Overview:
EDU 506 Applied Educational Technology is an informative course for those who lack experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The class also provides knowledge in blogging and creating WebQuests. For me, use of the internet technology was the most informative. The knowledge given on the Microsoft software was a bit redundant because I personally was already so familiarized with it. However, for someone without the experience the information given was valuable. Today’s students are digital learners and it is important for educators to keep with the times. I will definitely employ the use of blogs and WebQuests in my curriculum.
Microsoft Word: The Respiratory System
Description: A lesson plan that describes the structure and function of the respiratory system. It employs others teaching tools such as a PowerPoint and interest mini-lessons/
Standards: Performance Indicator 1.2
1.2a Each system is composed of organs and tissues which perform specific functions and interact with each other, e.g., digestion, gas exchange, excretion, circulation, locomotion, control, coordination, reproduction, and protection from disease.
1.2b Tissues, organs, and organ systems help to provide all cells with nutrients, oxygen, and waste removal.
1.2c The respiratory system consists of organs that are responsible for the exchange of materials involving oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Reflection:
The respiratory system is a key component when studying the human body in 8th grade Life Science. Students need to know how essential organs are able to act in terms on gas exchange to carry out specific life functions and maintain the organism’s homeostasis.
Link: Microsoft Word – Respiration System
Microsoft Excel: Nutrition Unit
Description: The excel shows comparison graphs of what the average person SHOULD consume in terms of nutrition and calories and what they actually eat.
Reflection: I chose to choose this topic because obesity in America is a serious issue. The first step to fighting the problem is to because educated. Students need to be aware of their nutritional needs and also be aware of the unhealthy foods they may be consuming.
Link: Excel – Nutrition
Microsoft PowerPoint: Genetic Engineering
Description: A PowerPoint presentation on the fundamentals and ethical issues of genetic engineering.
Reflection: Genetic Engineering is a topic that is always fun to talk about because it seems that everyone has an opinion on the “right” and “wrongs” concerning when/where/and how genetic engineering should be employed. This topic provides a lot of critical thinking for students, as well as allowing them to voice their opinion.
Link: PowerPoint - Genetic Engineering
WebQuest: Quantum Physics for Dummies
Description: A lesson where students choose a physics topic and simplify it using creative methods that will make the topic relatable to the general public. These creative topics include making a children’s book, a video, song, poem, etc. (Any method that teaches about various quantum theories.)
Reflection: Complex theories such as the Big Bang, String Theory, Entanglement Theory, Uncertainty Principle, Black Holes, Time Travel, etc. offer a deep understanding in fundamental principles of our lives and universe. However, knowledge on these topics is often ignored because of complexity and general ignorance. I mainly wanted to inform people about the fascinating topics of quantum physics while making it a relatable topic.
