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Thursday, April 29, 2010

Spreadsheet Crossword - NETS 1, 3

With assistance from Atomic Learning, I created a crossword using Microsoft Excel. The spreadsheet incorporates many aspects of the program - formulas, conditional formatting, color, and my own creativity regarding the construction of the crossword itself.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Journal # 6 - Gaming in Education (Classroom 2.0 Tool) - NETS 3, 5

I compiled research on Gaming in education to create a resource on several relevant tools and their benefits. I joined the online learning community of Classroom 2.0 to share my research with fellow students and colleagues.


Gaming in education includes a wide range of categories. Some uses are reinforcing basic skills, introduction of new material, and even promoting basic social skills. Games have been growing in popularity over the years, and many educators (like John Evans) simply thought ‘What the heck, why fight it?’ As a result, “there has been a growing interest in the idea that computer games can be used to engage, challenge, and motivate learners.”

One particular example by an Aaron Slutsky discussed the uses of Nintendo DS and the game Brain Age in the classroom. Not only is the game effective in the classroom, but it is also further enjoyed by adults, teenagers, and other individuals well beyond the elementary education years. It is a collection of intellectually driven activities that challenge the basic language, critical think, and processing skills of those it engages.

I myself am a gamer so I am compelled to defend issue. As a matter of fact, once I get my bearings and establish myself within whatever teaching position I manage to land, I intend to explore the possibilities within the field myself. Most adults look at gaming and think it is “evil”, a “waste of time”, and cannot possibly have any educational value. I respectfully disagree. Games demand a level of intelligence, understanding, and ability to think from those who play. With these characteristics in mind, I believe there are endless possibilities and applications for it within the classroom.