tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42984957730244178202024-03-13T22:47:21.235-07:00The Daily GrindReyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-71925218619228464892014-03-04T22:17:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.089-07:00It's OverThis is the eighth week of my PIDP 3240 course. Assignment 4, which is to make a blog, is due tomorrow.<br />
<br />
In our last submission, we are to post the link to our blog and in my case it is: andreymurphy.blogspot.ca. This is a reflection on blogging.<br />
<br />
1a. I've learned that creating a blog is not a very complicated task, with a variety of blog sites available such is Blogger.com, WordPress.com., etc. Once the blog is created, it's hosted by the blog site which provides the template for the blog pages. The templates can be customized to reflect individual taste for layout, background etc. A blog could be created on different topics or interests such as travel, cooking, education, politics and many others and usually it is an expression of a personal opinion, has links to other sites, and is updated on a regular basis.<br />
<br />
2a. I think my favourite blogs are http://zodiacbeacon.com/ created by Chester Comri and http://youngparentseducationprogram.blogspot.ca/ by Jody Lutzke. The Zodiacbeacon blog page is very clear on what the blog is all about as soon as the home page opens up. A beautiful background of the zodiac sign tells you right away the purpose of the blog. This blog is definitely all about astrology, as one would expect. The blog by Jody Lutzke is geared toward educating young parents, and it has extremely useful information for parents and grandparents alike. It is updated regularly on the topics of concern.<br />
<br />
3a. In my personal blog, if I were to do it again, my front page would not be restricted by the information I have to put on, which is dictated by Assignment 4 of my PIDP 3240 course. I may just keep the front page as an introduction to who I am and what my blog is all about. I would then have different topics of interest tabbed. I would also try starting the blog from scratch rather than using premade templates, since I now know a little bit more about creating a blog.<br />
<br />
4a. The strength of my blog is my opinion is the variety of information, regular updates, pictures and videos. The weakness of my blog is that it is set up using a template. This restricts it to limited choices and may not fully reflect the content of my blog.<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-80861023483773364412014-03-02T21:45:00.003-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.177-07:00Ukraine in CrisisAfghanistan, Iraq, Syria and now Ukraine. The news of uprising in that country flooded the screens of our televisions and made the front page headlines of many newspapers around the world. <a href="http://live.cbc.ca/Event/Ukraines_deadly_crisis" target="_blank">Ukraine's Deadly Crisis</a> is being reported on the CBC.ca news website. Someone at my church came up to me, since I've lived in Russia for 21 years, and asked me a question: "How come the Russians are trying to occupy Ukraine?" I can understand where his query is coming from, since the only sources of information he bases his opinion on is Western news feeds and newspaper articles, but what is the other side of this uprising? <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've been trying to make sense of what is happening in my old country. Who is right? Who is wrong? What is going on, without being biased to either side? I must admit that even in this information technology age, it is still hard to make an assessment on the events in Ukraine. After searching in Russian, I came to this blog: <a href="http://www.snob.ru/profile/28114/blog">http://www.snob.ru/profile/28114/blog</a>. Here is a translation in <a href="http://translate.google.ca/translate?sl=ru&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.snob.ru%2Fprofile%2F28114%2Fblog%2F72962" target="_blank">English</a>. It is pretty interesting and very depressing, written from a witness in Ukraine.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-48921872681353317552014-02-22T22:02:00.003-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.798-07:00To Tweet or Not to TweetIt has been our assignment in PIDP 3240 to get to know Twitter. After having it installed on my phone and testing it for the last 6 weeks, I came to the conclusion that Twitter may not be the best way to stay in touch with the students. The reasons for being disappointed in Twitter are as follows:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Timeline is hard to follow</li>
<li>Ads</li>
<li>People can re-tweet stuff I am not interested in</li>
</ol>
<div>
In the last couple of days, I looked into alternatives to Twitter and came up with two text messaging services: <a href="http://www.icq.com/en" target="_blank">ICQ</a> and <a href="http://www.whatsapp.com/" target="_blank">WhatsApp</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Any suggestions on either one?<br />
<br />
What are your thoughts regarding keeping discussions closed among a learning community versus opening up to a wider, public community?</div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-18309767000932896842014-02-18T20:48:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.593-07:00Monkey See, Monkey DoI am impressed by some people's ability to theorize the obvious. Albert Bandura's theory of social learning states that "by watching other people one can learn new information and behavior". Here is a short video on this topic posted by Barb Horton in our PIDP 3240 course:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://video.about.com/psychology/Overview-of-the-Social-Learning-Theory.htm">http://video.about.com/psychology/Overview-of-the-Social-Learning-Theory.htm</a><br />
<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-47344651375416047552014-02-17T20:58:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.736-07:00Chinese Education SystemA very interesting write-up in the Vancouver Sun on how the education system in China differs from what we are accustomed to. A look at their education system from Canadian prospective:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=d57c64c7-b1a6-4070-abbd-aac6d9183da7" target="_blank">Why Richmond is sending teachers to China</a><br />
<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-59391404807308543132014-02-15T22:37:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.891-07:00How Much is Too Much?Mark Kondo from our PIDP 3240 class had an interesting topic for discussion in the Discussion on Instructional Media forum. I can personally attest to these issues, so I found it worth posting here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.weareteachers.com/community/blogs/weareteachersblog/blog-wat/2013/05/29/how-much-is-too-much-classroom-technology-" target="_blank">How Much is Too Much Classroom Technology</a>?<br />
<br />
