Thursday, 25 June 2015

Additional Resources

Digital Health and Wellness   

* Required


Name

This is a required question

What is digital health and wellness? *


o         The branch of digital citizenship that focuses on using technology safely and appropriately.
o         Informing students of the physical and emotional dangers involved with frequent internet use.
o         Picking safe and appropriate ways to use the internet.
o         All of the above
This is a required question

Internet addiction is associated with digital health and wellness. *


o         True
o         False
This is a required question

Internet addiction has shown to cause which of the following symptoms? *


o         Excessive fatigue or loss of sleep
o         Academic difficulties
o         Withdrawal from friends and family
o         Behavioral problems
o         All of the above
This is a required question

Ergonomics is the safe physical use of the computer. *


o         True
o         False
This is a required question

Some guidelines to consider for healthy ergonomic behavior are: *


o         Maintain a safe distance from the screen.
o         Sit up straight in the chair.
o         Look away from the computer screen frequently.
o         Use simple exercises to warm up the body.
o         All of the above
This is a required question

In regard to internet safety; you should give out personal information online. *


o         True
o         False
This is a required question

Report to your parent or teacher any information online that makes you uncomfortable. *


o         True
o         False
This is a required question

It is appropriate to agree to meet someone that you have met online without a parent's or teacher's permission. *


o         True
o         False
This is a required question

Never submit passwords through Google Forms.




Did You Know

BLOG BACKGROUND

•Originally, Weblogs were not collaborative technologies.
•Gave voice to person wishing to place thoughts and opinions into unedited public space.
•This one-to-many communication tool was updated to allow reader comments and feedback.
•Now Weblogs are a place where material can be synthesized, mashed, and opened to comments.
•Video, audio, images and other media can be incorporated. 

•Likes and dislikes can be noted.



Wednesday, 24 June 2015

The nine elements of digital citizenship

The Nine Elements of Digital Citizenship.

1.Digital Access

This certain technology is used for quick communication between people in a society who are in large numbers. However, not all tools of this technology can be at reach by everyone because of social issues such as disabilities as well as physical location (Ribble, 2011).

2.Digital Commerce

Under digital commerce, goods and products are sold and bought online using electronic processes. Uncommonness of this technology to students and people is because of the fear of internet scams and identity theft (Ribble, 2011). 

3.Digital Communication

Digital Communication is when people exchange information through electronic devices in the form of cell phones and social networks. This form of communication has created a new social structure governing how, when and with whom people should interact with. Most organisations use this technology for business purposes and people who are not exposed to technology find this form of communication difficult to use (Ribble, 2011). 

4.Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy is “the process of teaching and learning about technology and the use of technology”. The importance aspect of technology is to understand how it can be used in an appropriate manner. However, teaching people on how to use technology appropriately is becoming history every day (Ribble, 2011). 

5.Digital Etiquette

Digital Etiquette refers to "electronic standards of conduct or procedure." Technology users often see this area as one of the most pressing problems when dealing with Digital Citizenship. We recognize inappropriate behaviour when we see it, but before people use technology they do not learn digital etiquette (i.e. appropriate conduct).   Many people feel uncomfortable talking to others about their digital etiquette.  Often rules and regulations are created or the technology is simply banned to stop inappropriate use. It is not enough to create rules and policy, we must teach everyone to become responsible digital citizens in this new society (Ribble, 2011).  

6.Digital Law

 Digital Law refers to "electronic responsibility for actions and deeds." Digital law deals with the ethics of technology within a society. Unethical use manifests itself in form of theft and/or crime. Ethical use manifests itself in the form of abiding by the laws of society. Users need to understand that stealing or causing damage to other people’s work, identity, or property online is a crime. There are certain rules of society that users need to be aware in a ethical society. These laws apply to anyone who works or plays online. Hacking into others information, downloading illegal music, plagiarizing, creating destructive worms, viruses or creating Trojan Horses, sending spam, or stealing anyone’s identify or property is unethical (Ribble, 2011).  

