New skills I have obtained through practicing my GAME plan are new ways of monitoring student progress when using technology applications. Monitoring these activities is time consuming and somewhat of a treasure hunt, but I am finding better methods of organizing student participation and performance. What I have learned the most is I can learn a lot from my students. By watching them complete and turn in final products I find myself asking the students, “How did you do that?” They enjoy teaching me as much as I do them. Implementing the GAME plan in my curriculum has turned my classroom into a well working collaborative environment.
Over the past few weeks I have touched on both of my goals equally, but still need to continue these processes for my students to master these skills. My life skills math class is now able to successfully search for critical real world information and my sophomore math class have explored Wikis, podcasts and a VoiceThread. We will continue adding new technologies as we gain access from our building principal.
A new goal I would work on achieving would be: gathering data, examine patterns, and apply information for decision making, using digital tools and resources. These skills are also crucial to the success of my students’ performance post high school. It seems a lot to take on at once, but all of these goals are closely related and can be easily integrated.
The collaborative, student-centered learning environment has seemed to work well thus far. Learning will continue in this fashion until we see a need for change. As Dr. Peggy Ertmer (2009) states, “Learning in this manner enriches student understanding of content, produces a higher order level of thinking, and gives students ownership to their cognitive gains.” This style of learning will prepare them to be independent problem solvers and self-sufficient citizens.
Stephanie Coultrip
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Hi Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you have set a good foundation for your initial goals and have found a related goal to incorporate next. Do you have any thoughts about what type of data you'll have students collect and examine? I am sure there are a plethora of authentic subject to tackle! I bet your students are appreciating the connection to real life skills and problems.
Gwen
I work at a school that the math department does not use technology. A math teacher across the hall from me, who is "technologically advanced" does not use technology in the classroom. She said that there is no time. What is thoughts about this? Since starting this program I have see several technology methods that can be used especially with math and science. I have not sold her on bringing technology into the classroom. Hmm. How is your critical life skills class using real world problems in class?
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
ReplyDeleteI love it that you are also learning so much from your students. At times, they know much more than we do when it comes to technology - especially the older students.
Technology has made my life easier in the same way it has benefited you. I find myself being able to keep track of data and reach more learners. I sometimes can't believe I didn't use it before starting this program. Keep up the good work and keep challenging yourself and your students. It sounds like you have made a lot of progress with your goals. Good job!
-Ashley