Oh boy. It is always so much easier just to talk about it and not be about it. Actually putting the GAME plan into action or putting anything into action is always daunting for me. I don't know why but general anxiety sets in when I do something that I am inexperienced with. First off, technology is used more as an excuse or crutch in my district than it is something to propel student learning. It will be extremely difficult to incorporate exotic and elaborate technology into my classroom with no student computers and only one teacher laptop and projector. I know that may seem like a cop out to most (and maybe it is) but you have to understand my situation before going on...
My intended learning strategy is to get students to construct or create something collaboratively with one another and with the purpose of gaining a better understanding of our constitutional rights. By the way, I teach high school social studies and the last few years, I have been fortunate enough to teach senior government. The resources I would need is access to a smart board (possible, but need to sign out in advance), our computer lab (so that students can have some time on a computer), my projector and laptop, and I am not certain of what else. I would like to start the project off with a webcast or interview over the internet with a previous or current student (close to age of my students) that has done something similar. They will hopefully instill confidence in them that it is possible, they can get an idea of what the final product will look like, they will hear it from someone other than me and someone they would consider a peer, and finally, they will be encouraged to learn and do so by incorporating technological tools (like the webcast or internet teleconference). I am somewhat playing make believe here because I am not even sure if our district / building has the necessary tools to facilitate such a thing.
I need to know how to make the best out of a least desirable situation. Most of my students have a negative outlook on their school and their school's technology. I need something that will grab their attention and let them know that this assignment, this class and this teacher are for real. I want them to know that although this district is not affluent and necessary tools aren't available, we can still accomplish big things. I know I am being wishful, but I would like to believe that someone or some place in our school system or community could provide some assistance. We have a beautiful public library in our town. Maybe pool together resources with them? I am not sure and sometimes my anxiety can take over when I am not certain if I am heading in the right direction.
So far, the only steps I have taken is doing background research and spending time figuring out what is available. I have learned that we do have two smart boards in the building (for nearly 90 teachers to share). I have not yet try to sign one out, but I have been told that there is a "waiting list." I have spoken to our media specialist and I have been set up with access codes to bypass filtering blocks from internet searching. I have already created a classroom blog and wiki. Students have made a few posts and are becoming familiar with a few basics to using such resources. However, they are still apprehensive (like me) and aren't sure of themselves because it is new to them.
Kevin
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Kevin-
ReplyDeleteI love that despite the obstacles (filters, waiting lists, etc) you are still pursuing the tools to ready your students for their futures. I understand what you are going through. Five years ago, our district built a new intermediate level building with a connected technology bond. Starting each year we become more comfortable with what is available, but it has taken time to bring both staff and students to that point. Those skills are important enough to keep pushing forward and using tools until they are second nature.
-Melissa
Thanks for the kind words. It is very unfortunate in our district because they would rather be frugal and cut costs to save face and get re-elected than they would put students first. It is ridiculous in our district. We have some board members that are only on there to further themselves and boost their egos. They haven't been in a classroom in years and started on the board in the 60s. They are so out of touch that it is beginning to be unbearable. What sucks, too, is that our superintendent is a pompous ass and thinks that he has a clue; which he does not. He prefers to dictate and give orders as opposed to working with us and having common goals. Very unfortunate that our leaders are not good ones. I simply try to remind myself why I am where I am and who is most important, the kids. Thanks again for your post.
ReplyDeleteKevin