In looking through the ISTE NETS performance indicators for teachers I found that I am involved with at least half the information that is listed. I felt like that was a pretty good level of technology involvement since I have done most of this on my own.
In looking at things to improve on I chose 2 areas of focus. One was item 1b. enaganing students in real world issues, I don't really do this in my class and would like to so hopefully this can become a more regular part of my class. I also chose item 3d. using current technology to analyze information. As a science teacher analyzing data is an important part of the process of understanding science so finding a way to do this will be very helpful in my class.
Assessing this progress will be easy becuase my plan is to integrate one of each of these things in each topic I teach and I will have either completed it or not. As a continued part of this process however will be to look for better options than the initial information or example that I might find at the beginning of the process.
John, I agree the finding ways to integrate real-life problem solving skills is a must for this generation. I also find it challenging to do with all of the other directions you can get pulled as a classroom teacher. I have really tried integrating more projects this year into my classroom and decided to 'start small'. I would do a project for a week or two then go back to the 'normal' way our kindergarten is set up. Then a month later do another project. In this way I wasn't over whelmed and didn't rock the boat in my grade level as much as if I changed everything! Good luck with your goals.
ReplyDeleteMelissa
I like your idea about making small steps and creating projects periodically rather than all at once. This is the same challenge that I have with project based learning that is useful. Not everything lends itself to technology or project based learning. Thanks for the help.
DeleteJohn I think connecting students to real world issues in the classroom is extremely important too, especially if we want to equip them with the skills necessary to perform successfully in future work environments. I think a good resource for your subject area is the National Geographic site. There are many videos and other educational related sites that you can access through it, that students can use to be informed on global issues.
ReplyDeleteI will check it out. Thanks for the advice.
DeleteHi John,
ReplyDeleteReal world issues help to make a connection to what is happening today and also can be used to help teach our own subject matter.
Students need the extra push to realize that science and art have a vital role in society. I found a site you may be interested in.http://www.sciencemag.org/site/help/librarians/tutorial/index.xhtml. I came upon a short video that can guide you in accessing science content and articles that are current.
As Melissa stated above, small steps can go a long way in getting students and teachers used to integrating technology.
Cindy
I found was http://www.khanacademy.org/. Have fun exploring!
I will look into the science mag website. Sounds like it might have good stuff for my class. I have also tried the Khan academy and there is a ton of great information there, just haven't taken the time to let the kids watch it. Maybe I should do that this week.
DeleteJohn good thoughts in your post. Have you considered seeking out the help of a National Board Certified teacher to observe you and provide feedback on your effectiveness in realizing your goals. This is something i am considering starting to do but suffer from not having a teacher at my school who has passed the boards. I know several in my district am trying to get one to come observe me. i think this could be a great help for me in my journey to improve as a teacher.
ReplyDelete