Digital Blog Post #E

Standardized Testing:

This form of testing has been around for a while and has always been an issue for many people who cannot seem to agree with it. Growing up I faced this form of assessment many times, but three of those times were extremely crucial. The one I took was called the FCAT, whoever is from Florida can relate. Many of these tests, including the FCAT, determine if you are going to pass or fail the grade level. Like everything, standardized testing has weaknesses and strengths. For many students testing time is a very nerve wrecking experience and cannot truly show their potential. But people who agree with this form of testing believe students cannot be afraid of testing if they’re planning to attend college. Some people think that it is not fair to compare students with one another too. I think standardized testing is a good way to detect the flaws of the education system. Although I do not agree with it one hundred percent, I do believe it helps teachers, schools and parents know where their student stands.

Assessing and Evaluating Students:

Assessing and evaluating students is a crucial job a teacher continuously works on throughout the year. There are many factors that come into play when creating tests or assignments for students. Grade level and subject are the two major factors that contribute to the process. The three elements that also strongly influence teachers when assessing students is their personal experiences standardized testing, and teacher tests. All teachers have their own ways of thinking and being when it comes to teaching because of their personal experiences. Standardized testing is extremely essential because it is the teacher’s job to prepare their students for any testing they will have to take. The teacher tests depend on the individual teacher and their feelings towards assessments. Some teachers prefer long tests, short quizzes, multiple choice or long responses. There are many ways to evaluate and assess students depending on their individual needs and learning styles.

Multimedia Technologies:

Multimedia technologies have changed the classroom environment forever. Today, teachers do not just teach a lesson using a chalkboard and a book. Now there are so many technologies that can relate and contribute to the lesson in so many ways. Even in the lower grades of elementary power point presentations are being used. Power points can be used in any subject and in any grade because the teacher is the one who customizes the presentation. You can also write on your presentations on a smart board using the special markers that it comes with. Videos on you tube are also a popular feature that many teachers are combining to their daily lessons. If your lesson is about animals, then you can quickly pull up a video on any particular species. Since technology is now a big part of our daily lives it is important to have it in our classrooms for means of engagement and inclusion for each student.

References:

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.