Blog Post #8

Richard Miller: This Is How We Dream Parts 1 and 2
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Out of all of the videos we have been assigned, I found these two to be the least interesting. I watched each video twice and neither time did I fully understand his key points. Miller points out that the internet is awesome for writing. He says recently, he didn't have to step foot in a library when writing a paper due to the internet. I personally am not much of a reader so I enjoy being able to "google" something and pull it up within seconds.

He also shows how the web has videos and pictures for your use. As future teachers, it's now very easy for us to use multiple resources (books, worksheets, pictures, videos, etc.) via the internet. Miller embraces the internet as a quick, easy way to keep up with national news. For example, one could of easily seen each states percentage of votes for the presidential candidates recently. He closes with this, "This is an incremental change, not a fundamental change."

Miller wants to give teachers ideas of what they can "compose" with now-a-days. Libraries are no longer convenient, the internet has taken it's place. Miller uses multimedia to display how teachers can present this information. Sharing ideas are a must in today's world. I agree that children will use digital multimedia instead of word processing.


"The Chipper Series"
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"EDM310 for Dummies"
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The above two videos were very entertaining. In EDM310 for Dummies, they talk about a book made for EDM310 students. If this class is planning on growing and sticking around, this book definitely should be published. As an EDM student, I can understand the frustration. Trying to keep up is challenging. These videos make you laugh but also present great points. For instance, with this class, you must not procrastinate. You have to keep up, and since Dr.Strange doesn't release grades, always put your best foot forward.

I really like "The Chipper Series" video since it incorporated what might would happen if you dropped out of college. For my video, I would incorporate what could happen and what the possibilities might would be by choosing to stay in college. However, just because you stay in college doesn't mean you're better off. If you procrastinate or make below average grades, your possibilities are now limited.


"Learn to Change, Change to Learn"


Learning to change, changing to learn...what an interesting saying. Our human nature hates change, but it seems that if we are changing for the benefit of someone or something, it's not as painful. What can we do as Americans to fix the educational aspect of the US? We've got to do something. Coal mining should not top Education in the American industry. I agree that we need change, and that begins with incorporating technology and community into the classroom.

I enjoyed reading the comments written below the video. Some made good points. For example, one person wrote "kids are not "researching", "collecting data", and providing "rich content" outside the class room via Twitter, IM, SMS, etc. I agree that the classroom needs to change and adapt to the changes in our culture and technological advances; but kids are fooling around on such mediums... not "collecting data."" From what I've seen, for the most part, children aren't interested in finding more information about what they're learning, besides doing homework. Twitter, Facebook, emails, and phones can be great tools for learning if the children are shown fun ways to learn via these technologies. As a student, I never used any of the above tools for education unless writing a paper or researching something for a class. I believe if the children are shown how, they will "collect data" and "research"; however, we cannot expect them to do it on their own.


"The Secret Powers of Time by Philip Zambardo"



I didn't want this video to end! It was one of the best videos I've seen, thus far. The facts he pointed out were spot on and I will share this video with friends and networking sites. My eyes were glued to the screen. I was blown away by how many families don't sit at the dinner table anymore on a regular basis. I liked the way Mr.Zambardo showed how video games and pornography affect a boys brain. It's not just a choice, it messes with their brain! I will definitely be watching more of his videos. I enjoy learning from someone who is entertaining and wise.


"Drive: The Surprising Truth about What Motivates Us" by Daniel Pink



This is another RSA Animate video. I really enjoy watching these because of the topic and the design/production of each video. I would love to be apart of videos like these. In this video, Daniel Pink focuses on motivation. To my surprise, money is not key in motivation. Although, it pushes us a little, purpose pushes us even farther. I didn't know this, but I'm glad I do now. Employers want their employees to be motivated so great service is produced. Money is important, but once the employee is at a satisfied level, they're no longer thinking about money; they're now thinking about work and its purpose.