Thank you!!!

 Thank you for visiting my blog!!! I hope you enjoyed my posts regarding the ICT sessions  I liked the most! This is my first blog, but more posts are on their way:)
 Wish everyone all the best and enjoy SBT!!!

Web 2.0 Applications (Week 10 / 4th of April 2014)

     What is Web 2.0?

 Web 2.0 is a trend in the use of World Wide Web technology and web design that aims to facilitate creativity, information sharing, and collaboration between users. These concepts have led to the development and evolution of web-based communities and hosted services, such as social-networking sites, wikis, blogs and folksonomies (collaborative tagging, social classification, social indexing). ('Web 2.0', 2014).

 The internet is considered a powerful tool nowadays because it facilitates communication. "The world wide web contains unimaginable amounts of information. Some of it is incorrect, some of it is out of date, some of it is not relevant, but some of it is of a high quality and generously shared by its originator with the worldwide online community." Allen et. al (2012, p. 193-194).

     Web 2.0 in the classroom!

 There are many advantages of using Social Software in the classroom:

- it is free;

- it is available anywhere and anytime as long as there is internet connection;

- it provides new ways of accessing, thinking about, sharing and using information;

- can offer effective learning and sharing platform;

- can show a real world, meaningful, enjoyable and relevant.

 However, there are a lot of disadvantages of using Web 2.0:

- too much information is posted by many people with different thoughts;

- if they are not supervised children can easily find inappropriate online information;

- privacy issues.

 Therefore, it is highly important that all children receive E-Safety advice from parents and schools!!!

     Web 2.0 Applications

 Wallwisher is and online application which allows creating walls where the users involved can post their thoughts, feelings and ideas in regards to a certain subject (the title of the post). The website can be found at:

http://padlet.com/wall/8ss9gq6rv60u

 Children enjoy being able to freely express themselves and this application can successfully offer the platform. However the teachers must help, support and supervise them constantly as children tend to write things that are not related to the subject!

Wordle allows users to write words and sentences which can be displayed in an attractive and interactive way. This application is available at: http://www.wordle.net/create

 Other online applications: 

Prezi is available at:  http://prezi.com

Pinterest is available at: http://www.pinterest.com

     Reflections

 This post is meant to show the importance of Web 2.0 in schools and in personal life. It seems that the opportunities for finding things online are limitless. Using internet in the classroom can be visually appealing, engaging, stimulating and challenging at the same time. Children are given the opportunity to express themselves and develop communication skills.

     References:

Allen, J., Potter, J., Sharp, J. and Turvey, K. (2012) Primary ICT Knowledge, Understanding and Practice. 5th edn. London: Learning Matters/Sage.

 'Web 2.0' (2014) Wikipedia. Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_2.0 (Accessed: 21 April 2014).

Interactive Whiteboard and Phonics (Week 4 / 14th of February 2014)

 This blog highlights the cross curricula use of Interactive Whiteboards. As it was mentioned in a previous post, IWB can successfully be used across the curriculum not just in ICT. Before planning for teaching there are a few things that need to be considered. Therefore, teachers should make sure that: children can reach the board, children can see the board with ease, children can move to and around the board. Barber, Cooper and Meeson (2007). More that that, "in an inclusive classroom it is imperative that all children are given the same opportunity to access the IWB and benefit from its use." Barber, Cooper and Meeson (2007, p. 33).

 Interactive Whiteboards offer the possibility to create interactive lessons. For example, with the use of Smart Notebook application teachers can create engaging and stimulating presentations for each of the six phonics phases, selecting different tools and resources.

     Phase 1

 At phase one children develop phonologic awareness and improve their ability to distinguish between sounds. The Smart Notebook application allows inserting sounds for different pictures of animals and objects. For example, making a cat meow. Children can click the object on the IWB in order to hear the sound that it makes. The following website is a really good resource for sounds: FreeSFX.

     Phase two 

 At phase two some phoneme/ grapheme correspondences are introduced. As soon as children have a small number of phoneme/grapheme correspondences blending and segmenting can start. Smart Notebook application has a variety of tools which can help teachers create an interactive lesson for this phase:

- The Magic Box enables children to assess their own learning by choosing the objects/ animals that start with a given letter and place them inside it. 

The yellow rectangle shape is the magic box. Children are required to 

place inside it the objects/ animals which start with letter b. The objects that have a 

different letter at the beginning cannot be placed inside the box, they will be 

displayed outside the box.

   For the magic box a simple coloured shape, a text box which will contain the corresponding letter and a few images are added on the slide of the presentation. In order to make the objects starting with letter b (in this example) go behind the chosen shape the following options are applied to each picture: select the picture, right click, Order, Send to Back.

 In order to make the rest of the objects go on top of the shape each picture is selected, click right, Order, Bring to Front.

