Energy Project Reflection

I recently did a research project on the use of Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL) and have discovered mixed feelings from my results. I have learned that by switching just 3 incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs, my savings increases almost right away. Also, the amount of energy it takes to keep CFL on is much less, thus less of a strain on our environment and non-renewable resources.
With this in mind, I hurried to the store and shelled out the extra 6-8 dollars for three 20 watt fluorescent bulbs. I was a little perplexed at the sturdy, child proof packaging, only to find out later the reason they are so carefully secured. After reading that if one accidentally breaks in the house you must evacuate for 10 minutes, I began to think twice about my new experiment and sticking with my wasteful incandescent bulbs. Nonetheless, I went on to find out that mercury vapors are much less in some brands than others. Also, I tried to stay positive by hoping someone will invent a way to recycle CFL before mine are spent in supposedly 10 years.

I enjoyed the process of my search. My feelings about switching went from thinking this is going to be a win win situation to, "wow, what a bummer" after reading about what's inside. I'm glad to see some companies reducing mercury amounts in their bulbs, but it still seems like a giant conundrum. I guess other countries are switching over as well, and it is predicted by some that incandescent bulbs are on the way out completely soon. I only have more questions now, than before I bought CFL. The move to convert to a more efficient lighting is well intended, however the long term negative effects might trump the initial savings of CFL.
Here is my Pesentation on You Tube.

I think I did pretty good for the first time ever using i-movie.
I spent a lot of time trying to get the sound just right.
The possibilities are endless though. It made me want to add some music, or effects,
but I tried to stay focused and get the message out there. Some of my strengths were:
Creativity
I sounded convincing and sincere
Good speaking pace
I was confident
Some of my weaknesses were:
Timing and audio glitches
transitions between ideas
the amount of time it took to put together
I tried to be a perfectionist
I made a mistake with my numbers audible near the end

Overall, I enjoyed learning how to do these technical applications.
If I were to do anything different, I would be more creative with photos, effects,
and music. My presentation would be more personalized.
Nonetheless, it has expanded my awareness and opened new doors I look forward to exploring.
Now, I'm going to try and make a music video with my new found skills and possibly tie it into my philosophy project.

Article 3 Assessment/ Tools for the Mind by Mary Burns

Overview: In Tools for the Mind, Mary Burns states that now is a good time to reassess the current application of technology within the schools. Computers have definitely evolved over the years, but so has
the way people use them. Since the early 90's the internet has become a ubiquitous mind tool, but to use it to our benefit (expanding our students critical thinking skills), Burns believes we must first learn how to use it properly. To promote a higher level of thinking teachers must utilize spreadsheets, databases, geographic information systems (GIS), computer-aided design programs, and simulation software programs according to Burns.

Reference Points:
1. By the 90's people thought computers would be utilized as tools for a higher level of critical thinking.
2. There are no statistics that link student technology use to improved learning
3. Administratiors and educators are monitoring the value of computers as instructional tools.
4. Technology can take over passive learning. Students can be empowered by discovering information for themselves.
5. Professional developments can be used to give teachers technical skills, but administration needs to find more ways to help teachers how to use technology to enhance student learning.
6. Many districts lack the following:
* on-site technical support
* long term professional development in technology integration
* sufficient hardware and software
* sufficient instructional time for inquiry-based
* Technical gurus to help teachers understand how to use computers
* computers in general
7. Spreadsheets, databases, GIS, computer-aided design programs, and simulation software programs are tools that encourage higher thinking levels.
8. Power Point and Word applications, commonly used in classrooms are used for simple cognitive tasks.

Reflection: Yes, I think technology needs to be implemented into our schools as much as possible. However, this will cost money many districts don't have. Right now the district I work in lacks in special education. I'm sure they are bending laws left and right by not providing services to students that qualify for specific services. It's all about the money and where administration wants to focus that money. Do they want to boost technology? Well that means funding staff training as well. Maybe teachers could receive CEU's for attending trainings. Or, could administration try to get more grants to fund technology? This way, they could focus budget funds on hiring more teachers to reduce class sizes, and making sure they are abiding by laws in regards to special education.