Tech & Service Learning

Some Technology Considerations
Helpful Websites:

• teachertube.com: like youtube but safe and appropriate
  
• archive.org: links to all sorts of material that isn't copy written
  
• magnatune.com: free and cheap music
  
• flowgram.com: online software that will record your actions using active websites, can also have a voice over and highlight text.
• www.nasponline.org: National Association of School Psychologist www.nasponline.org/resources/completetopiclist.aspx (topics)
  

Connecting with kids
There are many good ways to use technology to connect with kids at many different levels. It's important to understand their technological interests, abilities, and future to be able to connect in a way that is meaningful and relevant. However, it's important not to overdo the use of technology as it could cause a disconnect to other people or the content.

Tips for website use

• authority: who created it?
• accuracy: is info factual, detailed, exact, comprehensive?
• objectivity: is the approach fair, moderate, and consistent
• support: can info be corroborated?
• currency: is the info up to date?

SERVICE LEARNING
defined: a blend of service and learning so both occur and enrich each other
(vs. community service: work done in the community to meet unmet needs)

• include reflection, guided curricular connections, goals, student voice and ownership, leaders, collaboration
• kids work with the real world to be a part of something bigger than themselves (vs. being taught isolated material)
• uses hands +heads +hearts
  

"To Hell with Good Intentions"
-Ivan Illich
Illich believes that the American middle class needs to stop imposing themselves on Mexicans (in Mexico). Key concepts that our class discussed include: short term experiences can be for oneself vs. really helping and that it is important to know the cultural relevance as an effective act (something viewed as "good" in Western world) may not translate well in other places. Lastly, help can be useful and is needed, but needs to be done within the context of the culture in a way that is sustainable.

"The Universal Declaration of Human Rights"
here's the link