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-47417601778426595572014-02-13T13:08:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.774-07:00How Video Games Affect our BrainOur PIDP3240 instructor Brian Cassell posted this interesting <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/daphne_bavelier_your_brain_on_video_games.html" target="_blank">video</a> for online class discussion. After watching it I wonder if I should start playing video games to improve my vision, become smarter and improve my reaction time. :)<br />
<br />
Any suggestions?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-8336096313532818252014-02-12T21:52:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.202-07:00Daily OccurrenceI wonder if, since I've started working in the educational system, I've been getting colds and flus more frequently. Even though I constantly wash my hands, which according to <a href="http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/prevent-flu-soap-away-germs" target="_blank">WebMD</a> is supposed to keep the flu virus at bay, I am still getting it. Being around many students on campus does not help the issue either, so I must be getting the virus via the <a href="https://www.sciencenews.org/article/flu-spreads-airborne-droplets" target="_blank">airborne droplets</a>. Being sick does not bother me much, it's somewhat annoying, but being stuck at home makes me spend time on the PIDP 3240 course I am taking online. As I am typing this blog entry, I am reminded of the advantage of taking a course online and, in my case, is being able to do the assignments while being sick - in the comfort of my home.<br />
<br />
When I was a child, my mother used to give me tea with raspberry jam every time I had a cold. Once I drank the mixture, she would wrap me up in the warm blanket with one purpose: for me to sweat. This was one of the old and tried ways to deal with common colds in my country. It seemed to work and, even though I don't like to admit it, but I have done this myself several times. Even though the idea of sweating seems odd, I found out much later that this idea had merit. I came across an article in a local newspaper, outlining recent research on how body temperature affects the cold and flu. I don't have a link to that article, but surprisingly enough, it stated along the same line of thought as in this link: <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111101130200.htm" target="_blank">"scientists have found more evidence that elevated body temperature helps certain types of immune cells to work better"</a> This probably has some weight, since many people usually feel much better after having a hot shower or a bath. The article in the newspaper, on the other hand, wasn't giving any suggestions as to how to deal with the flu or recommending any miracle medications, but it was pointing out that there is a definite time reduction in the flu virus incubation period if someone's body temperature was elevated even by 1°C. So, whether odd or not, there might be a reason why my mother put raspberry jam in my tea and then wrapped me up to raise my temperature. The raspberries gave me the added benefit of vitamin C and their antioxidant properties. While there are many traditional and non-traditional ways to fight the flu, there is no consensus as to what works the best. But in the meanwhile, I am going to have a cup of NeoCitran, wrap myself up in blankets and see what tomorrow brings.<br />
<br />
Do you have a similar story as how the common cold or flu was treated in your country? I would love to hear it. Please leave a comment. Thank you, and stay healthy during this flu season.Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-67770041463589630052014-02-10T20:19:00.003-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.990-07:00Journal Entry 3<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 9.5pt; margin-top: .1pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Running Head: Journal
Entry 3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Journal
Entry 3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Andrey
Murphy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">February 5,
2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Institutional
Affiliation: VCC<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Objective:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
The last three chapters of the “Teaching
Naked” textbook seem to be the hardest ones for me to reflect on. I think the reason is that I cannot identify with the author's field of expertise; it is completely unfamiliar to me and thus it is hard for me to follow the train of thought on what the author is trying to convey. Once idea that seems to stand out is that the changes in how we deliver the the content or set up our universities are coming and we are better prepare for it. <span style="line-height: 200%;"><i>Change, especially in universities, can be uncomfortable, but bringing everyone into the process, listening hard, being transparent, and making everyone responsible for innovation can create a culture of transformation.</i> (Bowen J.A.)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 200%;">These changes involve everyone, starting with the Learning Support all the way to Deans, and they are brought about by changes in technology. These are the changes that, if not adopted, could make some colleges obsolete, just as </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">technology</span><span style="line-height: 200%;"> put many companies out of business in a short period of time. Those companies that adopted technological changes survived and prospered, and those that did not, ended up extinct, just as the </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">dinosaurs</span><span style="line-height: 200%;"> of old.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b style="line-height: 200%;">Reflective:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b style="line-height: 200%;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Changes are good, especially when
they are timely. When the changes are
applied to education in a timely manner, they could have long lasting effects
on students, work places and society in general. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
It is easy to adopt a change, even
one that’s not liked much, but it is hard to know which change will succeed. Changes in the education system in our country
seem constrained by budgetary provisions and government restrictions and these
are the changes that are impossible to control from the teachers’ point of
view. Up until this point, since the
education has been localized, there has been no competition in the education
system, but with globalization there could be some healthy competition within
the colleges. This will likely bring
changes to the cost of the education, to the way students attend the classes
and communicate with the teachers. While
currently it’s the college’s system that dictates how and where to deliver the
