While evaluating my GAME plan, I ask myself if I have been successful in meeting my goals or if I must modify them to meet the needs of my students. I have already taken several small steps towards finding ways to incorporate technology and meet the diverse learning styles within my classroom. Taking part in various online discussion groups has proven to be beneficial. I have created a graphic organizer to collect names of websites, including a short description, for future reference. As a self-directed lifelong learner, I must be able to respond to the rapid and continuous technological changes that will inevitably occur during my career as a teacher (Cennamo, Ross & Ertmer, 2009). I also understand that I can never have enough resources to meet ALL my needs. My list (graphic organizer) must continue to grow!
My goal to develop and model cultural understanding and global awareness may be a more difficult task. I have researched ePals and spoke to other teachers who have used it, but I am not familiar with the Web application. As the teacher, I must first become comfortable using it before I can “promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness” while using digital tools and resources (Cennamo et al., 2009, p. 24). I am continuously looking for other resources that I can further explore to allow students to interact with individuals around the world. Although our fifth grade Social Studies teacher discusses several global issues, I want to give my students the opportunity to stay updated on current events. I have considered subscribing to a newspaper that would be received at least once a week. The newspaper could be used for reading and writing purposes as well. Another activity I have seen is the “Flat Stanley Project”. My only concern is that maybe it is meant for students younger than fifth grade. I am curious to hear responses from other instructors who have used a similar lesson.
I am looking forward to meeting my new class in September. It will be necessary for me to distinguish what type of learning style my students possess and any individual special needs they may have to fully accomplish my goals. I have realized that I will definitely integrate problem-based lessons into my teaching strategies. They will allow my students to collaboratively solve problems using problem-solving and critical thinking skills in an authentic manner. Students will have the opportunity to learn facts and then apply them. Through research, data, and reflection my students will learn to use the “language” and “tools” of the trade for future use. Hopefully my students will be a step above the rest!:)
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.
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Suzie,
ReplyDeleteI've heard of the Flat Stanley Project, but don't know a lot about it. If it's something that is too young for your students, maybe it's something that your class can help mine with. That way, we both win!
I really like your idea of subscribing to a newspaper. I did that in one of my classes in elementary school (I can't remember which one) but I remember how exciting it was to get the paper each week. I learned more about current events and issues, and I learned about a different genre and purpose for writing. I think you'd love doing this in your classroom.
Erin
Suzie,
ReplyDeleteI have seen the Flat Stanley Project in our Elementary schools mainly in the first and second grade hallways, I think if you were to incorporate it in the 5th grade, maybe you could have your students write a paper on the location where they sent their Flat Stanley. Just an idea.
Also, good for you on creating a graphic organizer for websites! I need to do that, I usually just bookmark them and put them in my toolbar, but the little description that you create probably makes it easier to remember why you would keep that site.
Erika
What online discussion groups have you used that you have enjoyed? Also I worked at a school that did Flat Stanley with 4th graders and they loved it. Students enjoy getting mail and everyone liked seeing the different pictures come back. If 4th graders were so engaged with the activity I think 5th graders would be too.
ReplyDeleteSuzie,
ReplyDeleteI am really interested in using ePals too but I do not know much about it. Do you know if it costs money? Have you heard a lot of good feedback from others who have used it? I have not heard of anyone using it, but I think it would be great for my Spanish class to use it to develop cultural awareness and to feel they are using their Spanish outside of the classroom!!
Let me know if you find out anything about ePals or if you try it out and you like it!!
Marie Gauthier
Erin,
ReplyDeleteI researched the Flat Stanley Project some more and think that both of our classes would benefit from participating in it. Our students would have the opportunity to communicate with students from all over the world and then share with other in our school district. When you get a chance take a peek: http://www.flatstanleyproject.com/
According to other teachers who have responded to my blog, the students became very engaged in the activity. I can see it already- a large world map on the bulletin board between the two computer labs. As Flat Stanley travels, we add a small die-cut of him in that location. Samples of letters, photos, and so forth can surround the map. I think that our entire school district would become interested. Don’t you?
Suzie
Erika,
ReplyDeleteMy graphic organizer is REALLY working! Before, I just kept adding everything to my “favorites” and never knew what the website was about or what it could be used for. Currently, I open my document when participating in Walden discussion and add any recommended sites, along with websites I find when exploring. I’d encourage everyone to do the same. It works!
Suzie
Marie,
ReplyDeleteI am still learning about ePals and will hopefully incorporate it into my classroom this coming fall. I have a colleague who has used it in the past, so I plan to use her as a resource. As far as I know, there is no cost. I will definitely keep you updated as I begin to use it and learn more details.
Suzie