Friday, February 25, 2011

Technology Self Assessment: School 2.0

    NETS III, IV, V
I took this online assessment to establish an understanding of the NETS requirements.                                      
 I chose to investigate NETS-S 1: Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity because I think it is very important for students to use their creativity in the classroom and also out in the real world. I believe that children express themselves through creativity and their own use of imagination. They are able to construct knowledge and develop inventive products, in which they learn to use outside of the classroom. The link that I chose to explore was very interesting and a great idea to connect with the world. It is called “Rock Our World”, which is an international collaboration. It connects students on every continent through collaborative global projects. As a team, students and teachers compose music, movies, and even live video chats with people all around the globe. Each season they have different challenges, including games with different subjects along with music and art. This is the perfect way to collaborate together to make something for everyone to share and learn effectively. Not only are these students learning something new each day, but they are also able to connect with people from different cultural backgrounds. After searching through this link I learned that Technology can be integrated in so many different ways and this method is especially efficient. It is not only fun for everyone to connect with each other, but they are also learning new techniques about technology by collaboratively working together.   

Friday, February 4, 2011

Introducing Nikki Clark!!

My name is Nicole Clark, but I go by Nikki. I am 20 years old and a third year at San Marcos. I am from Laguna Beach, CA and lived in the same house until I was 18. I went to school with the same people since I was in Kindergarten so when it was time to go to college I was definitely ready! I loved growing up in such a beautiful town with great weather and hope to get a teaching job at the elementary school I attended. I recently studied abroad in Denmark for six months and realized that I belong in the sunshine. Although it was a great experience I could never live in the snow again. I’ve always been interested in sports both watching and playing. Growing up I played soccer and ran hurdles in High School. I broke my high school record in the 300 m hurdles. My family and I love the Los Angeles Lakers! We love to get together with our friends to watch the games. We are hoping for a Three-peat this year!! My passion for kids began at a young age around 13 years old when I started babysitting. Ever since then I always knew I wanted to be a Kindergarten teacher. Even though it may take me several years to finish college with a teaching credential I know it will all be worth it in the end.

I am not good with technology at all, but hope to learn a lot in this class so I cannot only help myself but also my family! I have a friend that is very good with technology so whenever I need help or have any problems I just go to him...problem solved! Instead of having to frequently ask for help I figure that it's finally time to learn about technology. The only thing that I kind of know how to use is my iphone and MacBook computer, but that's about it. 

This is actually my first time reading the mission statement of the CSUSM/COE, but it wouldn't have discouraged me from applying to San Marcos. I have heard nothing but positive comments about the teaching program at CSUSM. After reading the mission statement I completely agree with it and will definitely use this along the way to becoming a teacher. I especially like the part that states, " to collaboratively transform public education". I believe it's all about teamwork and together we will all become great educators.