content, with the advance of technology, it might be the students making direct
changes to the education system by being a market force requiring cheaper
courses, timely delivery and possibly minimal commuting to and from the class
rooms.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Interpretive:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Taking into consideration that in
the Province of British Columbia the education system is highly regulated, the
market force (i.e. students) won’t be the major influence to dictate the
changes in our education system. Having
a governing body hovering over our post-secondary education system, most
universities have little flexibility, and any changes made will depend on the funding
provided and is therefore very likely to lag behind the market demands. While the author of “Teaching Naked” makes a
valid point that the online competition from universities and colleges around
the world might bring significant changes to the structure of the courses being
offered, this might be a good influence on those who are involved in making
decisions regarding the way we learn. Another hurdle with the online courses is that
“Online course development may cost more than traditional classes, study finds”
(Dailycal.org). While in the classrooms,
human connections remain important in collaborations, camaraderie, supporting
one another, etc., I must agree that “The best education of the future will be
a hybrid” (Bowen J.A.). The reason that
I support this statement is that I can see how it’s done from first-hand
experience while taking this course.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Decisional:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
I, as an educator, am very
interested in the progress of possible changes to the educational system.
Personally, I would like to see colleges operating more like a free market
economy: meeting the demands of the
industries and students, offering courses tailored more to the market demand. Out of all the possible changes that the
author describes in his book, I can personally make immediate changes by
embracing the technology and making it useful for both the students and myself.
This could be <span style="line-height: 200%;">started immediately with simple and
inexpensive things, such as different classroom arrangements, ways to
communicate with students and using internet learning outside of the classroom.</span><span style="line-height: 200%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 200%;">These simple changes will help me to concentrate
more on the outcome of what the students are learning. </span><span style="line-height: 200%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 200%;">I am looking forward to the day when I will be
able to reflect on technology and what changes it has brought into our
education system.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<o:p> </o:p><span style="line-height: 200%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
References:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
Bowen J.A. (2012). <i>Teaching Naked. </i>How Moving Technology
Out of Your College Classroom Will Improve Student Learning. p.285<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
Bowen J.A. (2012). <i>Teaching Naked. </i>How Moving Technology
Out of Your College Classroom Will Improve Student Learning. p.237<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<i>The Daily Californian</i>. February
8. 2014. Retrieved from: http://www.dailycal.org/2013/10/21/online-course-development-may-cost-traditional-classes-study-finds/<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-55200665818423110842014-02-02T17:05:00.004-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.838-07:00Journal Entry 2<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 9.5pt; margin-top: .1pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Running Head:</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Journal
Entry 2</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Journal
Entry 2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Andrey
Murphy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">January 31,
2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Institutional
Affiliation: VCC<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b></b></div>
<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Objective:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="line-height: 200%;">
Since the introduction of the
Nintendo Wii into our household we, as a family, have been struggling with our
kids spending way too much time playing different video games. It has almost become their obsession, while
their responsibilities such as homework and music practice was ignored and
their house chores were left to us. This
reverberates across the nation as families struggle with <i>“setting limits around video game use”</i> (Bean S.). What seems to be a useless waste of time is turning
into a full-time <span style="font-family: inherit;">occupation f</span>or the kids as they spend upward of "more than 53 hours per week in front of a screen-more than a full-time job" according to Kaiser Family Foundation. The easiest response from us as parents might be to restrict the games usage completely, or is there a better way to redirect their addiction? If a child, by the time he is 18, had accumulated enough time as he would to graduate from a college, could he spend this time completing a degree playing video games? Would we as parents then support our kids in spending time in front of TV and computer?<br />
If college were designed like a video game, everything in the environment would be designed to promote change (i.e., learning). (Bowen J.A.) <span style="line-height: 200%;">With that in mind, I've been captivated as I was reading through the assigned chapters. </span><span style="line-height: 200%;">However, having read this statement and comparing it to the realities of life made me wonder if this idea could very well become a reality in my teaching career.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b><br /></b>
<b>Reflective:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
I used the term “Games” in relation
to college teaching and my wife frowned in disbelief. From her reaction, I thought that I better
start giving an explanation as to what I meant. Yes, games, but geared towards education. I was pumped by the ideas in the “Teaching
Naked” textbook by J.A. Bowen where in Chapter 4 he writes that <i>“Empirical evidence confirms that the
combination of high expectations and low stakes (exactly the condition of a
good video game) matter for learning”. </i>As
the high expectations and low stakes idea stood out in my mind I was taken back
to my college years as a teenager. The
task at hand was a very hard final exam in an electronics class. Out of 30 students in my class, all 30 had <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
failed on their first attempts.
