Stacey's Reflection Blog

It Was a PB Day!

2009-06-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday May31st was a PB (Personal Best) day for me! It was the HSBC Marathon, and I decided to sign up for the 10Km race. As you can see from an earlier post, I was freaking out the night before, as per usual. And as per usual, I had a great time! I was in awe of the over 7000 people that came down to race. Watching the half-marathon and marathon start was pretty fascinating. It took about 10 minutes to get everybody over the start line...over 5000 people! Unbelieveable! It got me revved up for the 10, and when it started it took me about 4 minutes to get over the start line and about 2.5Km for the race to spread out. I really enjoyed watching all of the people in front of me, but I had a bit of trouble with the lack of race etiquette some people had. Constantly stopping in the middle of the road and not walking on the right hand side. Very frustrating. However, once things got moving, it went really well. I loved the steel drum band and the Elvis impersonator along the way. I chose to not stop for water at all. I think that saved me about a minute of time. I kept using my friend's Garmin to know where I was, what my pace was, and how much longer I had. My goal time was 1 hour, but I finished in 1hour1minute26seconds. That's 3minutes25seconds faster than my Canmore run last year which had about 1/4 of the amount of people running it. I placed 470/1165 females, which made me extremely happy. I beat more than half of them! I feel I could have finished in my hour if I had more room to weave at the beginning. The ending was great! Monique was waiting for me and cheering "Greenberg"! Nothing makes me happier than someone waiting for me at the finish line! Curtis was there to take pictures! Our friend Nathan finished the half Marathon about 12 minutes later! He had a great run too, but again, problems with weaving around and spreading out. We had our traditional post race breakfast at Diner Deluxe! I look forward to running this race again next year. I'm not a fan of the start time, but it's a great way to get the day going. I don't think I'll ever do the HSBC half. There are just too many people! Thank you Chad for having me sign up and making me believe in myself! I can't wait to hit Canmore in September!

Pre-Race Anxiety!

2009-05-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

So here I am the night before my 10KM race. This is a time when I should be feeling excited and relaxed, but of course, I'm choking on my anxiety instead. I haven't quite figured out why it is that I get so nervous before race day. Even a few weeks before. I know I can do it. I've done it before, but instead I question my own ability to run. I run for the enjoyment of it. I don't run to compete with anybody except myself. My goal is always to beat my previous time, and so far, I've been successful at doing that. So, why the struggle? Is it common for most people to feel nervous? Is it common for people care as much as I do? It's not as though others are judging me. People are nothing but supportive when you're racing. Strangers are cheering you on and clapping for you. It's truly a great feeling! So my goal is to be in bed in the next hour, and try to sleep peacefully. I want to feel great about tomorrow, and I'd love to finish in an hour! That would be a dream come true!

Spring Fever

2009-04-17T06:53:00.001-07:00

As a teacher, I especially know when Spring Fever hits! The only problem for me, is when it hits ME so hard that I don't want to go to work anymore! We suffered through a long drawn out winter and the beautiful weather has finally arrived (let's just hope it's here to stay and mother nature doesn't decide to give us another white surprise!). There are many ways of knowing that you have spring fever. The first one being that work is not a priority! Nothing tastes better than food fresh off the grill. You actually WANT to stay outside because the weather is gorgeous and the air smells so fresh. The birds wake you up at 5 in the morning and you actually don't care! You have a bunch of races lined up because you're able to run outside now (I don't run when there's any snow on the ground)! The days are longer and the nights are brighter. All you do is keep working for that bikini body! Summer plans are lined up and you're just counting the days. Life doesn't seem to bother you as much and your always in a pretty good mood. These are just some of the signs of spring fever for me! I absolutely love this time of year, however, I'm itching for it all to be over! Bring on the Riders and the Shuswaps! This summer will be one to remember!

