Review and Web-Portfolio

I really enjoyed this class. The first day, I thought I knew everything there was to know about technology. I knew about the internet, Powerpoint, and creating videos. What I didn't know was all of the other new technologies that were about to be brought before me. I have discovered a lot about technology and myself through this class.
I learned that the internet can be used not only as a research tool, but in the classroom for student activities. I learned about new technology such as the Interactive Whiteboard and 3D Projectors. I would be so lucky to have these things in my classroom someday.
I found making the Smart Board presentations fun. Being an art major, I am a very hands on kind of person. I learn with visuals. The interactive whiteboard facilitates that very well.
It was beneficial to write the technology notebook. Reading about different technologies available to today's students made me open my eyes to the world of technology. Coming from a somewhat unconventional high school (a charter school) it was interesting to hear about online schools and the schools whose curriculum is technology based. It is hard to run a school that is so innovative.
The cumulative part of this class is of course the Web-portfolio. I feel tied everything together. Looking at each assignment individually, it is hard to see the big picture. With the creation of the website, I see that all of this research and planning is critical to becoming a great educator.
http://msernst.webnode.com/

Video Project

The video project turned out to be quite the experiential experience. After not being able to attend the original class period intended for video production, I rented a mini DVD camera from the library. Of course the files were not compatible with any editing programs. After downloading three different conversion software's, I found a configuration that worked. From then on, it was smooth sailing.
Veronica and I created a video on the effects of smoking. Since both of us have family members and friends who smoke, smoking seemed like a logical topic to create a Public Service Announcement. With help from her husband we filmed a smoker walking up the stairs and becoming winded. I played the non-smoker. Together we can stomp out cigarettes and live healthier lives.
Prior to this experience I had never uploaded a video on YouTube. I never really thought of it as being educational, more like a bunch of drunk idiots shoving kittens in toilets. Now I see the educational value. Students can learn a lot creating their own videos and posting them to the internet. It is a great way to become involved in their community.
After the first few bumps, the video turned out to be a success. I hope you can enjoy it and it inspires you or a loved one to quit smoking.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTYIthWB2qY