7.Digital Rights & Responsibilities

This element is all about freedom and requirements extended to people who use electronic components in the digital world (Ribble, 2011).  

8.Digital Health & Wellness

Digital Health & Wellness refers to "physical and psychological well-being in a digital technology world." Eye safety, repetitive stress syndrome, and sound ergonomic practices are issues that need to be addressed in a new technological world.  Beyond the physical issues are those of the psychological issues that are becoming more prevalent such as Internet addiction.  Users need to be taught that there are inherent dangers of technology. Digital Citizenship includes a culture where technology users are taught how to protect themselves through education and training (Ribble, 2011).  

9.Digital Security (self-protection)

This refers to "electronic precautions to guarantee safety." In any society, there are individuals who steal, deface, or disrupt other people. The same is true for the digital community. It is not enough to trust other members in the community for our own safety. In our own homes, we put locks on our doors and fire alarms in our houses to provide some level of protection. The same must be true for the digital security. We need to have virus protection, backups of data, and surge control of our equipment. As responsible citizens, we must protect our information from outside forces that might cause disruption or harm (Ribble, 2011).  

Ribble, M. 2011. Nine themes of digital citizenship, Digital Citizenship. [Online]. Available at http://www.digitalcitizenship.net/Nine_Elements.html [Accessed on 11 June 2015].

The five fluencies of digital citizenship.

The five fluencies of digital citizenship.

1.Solution fluency

Our education system has taught problem-solving in a show-and-tell manner (we show students the problem, and tell them how we got the answer) that has fostered a culture of dependency, rather than discovery. But if you look at today’s economy, you’ll discover that most left-brain tasks are already automated or outsourced via Internet in a global economy, leaving jobs that require whole-brain thinking. This means creativity and problem-solving applied in real time. The 6D system is a logical, thorough, and relevant approach for tackling problems.
1.    Define the problem, because you need to know exactly what you’re doing before you start.
2.    Discover a solution, because planning prevents wasted effort.
3.    Dream up a process, one that is suitable and efficient.
4.    Design the process in an accurate and detailed action plan.
5.    Deliver by putting the plan into action by both producing and publishing the solution.
6.    Debrief and foster ownership by evaluating the problem solving process.
      (Crockett, Jukes, Churches, 2011).

2.Information fluency

Data is increasing dramatically because of infowhelm. Facts are becoming obsolete faster, and knowledge built on these facts is less durable. Information fluency is the ability to unconsciously interpret this avalanche of data in all formats, in order to extract the essential and perceive its significance. Information fluency has 5 As, which are:
1.     Ask good questions, in order to get good answers.
2.    Access and acquire the raw material from the appropriate digital information sources, which today are mostly graphical and audio visual in nature.
3.    Analyse and authenticate and arrange these materials, and distinguish between good and bad, fact and opinion. Understand bias and determine what is incomplete to turn the raw data into usable knowledge.
4.    Apply the knowledge within a real world problem or simulation using a VIP action (vision into practice).
5.    Assess both the product and the process, which are both a teacher and a student practice. 
         (Crockett, Jukes, Churches, 2011).

3.Creativity fluency 

Creativity fluency how artistic proficiency adds meaning through design, art, and storytelling. We are all creative people. This means that creativity can be taught and learned like any other skill. It’s a whole brain process that involves both hemispheres working together. There are 5 Is to Creativity fluency:
1.    Identify the desired outcome and criteria.
2.    Inspire your creativity with rich sensory information.
3.    Interpolate and connect the dots by searching for patterns within the inspiration that align with your desired outcome and criteria from Identify.
4.    Imagine is the synthesis of Inspire and Interpolate, uniting in the birth of an idea.
5.    Inspect the idea against the original criteria and for feasibility.
         (Crockett, Jukes, Churches, 2011).