Personal Trainers

2009-03-13T06:41:00.000-07:00

Alright, so a personal trainer is every girls' dream! In the way that we want to be worked out by one... On a serious note though, and especially after watching the Biggest Loser, who wouldn't want somebody "yelling" at them to push themselves? I know that when I go to the gym, I'm totally on my agenda, and do whatever I want and however many I want. With a trainer you don't have that option. You hear the encouragement constantly at my gym. Even when the people being trained feel as though they can't do it. My big issue though is the fact that these gentlemen intimidate me! Yes Chad, even you! When I'm working out near a trainer, I feel inadequate and as though I'm doing everything wrong (and as much as I complain, yes, I love when I'm corrected!) I have found that on Thursdays though, it's like a gang-up of trainers in the Women's Only! Every Thursday, all 3 trainers are working upstairs when I'm there to do my weights. I feel as though I'm doing everything wrong and cut my workouts short! It's ridiculous! The upside of all this though is the entertainment value of being surrounded by 3 trainers! First of all, you can see that they have a good relationship. Secondly, the stuff that they make their clients do is hilarious! I'm sure if I tried it, I'd notice a much larger difference in myself, but I would feel ridiculous! :) This one lady is embarrassed the whole time she is working out and you can see it written all over her face. It's hilarious. I feel her pain as I watch her, but envy the work she's doing on her thighs! So, this is a rant and rave and a little proclamation of jealousy! To sum it up, I wish I had what they have (the encouragement and the push), however, I don't envy the "goofy" things they have to do! How do you overcome the embarrassment of actually having a great workout? How do you push yourself without the trainer?

BRACES!

2009-02-28T23:23:00.000-08:00

Alright, so this blog is going to be a bit of a pity party for me. It took me 7 years to finally make the decision to get braces. This is a huge life changing decision. As well as a ridiculous financial investment with no coverage from my benefits. I've been nervous since the time I finally decided to go ahead with it. I was fine at the consult, and then again when I got the photos and moulds of my mouth done. I was fine up until the night before. That night I cried myself to sleep. I woke up and cried. I cried on the way there and even in the chair getting them put on. And then I cried for the rest of the day. It was so traumatic and emotional for me. The only thing that was running through my head really was the fact that I was 25 and single and getting braces. I've had them for almost a week now, and although I've gotten more comfortable with my appearance, it's still been pretty traumatic. If you've never had braces I can't really explain what it feels like to have tender teeth, or metal constantly rubbing up against your cheeks. Not to mention the wires cutting into my cheek constantly. I have honestly never hated brushing my teeth more than I do now. It's an actual 10 minute process including spraying toothpaste all over the mirror and drooling into the sink. It is hard to see the final picture right now, when in two years, I will have PERFECT teeth! Two years doesn't sound like a long time, but this has absolutely been one of the longest weeks of my life. At this moment, I'm a very sad girl. However, the next time I post on this ridiculous topic, I hope I will have better news. So, yes, this was a pity party for me. Every once in awhile we're allowed to have them. I'm in the adjustment phase, and hope I will be feeling better soon...

The Gym

2009-01-30T12:26:00.000-08:00

Nothing is more important to me than getting in my daily physical activity. I have been going to the gym for over 7 years, and it is truly a passion and addiction of mine. In my eyes, even if I only have time for a 30 minute workout, it's 30 minutes of physical activity I wouldn't have had otherwise. I have fortunately had the opportunity to get there earlier than normal twice this week. And with all of the resolutioners taking ALL of the cardio equipment from around 4 PM until 6 PM, it's been a nice break for me! I can get the treadmill I want, and use the weights that I want without having to wait! To think I just wrote a blog on patience.... :) I have always loved going to the gym around 10:30 in the morning. It's usually dead around that time, and The View starts at 11, which makes for a better workout! I have recently started the workout routine that made me see success back in "the day". I do cardio Monday - Friday, with hopes of doing at least 40 minutes. Wednesday's are devoted entirely to cardio, with hopes of doing at least 60 minutes. On top of the cardio, I do 4 days of weight training. Mondays are for legs (so Chad, if you see me on the machines...leave me be!), Tuesdays are for chest, Thursdays for back and shoulders and Fridays are for arms. Other than my diet, which I'm beginning to battle, I feel great about having started this. In no way is this a resolution for myself. It's forcing myself to feel comfortable and get back into the groove. The best way to create change for yourself, is to believe in yourself. I feel 2009 is the year! I'll keep you posted!

