Sunday, April 17, 2016

Participate Capstone

Participate






In addition to the required links/objects listed above, please provide a paragraph describing your perspective of the Participate module. Consider the learning environment, content, assignments. Afterward, copy and paste the links and your paragraph into the Participate Capstone submission box. Questions, comments, and expertise are always welcome!


The Participate Module opened my eyes to how important it is to ensure safety and responsibility when teaching online. As they say with great power comes great responsibility. With the power of the internet, comes the responsibility of creating digital citizens. This module really opened my eyes to how important it is to create digital citizens. The way the course built from developing an AUP in the beginning of the course to making sure that you consider digital health thoroughly covered how to be a complete participant in online learning. I enjoyed learning in an environment where I could use the forum to view my peers’ work and also to look at exemplars. This helped guide me, but it also encouraged me to come up with original ideas and problem solve tasks. I think that this was an excellent model for online teaching, and it is essential to have the interactive piece.  I learned some new technology tools from my colleagues, and I liked the diversity of the different activities. The assignments taught me about how to properly interact online, guide students, and ensure safety. When completing “Participate 3.1.2 Digital Resources and Netiquette Quest” I was able to create a Nearpod that allowed my current students to learn valuable tips that I have seen them apply in the classroom. In addition, finding new resources in this module has improved my teaching and learning to create bookmarks is a simple way to organize these resources. Organization seems to be a vital component to online teaching.  Furthermore, it was nice to have a choice and voice when completing tasks. My favorite part about this module is the fact that I am learning the way my students would be learning. The reflection component in the blog is where I found myself critical thinking and coming up with new ideas. The first module was exciting, and it makes me want to continue the journey. 

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Participate 4.1.3 Digital Health Quest


To be a good digital citizen and online teacher, it is important to have a healthy schedule. This means using proper techniques physically. It is also important to take breaks,eat healthy, and schedule time away from technology. In the 21st century with so many distractions, it is important to have a good work life balance. Being proactive means blending technology with well being. Scheduling time for oneself is essential. Having a schedule is a great way to make sure that proper techniques are being followed and the mind and body is rested.


My schedule starts with a daily walk to get my blood pumping. After exercising, my mind is always fresh. This allow me to get a few hours of work. I scheduled a morning break to do some ergonomic exercises. I have been trying the exercises from the University of Michigan found at


After the exercises, I read for a few minutes and have a healthy lunch. After that nice break, I can spend several more hours working, and finish up the day with a tech-free dinner with friends or family. I have been able to try this schedule because I am on spring break, and I have had extra time to try and see if this would work for me. It has been working, and I feel productive and fulfilled. 

Students and teachers can get the most from technology while simultaneously safeguarding good health by having a well rounded day. There day should include a balance of online time, hobbies, and exercise. In addition, there needs to be time scheduled for socializing without technology. I like to integrate a stretching time and some ergonomic exercise to keep my mind fresh when using the technology. Everything should be done in moderation. 






Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Participate 4.1.2 Digital Safety and Security Quest



Safety First! is a common phrase uttered by teachers. It also applies to the online world. Here are useful websites that address digital safety and security.

Digital Safety Bookmarks

file:///C:/Users/siembieda/Downloads/GoogleBookmarks%20(9).html

In addition, I used Videoscribe to create a video addressing the most important step to ensuring digital safety and how we can keep digital safety in the forefront of our students' minds,

http://sho.co/17DA9