Success

During their years in school, students face many "brick walls". That is, they are faced with obstacles that interfere with their dreams or even a simple math problem. It is important for students to face these walls head on and strive to overcome the "brick wall." It requires a dedication as a student while educators and parents should encourage our children and students in every area in order to reach complete educational achievement. Students should never fear success. It is important for students not to give up "Don't Bail". Students should get feedback and listen to it. Don't just say "okay", do something about it, also don't complain and most of all work hard. The most important step in being successful is showing gratitude, always think of others and others will think of you.

Podcast Education

Podcast can be a helpful tool in education. I have to say that I had by doubts about pod casting. I do confess that after figuring out how they work and the technology pod casting brings to the table my doubts are no more. After listening to the pod casts in the assignment I began to do a little surfing on my own. Wow, was I shocked to find all the information that is offered through pod casting. My 12 year old son even listened to a story, "Robinson Crusoe" to be exact. I was in amazement that he actually sat their with the ear phones in and actually listened. Not only can students listen, but view. Video podcasts allow students to view short clips or even movies about educational subjects. The trick is to download iTunes, scroll down click education, then click the subject. Enjoy!!!!

Head Fake Education

You may be wondering what is a "head fake." This was discussed in Randy Paush's "Last Lecture" he brought out many valuable points about teaching and learning. He talked not only about his childhood dreams, but how to enable the childhood dreams of others. Throughout his lecture he emphasized "head fakes". A "head fake" is having fun while learning. An example of "head fake" was through "Alice", which is a reading program that allows children to actually program design and never know it. He also applied this through his teaching, by allowing students to work as a team with the freedom to express themselves. This was evident when the program became so successful that it drew interest of other college departments. As educators it is important to allow students to explore that freedom in order to achieved a successful "head fake". You can view the lecture at youtube.com and search Randy Paush. Parents you will love it.

Alabama Virtual Library

The Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) is a very helpful tool. It can be both beneficial to both students and parents, in research. AVL is a database of magazines, journals and newspaper articles. This information is only accessible at your local high school or college or by obtaining an AVL card and personal access code for home access. The card and code can be obtained at your local Alabama library with proof of residency and eligibility for a public library card. The code is issued in order for the researcher to access the information from remote locations. However the access is limited to only one session at a time. That is once you have accessed AVL no one else is allowed access under your code. You can search the information by age, topic, particular magazine or journal or specific database. These databases are packed full of useful information and resources about any subject.

Why Blog

You may be thinking, why should I blog and why are blogs used in education. A blog is a useful educational tool. Blogs can be used to update students on homework assignments and inform parents of up coming events. Teachers can also post information about special activities and projects in the classroom to inform parents. Blogs also allow students and parents to comment on assignments, activities and projects that are posted to the blog. It a great communication tool!