Learning by Exploring Microworlds and Virtual Realities

This chapter is one of the most complicated for me to read.  let m explain in brief what I gathered from reading this chapter.I

This chapter seemed somewhat more intricate. Understanding that Microworlds are ëxploratory learning environments¨´is one thing,

understanding how they work is quite different. These environments are explore by´´simulyion of a real phenomena wherein

learners can manipulate, explore and experiment in different ways´´. This sound simple enough, however it took me several reviews

to try to undrestand it in simple mode.however it seems to be a feaure that allows for a lot of constructive learning such as ´´ problem solving stategies,

critical thinking skills and creativity´´. I also learned that it is a practice oriented simulation ¨that allows the student to learn about objects

in the environment and their relationship´´. I also learnd that the most well known computer based microworls are´´ environment created with the Logo

Progamming Language´´. Probably for me the best palce to, also, visit the web site listed on the book. It was quite amazing to see how this program is and

can be utilized on many learning subjects such as physics, math, language,science.

The article refers to animation as an integral part of the program and the children on the picture look quite involved. Knowing that learning about animation is

a components will cal the attention of most children and adults. the exploration of virtual reality is a realm where children and adults can become quite involved in.

thus, making this media quite attractive to intreact with, however the most difficult to deal with. I assume that to problem solve in dealing with micro worlds one

has to be and older student and for teachers to be quite knowlwdgable in dealing with these programs. 

In conclusion, as usual all this new information is not only everwhelming but also, fascinating. many things i read about I cannot get my head around it. All this information wil help me to become at least more up to date  about what is out there and the manners in which it can be implemented in the classrooms.

Children as Photographers:

This is a very interesting article. I am glad that research on topics as such is out there. This article comes at a time when my daughter coincidently went to a class trip and requested a camera. I gave her one that only had 7 pictures left since I deemed that whole picture idea cute and fun but by no means significant. The only purpose that I saw in it was the satisfaction of taking pictures, per se. So I now I now that perhaps I have been imposing my own opinions and projections towards my daughter’s (and Son’s) interests. I often wondered about the reason why my children and children in general, enjoy taking pictures so much. However, I never took the time to pay attention to the learning potential. The dog example, in terms of subject matter, serves me as a good example to awaken my senses and also to respect the interest and the activity itself as a meaningful learning opportunity for children.  With this example, I recall my son asking for a camera, His answer to my questioning that he loved Alby (Our 12 real old dog) and he just felt he wanted to take pictures of him to remember him by. I replied that we already have pictures of him and discourage him on his pursuit. Well I am glad when I am put in my place, especially when it relates to my dealings and understanding of children. How could I dismiss the importance of photography all together and not allow my children to expand on such learning activity??? I find that as a busy mother sometimes we do not capture those learning opportunities for our own children, or our students. Now when I think more about it, would my reaction change if I had a digital camera? … Will I allow them to take more pictures since it cheaper and less waste...Possibly?  However, what about damages to it in the hands of seven, eight, nine and the sort?  If I expand this question some more… Will I allow children to play with Videos Cameras?  I assume like in the research paper the age groups began from the around the ages of seven, which will make it a bit safer that a 5 year old per se. However, will the Boards entrust cameras to 7 year old (or young children in generally) indiscriminately?

As a learning tool I believe it has its value but features of safety to the equipment must be ensured before children are allowed to use such equipment!  Outside of that I believe that children expressions as such (Photography) are Ok to be motivated and should be encouraged. My attention was caught when I looked at the chart and reviewed the interest of picture taken in reference to their children ages and by what they have to say about their pictures.

I am going to work on this article. I shall see you in a few.... I already read and posted on Edralin's entry. I am going to try to connect to MSN as well. I phoned the Libraryin Mississauga they do not have MSN, so I will try in my luck with my slow computer. I will continue later, Trying to connect to MSN. 
Well, I accomplised one big thing: To Connect to MSN from home!. Edralin,via Carmen, told me that I needed to down load MSN(Newbie, newbie,ne...) I finally managed, very static about that, however, it was too late to meet with the girls. We shall meet on saturday in our chat line, however I think I may go to ryerson instead( Unless I test it before then). 
I am working on Word, typing my commentns on hacking Humans. Now , my body is toooooo tired. I must sleep some hours. Still lots to do here,( 12:35 am). May tomorrow be 10 times as prosperous than today, to be able to accomplish lots more!!!!
Livepillars.
Hello, I am back. Editing entry. Tuesday 30th, at 11:00am.
Here is my Hacking Humans Contribution:

Hacking Humans…

In this article we deal with the biggest violation, or one of them, of a person. I would assume it is an assault to one’s privacy. As I was discussing wit Dr. Jason in class, I was beginning to get comfortable with technology however, after this article I have walked back3 steps. I almost think it to be impossible that in this day an age a ‘non intruder program’ has not been devised. The ‘jest’ that I gathered from this paper is .simply, that if one chooses to be involved with computers (in spite of all advancements) One is taking a risk while dealing with the Computer. So every Time one in on the computer, the risk is there to be violated. What this reading has made me realize is that we are not safe. As I was speaking with Dr. Jason, I discovered that every time we are on internet we are giving a bit of ourselves.