4.Media fluency

 In our multimedia world, communication has moved far beyond the realm of text. Our visual learning capacity needs stimulation with rich media from a variety of different sources. But it’s more than just operating a digital camera, creating a podcast, or writing a document. There are two components of Media fluency—one for input and one for output.
1.    Listen actively and decode the communication by separating the media from the message, concisely and clearly verbalizing the message and verifying its authenticity, and then critically analysing the medium for form, flow, and alignment with the intended audience and purpose.
2.    Leverage the most appropriate media for your message considering your content or message and what the desired outcome is. Then consider the audience, your abilities, and any pre-determined criteria. From here, the application of the other fluencies is used to produce and publish your message. 
     (Crockett, Jukes, Churches, 2011).

5.Collaboration fluency

More and more, working, playing, and learning in today’s digital world involves working with others. It is the spirit of collaboration that will stimulate progress in our global marketplace, in our social networks, and in our ability to create products of value and substance. Collaboration fluency is the ability to successfully work and interact with virtual and real partners. The 5 Es of Collaboration fluency are: 
 1.    Establish the collective, and determine the best role for each team member by pinpointing each team member’s personal strengths and expertise, establishing norms, and the signing of a group contract that indicates both a collective working agreement and an acceptance of the individual responsibilities and accountability of each team member.
2.    Envision the outcome, examining the issue, challenge, and goal as a group.
3.    Engineer a workable plan to achieve the goal.
4.    Execute by putting the plan into action and managing the process.
5.    Examine the process and the end result for areas of constructive improvement.
       (Crockett, Jukes, Churches, 2011).

Crockett, L, Jukes, I, Churches, A. 2011.eds. Literacy is NOT Enough: 21st Century Fluencies for the Digital Age. Corwin Press.



Sections for Parents (An overview of safe or ‘good’ games for kids to play.)

An overview of safe or ‘good’ games for kids to play.

The Smart Kit is a platform that provides school-safe games and puzzles that kids & adults just love to play. Importantly, the content in the Smart Kit is appropriate for school use and family fun, that means you will never find violence, harsh language, or adult situations (EdTech Team, n.d.).

2. Room Recess 
Room Recess is focused on providing children with free educational games. These games reinforce important skills that are vital to elementary students and their learning process.  
RoomRecess was developed entirely by an elementary school teacher with the goal of reinforcing fundamental learning concepts in math, reading, spelling, language arts, and basic problem solving. Students do not have to sign up or hold an account they can simply load up an activity and have fun learning while they play! (EdTech Team, n.d.).

3. FunBrain  
Funbrain, created for kids ages preschool through grade 8, offers more than 100 fun, interactive games that develop skills in math, reading, and literacy. Plus, kids can read a variety of popular books and comics on the site, including Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Amelia Writes Again, and Brewster Rocket (EdTech Team, n.d.).

4. DuckieDeck  
Duckiedeck is a kid safe platform that provides a wide variety of games for toddlers and preschoolers. These games cover various topics including :
  • Games For kids
  • Doctor Games
  • Eco Games
  • Nature Games
  • Painting Games
  • Health Games
  • Engineering Games
  • Number Games
  • Circus Games
  • Animal Games
  • Toya And Games
  • House Games
  • (EdTech Team, n.d.).

5Math Chimp  
Math Chimp is a directory of fun online math games, videos and worksheets all of which are aligned to the Common Core Standards. The purpose is to provide engaging and helpful Common Core activities for grades K+ through 8th (EdTech Team, n.d.).
 
 Jefferson Lab is another great website where students can have access to different games and puzzles. All of these internet based games require a JavaScript enabled browser (EdTech Team, n.d.). 


EdTech Team, n.d. 6 Good Kids- Safe Sites For Educational Games.Educational Technology and Mobile Learning. [Online]. Available at:http://www.educatorstechnology.com/2013/08/6-good-kids-safe-sites-for-educational.html [Accessed 20 June 2015] 

Digital Citizenship & Digital Access


About Human Capital

Human Capital is a focused recruitment company specialising in placing highly talented and qualified candidates with Investment Banks, Investment Managers and other financial services businesses. Human Capital has extensive networks with senior management at local and foreign Investment Banks, traditional Asset Managers as well as Hedge Funds. In addition, Human Capital has extensive networks of Qualified Actuaries, Actuarial Students, Mathematics of Finance Graduates, Chartered Accountants ,CFA Charterholders and Engineers (Hcapital, n.d.).

