Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Project-Based Learning


        Project-based learning is a great way to engage your students and encourage learning. Not all students learn the traditional way of sitting and listening. I love that the project-based learning incorporates so many positive attributes for students.
        Project-based learning encourages teamwork by using collaboration of the students to work on the various assignments. Knowing that peers and parents will view their project, it encourages them to do their best. The students are able to investigate the problem and come up with the solution by researching and gathering information. Not only can the students present what they have learned orally, but it can also be presented in a digital slide show or on a display board.
        I think that project-based learning method is a wonderful idea. I suggest that all teachers consider incorporating it into their curriculum. It can be used for Math, Science, English, or even Social Studies. It is a great way to help students be able to understand, apply and retain the information that they have researched. The students will know what they have learned when they have to research it and put it together.

Project-Based Learning: An Overview


        Project-based learning is a system of learning by doing. It is a system that is practiced around the world. Sophomore, Geometry students use it to solve problems. Their project consisted of designing a state-of-the-art high school to be built in 2050 on a particular site. Second and fifth grade students have used it to study cystic fibrosis and even design tools to put out fires in space. The students are more energized, focused, and challenged than in a traditional setting and curriculum. 

        The students are determined to do their best. They are able to collaborate real world projects. This puts students at the center of the learning process. Being at the center is the key to transforming the educational system. The transformation of new technology has helped make project-based learning available by moving past traditional curriculum. It is not about learning a particular subject on any given day.

        Project-based learning gives everyone the chance to mimic what scientists do. It can be fun, if it is done well. It is a great way to encourage collaboration amongst one another. It is also more authentic and challenging but yields positive results. There are fewer limitations with project-based learning and greater ways of connecting.


Project-Based Learning Video

An Introduction to Project-Based Learning

        Project-based learning is how one 9th grade class does physics. They are able to create, build and test various wing structures that they design in teams. They then present their information to their parents, peers and even a panel of engineers by using data and graphs. The real tasks allow the students to learn by demonstrating.
        The project-based learning has shown to be the most effective way to teach. It is a unique way to present tasks that bring challenges for students to solve. This will help prepare students to be functioning adults by using their hands on activities for learning.
        With project-based learning, kids have shown that they learn better from their own experiences. Project-based learning can also be more effective that traditional learning by increasing academic achievements. It allows students to understand, apply, and retain information. Students are building skills, such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration when using project-based learning.
An Introduction to Project-Based Learning Video

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Project-Based Learning:Real-World Issues Motivate Students

        Bruce Alberts, Professor Emeritus at the University of California, states that, “Everybody is motivated by challenge and solving problems, and we don’t make use of that in schools enough. Project-based learning gives everybody a chance to sort of mimic what scientists do, and that’s exciting. And it’s fun if it’s done well.”
        It is best to start with hands-on projects. Project-based learning provides an excellent education, more so than the traditional. It encourages the students to ask questions and research a variety of sources. The projects usually last six weeks or more. Students are able to use whatever is appropriate to help solve the problem.
        Sylvia Chard, Professor Emeritus of Elementary Education at the University of Alberta, defines project learning as an “in-depth investigation of a real-world topic worthy of children’s attention and effort.” The first step involves the initial discussion and personal experience that can be connected to the topic. The second step involves sessions with experts and gathering the information. The third step is the actual presentation of the project to the audience. Project-based learning is not as catchy amongst the parents since their way of learning was different. 
        Along with enthusiasm, comes the desire to learn more. That is just what the project-based learning does. The students desire to dig deeper to learn more and even retain what they have learned and been taught. They make connections and expand on their social skills. This allow for a more confident student who makes better grades and has less disciplinary problems.

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Glogster

Check out my Glogster here…<<< Deanna's Glogster >>>


I enjoyed putting together the Glogster to showcase all of my hard work over the past several weeks. You will find many different ways to present material to students in the classroom. Each project is unique and entertaining. Enjoy viewing my work!!!

