Blog Post #2

1. Mr. Dancealot

The message seems to relay that teaching has been reduced to just regurgitating information instead of applying the actual knowledge. In the video "Mr. Dancealot", the professor explains the moves and forms of dance without allowing the students to practice other than on their own. Near the end of the video the students are taking an exam and have no idea how to apply what they are actually taught. I agree that there should be a more hands on learning experience in the classroom where instead of just showing how something works, but teaching the students how to do the work themselves.

2. Teaching in the 21st Century

Robert's Argument Outline
A. Students Can Learn Anything Anytime
1. Internet Sources
a. Google, Twitter, Youtube, etc.
B. Teachers Are Now Filters for that Knowledge
1. Techniques for Filtering the Internet Knowledge
a. Thinking critically about problems
b. Using Internet sources such as blogs and wikis to answer those problems
c. Teaching the students about the dangers of copyright and plagiarism

I agree with what Robert's is explaining that the Internet instead of schools has become the primary engine for knowledge. Teachers will now have to adapt to this new learning curve by educating themselves in the way of the internet sources of blogs and Google to productively teach students about critical problem solving skills.

3. The Networked Student

I found this video very intriguing. When I was in High school myself, I would have never thought that a teacher would be willing to show outside networks that can make information readily available. Instead of sitting there and absorbing the information from the teacher, students now will be able to find the information themselves and interact with professionals and other students from across the globe who are searching for the same information expanding the classroom drastically.

4. Harness Your Student's Digital Smarts
I would assume that Davis' thesis is that students learn more productively when in a more technological environment. Rather than using the traditional pencil and paper method that has been used for years, Davis implements technology to educate her students into using their social media and other helpful web devices to further their own education outside of the classroom.

5. Who's Ahead in the Learning Race

Elementary students are clearly ahead in the learning race. It is remarkable how fast that education is incorporating the use of technology and internet media at such an early age. Being an Undergrad, I find it hard to accept just how far behind we are in the race. However, being an older more experienced student I probably do not have to spend as much time learning how to use a program as much as a starting 3rd grader.

6. Flipping the Classroom
I personally have never heard about "class room flipping" before but is sounds like an excellent idea. The idea of preparing the class the day before allows for a more interactive and discussion based classroom rather than one which students just sit there and try to absorb information. I myself find it hard to discuss a subject that I barely know about and as an educator would most likely implement this technique in my own classroom.