RSS in Education

In the past two weeks, I have learned a lot about RSS and RSS feed readers. Feed readers like Feedly are powerful tools that help organize different sources of information so they are easily accessible. Before completing this assignment, I had not put much thought into uses for RSS in the classroom setting. I now realize that feed readers are great for student research. They are also a great way for teachers to relay information to students or parents about classroom updates or assignments. 

I have created a static tutorial that shows teachers how to change settings in a blog they have created so parents can subscribe to the blog using a feed reader. The tutorial also teaches parents how to subscribe to the classroom blog using Feedly RSS feed reader. I think this is a great way for a teacher to use RSS in his/her classroom.

RSS Tutorial

Elements of Educational Technology

In reviewing the article on the definition of educational technology, there were a couple of ideas that stood out to me. I thought it was interesting to see the progression and change in the definition itself throughout the years. Technology is a dynamic field so it makes sense that this definition would have to remain open to constant change and reevaluation. I was also very interested in the paradigm shift from a focus on controlling instruction to facilitating learning. This changed my thinking on how technology can be used. My experience with technology has been more focused in training and instruction. This article makes me consider ways to promote this "deeper" level of learning by focusing on the learner and the learning environment.

Here is a link to my reflection of the article:

Reflection on the Definition of Educational Technology

Welcome!

Welcome to my learning log for the EDTECH program at Boise State University. My name is Kent Ellison. I work as a computer technician at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, South Carolina. Using this blog, I will compile artifacts and assignments relating to educational technology during my time as a graduate student. I am excited about having this "digital portfolio" as a reference for ideas in the future. I will be sharing posts to this blog with the EDTECH community in Google+. Here is a short introduction video.