Patience

2009-01-20T06:38:00.000-08:00

Patience is defined on dictionary.com as "the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like." We are NOT born with patience. Patience is a learned quality that many people lack. When I was heading into my internship, my cooperating teacher asked me what my biggest goal was for myself during this time. Rather than speak of educational goals, I informed her that I was most interested in patience. Keep in mind that I am the oldest of 3 children. You learn to have that only child syndrome before a sibling is brought into the world, and even then, it's not like you become a patient person. You still believe you will get everything you ask for, or that all of the good things in life will happen to you before it does to any of your siblings. Well, it doesn't necessarily go that way! I don't know at exactly what point I learned to become a patient person. I think it started around the end of my first serious relationship. I FINALLY figured out that if I gave my boyfriend a chance to answer questions without prodding, he would come around. Then I turned 19 though and once again my life became all about me. Deciding to become a teacher was a huge decision. It was going to force me to put others before myself. This would mean working with a classroom full of children! Anywhere from 5-18 years old or even older! As a teacher your patience gets tested everyday. Many teachers don't have the ability to deal with certain issues that pertain to being a patient person. I on the other hand, have made it a personal goal to remain patient the majority of the time, which, it my eyes, almost defines their ability to be effective teachers. That is not to say that my patience doesn't get tested on a daily basis. I had a moment yesterday when one of my students sat down to work beside me. Daily he tests my patience. As a matter of fact, I don't believe we've had a good day since he started in my class. Lack of drive and motivation in students really bothers me, and I have had a hard time working with him for these reasons. Well, I decided to be patient and kind (I am kind to him everyday- don't read into that wrong) and work directly with him for a half hour. The amount of work he completed and his positive attitude honestly made my day! I mean, he is just a child! It was a great moment for me and moments like this remind me that I AM supposed to be a teacher. When they said "Patience is a virtue", they were not joking, and I feel that is a virtue that I possess.

The Biggest Loser....The Biggest Motivation

2009-01-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I have ever watched a more inspiring and motivating TV show in my life. My friend Shelley got me hooked on the show last season, and it has become a Tuesday night tradition to sit, watch, laugh, and cry all at the same time. It's not like I'm 400 pounds, but the show truly inspires everybody to lead a healthier life. Any person who suffers from low self-esteem would benefit from watching this show. Any person who suffers from lack of motivation would benefit from watching this show. Any person who just wants to believe in themself a little bit more would benefit from watching this show. So I ask "What have YOU done today to make you feel proud?"

Winter Driving

2009-01-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

Honestly, how do people drive in the winter with such ease? Is there truly something wrong with me that I can't drive without both hands on the wheel and my foot constantly on the break? Is it my driving or everyone else around me that I'm worried about? A drive from Regina to Calgary took me 9 hours today! How is that even possible? I see a flake of snow and I panic. Meanwhile, people are just flying past me like it's +40 and the roads are bare! I know this is a useless rant, but how do you overcome that fear?

How Time Flies....But Things Remain the Same!

2008-12-29T15:02:00.000-08:00

It's been over 2 years since I've looked at this blog. Sitting here in my parents basement on the computer that started it all, I felt it was time to read some old posts. I have not laughed so hard in such a long time. First I need to apologize to my computer professor for my ridiculous lack of effort on my Tech Tasks!! Talk about just scraping by. Secondly, I haven't changed and it scares me!! lol I still write the same way and talk the same way. I'm just not as open about my personal life. The saying "You can't change a person" really made sense to me today as I reflected on past entries. No matter how much somebody influences you, you will never drastically change. It gets me to thinking though, how do we become this way? People in our lives influence us, friends, teachers, parents, colleagues. However, what makes us have a firm set of beliefs, morals, and values? Thoughts....

Tech Task #10

2005-04-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

It was a very different experience participating in an online course. I was a little hesitant at first, but really wanted to take ECMP 455, so I knew it would be worth the risk. And in the end, it was! The one difficulty I had was not being able to "speak up" about many issues in class. Even if I were to blog them, that doesn't mean that everybody would read them. I know I'm a fast typer, but I don't think I could have typed my thoughts down quickly enough to address the topic before we had moved on. Another issue I had with the online course was that I have a short attention span and sometimes I could not focus on the content, especially if I was familiar with it. The nice thing was that we could listen to you talk and be doing other things at the same time. I learned well that way. I appreciated how the content was so detailed and laid out in such an easy to understand manner. I don't believe most professors would have done what you did for a course like this, but everything was easily accessible, especially if we had missed content. You were always available when there were questions. It wasn't like we had to wait for "office hours", because your online office is open all the time! You answered questions quickly and with enough detail to get the job done. I would recommend an online course for people who have never taken one before, but you have to be a fairly independent worker, and be able to keep up with the content. It's easy to fall behind. This course was great after my iTED internship. It helped me see other ways of incorporating technology and the neat things that were available to us for use in our classroom. Lots of tips and tricks were provided for future success. At some points I think you made us go out of our comfort zone, which was good for furthering our learning and builiding on prior knowledge. Specifically related to this course, if you're not familiar with computer content already, I would not recommend taking this course as an online course. There were points when I would be frustrated with some things, but that was when I experimented with the computer and the content. You should leave the schedule posted for us somewhere for future use, or don't take it offline right away, so that we are able to bookmark ALL of the wonderful webpages you have shown us. I feel my future students will benefit extremely from the content I have learned in this course.

