I don't know if it's just me or if there was quite a bit of work to do this week. I have been sitting here for 8 hours doing homework, and I still haven't had the group discussion. I probably spent longer on the Voicethread thing than I should have, but I wanted to make sure it was good. I wish that we could have picked our own topic because I think it would have taken less time because I would have been more familiar with what I wanted to do. I also would have liked to "kill two birds with one stone" by creating a voicethread that my students could have participated in.
I understand the essence of Presentation Zen, but I am getting "zenned" out because the videos say the same as the book, and the book spends too much time not being simplistic. For example, I would like to see an introduction to the topic then a little info, then some examples (both good and bad). That is how I learn best. It doesn't help that I think the author is a little full of himself and it annoys me greatly that he flips off japanese words almost like he is saying, "I'm sooooo awesome." Every time I watch one of his video snippets I want to puke.
While he makes some good points about powerpoints, I keep reminding myself that he is just one opinion. I agree that powerpoints need to be more exciting, but I'm not sure that we have to go to the extreme he recommends. Again, I may be biased because I just can't stand watching him talk. And now it's too late to undo the visual of him being so pompous.
Tam,
ReplyDeleteYour post had me cracking up! And I agree with you on everything you blogged about! I made a list of all of our assignments for the week, and it was quite long. I have been able to cross off a few things, but I still have a lot to do. I started my voicethread by choosing pictures, but I haven't figured out what I want to say yet. And yes, I have a feeling I will spend way too much time on it also. I have to say that I am learning some helpful tips from the book, but I wish it touched more on creating presentations with students and in the classroom setting instead of all of the business examples. I feel like those don't really apply to me. I know you have a lot on your plate right now, but keep your chin up. I will tell you what I keep telling myself...It will all be worth it in the end!
Your post is great. But just reminder not to get to negative. the approach I am taking is that there is going to be some useful information and you take what you need and think about how you can improve. You are your own person and you should find what works best for you.
ReplyDeleteI, too, agree that my powerpoints need to be more "exciting", but its tough in subjects. My experience in math has been rather difficult because I feel right now that the students who are excited about math are and the ones who aren't will not make an effort to connect.
Tam, good job this week. I actually enjoy the zen topics and look forward to the videos. Although it is stating the same thing in the book, it sometimes helps me get everything summarized in my brain.
ReplyDeleteIt's funny that you find him so pompous. I didn't get that impression from watching the videos so maybe I am interpreting them differently, but I rather enjoy learning some of the Japanese words, it's like opening the fortune cookie and reading the Chinese words...I never pronounce them correctly but it's kind of fun to learn.
I think it's great for all of you who like Presentation Zen. I am simply stating my opinion about the author and the book. It's not really about being negative - it's about voicing my opinion, which is what a blog is used for. It's mine, I own it, but I accept other's viewpoints as well without prejudice or judgement.
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