My first goal was to introduce and familiarize myself and my students with emerging and existing digital tools that will enhance the learning environment. I have learned and experienced many things that I can apply to my practice. I am gaining experience and confidence using wikis and blogs with my classmates and this can be readily transferred to use with my students. I now check my RSS feeds daily to manage my incoming information and stay abreast of new ideas and uses for digital tools. I am increasing my use of my Delicious account to easily located links to relevant topics. This is a tool my students are using on their own after I gave a demonstration and many have commented on how much they like it. I also can incorporate voice threads - although I need to play with this a little more... I'd like to have my students experience this before the end of the year.
I am still working toward my own professional development and sharing my knowledge with colleagues. We have a PD this Friday and I will be presenting so I am well on my way!
The next goal I would like to work toward is to develop technology-enriched learning environments that enable all students to pursue their individual curiosities and become
active participants in setting their own educational goals, managing their own learning, and assessing their own progress. I chose this goal because my students need to develop their ability to to manage their own learning. They struggle with self discipline and accountability. They require a great deal of "hand holding" and lack self assurance. I would like them to gain confidence to take risks and work on open ended projects where they have a voice and choice.
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I think it's great that you are presenting at a professional development meeting to your peers. I am inspired to get out of my experimental classroom and share what some stuff I've learned through our course work. I would imagine that presenting is equally enriching as being a participant in professional development because for me, it would help me to practice articulating theory/application and allow me to focus on areas that interest me most. Additionally, I think that presenting is a natural progression because it will take teachers like us to pave the road to 21st century schools. I admire your initiative and courage.
ReplyDelete-Nanci
Molly,
ReplyDeleteYou are really diving into applying technology to your personal life as well as your professional life. I think it is so important to understand and experience technology first hand and then use those skills to apply it to your classroom. You are a doing a wonderful job with this, and I am sure it is so much easier for you to implement these tools in the classroom. It is wonderful that you are sharing your new found knowledge with your colleagues as well! I find that it is very important to set the students free in engaging in technology and learning independently. Keep up the good work!
Thanks,
Shannon
Nancy & Shannon,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the words of encouragement. I have come to realize that I WILL use things I understand... this is why it is important to share with our colleagues. I believe it will improve the overall achievement in the building.
Molly,
ReplyDeleteI hope your PD opportunity went well. It is exciting to present to peers. It sounds like you have a great start toward your goals. Your next step is logical. This problem-based learning we are working on now would fit right in.