other. Either they are good at math or they are good at writing. I have not met someone yet that is good at everything. I believe, as teachers it is important for us to remember that are students will also have strengths and weaknesses.


 * Cast Reflection **

I think UDL is a great approach to learning/teaching. I believe many teachers are aware of the differences in their students learning styles and differences but have trouble addressing them all. The CAST site gives you information on how to bring this approach to the classroom. It helps to bridge the gap between theory and the classroom. I will be checking out the website periodically to see what new ideas and software are coming out of their research and development department. They have many good ideas in the works.

I checked out several of the virtual fieldtrip sites, including the Louvre, Lewis and Clark, Smithsonian, and the American History site. My favorite was the American history site. The Magic Lens was so impressive. I've never seen anything quite like it. It was so interesting to read the bills of sale for the slaves. I also liked the dress up feature. Who knew that they used to wear so much under their dresses. I can only imagine how heavy they must of been.
 * Virtual Fieldtrip Reflection **

The Smithsonian site was nice but not nearly as detailed as some of the others. I also found it a little dizzying to watch as it circled around. It was easy to navigate though. The Louvre was really neat. This is a place most of us will never get the opportunity to visit so it was especially interesting.

Sadly, I too have noticed that fieldtrips have become fewer and farther between. There are some things in this world that you can't learn from a textbook. Some things must be experienced. At least with websites like these more students are given the opportunity to experience these awesome places, even if it is only virtual.

1. From visiting the websites and viewing the videos in Part I of the assignment, what information did you learn about assistive technology for disabled individuals? There are numerous ways for students to get the tools they need to be successful. There are a wide variety of speaking and writing devices. I thought it was interesting all the different adaptations that are available for the keyboard and mouse. It’s surprising what a simple thing can do to make the lives of some students so much easier. 2. Were there any sites, products, or resources that particularly impressed you and that you want to remember as you prepare to become a classroom teacher? I especially liked the Discovery link and the Scholastic page. The ASL browser on the Discovery Education site was cool. It shows you how to sign almost any word. The Homework help is a great place to get help with completing assignments. The Wiggle works from Scholastic is an attention grabber for young children and will aid them in reading and writing. This would be a great addition to a K-3 classroom. 3. What promises/potentials does technology provide for students with diverse learning needs? It seems that with technology the possibilities for students are endless. There are so many ways to help students meet their full potential. More than ever students can be given every opportunity to be a success. 4. Have you ever had a personal experience with a student or other person who has used some form of assistive technology to help them function in learning or everyday life? If so, describe what you observed from that experience in terms of meeting the special needs of those individuals. I did an internship in an Autistic classroom. One of the students had a computer device that talked for her. She would push a button and the machine would answer yes or no. It was equipped with the technology for her to type in her answers and the machine would speak for her. It took some time for her to learn to use it and become comfortable with it. Now that she has, it is invaluable to her. My only concern with this is that it’s a substitution for her speaking and does not allow her to work on her speech. As long as she takes time out to speak for herself it’s a great machine. 5. From this assignment, what will you carry with you as you prepare to become a teacher – one that will, most likely, face the challenge of meeting the needs of special education students along with non-disabled learners? Something I have always believed is that every student has strengths and weaknesses. Even students with special needs have their own strengths. It is up to us as teachers to play to these strengths and use them to teach students all they need to know.
 * Assistive Technology **