technologyforprofessors

Livescribe December 5, 2012

I put this on my Twitter page and blog page. Livescribe is a neat inexpensive device that is a pen which records both audio and video presentations.  In addition, this pen comes with a special tablet which possesses specialized apps.  With this device you can perform calculus equasions or record a class lecture or meeting.

http://www.livescribe.com

Literature on Technology December 5, 2012

Techno-Fix: Why Technology Won’t Save Us Or the Environment is a book which I inter library loaned.  With so much promotion of technology in the classroom I feel it is relevant to study the opposing side to understanding the viewpoints of those who question the role of technology in the classroom and also to strengthen my own viewpoints about the incorporation of the devices. The primary thesis of the book emphasizes that technology in education has become monopolized and thus provides a disservice to the students.  The leaders of this technology press that such programs become more democratized rather than restricted into the hands of the few.  It is not just limited to promoting class warfare but ask serious questions about the goal of technology in our environment. 

http://www.amazon.com/Techno-Fix-Technology-Wont-Save-Environment/dp/0865717044/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353Techno-Fix: Why Technology Won’t Save Us Or the Environmen516921&sr=1-1&keywords=9780865717046

Classroom Response II November 28, 2012

Class Response Systems

Classroom Response Systems deliver innovative ways to gather data and provide feedback to the to the student as an individual learner as well as the class as a whole.EduGame, Promethean, eInstruction and Class Act are some of the response systems out on the market today. An assessment can be timed which helps to reduce test anxiety. Students can answer anonymously which allows for two benefits: 1) removes the fear of looking foolish 2) In the case of a college level class when political policies or ethical scenarios are presented to the class to promote critical thinking, students can answer honestly about the decision they make without fear of retribution

Films on Demand November 28, 2012

Films on Demand  http://digital.films.com/  is one of the largest database of education videos available on the web today.  The digital links include content on a variety of topics including social and natural sciences.  The videos can be viewed in small clips or full segments and include documentaries, historical archives, and peer reviewed news and information. The incorporation of videos into a lecture is an additional resource of technology to help students retain more information along with a visual interpretation of the material.  This technology is an excellent opportunity to infuse the library and media services into the classroom and open the minds of students in the field of research. Collaboration between such professionals serves the student by enhancing student learning outcomes for the assignment and offering additional resources to improve student learning and retention.

Twitter Class November 21, 2012

In regards to the use of technology, imagine having a discussion board entirely based through Twitter.  Some of the students engaged in this project at George Mason University Media class.  It is referred to as “experiential learning.”

http://chronicle.com/blogs/wiredcampus/?p=40976?cid=wc&utm_source=wc&utm_medium=en

Digital Safety November 21, 2012

Given the recent events which occurred at Northwest Florida State College, it is crucial that students be informed of the danger of cyber thieves.  In this technologically based world students and non students alike are often giving out their user names and passwords including their social security numbers without taking into account who might be listening.  I feel that signs should be posted in the same manner warning students to keep their personally information silent and not to disclose it even to other students.

http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2010/02/thin-line-digital-safety-education-for.html

Classroom Response November 14, 2012

As a political science professor it has become a challenge to engage students with policy challenges facing this nation.  Students are often apprehensive to express their views.  Classroom Response systems exposes students to a new form of technology while allowing for classroom discussions without the need for students to speak out in class.  This device can also be used for assessments, quizzes, and even attendance

tinyurl.com/asbusjf 

E textbooks November 14, 2012

There is little doubt that colleges are looking to reduce cost on the overall student population.  In addition, students are pinching their pennies while attending classes.  Ebooks are just the latest addition to the growth of technology in the collegiate world.  An article from Forbes detailing the challenges Ebooks pose with copyright laws.  As technology improves copyright laws must be updated to meet this challenge.

http://www.forbes.com/fdc/welcome_mjx.shtml

Camtasia November 7, 2012

Camtasia is an excellent technology tool which allows for presentations to accompany Microsoft Office documents such as Word and Powerpoint.  The screen can be captured and you are given the choice of audio or video to strengthen course objectives you want to accomplish. In addition this program can connect with any course management system.

www.camtasia.com

Online Classroom Management November 7, 2012

An excellent source for the structure of online education classes.  This particular link provided valuable information in helping to develop the distance education module of the Quality Enhancement Plan at Gulf Coast State College.  Some of the primary points of this particular resource include:  Management, Engagement, and Strategy.http://www.magnapubs.com/catalog/online-classroom-newsletter/?track=email&utm_source=cheetah&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=OC%20Newsletter%20Promo%20Nov