This Week's Learning

I enjoy being able to experiment and learn about the things we did this week. I can see applications for twitter and personal learning networks to classroom teachers. The aggregators idea is great for having stuff sent to you rather than to go looking for it.
Being the only physics teacher in our school really isolates me from talking to other physics teachers. Sometimes I just wish there was someone to talk to about the subject. Maybe these tools will help.
The format for the course is a wonderful way to really learn on your own. But, I am a project oriented person and just hope I am meeting all the requirements.

Twitter

I can see twitter as more of a PLN than a classroom teaching tool. Have made some contacts with some retired teachers. I Have 11 followers. We'll see where it goes!
-wf

One more time

World Record Physics Lab

Blog Search

I have only touched the surface of blogs for teaching. I found several that were useful as introductions to projects or demonstrations. They would not be complete in themselves. This is ok because my guiding principles define this technology as a tool to be used by an effective teacher. I think the pinhole camera site I discovered will support student learning, it is a tutorial. The other site will whet their appetites for activities and explanations.

World Record Physics Lesson!

Interesting. Educational? Anyway... it will get their attention. Will post on the class site. Baseball, explosions, and world records. Kids love all three.
-wf

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIQkT5DWAJU&feature=player_embedded

Directions for juice box pinhole camera!

This would work for my investigative techniques class. It starts out a little odd.... but give it a second! Really, Really neat idea.
-wf
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnnHjz8pF1M

I am glad to see that our book for the course sees technology as a means to good instruction. I believe that technology must provide tools that facilitate and enhance instruction. Technology can be used to collect and analyze data, enhance scientific understandings through imagery and visualization, and to extend inquiry through communication and collaboration.
"The bottom line is that it's not about the technology but how teachers use the technology. The teacher is (and always will be) the most important part of the equation. " (p.94 Technology in the Secondary Science Classroom).