Internet Research for TechQuest Project
I was a little overwhelmed when I began searching for information for my project. The challenge is to focus on the best key words when using search engines like Google. I found some good links when I used key words like “literacy”, “technology”. But I found better links when I used quotations around important phrases. I used phrases such as “using computers to support emergent readers” and “online books in the classroom” and “using computers to teach reading”. As I searched, I felt more confident about using technology to support my young readers. I felt like there are other teachers out there who are feeling the same way! I am excited to set up my computer center in my room. I realize that I need to see what others are already doing before I set up my new routine for the fall. I appreciate the use of del.icio.us as I search for new ideas online. It keeps me organized and helps me share links with my SIG. I have shared links on my blog and also used some links that my SIG have shared with me. This project has definitely improved my researching skills. It will help me the next time I need to research a topic.
http://www.pbs.org/teachers/mediainfusion/2007/03/meeting_the_needs_of_emergent.html - This author captured my feelings almost exactly. Author and teacher, Elizabeth Hubbell stated, “I knew the practice that each child needed, but getting an adult or other helper to each child for daily help with reading was nearly impossible. Eventually, I started to look to technology to help students get the practice and feedback that they needed” - WOW! I knew that there must be others who feel the same way and are looking to technology to support their readers. Hubbell commented on how her classroom was “a buzz with activity” after integrating technology into her room, but she still felt like a part of her students’ learning. She also suggested that teachers can use a variety of technology to supplement and support their students’ learning. She suggested taping shows like “Between the Lions” and “Sesame Street” for students to watch. Hubbell also mentions that when you visit the computer lab with your children to have them visit your classroom del.icio.us page. She also mentioned the site starfall, which is a great interactive website that I use during literacy with my class. The author also extended an invitation for other teachers to share experiences with her. I will email her my own experiences. What a great networking opportunity!
http://www.techlearning.com/ - I used a quote from an article I found on this website in my previous blog. The article stated that: “research has shown that video games can foster critical thinking and trial/error opportunities.” I am seeking a solution to help my students improve literacy skills through online resources. I am going to further research the links on this website.
The New Literacy- Authors: Sara Armstrong and David Warlick - This article discussed how the 3 R’s in education needs to be updated to include technology. Students need to understand how technology is important for a well rounded education and the background knowledge for a future career. I reflected and thought that using technology to teaching subjects in school can reinforce curriculum and increase our students’ technology skills. This is 2 lessons in one!
www.techlearning.com - this website helped me find other articles that related to my topic. At the bottom of each article, the site listed 3 other websites that I might be interested in. I really liked that feature.
http://www.techlearning.com/db_area/archives/TL/2003/06/readingsoftware.php - This article, featured on techlearning.com, suggested several kinds of tools and software that can be used to support early readers. The article mentioned the well known “LeapFrogs.” I hadn’t thought about using them in the classroom, but I am definitely going to think about that option. The site also mentions Compass Learning. Our school district is planning to use the Compass Learning Program next year. This program uses games, quizzes and more to let students practice various skills in a variety of subjects. The teacher monitors their progress. It is nice because you can put the students at different levels for different subjects. You can also see what skills students are having difficulty with and set up students for review for skills that they struggle with. There were many other software options listed on the site too. I am glad that I found this article!
