Events Of Wed.1-19 (Thurs. 1-20)

On the first day as an "intern" my thoughts and prayers were answered. I learned a lot of influential people existed and made their discoveries at this observatory. The first holographic image can be found and talked about here along with ideas of future power sources which are already being praised for the efficient and affordable conscription. We also can talk about the absolute brilliance of Jim K. (He is no ordinary maintenance man.)

Jim R., John I., and Paul debated marketing issues while Ed worked the Picture Telecommunications Unit. (Picture Tel.) I began to read articles which one in particular was a great example of how simple the Picture Tel. Really was easy to use. Jim and the group of guys began using Picture Tel. Since the mid 90's. Picture Tel. Is broadband connection with seamless live video and sound. It is efficient in every way possible and would save schools thousands of dollars given that some textbooks really aren't used that much in the classroom.

A good idea would be to have some type of interactive learning throughout the classroom. One screen would be for students watching the activity and actively participating and asking questions in real time. The other screen would be for the presentation allowing for great understanding and eliminating the lecture that is needed to prepare students for the activity. Keep in mind, lectures are important parts of understanding a task, but all techniques should be used in moderation.

Getting over the fear of the "unidentified" needs to be accomplished, period! Students can show teachers how to use the equipment instead of paying for high priced executives to show the way. The outspread panic of losing jobs as of now is a myth. The districts have to take advantage of the opportunity to create a better learning environment while it is still possible. I speak for student bodies everywhere when I say this needs to be done. As students we can help move along this process by speaking to school staff. The further importance of this situation can be understood by building relationships and saying a simple "How are you today?"

As for myself, I began toying with the idea of giving live adjudications with students from the 43rd district court to the observatory. We later had successful launch with the Picture Tel. Call to Oakland Schools.

Jim R. And I talked about what it takes to become a more involved thinker. In Sun Tzu's book "Art of War" knowledge is a matter of life and death. Everyone of us should take the individual strides to achieve greatness.

From what I can tell a great way to develop yourself is to sit down and read "Art of War."

Best to all, -John Ott

P.S Jim could you please post the link to students teach teachers to this blog. Thank you my friend! By the way until I can get a copy of Sun Tzu's book here is the link... http://www.chinapage.com/sunzi-e.html


John:

I believe this is the "link" you are referring to. It is entitled "How We Learn."
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/01/16/education/edlife/EDSCIENCE.html?ex=1106973113&ei=1&en=5e14c718e2b159eb

Let me know if this is not what you were referring to. (On further reflection you might have meant the the U.S Department of Education "National Education Technology Plan" entitiled "Next Steps to a New Golden Age in American Education."

Press release http://www.ed.gov/print/news/pressreleases/2005/01/01072005.html

National Education Technology Plan
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/os/technology/plan/index.html

By the way you are indeed a treasure, young man!

Much continued success!

Best,

Jim