100% failure was something unusual back then but the outcome was shocking;
everyone was to retake the final exam until everyone passed it. Five attempts later and half of the class
passed the test. After the 10<sup>th</sup>
time, we weren’t scared of the outcome, those who left to re-write it were
curious as to what we did wrong, spending sleepless night studying and the
whole exam turned into a <i>“high
expectations and low stakes” </i>game. Our instructor’s intention was to make us
understand the subject and not to memorize the facts. My curriculum could be set up in a game-like
manner where the students progressed from low to high levels of cognition
without the fear of failure, knowing that after trying and completely
understanding what is required of them they would reach the next level. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Interpretive:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
At this point in the course, it is
somewhat hard for me to see how a curriculum could be set up in a game-type
pattern, but one thing I am sure of is that it’s well worth trying. When my kids are enquiring among their friends
about the next great game, they often proceed based on the feedback from their
peers. I would be thrilled if the new
students coming into my class had already been acquainted with the course from
the start by receiving positive information from their peers. Right from the beginning, this would create an
atmosphere of trust since the students realize that they are there to learn and
not to be tested daily, and at the same time ease off any tension that the
students may have. While taking PIDP3240
online, I realize that the course reminds me of a game which is fun to play. I am free to play this game at any time I want,
moving within different game levels which are Facebook postings, finding
articles, creating blog posts, etc. What
I enjoy about it the most is that I am in control of my own time. Having the
ability for the students to discover information on the subject gives me an
idea that the students can actively participate in the class rather than
passively absorb the knowledge. Having
technology out of the classroom opens up new horizons where the participants
could spend their own time preparing for the next class, allowing more
classroom time for the hands-on experience, which is greatly lacking in the
current teaching environments. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: .5in;">
The simplest and
most basic use of new communication technology is to create class time for
engaged learning: every announcement,
clarification, or reference that can be done electronically frees up class time
for interaction and discussion. (Bowen J.A.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Presenting the information using podcasts
or video lectures will make it more convenient for students to refresh their
knowledge at their own convenient time. As
in any video game, the final exam becomes a final level in the course outline
and only those who gain the skills and knowledge in the lower levels will be
able to beat the final level. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Decisional:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Being at the crossroads of my career
- whether to go into teaching full-time or not, having this new idea of having
a game in the class could also be a game changer for me. I am game now, especially since I might be
setting up my own courses which will allow me to have direct input on the
course materials as well as the presentations. I am excited about the prospects after being
introduced to new methods of teaching using available technology. Having been introduced to a more exciting way
of teaching through the simple introduction to a game-like classroom I can see
some good opportunities since the “online learning in US grows faster than
overall PSE enrollment” (Academica Group. 2014). To reverse this trend, a new way of teaching
is coming into the colleges and I am thrilled to be on the forefront of it,
whether it is through a blend of in-class and online or fully online. I wonder if the time is coming when a
conversation in a family on what the kids are playing and how much will become
an agreement among everyone, since they will be learning instead of just
playing educational games. This is the
same game I am playing now by taking this course, and I am finding myself
spending my online time on learning the course.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
References:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
Bowen J.A. (2012). <i>Teaching Naked. </i>How Moving Technology
Out of Your College Classroom Will Improve Student Learning. p.93<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
Bowen J.A. (2012). <i>Teaching Naked. </i>How Moving Technology
Out of Your College Classroom Will Improve Student Learning. p.105<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<i>How
to Set Limits Around Video Game Use. </i>By Sara Bean, M.Ed.<i> </i>Retrieved from <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<a href="http://www.empoweringparents.com/how-to-set-limits-around-video-game-use.php#ixzz2s6r9X4OU"><span style="color: #003399; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 200%;">http://www.empoweringparents.com/how-to-set-limits-around-video-game-use.php#ixzz2s6r9X4OU</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<i>Online learning in US grows faster
than overall PSE enrollment. </i>January 31. 2014. Retrieved from<span style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: -76.5pt;"> http://academica.ca/top-ten/online-learning-us-grows-faster-overall-pse-enrolment</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-58367750026788631052014-02-01T15:39:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.864-07:00Journal Entry 1<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 9.5pt; margin-top: .1pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Running Head: Journal
Entry 1</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Journal
Entry 1</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Andrey
Murphy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">January 18,
2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Institutional
Affiliation: VCC<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Objective:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
What is the role of technology in
education? As the chalkboard of the olden
days is synonymous with the digital board of the present and the overhead
projectors are being replaced by the digital devices that are more than capable
of presenting multimedia to the whole class, this question is worth asking as
time goes on. Many educational
institutions are trying to adapt to the new technological changes such as
multimedia presentation, social networking and distant education. According to <i>Factmonsters.com</i> <i>(Life-Changing Science Discoveries)</i> majority of scientific
discoveries were made before technology took ahold of the education system and
these discoveries were accomplished using old school “absorb the information”
methods, what makes one think that technology will deliver the information with
better or at least the same results? As the parents of elementary and secondary
school students voice their disappointment over the degrading education system,
is it worth spending taxpayers’ dollars on seemingly useful gadgets which in
the end may not result in better education.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Reflective:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Fear of the unknown is a fear in
itself. With this in mind, I’ve launched
into this course and had my doubts regarding the whole technology thing dissipated
when I came upon this in the <i>Teaching
Naked</i> textbook in which the writer states that “with technology, we can do
more to ensure that all students can find a way into the material” (Bowen J.A.)