  Infinite cloner is a tool used to create words with the help of infinite letters. On a slide there are inserted a few letters and pictures that will help children guess the words they are asked to write using the given letters. 

 For each of the letters click right and select Infinite Cloner.

  Rub and Reaveal tool, which was explained in a previous post, is a great resource to use with children for CVC words. For example:

Children are asked to think of CVC words that finish with at or an.

They can check the answer by rubbing inside the shape to look for the
picture which will match the word: cat or pan.

  For each on the six phases of Letters and Sounds  a multitude on ideas and resources can be found on diverse websites, such as:

Phonics Play

Letters and Sounds

TopMarks

Family Learning

Twinkl

Early Learning

     Reflections

 After learning in ICT about all these amazing tools which can be used across the curriculum I believe that a teachers who uses IWB can be a better teacher. Therefore I intend to apply my learning in the classroom and make sure that all children benefit from it. 

     References:

 Barber, D., Cooper, L. and Meeson, G. (2007) Learning and Teaching with Interactive Whiteboards Primary and Early Years. Exeter: Learning Matters.

Interactive Whiteboards (Week 2 / 31st of January 2014)

      What are Interactive Whiteboards?

 "Interactive Whiteboards (IWBs) are touch-sensitive boards which allow teachers and children to engage directly with material projected on a screen from a computer via a data projector." Allen et al. (2012, p.180)

        Why do we use Interactive Whiteboards?

 Interactive Whiteboards are now very popular in schools, especially in primary classrooms. Using IWB offers flexibility and a better pace for activities carried out in the classroom. They enable teachers to prepare their lessons better (e.g. when using smart presentations the information can easily be revised with the help of back and forth buttons). Some teachers explore more the use of Interactive Whiteboards, others just use them in order to support, in an effective way, their own teaching style without changing it. A good teacher is a good teacher no matter what resources he uses, but a teacher who uses IWB is a better teacher. It is important for teachers and practitioners to have a good preparation with using Interactive Whiteboards.
 Creative teaching allows teachers to match different styles of learning:
- tactile learners get to write, touch and move things around the board;
- visual learners benefit from a clear view of what is happening on the board;
- audio learners can easily participate during the lesson. What is an Interactive Whiteboard? (2014).

 There are a few things that need to be considered when using IWB, such as:
- light;
- interactivity;
- text visibility;
- access;
- height;
- type of board used in the classroom and converting resources built for one type of board to another.

      Session Activity:

 Smart Notebook is an application used to create interactive presentations that can be projected on IWB. There is a wide variety of tools that can be used in order to prepare interactive lessons.
 A simple presentation can include basic tools, such as: shapes; pens; text; background; colours.

A background can be applied by selecting the fourth button form the left hand side
which shows the letter A. The background fill has different options: no fill, solid
fill, gradient fill, pattern fill and image fill.

Different text, shapes, pens and colours can be applied by selecting the
corresponding buttons that can be found at the top:

 There are also more complex tools that can be used with Smart Notebook application.

 Rub and Reveal is a technique used in order to reveal answers, shapes, missing words by selecting the Eraser icon and rubbing out.

For example, sentences are written with black and red coloured pen on a blue 

background. Then, with a pen using the same colour as the background,  colour the 

text you want to hide.

Use the Erase icon

to rub out the colour in order to reveal the right answer.

 The magic pen is another interactive tool that can successfully be used.  This tools gives the opportunity to learn about similarities and differences when comparing two pictures. First pictures can be inserted on the slide of the presentation by selecting the corresponding option form the menu:

 

 Afterwards the magic pen is applied by selecting the pens button and the option magic pen: 

Once the Magic pen option is applied circles can be drawn using it and that gives the possibility to move the circles on the two pictures in order to look at similarities and differences between, for example, the old and the new view of Oxford Street.

When drawing a square with the magic pen the Spotlight option is applied. This option enables us to zoom a certain area of the picture and have a better look and understanding of the specified similarities and differences. 

 There are also other complex tools which offer the opportunity to create a interactive presentation: 

- add animation to shapes;

- deconstruct images using the camera;

- maps;

- deconstruct pages using dual pages. 

  In general, therefore, it seems that Interactive Whiteboards are a successful tool that teachers and practitioners can use in schools. In the primary classroom Interactive Whiteboards can be used in order to teach across the curriculum (maths, literacy, science, art, history, geography, etc.) and not just in ICT.

      Reflections

I would personally try to use the whiteboard effectively in the classroom because it can transform our teaching and pedagogy. It enables us to draw children's attention and engagement easily. It can build confidence, motivation and self-esteem. I also believe that Smart Notebook presentations can effectively allow children to learn about things we cannot provide for them in real life (for example, in history when learning about vikings and their transport show pictures of viking ships and boats).