I don't know how ideal online learning would be for K-12 students at this time. I feel like they need more experience with computers before they would be able to take the challenges of an online course. This would be through the discretion of their parents and past educators and how the student feels they would learn. I believe that all students should experience computer integration as they journey through their K-12 schooling, but done in a well thought out and safe manner. A lot of planning and consideration needs to be done before computers can be integrated into the classroom, in order for all students to benefit and succeed. There are many advantages and disadvantages to online education, and a lot of thought needs to be put into whether a parents' child would benefit from such. Each individual learns in a different way, and online education might be the route for some. I believe in the years to come we will see more online courses being taken by K-12 students, but right now I feel it is still in it's early stages, and has some years to go.

Thank you for all of your help throughout this semester. It has been a long and wonderful (semi-painful) journey. :) I wouldn't have made it without you!

Tech Task #9

2005-04-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

Refer to ECMP 455 Wiki

Tech Task #8 - CFL PRIDE

2005-04-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here's the long awaited Tech Task #8! Get voting away baby!

Survived Cow Town!

2005-04-04T23:38:00.000-07:00

And what a trip it was! First of all, I left Regina at 5:50am. I stopped by Tim Horton's for my ritual morning coffee, and I was on the highway. It was dark of course, and unfortunately, I had to watch the sunrise in my rearview mirror! Blinded by the light is right! The time flew by! I sang my heart out for 7.5 hours! I made a stop in Swift Current first. Being that I was travelling by myself, I always wanted to have a full tank of gas. I stopped again at Tim Horton's, having to empty my bladder first, and picked up another cup of coffee. I drove and made it to Medicine Hat in less than 2 hours. I was rushing to get gas, because it was 10:22, in order to make it to McDonald's in time for breakfast! Lo and behold, the time was different in Alberta! That's right, it was only just after 9. I definitely made it through the McDonald's drive thru, and while waiting for my meal, I rolled up my rim, and won an.....ENVOY!! OK, that's a load, but, I did win a coffee!! I got back on the road again and had to make a pit stop in Brooks. Coffee literally goes right through me! I was planning on driving the whole way to Calgary without stopping, but my host for the weekend told me I was driving too fast and that I couldn't make it to Calgary before 1. So, I pulled into Strathmore, stopped at Tim Horton's (surprise, surprise!), took a pit stop, got my FREE coffee, and sat in the parking lot reading my articles for math! Half an hour later I was back on the road, and half an hour after that, I was in complete stress mode!! 16th ave in Calgary, during spring break, is NOT fun!! Especially when you have a frustrated man on the other end of the line trying to give you driving directions. Yes, I made it!! Alive and well! I spent the afternoon doing homework, napping, and getting ready for my concert. It seems to me that everytime I'm in Calgary, the men I stay with work! All I end up doing all day is staying home and watching TLC! At least I got to watch TV! I got ready for my concert, and was looking pretty damn fine in my cowboy hat I must say! We arrived after the opening band, and had about 15 minutes before Keith Urban started (famous country singer from Australia...just for you Jo!). I went with my friend Casey (who I was staying with) and his friend Dan! We listened to Keith Urban play for over 2 hours. He was phenomenal!! He is such a talented man, and such a blessing to all of us women! There were men at the concert though, and I was later informed that their reason for being there was either a) they were with their girlfriends, or b) they were trying to pick up chics! The crowd was amazing. Full of all types of people. Lots of cowboy hats. Everyone's getting ready for Stampede a little early this year! After the concert, we went back to Casey's and I basically passed out. 4 hours of sleep, a 7.5 hour drive, and a concert! I was wiped!! The next day I spent shopping! All day! It was amazing! Let me tell you, shopping by yourself in Calgary can actually be quite fun. The only thing you're missing is an opinion, but you don't have anyone slowing you down. After my day at the mall, I went home and decked myself out for a night on the town. Hit Moxie's for dinner, then the LB, then the grocery store for some mix! While shopping there, I got a phone call from Mr. George himself! What a guy! And then, who do I run into in a city of 1 million people?? None other than,.... THE EX!! Let's talk trouble. Emotional fits. You name it! It kind of set the tone for the night, but after 8 months, I think I needed to get that out of my system. Let's just say, he was as shocked as I was. Let's also say, that unlike what they tell you in the magazines, I looked GOOD!! Yes, not to be conceited (I was ready for the bar), I looked great! And how did he look you ask?? Not very good at all!! I did it!! lol Well, we went back to Casey's and got drinking. Needed lots of shots after that run in. Headed off to the Whiskey. Ran into one of the Stampeders there. Sheldon. Used to play for Saskatchewan. Amazingly nice guy with a gorgeous fiance. Both from Saskatchewan themselves. Afterwards, we headed to the Roadhouse. Let's just say further discussion of the evenings events will not be tolerated on this blog! The next day, we found the new IKEA, and went shopping. It is absolutely HUGE!! If you haven't seen it yet, or haven't shopped in an Ontario IKEA, I suggest you go! For anyone moving to Calgary next year, it is THE place to buy beautiful, affordable furniture, for the outrageously expensive apartments we will rent! We went out for dinner again that night. I'm telling you, single men do not keep their cupboards or fridges stocked. No, water, milk, and yogurt, do not maintain a healthy daily diet! We went to the Back Alley that night. Absolutely disgusting and I will never go there again. If you've never been, DO NOT go! If you have, I hope you hated it as much as I did! After getting home and attempting to stay up and watch the time change on my cell phone (I haven't participated in a daylight savings for over 12 years), I passed out again. Only to wake up to the phone ringing at 5am. No, we will not discuss that! The next day, I woke up, showered, attempted to pack all of my stuff without forgetting anything (yes, I think I had more stuff in his house than he did), I was on the road by 1! I left Caglary around 1:30, and arrived back in Regina by 8:30. Definitely good driving time. It rained on the way back. Of course! It either rains on the way there or on the way home for me! I also won another coffee from the Tim Horton's in Swift Current. I'm telling you, that Envoy is there! Let's just say the weekend definitely did not go as planned. I love Calgary so much, and can't wait to move there, but the drama that occurs there is something that I'll have to adjust to. Let's just say a lot can happen in a city that big. Only 94 more days until Stampede drags me into town!

