Hi, I'm Ro Wellman and I grew up in Los Angeles. I always went to public schools starting with Roscomare Road, a small elementary school in the canyons of Belair , moved on to Emerson Jr. High in Westwood and then to University High School in West L.A where I graduated in 1982. I didn't have to travel very far to go to UCLA where I received my Bachelor's Degree in Art History in 1987--I know that seems eons ago!
Since I went to school during the Stone Age before computers (we still had typing classes!), I didn't become familiar with them until about 10 years ago. However, through necessity I have learned the basics of Word and PowerPoint and feel very comfortable about my ability to learn,understand and use technology. I haven't worked on a Mac for years, so I'm definitely better at PCs--but I think Macs are cooler, so I am looking forward to using one! I am excited to learn about the tools that will help me utilize the newest technology in my classroom and in my life. I can't let my 10 year old son be more computer literate than I am!
I had no idea what the mission statement of the college was before I started. Luckily, it stated several of the ideals that have drawn me into teaching. I think, that as educators, we create a microcosm of the world in our classrooms where we can demonstrate the importance and value of diversity, equality and social justice. I feel that if we model these behaviors for our students, we can actually enable them to change our future world. I know this sounds idealistic, especially coming from a cynical gal, but I'm still going to give it 'the old college try'!
Since I went to school during the Stone Age before computers (we still had typing classes!), I didn't become familiar with them until about 10 years ago. However, through necessity I have learned the basics of Word and PowerPoint and feel very comfortable about my ability to learn,understand and use technology. I haven't worked on a Mac for years, so I'm definitely better at PCs--but I think Macs are cooler, so I am looking forward to using one! I am excited to learn about the tools that will help me utilize the newest technology in my classroom and in my life. I can't let my 10 year old son be more computer literate than I am!
I had no idea what the mission statement of the college was before I started. Luckily, it stated several of the ideals that have drawn me into teaching. I think, that as educators, we create a microcosm of the world in our classrooms where we can demonstrate the importance and value of diversity, equality and social justice. I feel that if we model these behaviors for our students, we can actually enable them to change our future world. I know this sounds idealistic, especially coming from a cynical gal, but I'm still going to give it 'the old college try'!
I like how you mentioned that you want to be more computer literate than your 10 year old son.
ReplyDeleteEven some of the Kindergarten boys that I have worked with were more computer savvy that I was at the age of 15. I think using technology in the classroom is essential in connecting with the students. I am eager to learn some new computer tricks so that I can be ahead of the kids!
My niece is seven and she can already keep up with me on the computer so I understand when you said you need to keep one step ahead of your son haha. I agree with your metaphor on the classroom. The classroom should be a microcosm of the world providing a wide array of experiences that help guide students to deeper understandings.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your personal mission statement, quite inspirational.
ReplyDeleteWhen we were working on our PowerPoint projects for 350 and 364, you made multiple comments that since I'm young I should be a pro with it. I think I proved very well that age has nothing to do with it :) And I can vouch for the fact that you're very capable of learning all this Mac stuff! Also, my 5 year old niece had to show me how to play Wii, and she still kicks my butt every time. That should make you feel a little better about your 10-year old son being more computer savvy than you are.
ReplyDeleteHey Ro Wellman where can I see some of your art? I remember from 364 that you were an artist.
ReplyDeleteYou cynical, nonsense. Your mission statement is is something that every teacher should aspire to acheive.
I really enjoyed reading your blog. Like you I want to increase my knowledge of computer. I found your mission statement so motivating.
ReplyDeleteRo, that's a great picture of your family! I really like and agree with what you said about CSUSM's mission statement and the classroom as a microcosm of the world. Idealistic? Maybe... but when you shoot for the moon you're more likely to land among the stars, right? ; )
ReplyDeleteIt's so true that kids are amazingly tech-literate now; this morning the 4 year old little boys I was babysitting set up a new Wii system, out of the box, and played it all morning. I would have had no idea where half the cords went if they'd asked me to do it. Hopefully you'll at least catch up with your son!!
ReplyDeleteHi Ro, I'm with you, I learned to type on a type writer too! and my daughter definitely knows more about computers or technology for that matter than I do! I need to catch up on my tech. skills for sure!!
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