Google Classroom as Situating Tool

Using Google classroom as situating tool

Goggle classroom has now become an essential tool for teachers around the globe. I always thought that Google classroom will have similar features like that of Zoom and google meet. Turns out, I was wrong because when my tutor introduced the Classroom to us, I was dumbfounded to learn that Google classroom has got very organized and user-friendly features.

As I explored the features in Google classroom, I learned that taking online classes using Google classroom might prove to be beneficial to students because there is a Streaming section for the teachers to post the announcements, we can also upload videos in the streaming section. I personally feel that such kind of features in google classroom makes it more inclusive. we can write the instructions as well as upload a video for those students who prefer watching and learning.
Moreover, I was fascinated with the options provided in google classroom where we can even invite co-tutors, parents, and students in the classroom. This way, parents will be informed about the children and their learning progress, and I as a teacher will also get to invite my colleagues as co-teachers which is actually not possible in real classroom settings.

Having learned about it, I realized that Google classroom plays a very crucial role especially during national emergency (like the current situation, Covid 19) since it can be accessed from any computer via google chrome or from any mobile device regardless of where one is. As a future teacher, it is imperative that we must make use of such tools since it allows the students to access the materials anytime, anywhere. It also exposes students to an online learning system which now becoming a focus in the 21st century. It also enhances communication between teachers, parents and children. There might be some students who are introvert and reluctant to ask their doubts in the real classroom, but use of such tool might encourage the introvert ones to raise their issue unlike the real classroom. On the other hand parents may also take part in their children's learning, enquiring about 

their children's learning. Techers will provide feedback on their work respectively. They can also communicate with parents through emails or through classroom email about the assignments and due date without having to meet literally. This saves time and energy. Google classroom can also be used by school faculties to make important announcement, minutes of meeting. Hence, owing to these advantages, it is very crucial for us as a future teachers to make best use of the google classroom

Situating Tool

Situating Tool

I have learned that 'situating tools' are applications that helps learners to situate learning in an environment to experience the context of happening. it provides an avenue for learners to experience the real-life situation. The example of a situating tool includes simulation (fight, farming, surgery, environment, driving, History City, Sim City, play station), virtual reality, and CD-ROM.

There are many situating tools that we can use in our teaching and learning. out of many firstly I learned how to use Graph Calc application. Graph calc is an application that helps us in plotting graphs and finding a correlation between them. Under this, we did an activity where we plot 4 different types of linear equations and draw the correlation between the graph. After familiarizing myself with this application, I found this application very interesting, engaging, and applicable for the teacher in teaching the graphic concept to the learner. it helps learners think critically to draw the correlation between the graph as well as aid better understanding of the concept as it provides a platform for experiential learning. So as a teacher we can use graph calc to teach the concept of the graph as it will be easier for learners to find the pattern of the graph and provide a platform for active learning.

Another situating tool that I learned is a 'google map'.Google Maps is a web mapping service developed by Google. It offers satellite imagery, aerial photography, street maps, 360° interactive panoramic views of streets, real-time traffic conditions, and route planning for traveling by foot, car, bicycle, and air, or public transportation. As a teacher, we can use google map in subjects such as social studies and math to teach the concepts of the location of any place, time, distance and area instead of reading from the text. Moreover, it provides a 2D and 3D view of a place that we want which builds an exciting curiosity to explore more and provide real-life experience.

The last situating tool that I learned is on simulation. the simulation on different content helps the learner to comprehend the content better as it provides the learner hand on practices learning where the learner can change variable and do an experiment. After going through the PhET simulation, I found out that simulation allows me to feel the real experience of the environment. By using it, I can comprehend the concept easily because I have a choice to manipulate the variables. Also, when we manipulate the variables, it helps to boost the creativity and visualization skills as we need to focus on the simulation. So as a teacher if we integrate simulation in teaching and learning, it will help the learner in decision-making, boosts problem-solving skills, and manipulates the elements of the model.

Padlet- A Co-constructive Tool

Padlet- A Co-constructive Tool

After learning about co-constructive tools and particularly the benefits of using google docs for group collaboration, I have been exploring to learn more about such tools. I have learned about something called 'Padlet'. Padlet is a free, easy to use online tool that allows learners to work and interact collaboratively online. Think of Padlet as “virtual wall”, an online equivalent to the trusty butchers paper, where users can post content and comments in real time. Most types of digital content can be added to a Padlet (e.g. text, images, links, documents, videos, and voice recordings), with different options for layout, access, and access permission.