Tech Task #7

2005-04-04T20:00:00.000-07:00

Alright, so Easter Sunday I spent on TappedIn. The session was actually not that great. The only reason I chose it was because it was the only one I was able to particpate in in March. The whole thing was about blogging. As soon as I signed in, the people in the room basically attacked me. They were asking me all of these questions about why I was there and how I used blogging. I explained ECMP 455 to them and about my various blogging experiences. At the same time, I was talking to Alec on MSN. I told him about the session and he decided to join. Basically the praise went over to him (because he actually knew what he was talking about) and I just sort of listened in and commented where necessary. I did not actually learn very much except for the fact that Americans do not know that much about blogging. It was kind of sad actually. In my eyes, they also did not understand how to effectively incorporate technology into the classroom, thinking that all students will have access to computers at all times. Due to the fact that I participated in the iTed research project, I think I have more of a heads up on how to use technology effectively and realistically in the classroom. I think participating in this session was not necessarily beneficial. However, I do feel that there probably were some beneficial TappedIn sessions that people may have participated in. I think the service is great for teachers if you are able to discuss things that are relevant to you and your needs.

Countdown to Cow Town

2005-03-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

As I create this post, there is exactly 16 hours until I leave for Calgary!! This is something I'm extremely excited about! Ever since I found out that I'm moving to Calgary in August, it's been hard to stay away. So, Keith Urban travelling ALL the way to Calgary is a good excuse to be getting in the car and going on a road trip! Of course shopping, boys, the mountains, boys, the bar, and boys are good reasons to be going as well! In lieu of the unhappy and negative blogs people have been posting, as well as myself, I figured I should post something happy!! Yeah for Cow Town! But I still have to keep the Rider Pride alive! Go green!

PS- George porgie, pudding and pie, I might be running into you!! I feel like I'm meeting someone I met on the Internet! lol The things Calgary does for people!

Stuck in a Rut...Literally!

