Journal 10

     As a prospective middle school English teacher, I plan on using data in my efforts to continuously be improving my class. Surveys from students can tell me what activities they like the most, the teaching techniques they are more receptive to, and what popular genres/topics I should implement into the lessons. I can also use data collection to observe what practices are not benefiting the students as well as what methods might work better. I will also use the parents as a source of data collection; the kids might have struggles with homework that I am not witnessing. Parents also might notice a lack of organization and other signs of disengagement/disinterest in the material. 

    The topic that most interests me amongst all of the class blogs is Web 2.0 tools. We don't realize it, but there are countless free resources available to us through the internet. All of the blog entries that I've read have described a completely different tool with its own unique features and uses. Including (but not limited to) blogs, social media platforms, and presentation, there is a Web 2.0 tool for any situation. Web 2.0 tools can be used for creating lessons, researching material, finding activities, sharing information, and much more. 

    The technological skill I would like to learn about next is video editing; I've always enjoyed movies, collages, YouTube videos, and other film arts. I especially enjoy watching short films whose only purpose is to appreciate happy, carefree moments of life. I sometimes try to take videos while I'm with friends or family but it's to get caught up in the moment and forget to take videos. As the holidays approach and I'm able to see aunt, uncles, and cousins again, I am going to try my hardest to capture some of it through video. I'll also try to practice this as I reunite with old friends with whom I have very seldom photos and videos as of now.