                 (PreKschool, 2013)

     References:

 Allen, J., Potter, J., Sharp, J. and Turvey, K. (2012) Primary ICT Knowledge, Understanding and Practice. 5th edn. London: Learning Matters/Sage.

 PreKschool (2013) Preschool Parkland FL - Interactive Whiteboard. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQF8lkPiIHU (Accessed: 19 April 2014).

 What is an Interactive Whiteboard? (2010) Available at: http://www.bbcactive.com/BBCActiveIdeasandResources/Whatisaninteractivewhiteboard.aspx (Accessed: 19 April 2014).

 

Control and Modelling: Programmable toys and robots (Week 5 / 28th of February 2014)

     Focus

 This session highlights the importance of using programmable toys to support problem solving and investigate work across the curriculum. In the new National Curriculum there is a significant focus on programming.
 At Key Stage 1, pupils should be taught to:
- understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digit devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions

- create and debug simple programs

- use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs (Department for Education, 2013).

 At Key Stage 2, pupils should be taught to:
- design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts

- use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output

- use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs (Department for Education, 2013).

     What is Computer Control?

 Computer Control is represented by a set of instructions programmed into a machine, which cause it to operate in a predetermined manner. Equipment and devices are controlled by pressing buttons either on a control panel or on a remote control. There are many advantages in using computers to control things: they never get tired, never lose concentration, do not make mistakes, can repeat the same instruction over and over again in exactly the same way, are cheeper to employ than humans. Examples of devices which use computer control: TV, alarms, DVD player, coffee machine, microwave, traffic lights, satellite navigation (in the car), CCTV, etc. To make things work there must be a procedure. A procedure is a sequence of instructions or commands that a central processing unit stores. It is important that the procedure is written correctly so that things happen in the correct order.
 Examples of programmable toys and robots: dinosaur (has a remote control which is very simple and easy to use); fire engine (represents the next step because the remote control has arrows to show the direction of movement); Beebot (there are buttons on the device, it is more complex because the memory needs to be cleared before each new instruction); Pixie (it does not have an exciting look, it has direction buttons and a timer); Pippin (is more advanced, has more buttons that a Pixie, including buttons for changing angles).

     "Under the Sea" Activity

 Children can design a cover for a Beebot or a Pixie, with the purpose of learning and understanding to control it. The cover must represent an animal, a living thing, or an image from under the sea (e.g. turtle). For the activity a grid mat is used as well.

Turtle

Turtle and Under the Sea mat

 After decorating the cover, the Beebot is placed on the mat and pupils learn to control it in order to make it move in different directions. Helpful questions can be asked: What instructions are needed of the object to move forwards? Backwards? To the left? To the right? How can the turtle get from the mermaid to the jellyfish? 

 A variety of ideas and resources for similar activities can be found online, at:
http://www.earlylearninghq.org.uk/themes/themed-bee-bot-mats/
http://www.primarytreasurechest.com/bee-bot-resources/bee-bot-jackets.html

 This activity enables pupils to acquire different controlling and programming skills, and can also be related to  teaching and learning science: children learn about animals (fish, turtles, jellyfish, etc.) and their environment (sea). It can also be linked to literary, supporting a range of stories, such as: The Little Mermaid, Under the Sea, On the Seashore. More than this, programmable robots can be considered an excellent tool for promoting speaking and listening skills and, when used effectively, can be invaluable in developing spoken language.

     Reflection

 Programmable toys and robots can be used to teach children programming skills, concepts and problem solving. Controlling and programming can be exciting and accessible for pupils. It also gives them the opportunity to engage with their learning and use imagination and creativity. I think I would like and I would enjoy using Beboots with children especially because they allow pupils to link ICT with other ares of the curriculum.

     Reference:

Department for Education (2013) National Curriculum in England: primary curriculum. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/260481/PRIMARY_national_curriculum_11-9-13_2.pdf (Accessed: 5.03.2013)

Multimedia in the classroom (Week 3 / 7th of February 2014)

     What is Multimedia?

 The term of multimedia is generally understood as the range of ICT that uses a combination of text, images, videos and sounds. It can be used to communicate information effectively. By introducing multimedia in the classroom, teachers and practitioners can capture pupils' attention and encourage their learning enthusiasm.
 In Primary School pupils encounter different daily tasks (read, write and talk about what they know, what they learn and also about their feelings). Such tasks are not always easy and can sometimes be challenging and tiresome. Children who find the learning process hard can risk to lose their confidence and those who find it not very interesting can lose their enthusiasm and excitement. The learning process can become more engaging and meaningful if "pupils have the opportunity to express themselves through multimedia in full colour, using their own voices to speak their own text, with pictures, sound effects and more". Mitra (2000, p.145). Therefore, the use of this ICT tool can significantly increase children's self-esteem and transform their achievement.

