Graphics

Graphics are very beneficial to me.  I like to try to visualize what I read, but sometimes I am not able to.  In these times, I really rely on graphics.  I prefer animated graphics, especially when the information is math-related.  I do not have a head for numbers and statistics.  If this is the topic, I automatically look for a graphic, but an animated graphic always helps more than a static one.  Static graphics are good for helping me to visualize information that I can comprehend on my own; they just reinforce my knowledge and help to show me what I am learning. 

I recently saw the movie Waiting for “Superman”  and really relied on the graphic representation it  used to explain the statistics given.  Many of the statistics made sense to me when described, but the information had a greater impact when the animated graphics were included/introduced.  Not only was I then able to see the deficits, but I was able to watch the change as well. 

What adults can learn

http://www.ted.com/talks/adora_svitak.html

The link above is from a TED talk that occurred last April.  The young lady in the video, Adora Svitak, is only 12 years old, but is already a published author and sought after motivational speaker.  She seems to be doing the work for me in regards to this blog.  When thinking about why this is an interesting video, the simple fact that she is 12 years old and already thinking on a higher level than some people I graduated undergrad with is enough.  However, her message is really thought provoking.  We do need to listen more to our students before we plan an assignment or make a rule.  Kids do not always think inside the lines, they go outside of the box to dream and plan.

This is an educational video as well.  I learned from this young lady.  I teach a class centered around utopian societies.  She brings up some amazing points that many of my eighth grade students have not hit upon yet.  Also, reminding adults that children will be in charge soon, adds some insight into the ways we are teaching them.  Many students will not have a voice until they are adults, will they know how to use it then?  In giving them an opportunity to speak their minds and have a say in educational planning now, children of today can be better adults of tomorrow.

Did you know

I saw a clip of this video last summer.  I had never seen the entire thing.  I really was stunned by how impacting the video was.  Thinking about how the future of the country is dependent upon children working in jobs that have not even been thought of yet is heavy.  I see these kids at school.  They are so creative and technology savvy; it should be amazing to see what they can accomplish. 

I know that our country is behind in education, but I had no idea it was by this much.  As these videos were made in 2006/2007, I can only imagine what the numbers are today. 

I would like to have my students use more technology in our work.  I am not sure now to integrate it with all of the new initiatives my district is trying.