A focus on technology...Integrating technology in meaningful ways is something I have been passionate about since I started my teaching career in 2006. At that point, I had barely written an email and I "lost" the first paper I had to write for my teaching program at Lesley. I had opened my draft from an email to myself and worked on it for several hours. That was before Google Drive and nothing saved unless you saved it first. I thought to myself, a digital immigrant, how will I keep up with all the tech savvy students, digital natives. I decided to make integrating technology a priority in everything I did. It was hard work! It has been amazing to see how technology integration has developed over the last eight years. I was fortunate to attend the EdTech conference in Boston this month. This was my third year attending and a focus this year was on those changes. The keynote speaker Greg Kulowiec shared his experiences and I made many connections to my own path. One of the most powerful interpretations of many of our journeys is presented in the SAMR model created by Dr. Ruben Puentedura.
How am I using this model to facilitate learning in our classroom? I recently sent home usernames and passwords for two on-line learning programs, I believe, model Modification. On the surface it may seem as though students are just practicing a skill; however, I believe, both of the programs I offered, in addition to the Raz Kids reading program, facilitate reflective and analytical learning. I am focusing on using programs that have the ability to give feedback to students that they may use to create and design their own learning goals. Both Ten Marks and Spell City offer this. I often discuss ways to differentiate learning for all learners with colleagues. I believe these programs offer this in a comprehensive way. Most importantly they put the learner in charge of the path to mastery. So what about Redefining...If skill development can be achieved through programs such as these; more time is available to explore, create and share with the world outside the classroom. We have sent symbolic butterflies to Mexico and are getting ready to send our flag to Antarctica. Most importantly we will connect with students and teachers in these parts of our world. We have come a long way! I look forward to going even further.
We are leaders...second grade has been asked by Mr. Hanna to take a leadership role in building routines and procedures in the cafe. Each classroom has nominated two students to participate on a committee with Mr. Hanna. Over the last week our class has discussed characteristics of a good leader, surveyed the class for candidates and wrote speeches about why and how they would be good leaders. Finally on tuesday we voted and Gavin and Hazel were elected. The process was very exciting. Ask your child what they thought...