2005-03-30T10:01:00.000-08:00

Let's all talk blonde moments here. I am the queen of keeping that stereotype alive. Finding a parking spot downtown is not exactly the easiest thing to do. Especially if you do not want to pay! Which is me. Why would I spend money on parking when I could invest it in a large cup of fresh Tim Horton's coffee?? Exactly!! :) So, I attempted to steal the last free parking spot on Smith St. at 7:45 am. I understand why it was still open! As soon as I backed in, my car sunk! Now, for those of you who know, my car is already quite low to the ground! I tried to move forward...no luck. I tried moving backwards...no luck. I had no clue what I should do, so I got out and went into the gym. The whole workout I spent worrying about getting home. Then it hit me! Take one of the thick wedding magazines and place it in front of my tire, and drive. Well, I relaxed and enjoyed my workout then, thinking that I would definitely get out this way. As soon as I left the gym and placed the magazine under my tire, I was ready to roll. My tires that is! That car was not going anywhere!! I was almost to the point of frustration, water splashing all over my car, and my tires spinning like crazy. Not to mention the embarrassment! Oy!! But I did it! Who knew that I would be able to get myself out of this rut! The girl who got stuck at the bottom of her driveway last winter, was successfully able to save herself without the help of her daddy or CAA! Could you imagine?? Anyways, thought I would give you all a reason to laugh at me! This is why I should stay in bed until noon!

Proud to Be...

2005-03-29T19:45:00.000-08:00

We all watched Joe profess his love for being a Canadian (Molson Canadian commercial). Loving everything this country has to offer. Every time I watch that commercial, chills run down my spine. Because, yes, I am "Proud to Be Canadian!" There's more to it than that though. I'm not proud to be Canadian because I was born into Canadian culture. I am proud to be Canadian for the fact that this country has so much to offer. The fact that Canada is so diverse and promotes this diversity. That is what I am proud of. If I look at myself, I would be considered a mutt. A little bit of everything makes me up. I'm Irish, English, Hungarian, French, Iroquois, Jewish, etc. All of this makes me into a true Canadian. The fact that it would be almost impossible to trace back my family history because my family is from EVERYWHERE! I look around this country, and the diversity is what makes it so beautiful. Embarking on a career in Education allows me to continue to see, grow, and learn from all that this amazing country has to offer. When it all comes down to it, I am extremely proud to be, everything that makes me ME!

Tech Task #6

2005-03-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

Alright guys. Here it is! The amazing Hot Potatoes project! I'll drop it on you before I burn myself!

http://uregina.ca/~greenbes/HotPotatoes/pros.htm

Check it out! It's quite pathetic and juvenille!!

PS - I think this is a great tool and would definitely use it in my classroom.

Tech Task #5

2005-03-08T19:22:00.000-08:00

I found an amazing telecollaborative project at http://www.friendsandflags.org/ The name of the project is called "Friends and Flags". The idea behind the project is to "create multicultural awareness". It is free to Register, and students in over 50 countries are participating. It's quite simple. Your class puts together packages so that students in other countries of the world can see what the culture from your country is like. The packages can contain organized binders or CD-Roms. You can include anything you would like that represents your culture. Along with this package, each student is to bring a bead from home that represents themselves as an individual, within their culture. The project is focused on creating the largest bead necklace in the world. This necklace is to be a symbol of peace. 'Every bead is a symbol of a human and they are on one chain. The chain is our world. We do not want it to break" I would definitely use this project in my classroom. It fits the grade 5 Social Studies curriculum perfectly and I know the students would have an amazing time doing this. It would also be simple to integrate technology into this, having students use different programs to create culture information packages and then burn them onto one CD to send. There are many interesting telecollaborative projects out there, but because I love multiculturalism, I decided to choose this one. I hope that some of you will find this useful for your classrooms in the future. Don't be shy! Check it out!

Henry Burris ... Seriously #1?

2005-02-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

Alright Burris fans, can anyone tell me what just happened? Or how about we start with the definition of Rider Pride? Or Rider Nation? Do we see greed, being selfish or shallow anywhere? Even in the fine print? Personally, Henry Burris was my first favourite quarterback. I fell in love with the game because of him. He was a vast step up from Greene and truly added to the amount of Rider Fans in the stands. Calgary makes him an offer, and boom, he's gone. I'm sorry, did I miss something somewhere? Have we won the Grey Cup he promised us? Do you honestly believe Nealone would play more games than you? The way I look at it, if you want to head to Calgary for the money Burris, be gone! That's definitely not anywhere in the definition of Rider Pride. We are in a province where good football teams are built, not bought. I'm sorry if $400,000 a year isn't quite enough for you to raise a family on. I mean, my parents work their asses off and make a decent annual income, have raised three children, and I know we're not cheap. So $400,000 isn't enough for a wife and a baby on the way? My god, this isn't Hollywood! Oh, I also forgot the free vehicles, housing, and off season jobs. Nicole must be really happy! Let's just say I'm quite excited to sit through Calgary vs. Saskatchewan football games. Whether we win or lose, you don't piss Rider fans off. Burris, as far as I'm concerned, you will not be welcomed back to Regina with open arms. You've let a nation of fans down, but we're happy your wallet will be full! I hope this is the beginning of the end of your lucky streak. Let's see if you really deserve to wear a #1 on your jersey. Just remember one thing Burris, Calgary was quick to sell out Khari Jones, and they won't hesitate to do the same to you.