Hacking also can destroy lives entirely, if the hackers use or creates an Identity based on  the information he obtains about one, damage can be done for a long time. What if a person is a stoker? A predator? Speaking with Dr. Jason N. I came to the conclusion, which is pretty much, the conclusion for all that our safety is in the numbers. In other words we may not be picked by I hacker. Now, to a worry mother and person that I am in brings little comfort, really! When I think of the safety of my children and children in general is becomes quite troublesome!

However, I am more convinced that our only weapon is to be informed ourselves. Dr. J.N. mentioned that going wireless provides a barrier to hacking, so I shall use that in my everyday life. I also now know to look for information that will help me protect and my family form hackers. As teachers I am beginning to understand the implicit obligation we have toward the betterment of the children in terms of technology and its safe use. There is nothing better in life to get a grip on life issues and being proactive about them. I have to face the fact that my children are going to be using technology and I owe it up to them to get acquainted with what they are going to be immersed in. In our conversation with Dr. Jason N.  I took from it, also, as very significant, the fact that he himself, knowing as he knows, was very proactive in the life of his ‘growing’ niece as she shared with others over the internet.  So if I claim to be proactive in other areas I must realize that I must be proactive in this technology arena in order to provide a safe pace, not only for my children but for others.

Chapter 5 I realized I am falling behind so iI am attemping to catch up.  I will go to WORD to type and shall paste it when I am done. So see you in a few ...  I am back, one hour late( 3:10 pm) here is my contribution.

Learning by Visualizing with Technology: Recording Realities with Video.

As I have learned about many different ways in which technology can be applied in earlier chapters I am learning the many ways in which video can be used. I continue to find this text as very resourceful for beginners students like me. The explanations are not too complicated to digest. Also, if anything seems beyond my understanding I believe it is a text that one can write the information down and seek for advice. It gives me a starting point as to where and how use not only the technology but the lingo necessary to further acquire more knowledge. In other words it helps me feel confident in approaching a sales person and making my needs and enquiries met.

 It was enlightening how the author makes the case for Video Making as a way of learning instead of watching or learning by watching T.V. The objection that I have is that if we take all children producers who are going to watch all this Videos? I believe that the T.V approach was a harsh one. I for one do not approve of children being exposed to any kind of inappropriate programming, which unfortunately is done by many parents or caregivers. I have seen first hand how children’s world has been negatively impacted upon leading T.V lives. This, vice, happens with computers as well.

The point I am trying to make is that TV offers the good, mediocre and the plain bad. It is up to the adults to conclude what type of individuals they would like to raise, then provide accordingly. In other words, one can not expect to raise a well mannered child if the parent has exposed such child to, unlimited Vulgarity viewing, promiscuity, violence, consumerism and aggression. It just does not add.

Good TV selection and programming has a remarkable ability to promote learning: Learning about social skills, learning about the world in general. It can be very engaging. My own children are a testament to that, they are very good students, very social and physically active. However, this does not come easily. It is a time consuming activity. A parent has to know what they would like to achieve in a child’s live and work hard to focus on the goal. So, to summarize, our busy ‘world’, in my opinion is what keeping parents to using any kind of technology appropriately. This hurried lives that many of us are forced to lead have a huge impact, mostly tumultuous and not so positive, when it comes to monitoring our children and Technology.

About Chapter 4: This chapter deals with all the many aspects of technology that can be used to enhance learning. I understand that the learning that is emphasized is that of co-operative learning, which I now discern is one of the central focuses of the book. Chapter four refers, also, to the understanding of the technology available to us. As teachers it is most important to become acquainted with all mediums of technology available. This thought brings me back to the initial times of my exposure to technology.  I remember arguing with those who advocated for   computer use about my continual aversion stance. Almost twelve years later I come to realize (speak about slow acceptance) that technology is here to stay and I must adapt to it. Another emphasis of the text in the book is the acknowledgement of the wise use of technology. We must learn to run it, not it running or controlling us.

So reading about this in this chapter reassured me of that no longer do I have to think it will control me or my children or my home life. This course is given me the confidence to pursue wise, constructive learning accessing all the technology available to us. More over it gives you examples in how it can be use in this manner. Technology been used for its highest purpose: Education.

I believe that it, for me, it had to happen like this, come to learned about it when there is so much information on how to be smart using the technology at hand. I lived the euphoria years. However, leaving the euphoria years that destroyed many people placed in danger many children, relationships, and families we are beginning to understand, construct and discern the boundaries necessary to be successful in the use of technology. We have alerted the public, and began educating the adults and children of the risks involved and how to protect ourselves from unlawful activity. We have begun training the public on how to remain safe while engaged with technology. I appreciate this course because it shows me all that is available to use , it affords many explanation of the basics and it enlighten us on how to apply it  in manner that will foster active learning.