American Foundation 9/22/2008

I really enjoyed the discussion we had this week on Noack and Bartlett. I was part of leading the group and I thought I had a firm belief that Germany's system was the best system and that we should implement it. However when leading the discussion I tried to play Devil's Advocate which made me open my eyes and realize that both have good and bad. Although each system could use some improvements without improvements in the people the school systems can't change. I enjoyed everyones input because it made me realize that although I thought education system here was struggling it also does well in other areas. The Barlett reading was really interesting because it talked about students having dialogues with teachers, becoming friends with teachers. All my life I thought that when adults become friends with teachers they lose a part of their ability to control the students. I realized that when you get to know all the children well they open up more and feel comfortable to learn. I really enjoyed this class discussion I was sad it ended so soon. The video we watched made me realize that we are priviliged to have education, because back in the 1800's they weren't really allowed school. I'm excited to finish the video next week.

American Foundation 09/15/08

I really enjoyed the discussion in class on Monday. When I first read it I struggled with understanding why a teacher would want to separate boys from girls when it comes to having reading centers. I would be afraid that I would make it difficult for them to read books from the other areas. When the class discussed it I received a different view. Understanding that boys do have a hard time reading. My favorite part of the class was when we looked at the books and decided which category they would go under. I am nervous for Monday though I am one of the ones starting the discussions.

The reading

While reading Reynolds TaylorSounding I was very intrigued by the research done by Anderson, Reynolds, Schallert, and Goetz about the female music majors and the male physical education majors. I found it true that the students beliefs on certain ideas was affected by their sex and major. I have to agree that it is easier to agree or remember ideas or text that are more related to my culture, sex, religion and more. Although people don't think this is the case in many studies it is proven to be so. I had never thought that such a thing would have an impact on how a child learns. It is an interesting case and a sad one that children from all different backgrounds do not learn in a somewhat similar manner. I really enjoyed this reading.

First day of American History

The first day of American History I was really excited. I felt like I was more in my element using technology more. My husband is very tech savvy and keeps teaching me new things, so I finally get to put it into use. After looking at my packet I am a little confused on what all I will be doing, I'm sure soon it will make sense. I have to say though it is nice that Doc. Waters uses the same technology as we do so it will be easier to keep in contact with her. I feel like she can relate more to me then other teachers, especially when I saw she was reading the Twilight series like I did. Although that has nothing to do with the class I felt impressed and ready to learn. This should be a very good class.