Week Nine

Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX)

Prior to this post, I was pretty familiar with ALEX, but was not entirely familiar with the things that were all a part of the website. This website is useful because in one website, you can view the course of study standards for any grade and subject, see sample lesson plans, find websites for professional development, and podcasts. They really have so many good resources available to teachers on this site.

I can definitely see myself referring to ALEX as a resource when I become a teacher. Between the sample lesson plans, podcasts, and State Department of Education websites and resources, there is so much to be learned here. I think it is good that they have all of the course of study standards listed in one comprehensive place. This makes it easier to see what is what and browse the standards to see what we are getting ourselves into!

Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators, & Students Statewide (ACCESS)

When you go to the ACCESS website (http://accessdl.state.al.us), you will find all manner of information about the program. The entire website has to do with distance learning in the public schools and it seeks to make opportunities equally available to all students, regardless of location. There are sections for students, educators, a list of courses offered, and additional resources. All in all, it looks like an appealing program.

Having been a part of a class in high school that was the base classroom for a distance learning program, I have mixed opinions about this. I think that distance learning is a really good thing, but there are also some issues that arise with it. This especially is prevalent with the technology associated with distance learning. Being in the base classroom, I don't think you get as much out of it. However, it is very beneficial to the ones on the other end who are receiving your signals and your directions.

I could not access the power point mentioned in the blog assignment at the time of posting this, but I will check back and keep trying.

Comments for Kids, Teachers, and Classmates

I get the unique privilege each week of commenting on my classmates' blog posts from the previous week. It's always entertaining and inspiring to hear what my classmates have to say. I also get to comment on blogs done by students and teachers each week. This week, I got to comment on a video presentation made by a group of 10 and 11 year olds. This was some good acting even for their young age. I have also been following a teacher's blog called "Don't Waste Your Time", and I have thoroughly enjoyed it as well. The writer gives a lot of helpful tips on technology and it is neat to see what all is out there.