Creating a technology-rich classroom is not a simple undertaking. It is not enough to utilize a few comfortable forms of technology on a regular basis. Instead, I need to continually incorporate new and different technologies into my classroom. This is a task that is going to require me to really extend and push myself. Like I’ve said before, I have a tried and true batch of technologies I fluently use in my day-to-day teaching, but as my goal states, I want to work on incorporating most, if not all, of the technology available to me through my district.
In order to accomplish this goal, I am going to have to be diligent in seeking out opportunities to be trained on the new technologies, while also being a self-directed learner, teaching myself how to use the new technologies (Cennamo, Ross, and Ertmer, 2009). I have signed up for two technology training sessions through my district, and I have contacted my building IT specialist, requesting some assistance during the beginning of the year teacher work days. Both of these steps will help me reach my goal of successfully implementing new technologies into my classroom.
My second goal of creating a classroom blog is proving to be a fun challenge. I have yet to actually publish my blog, as I want to make sure I have all of the main components in place before I do so. I am working with a colleague who currently has a blog, to get ideas and assistance. My blog is designed to be an additional form of communication with parents and students, and I am working to make sure my format and content is sustainable; I want to make sure I keep my blog up-to-date and relevant. Since I have not fully planned the beginning quarter’s curriculum, I need to wait until I have a more concrete plan in place to start posting the calendar, assignments, etc. I have created my initial “welcome” post which highlights the purpose for the blog, as well as how to access the various features the blog will contain.
In addition to being a resource for parents, I want this blog to act as another tool for students. Ross (Laureate, 2011) stated that students must all have access to the curriculum, and by creating a blog, I am giving students another opportunity to have that access to the needed materials and resources, outside of the classroom. It is another way to give students autonomy and responsibility as self-directed learners.
I am hopeful that both of these goals will be met and even exceeded. I want to be a teacher who embraces a multitude of technologies to enhance my students’ learning, and I want to utilize technology to reach out to my students’ families and communicate with my 21st century learners.
References:
Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach. (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Meeting students needs with technology, part 1 DVD]. In Meeting students needs with technology, part 1. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteYou seem to have a solid direction. I can see that you have both parents and students at aim in creating and using the blog. I'm just wondering how other people are keeping up their blogs. I taught 6th last and 5th this year and with multiple subjects I'm hesitant on a classroom blog and it's maintenance. Between this program, two pre-K and 2nd grade kids and union responsibilities I don't know if I alone could keep up with the responsibility. As a 7th grade teacher do you get a TA? I wonder if a classroom job could be some basic, daily entries?
How does your mentor manage their site?
Suzanna