As I monitor my GAME plan, I have some successes and some obstacles to post this blog. First of all, I would like to say thank you to the comments that I have received, and that I shall receive. You don’t know it yet, but just by your ideas, suggestions, and the mere act of communicating on a blog is pushing me forward on my tech adventure. So…Thank you! I said all that to say all this…As part of my action plan, I decided to go in search of an expert within my elementary school. I also wanted to find out if anyone has ideas or experience with integrating technology into their classrooms, or allowing students on computers to do research. I am it. Other than what I am attempting to do and another classroom response system, there are no smart boards, no webquests, no student created power points within my entire grade school. Another part of action that I have taken is to collect quite a large list of links that I can include with the Webquest that my third graders are going to research. The resources that I will need to carry out my plan are basically the computers. I will need to have a group work with me on the overhead computer, and group the rest in 3’s in order to have enough computers to go around. I already introduced the Webquest as whole group, and am hoping to get the students on the computers next week. Wish me luck, and THANK YOU Again!
Cathryn
P.S. While searching for photo story ideas for my classroom, I chanced upon a very awesome bookbuilder on cast.org site. It is a message to teachers on UDL, check it out! http://bookbuilder.cast.org/view.php?op=model&book=30018&page=1
Hi Cathy,
ReplyDeleteI totally understand your feelings. The smallest comment and suggestion is what also gives me the push and drive when I have hit a brick wall. With that being said I think it is good to use the resources and experts that are at your finger tips this way you can always go to them or even have them teach a lesson in your class on technology. I also think it is a good idea to have a list of links that the students can use to research. I like your plan I believe you are on the right track and great thing are going to happen. Good luck!!
Thank you for the encouraging words, Sandra. I agree with you that great things are going to happen. I used to be afraid of trying any technology tools in the classroom because my experience has shown me that something usually doesn't work as planned, and then there goes your valuable teaching time. I have come to believe that instead of being afraid to try to integrate technology tools in the classroom, it is still very worthwhile to model the effort, troubleshooting, and all of the things that can be learned when something doesn't go as planned. Students are hungry to know anything about technology...so we won't give up!
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Cathy,
ReplyDeleteYour sentiments express your pride, fear, and excitement. I'm thinking you feel a bit alone and wish you had someone to bounce ideas with. I an online support system of people you do not know well cannot substitute for a live supportive colleague, but I think your honesty is a great way to begin authentic online relationships. You seem much more human now.
It sounds like you will be setting the example, which means your setting the standard too. Everyone will have to fill your shoes, not the other way around! That can be a fun position to be in. I'm sure you will earn ALL the credit you deserve for taking your school to new heights.
You're going to do very well!
Thank you Crosbta for your post!(I know your name, but thought perhaps you didn't want to publish it here)You managed to make me laugh out loud while in deep thought. I'm glad that I seem more human now. I hope that you are correct when you stated that it is a great way to begin authentic online relationships. I would really like to have an ongoing conversation (even after graduation)with people who are separatly working on the same goals. I never truly understood the power of collaboration before.
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