Tech Task #4

2005-02-27T16:40:00.000-08:00

I chose to use the module Kids for Sale. I felt these materials would be quite useful in a classroom. I believe it exposes kids to the "other" things they should look for when surfing the net. I know I'm guilty of it, and I'm sure everyone else is too, but how many times do we all skip the fine print? Apparently, through this presentation, it's obvious we could get ourselves into quite a bit of trouble that way. I think the power point would be great to use in a classroom, because most students are probably familiar with the listed sites, as well as the fact that the presentation is child friendly. I think this presentation is great for getting kids aware of what they are getting themselves into when it comes to registering for things on the Internet. I feel there should be a larger focus on the viruses that can be obtained from such sites or programs. For example, ICQ. Even downloading the program onto your computer can leave you with virsuses. Or the fact that people can send you files through the internet or MSN and they can be contained with virsuses as well. This power point should have given kids the other side - what happens after your register for something, what happens after you download an executable file, what happens when you open uncensored email, etc. I do like how the presentation discusses the fact that kids are attracted to certain characters, or restaurants, and marketers know this, and use it in order to get that child based audience. Kids see a symbol they are familiar with and feel safe because of it. If we bring this to their attention, and show kids what to do and what to look for when they are on the Internet, this media awareness may prevent future mishaps on the Internet. I find that parents do not realize what their children are being exposed to on the Internet all the time. Possibly sharing this PowerPoint with them would be a good way for them to take a step in educating their children of the dangers of the Internet, and what is and isn't acceptable. I feel that there are great ways to put this PowerPoint to use, and it's something I would seriously consider using in the future.

Expectations

2005-02-01T23:00:00.000-08:00

When does it become too much? How do you feel when things are expected of you all of the time? Why is it that people think the only thing that should matter in your life is the stuff that you do for them? Take work for instance. You walk in the doors and you're expected to devote your entire shift to them. You're not to be late, take long breaks, or leave early. If you're feeling sick, you can only go home when they decide the needs of the business have been met. If you call in sick, you get reprimanded for it, and your hours get cut. Whether you have assignments coming out of your ass, or your sicker than a dog, you're expected to be there. Even though this is a place you KNOW you would never be working at 10 years from now. Let's talk University. First of all, TUITION! Please tell me, what student in their right mind can afford $5000.00 in tuition a year? On top of that, comes the cost of books and parking passes. If you're not living at home, there's rent and bills. For most of us, we also need to upkeep cars, and they're usually not the nice new ones. What other choice do most of us have but to work? You could be insanely crazy like me and work 3 jobs, volunteer with an ESL learner, and take 5 classes. In those classes, the professors believe their class is the only one that matters. They pile on the assignments, not realizing that you also have 4 other classes going on at the same time. Not to forget, the demands of finding a job, AND creating a portfolio. Where is their time to meet all of these expectations? When did it come to be that we need 25 hours in a day just to meet the demands of tomorrow? We are but one person, trying to survive, in order to meet the expectations of everyone else in our life. Let me leave you with this. When did it stop being important to have time for yourself? Do any of us actually know who we are anymore?

Tech Task #3

2005-01-30T21:11:00.000-08:00

For this tech task, I chose to evaluate a Home Improvement webquest, which can be found at
http://www.gal-220.org/homeimp.htm
This webquest is geared towards secondary grade 6-12 students, although I feel it would need to be adjusted quite a bit for higher level students. The task is to interior decorate a newly renovated bedroom space. The educational purpose is to do research, pricing and measurement, and to review perimeter and area skills. The webquest was quite specific in the requirements with a lot of reminders as to what was expected from students. The language was definitely at more of a primary level which would make it easy to understand for anybody. Although there weren't many graphics, it was quite aesthetically pleasing. There was a very clear floor plan laid out, with measurements, so students would easily be able to find materials needed to decorate the room. One problem is that the webquest is American, so measurements are in feet and store links are to American stores. This could be adapted. The rubric for marking was absolutely ridiculous. There was no detail as to how marks would be given out, and if what she has there was acceptable, students would have to put no thought into the assignment. I like how she asks at the end for students to think about what they would do differnetly if they were to do the task over again. I think this webquest is a great way to get students using their imagination while reinforcing math skills at the same time. I would keep this on a list of potential webquests I may use, although adaptations would definitely need to be made. I think this webquest would take tons of time to create and students would be through with it fairly quickly. It's user friendly, and practical, but needs some touch ups. I do feel that webquests are quite beneficial to students, if the tasks are appropriate to what is being discussed in class. Students love projects and being in charge of their own leanring and most webquests allow students to be quite innovative. In the future I do hope to produce many webquests and use them, if they work for my class. There are many other great software products and interactive websites that would work just as well at teaching students as webquests do, but it is one excellent way to bring technology into the classroom. The reason I feel a lot of emphasis is placed on webquests is because all teachers know about them and they are quite popular. Eventually, something will come in and replace it, the way Hyperstudio and other great software products have been.