      Power Point

 Power Point is a well-known multimedia tool used for presentations. There are many advantages in using this application: it's easy, it's installed on most of the computers found in institutions, and can be excellent for visualisation. A Power Point presentation can include: text, images and videos, web links, buttons and far more options. When introducing web links it is highly important to consider whether the websites are suitable for children or not. Although most schools have good internet connections, think also of a back-up plan when using internet resources!!!
 The following pictures illustrate a good Power Point presentation:
 Around the World

Select INSERT -> Pictures to add pictures from files.
Select INSERT -> Shapes -> Action Buttons to add different buttons on the slides.

For example, while showing children pictures of places from around the world different questions related to the subject can be asked.

  For those who need extra help with Power Point information can be found on web pages, such as:
http://www.msoffice-tutorial-training.com/powerpoint-2007-tutorials.html

     Prezi

 Prezi is an online application used for presentations. It allows the user to create a presentation using a large, blank page instead of traditional slides. It looks better than Power Point and it is more professional. The disadvantage is that if teachers and practitioners want to use this multimedia application in the classroom, they have to make sure that there is always good internet connection.
 For example, an easy Prezi presentation can be This is me. The teacher introduces himself/ herself to the pupils through images, colours and text. This enables children to be more engaged and to make observations on what is being presented.
 This is me

 Visit the website http://prezi.com/your/ to create an account, then start building up outstanding presentations.
 Images, text, videos can be introduces in frames (e.g. the little circles).

Select Insert -> Pictures to add pictures from files or web.

Resize the image to fit in the frame by dragging the corners.

Text can be added with a simple click.
The text can be edited easily: seize, font, colour etc.

After introducing all the pictures (videos, text, etc),
 select Add Path in order to choose the order in which this information will be presented.

 Guidance and help regarding Prezi and how to use it can be found at:
https://prezi.com/support/

     Reflections:

 It is interesting to note the advantages of using and creating multimedia in the classroom. It allows children to: develop a range of ICT skills; learn about the range and potential of ICT; communicate their ideas in other ways than just text.
 I would use applications such as Power Point and Prezi in the classroom in order to help children develop their learning and understanding. I would also encourage them to create their own presentations and share them with the others. In general, therefore, I believe that multimedia can effectively be used by teachers and pupils as a meaningful tool in the learning process.


     References:

Mitra, J. (2000) 'Creating and Using Multimedia Applications', in Leask, M. and Meadows, J. (ed.) Teaching and learning with ICT in the primary school. London: Routledge Farmer, pp. 144-161

E-Safety (Week 1 / 24th of January 2014)

 Internet used in schools can be fun and has a lot of advantages in children's development but, at the same time, it can be dangerous.
 Children are very fluent in technology nowadays and keen to discover more. Their learning process should be encouraged and supervised. There are several aspects that children and adults must be aware of when using the internet, and many websites highlight them. Additional help and information  can also be found on websites, such as:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/topics/stay-safe
http://www.kidsmart.org.uk/beingsmart/
http://www.chatdanger.com/resources/

 BLOGS

 Children can be supported and helped by teachers and practitioners to create blogs. Firstly, it needs to be explained that "Many blogs take the form of a personal journal, recording aspects of an individual's day to day experience." Barber and Cooper (2012, p. 3). Pupils must be also be informed that this range of diary is not private as other people can see it. Therefore, they are advised not to use their full name or address (using the first name is enough) and to share ideas on their blogs only with people they know. They can introduce school work on the blog, and sharing their learning with family and friends can be very exciting.  Blogs can effectively be used in the classroom as they can create a learning environment that extends  beyond school. Introducing blogs in education motivates pupils to: read and write, research information, participate in discussion, express ideas and suggestions. More than this children can proudly show their hard work to family and friends (no matter where they are in the world) and receive feedback, which stimulates and enables them to improve.
  Technology is and continues to be key in people's everyday life! Let's make good use of it!!!

 Reference
 Barber, D. and Cooper, L. (2012) Using New Web Tools in the Primary Classroom. Abingdon: Routledge.


Children are always told to be smart. What does SMART mean when it comes to internet safety?

 Keep safe by being careful not to give out personal information when you’re chatting or posting online. Personal information includes your email address, phone number and password.

Meeting someone you have only been in touch with online can be dangerous. Only do so with your parents’ or carers’ permission and even then only when they can be present. Remember online friends are still strangers even if you have been talking to them for a long time.

Accepting emails, IM messages, or opening files, pictures or texts from people you don’t know or trust can lead to problems – they may contain viruses or nasty messages!

Someone online might lie about who they are and information on the internet may not be true. Always check information with other websites, books or someone who knows. If you like chatting online it’s best to only chat to your real world friends and family

Tell your parent, carer or a trusted adult if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if you or someone you know is being bullied online.