Michael Richards's Page

I have read, with a great deal of interest, many blog posts this past month on the 'flipped classroom'. I love the idea of having even more opportunities to turn my class into one that allows me to be the 'guide on the side'. It is an excellent way to vary methods and assignments to students with different ability levels and different interests. As I've tried out a number of approaches I have been searching for a way to bring this style of learning to my grade eight history classes. Although…

Before beginning my research into Virtual Reality, I considered it to be strictly for gaming or the movies!  I did not feel that it had a place in the classroom, especially the elementary classroom.  After researching scholarly articles, I found that, if utilized properly, can be a valuable tool. 

After researching three programs, Neopets, Roblox, and Toontown, I was swayed back to my original belief that Virtual Reality didn’t really belong in the elementary classroom except for use…

Yesterday our class invited ten teachers from our district to come for an afternoon carousel of technology in the classroom ideas. I have run workshops numerous times in the past but this one was particularly interesting for me. The students had practiced their presentations. They had exciting projects and tools they wanted…

En 1995, el Reglamento del Consejo de España declaró, por real decreto, unas tallas mínimas para varias especies marinas. Su intención fue proteger y conservar los recursos pesqueros del país.  Las necesidades de los consumidores tanto como  los de los productores fueron considerados en esta ley.  Busqué a fondo para información en el sitio de MARM,…

            Now that I have researched the opposing arguments to using virtual reality in education, I can say that I have a more comprehensive view of the topic.  However, I still hold fast to the belief that the advantages and benefits of using virtual reality/ simulations in teaching far outweigh the potential hazards.  Although there may be some precautions that need to be taken in order to protect our students, with proper supervision and vigilance learners can access material that may…