Padlet can create opportunities to embed “whole class” engagement into a variety of teaching environments and fosters student-centred active learning based on discussion, collaboration, peer learning, and problem solving. Padlet also allows us to save, store, and share the final “wall”, providing students the chance to reflect on their learning and academics with a snapshot of student thinking. 

A Padlet wall created for students to share their answers

 Using Padlets in lesson planned using google docs

After exploring more about padlets and experimenting it, I have decided to suggest the idea to my group members with whom I have been working on creating an ICT integrated lesson plan. Padlet could be a good integration of ICT as co-constructive tool. Although it is only theoretically planned in a lesson, I am very much excited to try it for real with my students in the near future. in fact, this online tool can be used at the university level learning and it is a fair and whole class embedding platform. 

This is a Padlet wall I created for my blog viewers. Please give me genuine comments regarding my blog either on my blog comment section or you can follow the link given below which will take you to my padlet page. 

https://padlet.com/karmachoney98/n7yph7sk2v7vwkuh

ICT as Co-constructive Tool

My Understanding of Co-constructive Tool

ICT plays a vital role in teaching and learning. It makes teaching and learning easier and effective. In the past, the text book and the chalk board were only our teaching learning materials due to which our knowledge remained in the box. There were no other sources of information. Now, with the advancement in the technology, we are able to shift from teacher dominated classroom to the student centered that provide students with an opportunity to explore beyond what has been taught in the class.

After learning about the design principles and with the help of FIT (101), now I can make the power point presentation effectively. I can make use of multimedia, animations and graphics to involve the audience effectively in the presentation. This knowledge and skill made my work easier during my teaching practice in the year 2018. I was able to take my students around the world by just sitting in the class through this power point presentation. For instance like I was able to make my students realize the importance of animal habitat and the plants through a video in my presentation.

On top of that, college life is always to do with assignment. For that we need to have good searching skills otherwise we would get lost in the middle of the information. At the beginning, when we were asked to do an assignment for the first time, my assignment was like trash bin with the information all jumbled up most of which are irrelevant to the topic. But now through the continue usage of ICT, I can choose most relevant and authentic sources and cite the sourcing and most importantly analyze the information. In a nut shell ICT helped me to develop my search skills and evaluate resources on the internet. I have compared the presentation I have made in the first year with the presentation I have recently made and found a huge difference in terms of quality and screen design. I am very proud to say that I have become more knowledgeable and skilled in terms of my ICT knowledge.

Importance of Co-constructive Tool

I have learned that assigning such task will help students work collaboratively in learning or achieving a common agreed goal. Applications such as Google docs , blogs and discussion forums helps learners to be actively and meaningfully engaged in learning. It also promotes intentional learning in learners. Integrating co-constructive tools in teaching and learning can be very effective especially in cases where we can't have face to face interaction. The use of co-constructive tools help both learners and teachers to take learning beyond the four walls of the classroom.

I feel that these tools are playing a vital role in out learning at the present scenario. Without these tools, teaching and learning would have been way beyond impossible. So to ensure that we are prepared for such scenarios in the future, integration of co-constructive tools are must in teaching and learning.

Using Google Docs to Plan an ICT Integrated Lesson

We used google docs to work in groups for an assignment. We were to plan an ICT integrated lesson in groups of three. I was quite worried about how we can work on in collaboratively since we cannot have face tp face group discussion. This is when we used google docs as a co-constructive tool. 

Using google docs, we could construct our knowledge through collaboration. We were able to share our ideas and thoughts while planning the lesson through google docs. Such applications will make the learning effective by fostering feasibility of communication without having to waste much time as that of gathering personally in person to discuss the topic. This tool allowed the group members and also our tutor to view, comment and edit the lesson we have planned. I realized that we have learned a lot from one another. Moreover, it also enhanced our cognitive, social, problem solving and collaborative skills.

Evidences of working with google docs

After using google docs for this assignment, we were able to  work collaboratively and share a common goal towards creating an effective ICT integrated lesson plan.

Working With Camtasia Studio- Applying ICT as Constructive Tool

Working with Camtasia Studio 

What is Camtasia Studio? 

