Journal 1 - Learning & Leading with Technology

“Your Google Guide” by Doug Johnson

I like the way the author structured the article. He first put the reader at ease by building common bond in which most people on the internet use Google but don’t use it to the extent that they could. He then tutors the user in building more successful searches by building better searches through; forming a clearer version of what you are searching for, using additional search words and operators to improve your chance of success by narrowing your search and using operators to reduce unwanted matches. He presents in a way that allows users who might be timid with technology or Web 2.0 tools to actually learn to make complex, successful searches in a non-threatening way. He also instructs them where to find additional information to build on their new knowledge. He then builds on this initiation deeper into Google by introducing them to advanced searches, page ranking, sponsored vs. non-sponsored links and specialized search tools. He closes with directing the reader to Google’s tips and Librarian Central Newsletter. The author allows for less technical users that can implement so of his early suggestions and still improve their ability to use Google, while still providing more technical training and improvements for readers that are the technical specialists for their school.

1. How can the author’s suggestions be used in my classroom? By using the suggestions on building the search and building searches using more search words including operators, I will be teaching my students to consider the research in the form of a question and to think about what they are really looking for before sitting down to do their research. This more focused way of teaching and researching would spread to their work away from Google.

2. What other specialized tools does Google have for students? In the article the author cites Image Search, Scholar, Book Search and Maps as useful tools for students. Additional tools that would be useful in the classroom would be Google Earth which is an expansion on the Maps tool that contains a tremendous amount of features and application with a wide range of maps including; space, Mars, the oceans, street views and historical maps. The application does need to be installed though. There is also Gmail the Google email and blogging tools

Self Introduction Assignment

I have 30 years experience in computer software and hardware development, testing and deployment. I began as a software engineer using Basic, Fortran, COBOL, SPL, SPSS, C, C++, and proprietary systems. I moved on to Project Management of software implementations for government, military and commercial applications. Most recently I directed medical software development for a doctor’s office management, billing, and insurance product. Prior to that I managed data capture systems using hardcopy-scanner for credit card, insurance, medical, tax and fund-raising applications, and Mission Planning Systems for the V-22 and AV-8 aircraft, and the MH-53 Minesweeping Planning System. I’ve worked with most operating system DOS, UNIX, Windows on IBM, VAX, HP and other systems but somehow never worked very much with MAC systems. My advisor at the COE office advised me that I met the Computer Competency requirement.

My educational experiences began as the oldest of 5 kids, but more formally in high school and college as a tutor, student teaching assistant and volunteering at on-campus counseling. While working as an software engineer and project manager, I developed most of the training programs for the program rollouts and often conducted the training classes. In the last year, I became the caregiver for a 5 year-old girl. Having the time I volunteered in her class, kindergarten, and other classes. I was also drafted for field trips and spent several weeks volunteering at the Christmas store and the book sales at the school. My wife completed the CSUSM COE Multi-Subject Middle School Program while I was doing this. I spent the rest of my days making sure she could just focus on her classes. Despite seeing what she went through first hand, I decided to follow my dream of teaching that I had been postponing for 30 years. I am currently taking the three pre-requisite courses in summer session 1 and starting the Multi-Subject Elementary program in the Science, Math and Technology cohort this Fall.

I want to become proficient with the Macintosh system as I have little prior experience with it. I've worked with the Internet before but need to expand my knowledge of Web 2.0. Having prior computer knowledge is useful, but I want to learn about software and hardware as it specifically applies to teaching and how students can utilize it for learning.

I have a few other interests as well.

It is fluroite plate from a mine we have worked for the last 10 years in Northern England. There are great pictures and info at the website: http://www.ukminingventures.com/.

Wordle.net