Virtual Classroom and New Experiences

This past week we had two snowstorms, one on Monday and one on Wednesday. Because of the snow, we had what I would like to call "A Virtual Classroom Experience." This means that instead of having class in the classroom, we had class on the computer, just another way that technology can be incorporated into classroom learning. To be honest, when I first went on e-class and read that  we were going to have a virtual class, I was not sure how to feel about it. I mean, I have never had class online before and I was not sure what to expect. However, I actually enjoyed  the experience. On Monday we talked about Cooperative Learning and the Social Interactive Model and what we learned about it. I defined cooperative  learning as something that is implemented by the teacher and encourages students to work with one another for academic and social purposes. There are five parts to cooperative learning and one of them is interpersonal and small group social skills. Students should be able to work with one another because learning should not only be an individual thing, it should also be based off of teamwork and interpersonal skills. I posted a video on what cooperative learning which is below: 

This video demonstrates elementary school students working with one another for academic and social purposes. 

On Wednesday we also had a virtual class because of the blizzard that hit and we talked about jigsaw, which is an element of cooperative learning. My topic was social skills and face to face interaction. Other members of my jigsaw group had another topic and when we discuss the projects we will connect all of the topics together, like a jigsaw puzzle!

This was the virtual class experience! I like the fact that Dr. Smirnova emphasizes that learning does not stop, even in bad weather. She has a good point because learning is and should be a never ending thing. 

Next Monday I start fieldwork. Even though it is not  my group's turn to teach, I am still nervous about  it all the same. It came closer than I thought. I hope it goes well!!! Good luck Group 1 :]