~The movie that I created about myself is a great way to introduce myself to my students and their parents. It would also be a great way to get to know my own students by having them create their own.
~The information about my favorite author would be a great way to see what authors and books the students are currently interested in. This would be a great way to connect with the students. 
~The Prezi author site is also a great way to showcase your favorite author, while making it entertaining and informative. 
~The storybook video was a great way to get creative and use my imagination. This would be a fun class project or even an individual project. What a great way to let their creative juices flow!
~The Popplet was really neat how you can make diagrams of anything and expand on them. What a great way to allow students to connect with your work and add their ideas to it.
~The podcast project is a great way to include all students in a project. Even the introverted students can speak and not worry about having to be seen. 



Thursday, April 20, 2017

Video Project - Open Thinking


        I recently viewed rants and resources from an online blogger and educator. (Check it out here… http://educationaltechnology.ca/2127) I think the article thoroughly explains unique ways to create videos that can be used in the classrooms today. I love that examples and thoughts were included in the article.
        One of my favorites was the first video, ‘Conversation with Future Me/You’. I love how creative he was to think to record himself at such a young age and then use it to make a video, years later. My other favorite was the video by Ton Do-Nguyen, ‘Countdown [Snuggie Version]’. The comparison of the original video and his video allows you to see just how much time and effort were put into the making of both videos.
        The first video would be really neat to use in the classroom, even for elementary kids. You could have them video themselves at the beginning of the school year and then again at the end of the school year. It would not be years later, but months later and they could explain what they have learned over the entire year versus what they expected to learn in the beginning of the year.
        I am thankful that technology has allowed educators to advance the learning in the classrooms. I feel that the use of technology has advanced the point of learning for most students and will continue to broaden the thoughts and views of students on many different subjects. We all learn in unique and different ways. Technology just gives us another tool of learning.

What to Teach



        Teachers must be certified to teach Math or English but surprisingly, teachers do not have to have a certification to teach a video production class. Most textbooks for video production are not current because of the fast paced changes in technology. By allowing your students to gravitate to the job they feel most interested with will allow you to get the best results.
        Start with the basics of equipment and add more advanced skills later. Using basic format of vocabulary will allow you get started and not hinder the students from being successful. As the students master new skills, you can build on them with each project. It is also a great idea to start with basic camera operation and composition, as well. The Internet and hands-on practice are great ways to master tips and improve with each project. You will learn as you go. Take it one project at a time, slowly learning to add better shots, computer graphics and even video effects.

Video Production in a Cooperative Learning Environment


        Team effort is required in making a video. There a many variables and tasks such as screenwriters, camera operators, costume and set designers, talent (actors), directors, technical directors, and editors. There are roles and responsibilities for everyone.
        As the teacher, your role would be the producer of the video productions. You would be responsible for making sure the video is created on a budget and in a timely manner. You must hire a good crew and ensure that they fit the assigned responsibility. Each student will bring strengths to the production, so preparing and prepping the students is vital.
        The screenwriter will be responsible for writing the script and mocking up the initial visuals for the video in the storyboards. It is important to make sure that the person for this role is creative and responsible. The screenwriter must also be able to consolidate brainstorming ideas from the entire video crew.
        It is best to encourage the outgoing students to tackle the roles of the actors. The energy they exuberate will help put the finishing touches on the production. The more introverted students will typically gravitate towards the behind-the-scenes positions, such as the camera operator. These students should have an artistic eye and be ready to be challenged mentally and physically.
There are other roles, such as the role of director, staff and editor, technical director, costume, make-up, set and props staff. There are plenty of options for all. All the students should be able to find something engaging to do.

Storyboard Your Project


        Creating a storyboard requires a lot of decision making and performing many tasks. You must first evaluate your screenplay. Your separate shots should be visually translated into individual storyboard panels. Each shot consists of continuous footage without cuts. The individual panels help make the task seem less overwhelming.
        When getting ready to piece your storyboard, you must make sure that you have the right location, the correct number of actors, props and even special lighting. You may want to storyboard every shot of just certain scenes. You many change your mind once you begin shooting and consider your options and surroundings.
        Shapes and dimensions will determine if you are creating a storyboard for the television screen or theatrical screen. Creating a storyboard panel is a great way to envision your film by creating a box of your illustration. You can purchase pads of storyboard panels or even make your own. Creating your own is simple and will help give you an idea of what your individual image will look like.