Camtasia studio is a software program which is used for creating video tutorial to make our lesson effective. Such software are of great help when we face situations like the current situation due to the outbreak of Covid-19. The necessity for teaching and learning to continue regardless of the situation demands such software to come into action. Camtasia studio allows us to capture or record the computer screen. Camtasia studio also helps to capture live video screens and shots. It is an easy to use program where it provide user to create or edit recording video as per their plans and ideas. We can even record PowerPoint presentation using record the screen in camtasia studio.

Camtasia consists of two major components: 

1. Camtasia Recorder – A tool for capturing screen audio and video. 
2. Camtasia Editor- Used for editing video tutorial using show timeline or storyboard.

What can we do with Camtasia Studio?

• Add or insert images 
• Add sound or audio files
• Add a text
• Add or insert animation
• Add video clip
• Editing video clip
• Add narration voice (record our own voice)
• Record the screen
• Capturing the live video tutorial

My Learning Experience after Creating a Video Lesson Using Camtasia Studio 

I made an English video lesson to teach children the names of animals and their homes for class PP. It took me some time to get used to and know how to use the software. Once I got familiar with the app, I had a great learning experience. It provided me the platform to create an interactive learning experience, and publish an eLearning video of my own. 

So as a teacher I will surely use this application to enhance my teaching and learning with my future students because it is going to help Me in delivering my lesson with ease. Not only that I can use my video lesson during my absence to teach the student with the help of other teacher. Moreover, video lesson are never going to bore our lesson as it has right amount of text and images sometime video as well as cater the individual difference in learning. It was fun using Camtasia App to make the video tutorial and I felt proud as I could come up with my own video tutorial using Camtasia studio.

Steps to Create Tutorial Lesson in PowerPoint using Camtasia Studio 

• design the presentation in PowerPoint
• click on add-ins plug option 
• click on record option
• click on begin recording along with voice narration

My Video Lesson 

To watch the full video tutorial, click on the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/karmachoney18/videos/3063479887049834

ICT as Constructive Tool

ICT as Constructive Tool

Constructivist Approach 

Constructivist approach to teaching and learning emphasizes that students need to construct their own understanding and fosters critical thinking to create motivated and independent learners. Constructivists believe that children construct meaning as they interact with their surroundings. Using ICT will not only help children learn and construct meanings of their own but also fulfills certain aspects of constructive approach such as:

• Helps learners to learn without the teacher
• Generating new ideas as they use technologies to create meaning
• Shifting from passive learning to active learning pedagogy
• Do away with the rote learning method like memorization
• Encourage students to engage in learning actively 

What is ICT as a Constructive Tool?

ICT as a constructive tool are those applications such as simulations, PowerPoint Presentation, Blogs and any other social networking sites that encourage learners to create meaning of their own by manipulating the information they get. Some of the ways to use ICT as a constructive tool are:

• Maintain a blog
• Create a short video using video editing apps
• Prepare simulations 

My Learning after Creating a Simulation

We were asked to design one page simulated advertisement to attract visitor using PowerPoint presentation program. We were supposed to do that with the motive of attracting visitors to our locality. This was a very challenging as well as an exciting task because I have never created a simulation and moreover we were asked to use only one page for the advertisement.

To carry on with the task, I looked up on internet for ideas to create simulations and how it should be done. I found myself exploring the different features available in PowerPoint Presentation particularly the animation features. I learned how to adjust timings for information that I portrayed using animation. I realized that given a chance and a platform, we can learn a lot through exploration and practice. I also realized how we can construct knowledge using ICT and become independent and competent learners. With proper guidance, the activity was very productive and worthwhile.

My Simulated Advertisement 

Simulated Advertisement Sample

The Ad-hoc Holiday and E-learning

Using ICT as a communicative tool 

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected educational systems worldwide, leading to the near-total closures of schools, universities and colleges. The virus has made its way also to Bhutan which has held us back at home. Schools and universities have been forced to rethink the ways students and learning should move forward in the wake of coronavirus. If we look at this situation from a positive perspective, it is an opportunity for both teachers and students to learn using ICT as a communicative tool. 

Although, E-learning seemed quiet difficult in the beginning due to poor internet, high-data cost and many other factors, we are starting to adapt to online sessions. We use the VLE(Virtual Learning Environment), WeChat, Messenger, Hangout, Zoom, etc. as ways of learning. 


Through the use of these tools we are able to discuss, share and ask our doubt as like we do in real classroom. Moreover we get opportunity to interact with our tutor frequently and at any time of the day. Reflecting on my experience of virtual learning, I couldn't agree any less that ICT is very beneficial in many way. It connects people not only to catch up and for leisure purpose, but also for a great deal of teaching and learning. following are some screenshots of how we have used ICT as a communicative tool. 

