The process of working through a GAME plan is a journey. During the journey, I am continually monitoring, modifying, and adjusting my goals and action plan.
Goal #1 -- Learn more about how to integrate student response systems into instruction and guided practice.
At a regional technology meeting last Friday, I was able to learn about the different types of response systems fellow colleagues’ use. I discovered that there are many different types. A teacher at my school use the ‘Ultralite’ clickers from iRespond. Other types are ActivExpression (for use with an ActivBoard) and SMART Response System (for use with SMARTBoard). Since I have a SMARTBoard in my classroom, I plan to research student response systems that interact with a SMARTBoard. There are about 4 different styles that are offered by the SMART company. I have learned that I need to not only research types of systems but also styles. Do I want a ‘clicker’ that allows True/False, Multiple Choice, or short response? To begin this process, I plan to observe a colleague at my school using clickers next week.
Goal # 2 -- To design and develop an authentic assessment for my Algebra course that provides students multiple options to use technology to demonstrate learning.
I plan to make more progress on this goal during a department meeting on February 3rd. My teaching partner and I have had several quick discussions about what standards and chapter of our text would provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge in ways other than forced-option and open-ended responses assessments.
Goal # 3 -- To provide a tool to support my colleagues and me in teaching our students about digital citizenship and responsibility.
As stated last week, I have not progressed on this goal yet. My hope is to have time this summer to create lessons that staff members could use in the fall 2011.
References
Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use: A Standards Approach. (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning
Anna,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds as though you are progressing well on your goals. I would love to have a SMART Board in my classroom--and I am very interested in the hand-held response systems which we explored in this week's discussion. You mention that there are a few devices from which you may choose. Do you know if there is one device that would provide you a number of options, rather than just one or two? It just amazes me how the feedback would be so immediate and how beneficial this could be for determining which skills need to be retaught or need further enrichment.
Good luck as you continue pursuing your goals!
Regina
Anna,
ReplyDeleteI am reminded of your message board post this week about the PBLs, I can see that your goal to provide authentic assessment is one that you are passionate about! Have you ever thought about trying to contact some professionals who use math as part of their everyday lives to come in and present the PBL as a 'challenge'? I know accountants and people who work with actuarial tables might not be so glamorous! But what about a carpenter or a market researcher, someone who students might be interested to hear from, and surprised to hear how big a role math plays in their careers?
Thanks!
Meg Boyd
Anna,
ReplyDeleteTo go along with what Meg said, what about chemical engineers? They get to make stuff blow up, but have to be very precise in their measurements. Maybe you could set up distance learning situation for your students if you can't find someone who can actually come in.
Like Regina I would love to have a SMARTboard in my classroom, or at least an LCD projector so I could make my own wiismartboard. As you look into the different options available for your students, are you also looking at how the teacher knows who gave which response? Are you making sure that they are confidential? Is cost also part of your consideration?