My MTT Experience

Well...it's down to the wire. The cohort is almost over and I can honestly say I am a little relieved. Whew! We did a lot this year and I am glad I was able to experience this learning process. The program covered useful information that will help individuals succeed at technology integration, mentoring etc. The program was demanding and required individuals to complete various programs such as Mindleaders, LoTi, LearnKey in addition to individual assignments assigned by instructors. Participating in the program strengthen my skills as a technology trainer. I was able to provide effective mentoring sessions, quality formal staff developments and improve upon my just in time support either remotely or face-to-face. As I reflect upon my learning experience, a little food for thought I have is to plan, plan, and prepare. Doing so will ensure your success as you complete the required work as you strive to become a Master Technology Teacher.

B. Matthews

Integrated Technology (Submitted 09/18/09)

RE: Homework Assignment
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Author:
Brenda Matthews
Posted Date:
Friday, September 18, 2009 9:11:09 PM CDT
Edited Date:
Friday, September 18, 2009 9:11:09 PM CDT
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8 (Your views: 4)

Parent Post

1. What age level(s) is the website intended for? Is this appropriate?
www.starfall.com
Starfall is a free website that teaches children how to read. It is perfect for kindergarten (5 yr) , first grade (6 yr), and second grade (7 yr). Starfall contains exciting interactive books and phonics awareness games. Yes it is age appropriate.

2. What content areas are being covered?
Reading

3. What skills would students need to be successful on the site?
Ability to use a mouse. Ability to point and click; and use the menu navigational buttons.

4. Are the activities age appropriate? Content appropriate? Educationally significant?
Yes. Yes. Yes.

5. Are the graphics, text and color appropriate for the identified age level?
Yes.

6. If the site contains links, are the links working? Are the links appropriate?
Links are working. Yes, they are appropriate.

7. List at least two positive attributes of the site.
Interactive books and the letter recognition movies (kids need a ticket in order to view the movie (animation)).

8. List any negative attributes that you notice about the site.
None. Kids in my district love this site!


1. What age level(s) is the website intended for? Is this appropriate?
http://www.brainpop.com/
Brainpop Jr. (5-8); Brainpop (8-12)? Yes it's appropriate

2. What content areas are being covered?
Science, Social Studies, English, Math, Arts & Music, Health and Technology

3. What skills would students need to be successful on the site?
Ability to use mouse and keyboard. Ability to use the mouse to point and click. Capable of entering a web address and familiarity of navigational buttons.

4. Are the activities age appropriate? Content appropriate? Educationally significant?
Yes. Yes.Yes

5. Are the graphics, text and color appropriate for the identified age level?
Yes.

6. If the site contains links, are the links working? Are the links appropriate?
Yes. Yes.

7. List at least two positive attributes of the site. It't s curriculum-based content that supports educators and engages students.

8. List any negative attributes that you notice about the site.
None.

B. Matthews

One New Technology Tool

One new technology tool or skill I've learned since the beginning of MTT is learning about Boardmaker, an assistive technology tool. We were introduced to assistive technologies early fall and my district wanted me to learn about and train teachers on how to use the product around Dec-Jan. My district purchased the Boardmaker v6 product for PPCD and Special Education students. I trained approximately 30 individuals (teachers/paras) on how to use the program and they were excited to use the product with their students. I developed instructional material for a special needs student who use an EyeGaze system along with Boardmaker. The results were fantastic! Thanks MTT for introducing me to additional technologies that meet the needs of our Special Education students.

B. Matthews

MTT Exam Review 2

Today we reviewed over the MTT test.

-Brenda Matthews

MTT Exam Review 1

I thought today was going to be a terrible. It was foggy and raining when I drove into Galveston this morning but it got better. Today we reviewed over material that was covered during the MTT summer training. I am glad Diane taught today. She makes learning fun. The information discussed today will prepare me for the MTT test. Overall today was a good day.

-Brenda Matthews

Video Production

Today we discussed video production concepts. We played around with Movie Maker and PhotoStory. Teachers who are comfortable with technology would probably benefit from these programs. As for me, I don't use them in particular. They are good for novice users however I prefer using more advanced technologies geared towards professional video production. Overall, today was a good day. 8*}

B. Matthews

Staff Development & Leadership

Today Brent taught us about staff development and leadership. The material he presented today was very insightful. He is a laid back teacher. That's cool. I am happy to know that some of the topics he discussed today; I actually covered in my district! I am ahead of the eight ball. Great!!!

Today we did a scenario activity and the results from the scenarios were interesting. The class as a whole had great ideas with regards to mentoring, assisting, implementing etc. Overall today was a good day. I will definitely take this back with me to CBISD. I learned a lot and look forward to learning much more.

B. Matthews

Accelerating Technology Use in the Classroom

Wasn't too thrilled about being here on a Saturday. That was short lived. It turned out to be a good session due to Diane. She's a good instructor. I learned some great things about accelerating technology use in the classroom. We discussed how to use accelerated technology in various formats. Participants came up inventive presentations with regards to the group project. I really enjoyed the movie Diane showed before lunch. I miss teaching on the elementary level. It's so much easier and fun! Even though I wasn't thrilled about being here on a Saturday. I am glad I came.

B. Matthews