Tuesday, 29 November 2011
Work Experience and Christmas.
This time next week, I shall be back home completing my Work Experience course. Definitely looking forward to A)Going home, and seeing my family friends and B) Working in a Primary School again. I completed a work experience course in Year 11 at Great Staughton Primary School and absolutely loved it, so I'm hoping I enjoy my placement this time just as much. I'm really looking forward to seeing some old faces as well, as I am doing a placement at my old Primary School. I'm bound to blog about my time there and my antics over Christmas. LATERZ.
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Multiple Intelligences.
I thought that our introduction to 'multiple intelligences' a theory suggested by Gardner, was very interesting. Gardner suggests that we have a number of different intelligences, and we all possess unique levels of these different intelligences. So, there may be one child who is good at Mathematics, and another who may have good linguistic skills. One child's weaknesses will be another child's strength.
I found out today, that I have high intelligence in regards to music (I scored 20), and achieved score ranging from 11-16 for the other 'intelligences.' Using the knowledge about multiple intelligences, learning styles, and metacognition, I feel that remembering information and revising this year will be far more easier than A-level, where I just seemed to memorised essay plans- a very boring and lengthy process!
I found out today, that I have high intelligence in regards to music (I scored 20), and achieved score ranging from 11-16 for the other 'intelligences.' Using the knowledge about multiple intelligences, learning styles, and metacognition, I feel that remembering information and revising this year will be far more easier than A-level, where I just seemed to memorised essay plans- a very boring and lengthy process!
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Development of my ICT project!
Planning to do a collage as my final project, I've decided to do some background research and have found a pretty cool artist called John Minnion. I really like 'caricature-esque' approach he has to his work and the theme of identity. He also uses Indian ink, which could tie in quite nicely with the 'culture' section on my project!
Check him out- http://www.gallery4allarts.com/john%20minnion%20intro.htm
Check him out- http://www.gallery4allarts.com/john%20minnion%20intro.htm
Sunday, 13 November 2011
So the project begins...
The first page of my sketchbook transferred onto bubbl.us for my blogging antics.
Monday, 7 November 2011
ICT assignment.
Alas! I have pondered over this assignment for many days, sat here clueless to what the major theme of this project will be, and then it hit me (well I thought it did initially,) I could do a project about Welsh and English comparisons, being from Cambridge and studying in Swansea, this felt like a suitable topic for me to explore. Eager, I sat down with a pen and paper (and a can of fosters) and divided the page in half, one for 'Wales' and the other for 'England.'It was during this process that it dawned on me, Wales and England aren't that different really. Except from the obvious such as landscape and strong differences in the accent (which I am not fully adjusted too yet) I'd personally say that the two countries have far more similarities than differences. So, this idea was completely thrown out of the window!
Another beer, and a page of doodles later, I had my eureka moment! I have now decided to this topic on the theme of identity. I feel as if this topic is personal to me, as being a twin, I've almost had to share an identity all my life. I then considered other aspects of identity, and one idea that came to mind was the idea of cultural identity- how your society 'creates' you. Subsequently, ideas of racism were creating, and so alongside 'identity' I also hope to explore themes of equality as well. I'm not entirely sure how this eventually develop, but it looks promising!
Another beer, and a page of doodles later, I had my eureka moment! I have now decided to this topic on the theme of identity. I feel as if this topic is personal to me, as being a twin, I've almost had to share an identity all my life. I then considered other aspects of identity, and one idea that came to mind was the idea of cultural identity- how your society 'creates' you. Subsequently, ideas of racism were creating, and so alongside 'identity' I also hope to explore themes of equality as well. I'm not entirely sure how this eventually develop, but it looks promising!
Monday, 31 October 2011
How to become a reflective learner.
'Reflective Learning' has been investigated by many, as clearly it is an essential component of higher education and the development of a learner. However, it is also important to note that feed back from lecturers is also important, yet, it is as important to also reflect on what is being learnt.
There are many skills for reflective learning to become a useful tool, including an awareness of what is being learnt, strengths and weaknesses of their learning, and a concious attitude towards personal goals and targets. Effective reflective learners have good motivation levels, attitudes and ideas, appropriate, distractions and gaps within their learning. Reflective learning does not only take place is an educational environment, but also at home and work.
So why is reflection important? Reflective learning provides the opportunity to resolve any confusion, develop yourself as an independent learner and to track progress. Reflective learning is something fairly easy to achieve, either through a hand written journal or technological methods.
A 'reflective journal' should not be bogged down with description, but instead, reflections on what you have learnt. It is possibly, a good idea to 'reflect' as much as possible, and to include informal aspects of your learning, including feelings about your lecturer/other students, and your ideas of how to learn most effectively. Reflective learning simply provides the opportunity to keep track of your learning and the progress of it, and to add to what you have already learnt. Honesty is key- trust your own methods and approaches to learning. A positive attitude to learning create advanced and more suitable skills.