Video Conference using Hangout

                                         

WeChat Discussion

Virtual Learning Environment 

                                              

ICT as Communicative Tool

ICT as Communicative Tool

Effective communication is one of the important skills that a teacher should have in order to teach students effectively. A teacher who cannot express their ideas properly in classrooms will fail to become a good teacher. This will lead to students' losing interest in the subject and gradually losing their respect for the teacher. ICT can be one asset that we can use in classrooms to teach students and communicate ideas more precisely and effectively to them. There are many ways to use ICT in classrooms as a communicative tool. 

Communicative tools are applications which enable easy communication between teacher and the students as well as among the students beyond the physical barrier either by space, time or both of the classrooms.

Two types of communication 

1. Synchronous- It is also called as real time, in which users must be simultaneously connected rather like a telephone call. Example: Video-conferencing etc.
2. Asynchronous- It does not require people to access to the internet at the same time. Example: E-mail, WeChat etc. 
   

For me, I prefer to use asynchronous learning methods because I am someone who takes time to process things being taught. I don't really do well in things where I have to respond in a very short period of time. Using learning tools such as emails, and VLE are usually what I prefer. Of course, other learning platforms such as using the zoom, google classroom, and google, online chats are helpful for learning because we have teachers that can guide us and provide instant feedback but for me, when I am assigned a work, I prefer to do things slowly and with proper planning and therefore, asynchronous learning is just perfect for me and my learning needs. However, I plan on using both types of communication in future because that way, I will be able to cater to my student's needs as well as connect with my students and get to understand them.

The communication tool basically emphasis on the social constructivist learning theory where people use communication tools such as email, WeChat, skype and etc. to interact with other people and enhance their ideas and knowledge. There are lots of opportunity using communication tool such as sharing of ideas and knowledge, exploring new things, construct new knowledge and make relation with the people around the world. However, there are threats while using communication tool such as lead to addiction, become more dependent on the information source and high chance of losing one's own culture and identity as people are exposed to other culture. 

ICT can be used as a tool for communication. It is a platform which provides great opportunity for teacher-to-teacher and student-to-student communication and collaboration. In a nutshell, it benefits people from all walks of life to a greater extend. It is a blessing to humanity indeed if used appropriately. Never before, humans were connected to each other as in today's world. I have learned that ICT is an indispensable tool in 21st century and both student and teachers are ought to leverage ICT to assist and facilitate learning for the benefit of all learners and teachers across the curriculum.

Importance of Communication Skill for Teachers

Importance of Communication Skill

As a teacher in making, I have been taught about the importance of communication skills. Teaching is all about communication - listening, speaking, reading, presenting and writing. Teachers who sharpen their communication skills are prepared to instruct, advise and mentor students entrusted in their care. Additionally, teachers must communicate well to effectively collaborate with colleagues and update administrators on student progress.

Good communication skills of teacher are the basic need of academics success of students, and professional success of life. Teacher communicates more instructions orally in classroom to students. Teacher with poor communication skills may cause failure of students to learn and promote their academics. Student need to understand that what is right, and what is wrong while it totally depend upon the communication skills of teachers which he adopt in class-room. Communication skills of a teacher have significant role in the academic success of the students. Therefore it is necessary for a teacher to adopt good communication skills while teaching to the students.

Informative tool- Reflection after application

Was Hitler Gay? 

Adolf Hitler’s sexuality has long been a matter of historical and scholarly debate, as well as speculation and rumour. There is evidence that he had relationships with a number of women during his lifetime as well as evidence of his behavior against homosexuality. Although many claim that Adolf Hitler was homosexual, there is no valid evidence of homosexual encounter.


To find out about Hitler's sexuality, we have no option but resort to internet sources because these claims have been made only after Hitler’s death. Many authors and sources claim that Hitler was homosexual while many claim that he wasn’t. I were to prepare a PowerPoint presentation expressing my stand on matter, whether Hitler was gay or not. I checked out many sites on internet. At some point, I started believing that Hitler was indeed homosexual because some sites said so. But then again, information on some sites convinced me that Hitler wasn't homosexual. 

                                          

This simple task of preparing a presentation of just 10 slides took me into a very complicated task of thinking critically, making decisions carefully, and analyzing the contents that I read. All in all, through my experience, I feel that ICT as an informative tool can not only teach students the content but also ensure that they gain important skills that are essential in the latter part of their life. Therefore, in the future, I will definitely encourage students to use different applications and Software for their learning by ensuring that I guide them and keep them on the right track.