This short but precise line in our textbook
was an eye opener as to what technology has to offer in the class room. Up to this point, personally, I’ve been leery
of technological changes until I started fixing imported vehicles during my
free time. I have lost count of how many
times I had to go to YouTube to watch a video on how to perform certain
repairs, or post questions on bulletin boards. The vast expanse of information relating to
other aspects of my life such as home improvements, travel etc. predominantly
found on the web makes me wonder if the power of it could be incorporated in
the classroom as well. As I look back at the teaching I’ve done using
old VHS tapes which were outdated or even trying to use the white board to
explain complicated concepts of physics, I am very excited about exploring in
this class what technology has to offer and the methods of using it for the
benefit of everyone. Even though
technology offers a wide array of teaching tools, it also comes with a few
negative implications. How can the
information be verified? Is the
knowledge being shared reliable and trustworthy? Who makes the decision regarding what is
presented and what is omitted? Taking
into consideration the positive as well as the negative effects of technology
changes, it might be my responsibility to be a facilitator of the kind of
technology being used in the classroom setting, which in turn will cut into my
personal life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Interpretive:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
My understanding is that technology
could be used a lot more extensively in the classroom but my fear is that,
firstly, it will take a lot of my personal time since I would have to partially
or completely redesign the courses I might be teaching, and secondly, it may be
hard to find good and reliable information.
The likes of programs like Skype could be a very interesting venue to
explore since an educator from another city or country could lead instruction
from a remote location, making it more interesting to the students. All in all, technology does not have to cost a
lot and many are available free of charge.
There is a slight disadvantage, in which there is too much reliance on
the information on the web and lots of it is either not proven or completely
useless. I think that being a mediator
as far as what information the students will present in the class will be my
role. On the other hand, there are huge
benefits to introducing technology in the classroom. According to U.S. Department of Education <i>(Overview of Technology and Education
Reform. n.d.)</i> the benefits are: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->increased motivation and self esteem<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->accomplishment of more technical tasks<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->more collaboration with peers<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->increased use of outside resources<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-pagination: widow-orphan;">
One of the benefits of using
technology is that the lessons can be customized to meet different learning
styles. These benefits seem to align
with the thoughts of the author of the <i>Teaching
Naked</i> textbook and even if one of these benefits is achieved by using
technology, it’s a risk worth taking. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<b>Decisional:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
Once I’ve explored the benefits of
technology through this course, I would like to look into bringing it into the
classroom if the benefits outweigh the shortcomings. In my personal life, I use Skype to stay in
touch with my friends and relatives overseas and I believe it could be used
with the same success in the classroom. As
I am completely unacquainted with Social Media such as Facebook or Twitter, I
am looking forward to determining whether either one or both could be used as a
communication tool with my students and also being able to organize a group
study. Having online lessons for tradespeople
may seem like an impossible task at this time. I am hoping to somehow make it work using
technology, even though I am not completely sure at this time how it could be achieved,
but I hope this course will be of assistance. I had thought that technology will make my
life more complicated by cutting into my personal life, since the students
expect me to be available for them 24/7, but the feedback from the students confirms
otherwise as per a video on Youtube.com <i>(</i><i>Benefits
of using Facebook to connect with students and how to keep them engaged. 2013)</i>
The following benefits of using
technology outlined in this video are: information
gets checked constantly, information flow is quick, students can be organized
in groups, material relating to class is posted online, easy communication to
all students as a group. As I start to
understand the trends, it makes me wonder whether being connected to the
learners may just readjust my work time around my personal time. Even though initially technology will take a
lot of my personal time and effort, I am willing to adopt it for the betterment
of the students.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
References:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
Bowen J.A. (2012). <i>Teaching Naked. </i>How Moving Technology
Out of Your College Classroom Will Improve Student Learning. p.55<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<i>Life-Changing Science Discoveries</i>.
Retrieved from <a href="http://www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0932440.html">http://www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0932440.html</a>.
Fact Monster. 2000-20013 Pearson Education, publishing as Fact Monster. 19 Jan.