Human Capital’s competitive advantage is in assisting candidates transition from traditional actuarial, accounting, consulting or analytical positions into a banking or investment environment. This is in addition to assisting candidates with existing banking or investment management experience advance up the corporate ladder in the field they are already specialised in (Hcapital, n.d.).
Hcapital. N.d. Human Capital. [Online]. Available at: http://www.hcapital.co.za/ [Accessed on 04 June 2015].



 About Knowledge Capital.

Knowledge capital, also called intellectual capital, is the intangible assets that represents valuable ideas, methods, processes and other intuitive talents that belong to a company (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).


How it works/Example:

Some of the most famous capital is knowledge capital: the secret formula for Coca-Cola or the Colonel's chicken, the design behind the next iPhone, the patent for the Chia Pet, the trademark for the Nike "swoosh" or the code for the next "Call of Duty" video game. These assets all produce significant revenue, and they are all the product of research, trial and error, hard work, and talent, but you can't touch them (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Knowledge capital largely relies on the talents of people rather than the work of machines, which means  companies that want to grow and maintain knowledge capital must grow and maintain talent in their employees (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Why it Matters:

Knowledge capital can give companies significant competitive advantages. It is hard for competitors to replicate, and it has a long life. For some companies, knowledge capital can be the bulk of the company's asset base or revenue stream (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Like most assets, knowledge capital can lose value as it ages; that is, it amortizes (depreciation is the term used when referring to tangible assets). The rate at which a company chooses to amortize intangible assets may result in a book value that differs from the current market value of the assets. Although the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory bodies define how and when a company’s assets are reported, companies may employ a variety of accepted methods for recording, depreciating and disposing of assets, which is why analysts must also carefully study the notes to a company’s financial statements (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Financialdictionary.com. n.d. [Online]. Available at: http://www.investinganswers.com/financial-dictionary/businesses-corporations/knowledge-capital-6014  [Accessed 18 June 2015].


About Social Capital

The central premise of social capital is that social networks have value. Social capital refers to the collective value of all "social networks" and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other (Hks, n.d.).

How does social capital work?

The term social capital emphasizes not just warm and cuddly feelings, but a wide variety of quite specific benefits that flow from the trust, reciprocity, information, and cooperation associated with social networks. Social capital creates value for the people who are connected and, at least sometimes, for bystanders as well (Hks, n.d.).

Social capital works through multiple channels:
  • Information flows (e.g. learning about jobs, learning about candidates running for office, exchanging ideas at college, etc.) depend on social capital.
  • Norms of reciprocity (mutual aid) rely on social networks. Bonding networks that connect folks who are similar sustain particularized (in-group) reciprocity. Bridging networks that connect individuals who are diverse sustain generalized reciprocity.
  • Collective action depends upon social networks (e.g., the role that the black church played in the Civil Rights movement), although collective action also can foster new networks.
  • Broader identities and solidarity are encouraged by social networks that help translate an "I" mentality into a "we" mentality.
    (Hks, n.d.).
What are some examples of social capital?

When a group of neighbors informally keep an eye on one another's homes, that's social capital in action. When a tightly knit community of Hassidic Jews trade diamonds without having to test each gem for purity, that's social capital in action. Barn-raising on the frontier was social capital in action, and so too are e-mail exchanges among members of a cancer support group. Social capital can be found in friendship networks, neighborhoods, churches, schools, bridge clubs, civic associations, and even bars. The motto in Cheers "where everybody knows your name" captures one important aspect of social capital (Hks, n.d.).

Hks. n.d. About Social Capital. [online]. Available at: http://www.hks.harvard.edu/programs/saguaro/about-social-capital [Accessed 28 May 2015].


Summary of Knowledge, Social and Human Capital.

Human Capital is a focused recruitment company specialising in placing highly talented and qualified candidates with Investment Banks, Investment Managers and other financial services businesses. Human Capital has extensive networks with senior management at local and foreign Investment Banks, traditional Asset Managers as well as Hedge Funds. In addition, Human Capital has extensive networks of Qualified Actuaries (Hcapital, n.d.).

