Sara's Blog

     In my Web Design assignment, I learned how to organize content, create visual appeal, and use design principles like contrast and alignment. For example, I used contrast by choosing bold colors for headings to help them stand out and alignment to keep text and images neatly lined up, making the page easier to read. I enjoyed making the layout clear and engaging but found balancing all the elements challenging. These web design skills will be helpful in my future teaching career, where I can create classroom websites for students and parents to find resources, assignments, and important updates.      One creative way I could use QR codes in my classroom is by placing them on each student’s desk to link to personalized assignments or extra resources. Students could scan the QR code to get that day’s activity or task without needing paper handouts. This method could also make independent work more engaging and a great way to keep students interested while...

     Many school websites provide class pages that display basic information such as teacher contact details, a course overview, and classroom expectations. Some pages include weekly lesson plans and homework assignments. However, access to more detailed resources, such as grades or class discussions, typically requires a student or parent login. One example of such a school website is https://www.cobbk12.org/lassiter      I plan on using technology like Google Classroom for my teaching tasks and communication with students and parents. These platforms allow for easy assignment management and feedback. I would also use a tool like Remind for quick updates to parents and students. These tools help save time and keep both students and their families engaged in the learning process.      Working on Assignment 2 using the Canvas group tool was helpful for collaboration. It allowed for easy sharing of documents and discussions. I liked the re...

 Blogging this semester has allowed me to share my ideas with my classmates as well as my teacher. My blog has been about what I have learned in my intro to Educational Technology class. I also enjoy having a consistent posting schedule once a week and specific topics I have to write about. Through blogging, I have learned a lot about writing for an online audience and how to structure a blog to make it reader-friendly and engaging. One Web 2.0 tool I find exciting and useful for teaching is Quizlet. Quizlet allows users to create digital flashcards, games, and quizzes for any subject. The platform is easy to navigate and provides a variety of study modes, such as flashcards, match games, and practice tests, which cater to different learning styles. Teachers can also access already-made study sets or create their own to tailor lessons to their classroom needs. My first experiences with Generative AI involved exploring its capabilities in writing and brainstorming. I tested it by as...

      Using social media  like Pinterest, Instagram, and X has helped me build a Personal Learning Network (PLN). On Pinterest, I follow teachers who share lesson ideas and classroom setups. Instagram allows me to see teaching tips and activities from educators worldwide. X keeps me updated on education news and lets me join discussions with other teachers, which will be useful in my future career.      I went to schools that had a lot of technology, like computers and smartboards. This early experience made me feel more comfortable with technology in college. Now, I use it all the time for homework, research, and staying organized. However, I wish my school had taught us more about using these tools in deeper ways, not just how to access them.      I would like to use Google Docs and Padlet in my future classroom for group work. Google Docs makes it easy for students to work together on writing. also, Padlet is good for sharing ideas wi...

      I searched the CPLAMS website and found a standard for using digital tools. One standard says students should use technology to research and share information. This teaches them to use online resources safely and responsibly. Based on my skills, I think I could use this standard in the classroom because I know how to find information online, but I may need more practice teaching safety and responsibility online.      In the CPALMS Educator Toolkit, I found resources related to English Language Arts for elementary students. One tool was a lesson plan about using digital reading resources. I think these tools can help me plan engaging lessons that use technology, making learning more fun for students. I would use these resources to mix traditional lessons with online activities to meet students' learning needs.      Being good at internet searching is important for teachers because we often need to find resources quickly. I learned about ...

    Copyright protects original works from being copied or used without permission. Fair use lets people use small parts of these works for things like teaching or research as long as they follow certain rules. As a teacher, I would make sure to only use materials that fall under fair use or get permission to use them, and I would teach my students to respect others' work when creating their own. I am still curious about how much of a work can be used before it is no longer considered fair use.     One issue with technology today is cyberbullying, where people use devices to hurt others online. To solve this, I would create clear riles about online behavior and teach students about kindness and respect. I would also set up a way fro students to report bullying safely and I would make sure to monitor online activities closely. This way, I could stop problems early and keep the classroom a safe place for everyone.     While working on my newsletter I learned ...