2014<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 76.5pt; text-indent: -1.25in;">
<i>Overview of Technology and
Education Reform</i>. Retrieved from http://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/overview.html<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-left: 1.25in; text-indent: -1.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 76.5pt; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -76.5pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Benefits of using
Facebook to connect with students and how to keep them engaged</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> (2013). Retrieved from : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-faEhXD4kI</span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<br /></div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-77939550581105795042014-01-29T07:36:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.153-07:00I DoThis morning an article on taxation <a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/business/your-money/Most+have+little+gain+from+income+splitting+according/9441479/story.html" target="_blank">"Most have little to gain from income-splitting"</a> in the Business section of the Vancouver Sun newspaper drew my attention. Most mornings I scan the headlines just to get a general sense of what is happening in the world. This time, however, I read the whole article, since it's a subject I've been interested in for the last 5 years, since my income bracket started to push toward "high earners" level.<br />
<br />
In this article, a senior economist, David MacDonald, says "it wouldn't help the middle class either, since the top third of Canada's richest families would receive $3 of every $4 spent on income splitting".<br />
<br />
First of all, I don't believe it's a good way to start a discussion or make someone think when an article starts with the opinion of a so-called authority such as "a think tank" or "scientists" because it supports an authority suppressing critical thinking. I've lived long enough to see all kind of authoritative predictions or reports misfire, such as the likes of Al Gore predicting <a href="http://www.ecnmag.com/blogs/2013/09/has-global-cooling-begun-arctic-ice-caps-grow-60-year" target="_blank">ice caps melting</a> by 2013. Second of all, it might do us all good just to present the facts and leave the opinions behind.<br />
<br />
To me personally, this initiative of income splitting will benefit enormously. I've been working 3 jobs so my wife could stay home and take care of the kids. This is how I became a so-called "high earner" - my hard work is rewarded with a comfortable lifestyle. My wife and I have been unofficially splitting my income since she helps me in my businesses, but it would make sense if this splitting was official. This is a ruling I am hoping will happen. Why should the hard working people like me be punished with paying high taxes? Is it not the low taxes that create jobs? Why would someone take the risk of opening up a business and as an "added benefit" face another risk of paying exorbitant tax if the business is successful.<br />
<br />
My definite vote on this: I do benefit from income splitting.Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-30728536302560125822014-01-28T21:11:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.710-07:00Teaching NakedI find the <a href="http://teachingnaked.com/" target="_blank">"Teaching Naked"</a> textbook captivating. Once I started <a href="http://instructordiploma.com/showcase/id-3240/" target="_blank">this course</a>, I thought that getting to know technology and using it in the classroom will take lots of my personal time, but it seems completely opposite to my early notion. Time and time again the author emphasizes <i>"technology in the form of well-designed assessments can increase opportunities for thinking, reflection, risk and reward and free up more class time for other things"</i>Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-20040096978911749822014-01-27T15:32:00.002-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.646-07:00AnnouncementsToday was our first of this year Cross Fitness class at BCIT. This is usually a very popular class so much so that students and staff who don't sign up on time have to put their names down on the waiting list. This wasn't the case today, lots of people missing. As we are chatting before the class a question comes up: Why there are so few people? The answer I got from a student was very interesting. She thought that's because the class was not announced to those who signed up for it. Neither she or any other people who signed up for the class got notweet or email reminding the students about the starting time. That was an eerie feeling, someone was confirming to me what the author of our PIDP3240 text book wrote: as I was reading through this last night:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"announcing an extra class session verbally is not terribly reliable. Most of us want written confirmation of meetings or movie times, so put everything in writing. Students will soon learn to check email or the website instead of asking you" (Bowen J.A. p. 106). </div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am glad I started to tweet and use Facebook. What a great way to announce something to the whole class without too much effort :)<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2qjdj70SpQ/Uubr0-VTNnI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CM-1yqKUKEE/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2qjdj70SpQ/Uubr0-VTNnI/AAAAAAAAAFI/CM-1yqKUKEE/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-74195252010481252412014-01-26T15:44:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.128-07:00Burning upIt's been 2 weeks since my course started and I am already "burning up". Not in a sense that I am getting exhausted from studying but in a sense that I am spending lots of time in front of computer and my eyes are getting tires. Yesterday I made a posting on the Social Media Forum:<br />
<br />
Safety First<br />
Friday, 24 January 2014, 11:53 PM<br />
<br />