Human Capital’s competitive advantage is in assisting candidates transition from traditional actuarial, accounting, consulting or analytical positions into a banking or investment environment. This is in addition to assisting candidates with existing banking or investment management experience advance up the corporate ladder in the field they are already specialised in (Hcapital, n.d.).

However, knowledge capital is the intangible assets that represents valuable ideas, methods, processes and other intuitive talents that belong to a company (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Knowledge capital largely relies on the talents of people rather than the work of machines, which means  companies that want to grow and maintain knowledge capital must grow and maintain talent in their employees (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

Knowledge capital can give companies significant competitive advantages. It is hard for competitors to replicate, and it has a long life. For some companies, knowledge capital can be the bulk of the company's asset base or revenue stream (Financial Dictionary, n.d.).

The central premise of social capital is that social networks have value. Social capital refers to the collective value of all "social networks" and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other (Hks, n.d.).

The term social capital emphasizes not just warm and cuddly feelings, but a wide variety of quite specific benefits that flow from the trust, reciprocity, information, and cooperation associated with social networks. Social capital creates value for the people who are connected and, at least sometimes, for bystanders as well (Hks, n.d.).



Hks. n.d. About Social Capital. [online]. Available at: http://www.hks.harvard.edu/programs/saguaro/about-social-capital [Accessed 28 May 2015].

Hcapital. N.d. Human Capital. [Online]. Available at: http://www.hcapital.co.za/ [Accessed on 04 June 2015].

Financialdictionary.com. n.d. [Online]. Available at: http://www.investinganswers.com/financial-dictionary/businesses-corporations/knowledge-capital-6014  [Accessed 18 June 2015].







Digital Literacy and Information Fluency

Animal Planet.

Purpose of the site

Animal Planet uploads different stories and videos of various animal species discovered all over the world. This website explains to us on the research topics, as well as what we (as the audience) find interesting during a particular time phrase, this can be the existence of Mermaids for instance.

Mermaids: the Body Found, Animal Planet brings viewers into the world where the legend is real. The film blends real-life events and phenomena with the story of two scientists who testify they found the remains of a never-before-identified sea creature. Spectacular CGI animates a world where mermaids really do swim below the water's surface, cooperatively hunt with dolphins and may continue to survive in an intricate society where they stay hidden in fear of their Earth-bound relatives (Animal Planet, n.d.).

The Process


  1. Ask: For this research I had to ask the right appropriate question to acquire meaningful information. On the website I searched for 'Mermaids' which gave me a lot of information on them.
  2. Acquire: I acquired the information about Mermaids on Animal Planet. (website: www.animalplanet.com)
  3. Analyse: First things first I had to understand the term of what a Mermaid is. I then had to conduct my research in an appropriate and logical manner.
  4. Apply: With the findings I have, I then applied the information at hand on my blog where people following me can view more information about Mermaids.
  5. Access: As a researcher and a student, I was quite well impressed and satisfied with my findings and my questions towards Mermaids were answered.

The Public’s Response

Under the issue of Mermaids, different opinions and beliefs were seen. For some, they believed Mermaids do not exist but that they are only associated with cultural beliefs. They believe that this is a myth that has been passed on from generation to generation by our forefathers. Some believe that they exist and are real. Though some wish to see them in reality, they are pretty much curious of what they would do to them. This is backed up by one comment which was posted on the site, it read; " WILL LOVE TO SEE A REAL MERMAID IN MY LIFE TIME JUST DEAD THAN IT CAN NOT HURT ME SOME TIMES I WONT TO BE A MERMAID BUT JUST A LITTLE BIT CUTER THAN THEM."


The opinion of the success or lack there of Animal Planet's campaign

Even though I have never seen or spotted one on my own, I personally think mermaids do exist and are real. The evidence seen on the website is very convincing especially the video posted under the title 'Mermaid Sighting in Kiryat Yam.'