Blog Post #10

Before this assignment, I definitely did not know how to use Excel. About a week before this assignment, I was trying to make a measurement chart and it took me at least an hour and a half to get my chart the way I wanted it, and even then it was still not right. Now that I know how to use a variety of tools through Excel, I can see myself using it in my classroom. I think it would be really helpful to keep track of grades, like an online gradebook. It could also be a great way to keep track of class attendance. I always resorted to using different methods to keep track of these things since I was not comfortable using Excel, but now that I understand it a little bit better, I think I will definitely utilize it in the future. 

From reviewing my classmates' blogs throughout the semester, it was interesting to see how much my view of education has widened. I have always had blinders on for elementary education, specifically kindergarten and first grades, since those are the grades I have always wanted to teach. I have always cringed at the idea of teaching middle school or high school, since my patience is not suited for those ages. It has been really eye-opening to see my peers' passions for different subjects and grade levels. Some of my peers are vocal about their inclination to teach special needs children, or some with visual or auditory disabilities. Looking through their blogs, the websites they find interesting, and the work they have created has encouraged me to educate myself on the benefits of teaching other grade levels and broadening my horizons. 

Looking forward, I think I would really like to figure out how to use Edmodo. Edmodo is a really helpful tool for teachers and students to communicate with each other in an appropriate and school-friendly setting. As a teacher, you can answer questions, send announcements, and give feedback to students. As a student, you can submit assignments, keep up-to-date on news and homework, and ask questions in real time to your teacher. This tool is especially helpful outside of the classroom or for extra-curricular activities. This is something I am familiar with and would love to learn the ins and outs of it.