One such method to 'document' learning is through the use of a blog (such as Blogger.) A blog is useful, as it expands the range of many things, including, communication, learning, education and technology, and so is regarded a potential excellent learning tool for reflective learning. Such a claim, is supported by Kolb (1984) who suggests, that an experience on its own does not create sufficient learning, but techniques such as thinking and discussing solidifies the learning experience almost. Kolb continues, and implies that the acquired learning must be tested in new situations; the learner must make the link between the theory and action.
On the other hand Gibbs (1988) identified a series of 6 steps to aid reflective learning- description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and an action plan.
Reflective Learning - Beth, Harley and Jodie (group work - reflective learning process) ;)
There are many skills for reflective learning to become a useful tool, including an awareness of what is being learnt, strengths and weaknesses of their learning, and a concious attitude towards personal goals and targets. Effective reflective learners have good motivation levels, attitudes and ideas, appropriate, distractions and gaps within their learning. Reflective learning does not only take place is an educational environment, but also at home and work.
So why is reflection important? Reflective learning provides the opportunity to resolve any confusion, develop yourself as an independent learner and to track progress. Reflective learning is something fairly easy to achieve, either through a hand written journal or technological methods.
A 'reflective journal' should not be bogged down with description, but instead, reflections on what you have learnt. It is possibly, a good idea to 'reflect' as much as possible, and to include informal aspects of your learning, including feelings about your lecturer/other students, and your ideas of how to learn most effectively. Reflective learning simply provides the opportunity to keep track of your learning and the progress of it, and to add to what you have already learnt. Honesty is key- trust your own methods and approaches to learning. A positive attitude to learning create advanced and more suitable skills.
One such method to 'document' learning is through the use of a blog (such as Blogger.) A blog is useful, as it expands the range of many things, including, communication, learning, education and technology, and so is regarded a potential excellent learning tool for reflective learning. Such a claim, is supported by Kolb (1984) who suggests, that an experience on its own does not create sufficient learning, but techniques such as thinking and discussing solidifies the learning experience almost. Kolb continues, and implies that the acquired learning must be tested in new situations; the learner must make the link between the theory and action.
On the other hand Gibbs (1988) identified a series of 6 steps to aid reflective learning- description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and an action plan.
Reflective Learning - Beth, Harley and Jodie (group work - reflective learning process) ;)
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
Saturday, 22 October 2011
A tortoise coming out of its shell...
HALLELUJAH! This is a joyous occasion! I have finally, some may say, come out of my shell! Yes, it has taken approximately a month, but at least, I am proud to say it has finally happened. Being a generally reversed and quiet person, during my first few weeks at University, I really did not feel as if I 'belonged' here- it really does take me a while to settle. But now, I feel the complete opposite, I have met some absolutely fantastic people, who, I feel like I've been friends with for absolutely ages. They've all made me feel welcomed and at home; I really have found my place.
Here are those who have made me feel at ease, and have made my journey (even though it's just beginning) as enjoyable as possible. I think they're all absolutely brilliant, and special in their own Welsh ways ;) (Except Bekkiie, because she's an English tart.) Definitely looking forward to living with you all next year, if everything goes to plan!
Lastly, to give me something to look forward too, my retard of a brother is coming to visit me next month! Despite the fact, that he made me pay half his train ticket, and living costs whilst he is down here, I am dead excited to see him! If you saw us, you wouldn't say we're close, but we are, trust. I don't think I realised how much I cared for him and how much he means to me until I came to Swansea, and it dawned on me, that I wouldn't see him everyday. I think we have a really special connection, even we're not fully aware of- being a twin is something really special, it's a relationship that I don't share with the rest of my brothers or sister, and I think it's something only other twins can understand. I know, I'll always have someone to rely on and someone to speak to if I ever need too. He probably doesn't realise how much I miss him, because we're not soppy like that, and I guess it's just embarrassing. So what happens on Blogger, stays on Blogger.
Here are those who have made me feel at ease, and have made my journey (even though it's just beginning) as enjoyable as possible. I think they're all absolutely brilliant, and special in their own Welsh ways ;) (Except Bekkiie, because she's an English tart.) Definitely looking forward to living with you all next year, if everything goes to plan!
Lastly, to give me something to look forward too, my retard of a brother is coming to visit me next month! Despite the fact, that he made me pay half his train ticket, and living costs whilst he is down here, I am dead excited to see him! If you saw us, you wouldn't say we're close, but we are, trust. I don't think I realised how much I cared for him and how much he means to me until I came to Swansea, and it dawned on me, that I wouldn't see him everyday. I think we have a really special connection, even we're not fully aware of- being a twin is something really special, it's a relationship that I don't share with the rest of my brothers or sister, and I think it's something only other twins can understand. I know, I'll always have someone to rely on and someone to speak to if I ever need too. He probably doesn't realise how much I miss him, because we're not soppy like that, and I guess it's just embarrassing. So what happens on Blogger, stays on Blogger.