How do you know a source is reliable?

Whilst creating a PowerPoint presentation with information I have gathered regarding Hitler’s sexuality, I have learned that it is not easy to determine whether the information you are retrieving from internet is credible. To make my stand and my points credible, I have taken precautionary measures while looking up on internet for information. Here are some things we need to look out for to be on the safer side:

·         Author- If the material has an author it is an indication of a credible site. Moreover, if it includes his/her contact information, it is even more reliable.

·         Date and time- If the information available includes date and time, it allows the readers to decide whether the information is recent enough.

·         Domain- Domains like .edu are usually credible sources for information. Domain like .org has a motive to persuade rather than to educate.

·         Site design- A well designed site can be an indication of more reliable information.

·         Writing style- Information which has poor spelling and grammar are an indication that the site may not be reliable.

After gathering information about Hitler's sexuality I have learned that there are some credible sites which do not possess all the above qualities. We should rely more on sources like encyclopedia, Wikipedia, books, etc. We should always be careful with what we read because there’s so much material on the internet that finding the right information can be like looking for a needle in a haystack.

“Not everything you read on internet is true or relevant.”

ICT as Informative Tool Reflection

ICT as Informative Tool Reflection

We were introduced to the first ICT tool that is Information tool. Through the content taught I have learned that ICT is used as an informative tool when we use it to gather information from various sources. Some examples of informative tools are:

• Radio
• Internet (Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
• Television

Not many people use radio as a source of information anymore. The use of radio is in trend only in the remote places where is there no internet and television access. Now, people depend mostly on internet and television for information. 

As a teacher, we can integrate the information tool in the classroom by providing an information or reference for the students in the beginning or during or after the activity. In addition, we can let students analyze, synthesize and manipulate, and construct their own knowledge and meaning. 

One of the tool that I've used during my teaching practice in 2019 was Informative tool. Informative tools are applications that provide vast amount of information in various formats such as text, sound, graphics or video. During my teaching practice, I used videos, sounds and graphics to teach the content and made me realize that it can help a lot of students achieve their learning goals and also make my work load lighter and easier.

I have noticed that children get very excited to learn when ICT is used as an information tool and most of the students were engaged in the work provided. I used to made my students browse through some content in internet for the better references and made them write summary of what they have learnt through it. Moreover use of informative tool in a classroom will cater the needs of different learning styles and can enhance their academic performance and motivate a child to learn. Following are some of the reasons we use ICT as informative tool in teaching and learning:

• Students will learn to gather valid information 
• Students will be able to analyze information 
• Students will be able to improve their search skills 
• Learners will become critical thinkers

Caution! 

I have learned that in the 21st century, internet is considered the main source of virtual learning as it provides a great deal of information. However, in this digital information age, anyone can put anything on the internet. Although the advantage of internet is that we can learn and get information, we shouldn't believe and buy everything portrayed on internet. if we do not know how to gather information from genuine sources, we might end up getting misinformed.

ICT Integration

What is ICT integration? 

ICT integration can be explained in several ways. However, I really like how Williams explain ICT integration. According to Williams, integrating technology in teaching and learning is like cooking a meal for an important guest. It requires a careful selection of ingredients and thoughtful preparation which in teaching and learning is selection of instructional materials and lesson planning correspondingly. And, as all good chefs know, after you have finished cooking, you need to present your masterpieces (your lesson, that is) to your guests (your students) in a manner so as to level them well-fed (having the required skills and knowledge) and eager to come back for more.

Is using computers as merely “electronic babysitting' a true integration? 

There are 3 levels of integration:

1. Basic Level- Basic level of integration indicates only a basic level of integration like showing pictures of insects for better visuals. However, technology doesn't take the pivotal role.
2. Middle Level: Technology plays an important role providing both teacher and students with important materials and activities. At this level, technology supports more or less the traditional models of teaching. This is because teaching takes place using traditional method but incorporating technology to support learning. 
3. High Level: Technology is not just integrated, it becomes the central instructional tool for students. At this level, educational opportunities are more open and technology greatly enhances learning. 

For true integration to take place, I have learned that all teachers should aim for the high level of integration. Only then, it will not only add the maximum value to the learning activities but also solve instructional problems we face while teaching without technology integration.