Monday, July 11, 2011

Permissable Use of Digital Media

After reading the EME 2040 course material I was supplied with, my thoughts about the proper use of digital media have slightly changed. As I previously stated in the prior blog, all of the digital media is used strictly for educational purposes. It is permissible for teachers to utilize the information one another publicizes online pertaining to academic material. Both teachers and students may import visual and audio media files into classroom presentations. However, some internet sites require individuals to cite such media was found if used. Therefore, some multimedia files may require citations, whereas, others may not.

I would teach my students ethics within the classroom by assigning them an independent activity that requires critical thinking and a fair amount of time to complete. After students turn in their assignments, I would write a number in the bottom left-hand corner of their paper that corresponds to what number they are on my attendance list. Then, I would white-out their names and write an alternate student’s name on their paper. When I return the graded assignments, I will distribute the papers to the students who name’s I wrote on the paper, rather than the student who actually completed the work (although the grades in my grade book will correspond with the correct students). Some students may be frustrated that others supposedly received credit for their work, but that is how I will begin my discussion of ethics. I will explain to students how it is unethical to use someone else’s work without crediting them. Then, further discuss the permissible use of digital media within the classroom.

Presumptions of Digital Media in Classroom Environments

Prior to reading the EME 2040 course material I was supplied with, I thought that the proper use of digital media in the classroom was strictly limited to educational programs, district-approved internet sites, and tangible items used for educational reasons. I imagined a collection of programs one would most likely use throughout his or her educational career as an educator or student, such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. I also considered the use of educational games designed to enhance a student’s learning ability. The internet may be a resourceful approach to maintain the communication between educators, students, and parents through online grade books and class wikis. Students may utilize the internet to locate information they need in order to complete an assignment. A variety of tangible items may also be used within a classroom, depending on the course, such as calculators, laptops, electric measurement scales, and overhead projectors. All of the digital media within the classroom is supposed to be used strictly for advancements in student learning. Under no circumstances is digital media to be used for alternate reasons.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Course Communication Concept Map

Click on the diagram to view an enlarged image. Click here to send me an e-mail message.

Course Communication Management

I will be monitoring the information exchanged between myself, students, and parents. Only communication regarding academics is permitted. Absolutely NO cyber-bullying, profanity, or non-academic activity will be tolerated! If users engage in impermissible acts, then they will be punished.

Parent-Teacher Communication

Parents may be informed of the academic careers of their children as students by engaging in classroom communication. Parents and teachers may communicate with each other through various forms of technology. They may e-mail one another about any questions, comments, or concerns they may have. My e-mail address is sowen9@fau.edu. Parents may access the attendance and grading records of their children by logging into their Engrader account. A description of most of the assignments is available after clicking the link to a specified assignment in order to inform parents of the critical details. Engrader also allows users to post comments below the descriptions, which may be used to publicly post questions, comments, or concerns. The website enables parents to oversee what material is covered in class, as well as the steps their children are taking to achieve success.  I may be reached by my cell phone between the hours of 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM at (954) 495-1234. Lastly, you may e-mail me to schedule a conference.

Student-Teacher Communication

Students may achieve academic success by actively engaging themselves in classroom communication. Students and teachers may communicate with each other through various forms of technology. They may e-mail one another about any questions, comments, or concerns they may have. My e-mail address is sowen9@fau.edu. Also, students may access their attendance and grading records by logging into their Engrader account. A description of most of the assignments is available after clicking the link to a specified assignment, in order to inform student s of the critical details.  Engrader also allows users to post comments below the descriptions, which may be used to publicly post questions, comments, or concerns. The website enables students to remain up-to-date with their assignments, even if they are absent. They could potentially study lesson material before it is covered in class, so they gain a better comprehension of the material and are more prepared for classroom discussion.