<a href="http://moodle.vcc.ca/user/view.php?id=50096&course=3221" style="clear: left; color: #024882; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture of Andrey Murphy" class="userpicture" src="http://moodle.vcc.ca/pluginfile.php/384322/user/icon/essential/f2?rev=1356462" height="35" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 250px; border-bottom-right-radius: 250px; border-top-left-radius: 250px; border-top-right-radius: 250px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgb(2, 72, 130) 0px 0px 3px; height: auto; margin: 4px 10px 4px 4px; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" title="Picture of Andrey Murphy" width="35" /></a>I've been spending a lot of time recently in front of a computer screen, not sure why but could because of the course I am taking :) After a period of time I feel fatigued and to relieve the eye strain I walk away from the screen for a few minutes. After a short search regarding the effect of monitors on human eye I found this: "extensive testing in government and private laboratories has not produced scientific evidence that computer monitors will harm your eyes. Research has established that computer monitors emit little or no hazardous radiation, such as x-ray or non-ionizing radiation, such as ultraviolet rays" <a href="http://www.pasadenaeye.com/faq/faq08/faq08_text.html">http://www.pasadenaeye.com/faq/faq08/faq08_text.html</a>. This is a good news but anyone can still fill the effect of being in front of screen or prolonged periods of time with the following consequences:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Eye discomfort</li>
<li>Headaches</li>
<li>Itchy eyes</li>
<li>Dry or watering eyes</li>
<li>Burning sensations</li>
<li>Changes in color perception</li>
<li>Difficulty focusing</li>
<li>Blurred vision</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made a posting regarding my concern on the social media study forum and here is a reply I got from Brianna Peters:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.news-medical.net/health/Does-looking-at-a-computer-damage-your-eyes.aspx">http://www.news-medical.net/health/Does-looking-at-a-computer-damage-your-eyes.aspx</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
20-20-20 rule<br />
e.g. http://www.labnol.org/software/computer-eye-exercise/14069<br />
<br />
I have heard this rule a few times, but I think it's appropriate to your comment. The rules is that every 20 minutes, you look away from your computer screen to a point 20 feet away for a period of 20 seconds. Obviously it was designed by an American, as we Canadian don't deal in the imperial system anymore! You can set a timer on one of your electronic device to dingle every 20 minutes as a reminder. In addition you can get out of your chair and do some stretches or relaxation exercises.<br />
<div class="row header clearfix" style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; margin-left: 0px !important; position: relative; width: 870.48291015625px;">
<div class="topic firstpost starter" style="margin-left: 43px;">
<div class="subject" style="font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 1.2em; margin-bottom: -5px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row maincontent clearfix" style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; margin-left: 0px !important; position: relative; width: 870.48291015625px;">
<div class="no-overflow" style="overflow: auto; padding-bottom: 1px;">
<div class="content">
<div class="posting fullpost" style="max-width: 100%; overflow: auto; padding-top: 10px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-60229651344154141922014-01-25T10:44:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.966-07:00CheatingI enjoy a controversial discussion especially relating to something I am interested in and as in my case these days the subject is PIDP3240 course I am taking on-line.<br />
<br />
This is a <a href="http://phys.org/news/2013-05-technology-online.html" target="_blank">posting</a> by Robert Lees I enjoyed reading this morning. I found it very relative especially since I was a cheater when taking entry exams to a college at the age of 15.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="left picture" style="color: #444444; float: left; font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; overflow: hidden; width: auto;">
<a href="http://moodle.vcc.ca/user/view.php?id=50096&course=3221" style="color: #024882; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="Picture of Andrey Murphy" class="userpicture" src="http://moodle.vcc.ca/pluginfile.php/384322/user/icon/essential/f2?rev=1356462" height="35" style="border-bottom-left-radius: 250px; border-bottom-right-radius: 250px; border-top-left-radius: 250px; border-top-right-radius: 250px; border: 0px; box-shadow: rgb(2, 72, 130) 0px 0px 3px; height: auto; margin: 4px 10px 4px 4px; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" title="Picture of Andrey Murphy" width="35" /></a></div>
<div class="topic" style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; margin-left: 43px;">
<div class="subject" style="font-family: Oswald, sans-serif; font-size: 1.2em; margin-bottom: -5px;">
<span style="color: cyan;">Re: Cheating in Online Courses</span></div>
<div class="author">
<span style="color: cyan;">by <a href="http://moodle.vcc.ca/user/view.php?id=50096&course=3221" style="outline: 0px;">Andrey Murphy</a> - Saturday, 25 January 2014, 10:30 AM</span></div>
</div>
<br />
Great post. Takes me back to when I was 15 taking entry exam into a college. I wasn't strong in one subject so I just asked my buddy to take the test for me. It actually worked and I got in. I found this very interesting: "Despite public suspicion about online deception, studies seem to show that there is not much difference in the amount of cheating that occurs in virtual and real classrooms"<br />
<br />
I wonder if a better solution is not a high cost technology, but a low cost registered facility close or within a short travel distance for the students to the the final test at? Similar to having volunteers monitor the exam as suggested in the article.<br />
<div class="row header clearfix" style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; margin-left: 0px !important; position: relative; width: 840.48291015625px;">
