Featured User #2: Meet Erica Brown
Hey everyone! This week we had the opportunity to chat with Erica Brown, an Honors and AP Chemistry teacher in Cape Cod with about 20 years of teaching experience. We love her chemistry ShowMes – be sure to check them out!
Visit Erica’s awesome ShowMe Portfolio:
http://www.showmeapp.com/user7170
You say that it has been awhile since you created a ShowMe, but what can we look forward to once you’re back in the ShowMe game?
I plan on creating some general interest videos like “Why Ice Floats”. I also want to develop some ShowMes for this interactive textbook I’m working on. The students can watch the videos as they go through the curriculum. I really love how showmes can be easily embedded into my personal website.
What are some interesting ShowMes you’ve watched?
I mostly watch chemistry ShowMes. The “First Order of Kinetics” ShowMe was very interesting. However, you need to remember to put yourself in the students’ shoes. The difficulty students might have with ShowMe is that each video concept is very isolated. It would be great to watch lessons in a more organized curriculum/playlist.
Speaking of watching online videos, how do you feel about the flipped classroom concept?
I started assigning videos last year (ex: Khan Academy) for students to watch at home. Some of the more advanced students complained about the videos going too slowly, while other students loved the assignments. I’m actually pushing for more teachers at my school to start using online resources in their curriculum. It’s been an uphill battle so far.
Any future plans for ShowMe?
I want to have students make their own videos for extra credit. On a side note, I also plan on using Skype at night to interact with students. Students are so busy nowadays after school with extracurricular activities!
With school out, what have you been doing with your spare time?
I spent a lot of time this summer at the beach. I also love to garden. It’s actually a nice break from all the electronics to just take a step back and spend some time outside with Mother Nature. The fresh air really helps clears my mind, and you never know where new inspiration may strike!