Tuesday, 18 October 2011
evaluation of our website presentation.
http://www.ucshealth.org/education/who_can_give_blood/
We chose our website, as I have an interest in giving blood, and it something I am passionate about. We found the site, through google; we typed in 'giving blood restrictions,' and clicked on a few websites. We didn't opt for the first couple we decided to have a look at, as they didn't seem legit, whereas this one did. This website seemed to 'tick all the boxes' in regards to legibility and reliability. We ensured that the site was relaible, by checking a number of things. Firstly, we found that this site was created by the University of Calofornia, therefore suggesting that it came from an academic background (however, this doesn't make it fully legit, as anyone associated with the University, i.e. a student or lecturer could put it on the internet.) Furthermore, the website was updated in 2011, suggesting that the research was current and relevent. It also has a contact number, meaning that the website is not a hoax. The site was useful, as it had much to offer, including links, to other parts of the sites if the reader decides to go into more detail.
There were many positive aspects of the site, including:
- Easy to find links.
-Appropriate information.
-A search bar (for the site, not for Google.)
-An easy format to follow.
-It was appealing to most ages.
However, there were also some negative qualities of the site.
-We felt as if it was not that engaging for younger viewers of the site. However, you have to be 17 to give blood, so would many people under this age actually have an interest?
-There was also no specific reference, so we persumed that all the information came from the University itself.
We gave this website an 8/10, as it has all the information you will need, and provides varying levels of details, so those who choose to look into the topic more, can do so. But visually, we felt as if the website could improve.
We chose our website, as I have an interest in giving blood, and it something I am passionate about. We found the site, through google; we typed in 'giving blood restrictions,' and clicked on a few websites. We didn't opt for the first couple we decided to have a look at, as they didn't seem legit, whereas this one did. This website seemed to 'tick all the boxes' in regards to legibility and reliability. We ensured that the site was relaible, by checking a number of things. Firstly, we found that this site was created by the University of Calofornia, therefore suggesting that it came from an academic background (however, this doesn't make it fully legit, as anyone associated with the University, i.e. a student or lecturer could put it on the internet.) Furthermore, the website was updated in 2011, suggesting that the research was current and relevent. It also has a contact number, meaning that the website is not a hoax. The site was useful, as it had much to offer, including links, to other parts of the sites if the reader decides to go into more detail.
There were many positive aspects of the site, including:
- Easy to find links.
-Appropriate information.
-A search bar (for the site, not for Google.)
-An easy format to follow.
-It was appealing to most ages.
However, there were also some negative qualities of the site.
-We felt as if it was not that engaging for younger viewers of the site. However, you have to be 17 to give blood, so would many people under this age actually have an interest?
-There was also no specific reference, so we persumed that all the information came from the University itself.
We gave this website an 8/10, as it has all the information you will need, and provides varying levels of details, so those who choose to look into the topic more, can do so. But visually, we felt as if the website could improve.
iyar.
My name is Harley Everett and turned I 18 in July. I have an identical twin called Richard (I am the younger one by fifty-four minutes.) I also have two more younger brother's called Mark and Sam and also a younger sister called Sophie. My parents are called Dil and Louise. I also have three rottweilers called Rocky, Hatton and Meg. I come from a town in Cambridgeshire called St.Neots, situated in the East of England.
I have many hobbies, my main being singing. I have been a member of many choirs, and more recently a vocal harmony group called Vox Rocks. Vox Rock's encourages boys to sing, as many choose to hide their talent, as it is not considered something 'cool.' Before coming to University, I was also a member of a dance troope and a theatrical group, where I played many roles including the main in a production of Guys and Dolls. I also enjoy being social, and having a good old pint.
I am a active blood donar, and have the Blood type, B+, which is considered one of the rarest ones; I have been giving blood for about a year now, and I intend to do so for as long as possible.
After completing my Educational Studies course at Swansea Metropolitan University, I think I would like to have a career as a youth worker, but I am not entirely sure- definitely going to keep my options open.
laters.
I have many hobbies, my main being singing. I have been a member of many choirs, and more recently a vocal harmony group called Vox Rocks. Vox Rock's encourages boys to sing, as many choose to hide their talent, as it is not considered something 'cool.' Before coming to University, I was also a member of a dance troope and a theatrical group, where I played many roles including the main in a production of Guys and Dolls. I also enjoy being social, and having a good old pint.
I am a active blood donar, and have the Blood type, B+, which is considered one of the rarest ones; I have been giving blood for about a year now, and I intend to do so for as long as possible.
After completing my Educational Studies course at Swansea Metropolitan University, I think I would like to have a career as a youth worker, but I am not entirely sure- definitely going to keep my options open.
laters.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)