Digital Blog # C Chapters 5 and 7

     While all of the content found in chapters five and seven are valuable, I selected three topics that stood out most to me. I selected criteria for evaluating web resources, google earth and google maps, and simulation game on which to reflect..

     First, I would like to discuss the criteria for evaluating web resources. The criteria guidelines outlined in the textbook, Transforming Learning with New Technology, are rules to be followed. I created a rubric for a website evaluation and found that accuracy, authority, objectivity, currency, and coverage are all important aspects of a credible website. I then realized that the criteria also applies to many other aspects of education. For example, textbooks and instructors should meet the criteria of credibility. I have been fortunate enough to have professors that respect accuracy, authority, objectivity, currency, and coverage which is an inspiration to me as a future educator.

     Second, Google Earth and Google Maps has always been a valuable and personal favorite tool of mine. I used to joke with family and friends that I traveled the world and walked the streets of Paris after breakfast. I found that using Google Maps gives me a glimpse into the cultural differences of other countries which are such a valuable tool in social and foreign studies. Additionally, Google Earth is extremely useful in science. I used Google Earth while taking oceanography, and it helped me identify underwater volcanoes and fault lines among other things.

     Last, simulation games are a new concept for me. Personally, I do not believe that I have played a simulated game that incorporates real-world concepts and processes. At first, when I read this part of chapter seven I did not really see the value of simulated games when there are so many other options to educate. However, it makes so much sense that students would become engaged in the creative game that teaches students while they are unaware of it. It is actually pretty genius.

     In conclusion, I enjoyed reading about the criteria for evaluating web resources and seeing the correlation of how the criteria also applies to educators and textbooks. I was excited to see that Google Earth and Google Maps is used in education to teach students in elementary and secondary schools. I learned about simulation games as a valuable and creative tool for the classroom that engages students to learn through play. Also, chapter five and seven provided many helpful websites that  I plan to add to my delicious account!



References

     Futureleaderstoday (2016, February 21). If it is on the internet then it must be true. – Social Media by futureleaderstoday. Retrieved February 21, 2016, from https://www.canva.com/design/DABri58TllU/6p3-TgZipkx3NnYciknj7A/edit

Maloy, R, Verock-O’Loughlin,R. E., Edwards, S. A., and Woolf, B. P., (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc

     Mrsbennett2015 (2016, February 21). ToonDoo - World's fastest way to create cartoons! Retrieved February 21, 2016, from http://www.toondoo.com/privateView.toon?param=sT2w3wEEYHHRNutmdkM9mZQPKXzfi/PvjAjE/vxkGHgHTm7Q4eul1Q==