NETS

__National Education Technology Standards__

 * 1.** //**Demonstrate a sound understanding of the nature and operation of technology systems.**//
 * We used several different types of software to develop our projects. We also investigated other available software that could be used to do the same thing such as Wikispaces or Weebly to develop websites.
 * We looked at different word processors like Word, Zoho Writer, and Open Office Writer. We looked many software tools available for free on the internet.
 * I believe I have a good understanding of the nature of technology systems.


 * 2.** //**Demonstrate proficiency in the use of common input and output devices; solve routine hardware and software problems; and make informed choices about technology systems, resources, and services.**//
 * We used a variety of input/output devices: printers, keyboard, mouse, headphones and microphone.
 * We solved routine hardware problems with paper jams in the printer, and several software problems. My biggest software problem was converting my audio file to an MP3 format that I could use for the podcast. I used different file formats to create sound effects and that caused problems when I tried to convert it.
 * We investigated free software on the web to create websites, like weebly and wikispaces.
 * We investigated different ways to edit photos, like Fauxto, and created audio files using Audacity.
 * I am comfortable using common input/output devices.


 * 3. //Use technology tools and information resources to increase productivity, promote creativity, and facilitate academic learning.//**
 * We used MS Word and Excel which can be used to increase productivity. With either of these, it is easy to update a file or change data without having to redo the whole document.
 * There was plenty of room for creativity while developing our WebQuests, podcasts and digital videos. In each of these assignments we chose the topic of our project. We could do our assignments on anything as long as it could be used in an educational setting which would promote academic learning and meet at least one of the educational standards for K-12.


 * 4.** //**Use content-specific tools (e.g., software, simulation, environmental probes, graphing calculators, exploratory environments, Web tools) to support learning and research.**//
 * We investigated several educational websites, forums, and software packages.
 * We looked at several MUVEs(multi-user virtual environments) intended for educational purposes.
 * We investigated digital videos and podcast that have been produced to promote learning. Sometimes these are good to use in the classroom when field trips are impossible or not practical.
 * I also learned about zamar.com, it came in handy to convert file formats. For the digital video I found a software tool, AllMusicConverter.com, which I used to convert 30 seconds of a protected file to an MP3 format so I could use it in the video withhout infringing on a copyright.


 * 5.** //**Use technology resources to facilitate higher order and complex thinking skills, including problem solving, critical thinking, informed decision making, knowledge construction, and creativity.**//
 * The WebQuests that I created was intended for this purpose. It requires students to use their higher order and complex thinking skills, as well as their critical thinking and decision making skills to solve the puzzle. I had to use my own as well and some creativity to develop this.


 * 6**//**.** **C**////**ollaborate in constructing technology-enhanced models, preparing publications, and producing other creative works using productivity tools.**//
 * Both the WebQuest and the Podcast assignments ask the students to work on a project together. They are then asked to prepare either a Word document or a creative audio recording as their assignment to be submitted.
 * All the assignments in this course required some type of publication that was produced using technology. This was a paperless course where all assignments were posted and submitted online.


 * //7. Use technology to locate, evaluate, and collect information from a variety of sources.//**
 * I used the internet to locate, evaluate and collect information from a variety of sources. We collected pictures and sound bites for the videos and podcast from many sources on the internet.
 * I evaluated websites, podcasts, MUVEs, and digital videos to determine whether the software was something I could use in my future classrooms.


 * 8.** //**Use technology tools to process data and report results.**//
 * I used MS Word, Zoho Writer, MS Excel, Inspiration Software, and CTools to process and report data.
 * I used the internet, MS Movie Maker, Audacity, web hosting sites like Weebly and Wikispaces to develop our projects.
 * I also investigated other software tools for converting data formats like Adobe Acrobat, Open Office, zamzar.com, and much more.


 * 9.** //**Use technology in the development of strategies for solving problems in the real world. observe and experience the use of technology in their major field of study.**//
 * I investigated some math software packages that are used in the real world. The computer itself, with packages like Excel, help make calculations and graphing data much easier than doing them by hand.


 * 10.** //**Use technology tools and resources for managing and communicating information (e.g., finances, schedules, addresses, purchases, correspondence).**//
 * I used email, blogs, and Ctools to communicate information.
 * I used Google Calendar and embedded it into my teacher websites to share information, and Gcast to broadcast my Podcast.


 * 11.** //**Evaluate and select new information resources and technological innovations based on their appropriateness to specific tasks.**//
 * We looked at Powerpoint and Open Office Impress software to be used for presentations.
 * We looked at Photo 3 as another way to develop a slide show, other than Movie Maker.
 * We looked at YouTube and TeacherTube as information resources, albeit plenty of stuff found on YouTube is just for entertainment.


 * 12.** //**Use a variety of media and formats, including telecommunications, to collaborate, publish, and interact with peers, experts, and other audiences.**//
 * We used the forums in Ctools to discuss technology topics.
 * We looked at other teacher forums/blogs to see what and how they are communicating with each other.
 * We used email, blogs, calendars, podcast, websites and digital videos to communicate with others.


 * 13.** //**Demonstrate an understanding of the legal, ethical, cultural, and societal issues related to technology.**//
 * We discussed the legal issues of copyright infringement regarding music, videos and other information, not just on the internet, but from other sources also.
 * We looked at software that changes websites from one language to another.


 * 14.** //**Exhibit positive attitudes toward technology uses that support lifelong learning, collaboration, personal pursuits, and productivity.**//
 * The more you use technology, the easier it becomes and changes your attitude from one of apprehension to appreciating how much easier it can make things for you.
 * At the pace with which technology is changing, I am certain it will be a life long learning experience. There will always be new things to investigate.
 * I have a positive attitude toward technology and enjoy using it and learning about new technologies.


 * 15.** //**Discuss diversity issues related to electronic media.**//
 * We looked into software that can be used to help students, with different disabilities, use the computer and other classroom tools.


 * 16.** //**Discuss the health and safety issues related to technology use.**//
 * We discussed safety issues in regards to the use of the internet, like being careful about what you post on the internet and protecting your passwords.