TECH TASK #2

2005-01-25T12:02:00.000-08:00

I have this issue with my computer. One, my dad hates when we download stuff onto it, and two, it has a firewall! So, this task will not be one of my better ones. First I want to talk about open source applications. I think that they are an absolutely wonderful idea. School boards who can't afford to licence tons of software are still given the opportunity to provide their students with a quality technical education through these applications. During my internship, I wanted to put Open Office onto the computers. Alec made it sound like something amazing and at that time I was trying to turn my Mac's into PC's!! Good luck!! Anyways, I was in the process of installing it onto one of the computers to try it out, but was told not to do it because there were better programs out there (this was someone from the school board). So, I didn't end up executing the file, although I probably should have to test it out. Regina Public licenced Microsoft Office onto our classroom computers instead, which meant I had no need to download Open Office. I have heard good things though and I believe more schools should use it, if what I have heard is true, because it would cut costs drastically. During class last week I put TuxPaint onto my computer. I wanted to put TuxType on instead but I had trouble downloading the application for some reason. I found TuxPaint a little difficult as well, because you have to choose which area of North America you are closest to in order to get the application, which could be extremely confusing to some. I eventually loaded the program onto my computer and really enjoyed it. Although it is like Paint on the PC, it's more interactive, with much more to do, and quite aesthetically pleasing. It has many different options for creating visual art, which I think is a great way to show students that artwork can be created on the computer. After you create something in the window, there are comments and sound effects by the little penguin on the bottom, which would please youngsters in the classroom. This application is so easy to use. If you aren't afraid to click around and test things out, which most children aren't, this program is for them. There really is no need to read the directions. I don't know that this would necessarily be a beneficial program to further develop student learning, but I think the program would be fun for them to use.

Stress

2005-01-20T21:56:00.000-08:00

What is stress exactly? People throw that word around like it's PMS or something. I'm still a little confused. Is stress worrying about not making a due date? Is it worrying about being single for the rest of you life? Is it the pain that just won't go away? Why is it that no matter what is wrong with you physically, emotionally, socially, or mentally, it can all be related to stress? I feel stressed right now. According to my definition of the term. Our professors our loading work on like it's going out of style, the career fair is on Monday, I'm hosting a party this weekend, I still need to clean, work on my portfolio, get assignments done, go to my school, plan for next week, train for my marathon, work, and the list goes on and on. All of that makes me tired just to think about it, let alone start doing it. I have killer headaches and get pains running through me like no tomorrow, but I'll just assume it's all stress. What exactly is stress? Just some thoughts. I'm stressing out here!

iTEd

2005-01-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

As some of you already know, I was one of six participants in the iTeacherEd research project this fall. What an amazing opportunity. It made me appreciate technology in the classroom, although it took some time. Getting into a routine was the hardest part. As well as the challenge of not knowing how to use Macintosh computers. It deterred me for awhile, but I soon realized that I was doing this for my students, not only for myself. Our students do not know what life is like without a computer. In fact, some of them know more about the programs on them than we do. I don't let that threaten me though. That's where the teacher takes on the role of learner. What I didn't realize in this technological journey was all of the resources that were actually out there. If you think you're alone, you're not. Especially being friends with one of the most inspirational people I know (I see an 80!!). The Regina Board of Education has a wonderful ICT support staff and a ton of professional development opportunities. If you want something, all you have to do is ask. Literally, these people get back to you in such a short amount of time and are willing to do anything to help. The programs available to the students are unreal and will allow so many to see success. It's hands on and it's fun. Students are learning even though they don't realize it. What I'm really trying to say is "Don't be afraid". It's like riding a bike. If you fall off, get back on and try again. You'll find your comfort zone eventually. Trust me, your students will appreciate it as much as you will.

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