<div class="topic" style="margin-left: 43px;">
<div class="author">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row maincontent clearfix" style="font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px; margin-left: 0px !important; position: relative; width: 840.48291015625px;">
<div class="left" style="color: #444444; float: left; overflow: hidden; width: auto;">
<div class="grouppictures">
</div>
</div>
<div class="no-overflow" style="overflow: auto; padding-bottom: 1px;">
<div class="content">
<div class="posting fullpost" style="max-width: 100%; overflow: auto; padding-top: 10px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
I am going to make a separate tab on my blog for interesting resources posted in the Forum area of PIDP3240 course. This is also a requirement for Assignment 4 in Social Media Option and therefore I am "killing two birds with one stone". I think I am going to have lots of interesting resources at the end of this course therefore having a place to park them for future use would be handy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-7046173681657161282014-01-24T15:19:00.001-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.064-07:00War Room Even with taking an online course, to fully understand how this works, I had to revert to the old "technology":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fmh52NbdtuY/UuKIORWK7eI/AAAAAAAAADc/k7czHXLKMIc/s1600/wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fmh52NbdtuY/UuKIORWK7eI/AAAAAAAAADc/k7czHXLKMIc/s1600/wall.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As I was posting this picture, I was thinking that it could be made more "dynamic' with arrows pointing to different areas with explanations, but since I am not taking Digital Media presentation, I'll omit it this time. Here is a picture of my low tech "War Room" and it's been of great assistance in understanding the flow of this course - what is it exactly I have to do, when and where.<br />
<br />
Here is a reminder on my phone, so that every time I turn it on there is a list of things for me to do to keep up with assignments. By the way, I also have these sticky notes at home and at work. Low tech, but it works for me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhAzmKwkYPA/UuL0gpsGSQI/AAAAAAAAADs/5kH6tE1cYgY/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jhAzmKwkYPA/UuL0gpsGSQI/AAAAAAAAADs/5kH6tE1cYgY/s1600/photo+2.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-69807478833709871862014-01-23T18:53:00.002-08:002019-05-23T07:04:35.025-07:00Pieces of the PuzzleI think I am slowly understanding how this online course works, and piece by piece I am connecting the puzzle. As I was reading the textbook, interestingly called, "Teaching Naked" by Bowen J.A., I was highlighting some interesting thoughts. As I was doing so, I looked at the highlighter and thought: what will the highlighter be in this digital age? So I quickly looked up Highlighter and came to this <a href="http://vimeo.com/26091209">http://vimeo.com/26091209</a> . This is a pretty nifty little tool that could be of great help to students as well as instructors in this digital age.<br />
<br />
<br />Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-23306425962438070342014-01-22T22:15:00.002-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.683-07:00Facebook Set UpFinally, I was forced to come out of my technology seclusion and join the Facebook world.. Today I signed up for an account and once I was through the initial set-up, a wave of information flooded the screen. At first, it was hard to get oriented and after 5 minutes of poking around the home page I was ready to give up. That was enough of an introduction for my first day but before calling it quit I made my first Like for the School of Instructor Education <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VCCSchoolOfInstructorEducation">https://www.facebook.com/VCCSchoolOfInstructorEducation</a> which has a link from <a href="http://instructordiploma.com/">http://instructordiploma.com</a>/Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4298495773024417820.post-6002397925671773562014-01-19T16:33:00.000-08:002019-05-23T07:04:34.929-07:00Could not Predict itI tried blogging once previously for the purpose of connecting with people who have similar interests in cycling. Whether it turned out any good or not, you can be the judge: <a href="http://cycloping.blogspot.ca/">http://cycloping.blogspot.ca</a>/<br />
<br />
Here I am, 3 years later, working on another blog for my Media Enhanced Learning Course 3240 with Vancouver Community College. This time around, my blog has a different purpose: this is my assignment. So far, the course has been a very interesting experience. Yesterday, I signed up for a Twitter account, today, I revisited blogging, and next, I will be signing up with Facebook. Since the Social Media revolution began, I've been avoiding it as much as possible. I didn't see a need for Social Media in my personal or work life and didn't want to bother being connected to others constantly. The time has come when I should start paying attention to it and having to take this course has given me a push in that direction.<br />
<br />
Here are some interesting blogs from the participants in my Social Media Group:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youngparentseducationprogram.blogspot.ca/">http://youngparentseducationprogram.blogspot.ca/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://essaydoctor001.blogspot.ca/">http://essaydoctor001.blogspot.ca/</a><br />
<div>
<br />
<a href="http://zodiacbeacon.com/about-me/">http://zodiacbeacon.com/about-me/</a><br />
<span style="color: #024882; font-family: PT Sans, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://sabinareitzik.worpress.com/">http://sabinareitzik.worpress.com/</a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<a href="http://sabinareitzik.worpress.com/">http://rockstarsoccer.blogspot.ca/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'PT Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 25px;"><br /></span>
</div>
Reyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06904281095900432581noreply@blogger.com1