Integrating Technology

"How can I make the delivery of content more interactive and engaging for my students by integrating technology?" 

Module 4 has probably been the most challenging module yet!!  However, I have enjoyed it the most and have really learned some new fun things.  I sometimes find myself teaching whole group in lecture style.  It is easier to plan whole group lessons and make copies of old school worksheets.   Because of this style, my students are bored and learn the material only for the assessment.  Then I feel defeated.  I have realized that when I take the time to plan interactive and engaging lessons, my students take ownership of their learning and are truly having fun.  And I must admit, I enjoy monitoring them and have fun myself.  

Integrating technology in the classroom requires devices.  At PRES, we have 1:1 iPads.  Therefore, it will be easier for me to provide more interactive lessons.  

One thing I really want to begin incorporating with my students is Flipgrid.  I really learned about this tool when I created my CoolTool Presentation.  I had heard of Flipgrid before through a coworker, but was scared of it.  I was new to the 1:1 iPad integration and I wanted to keep my classroom simple.  My goal is to use Flipgrid for reading response during literature circles and reading workshop.  I am sure my kids will love it and it will be a great tool for them to use to share their thoughts and respond to others. 

Another tool I plan to use is Nearpod.  I enjoyed creating my interactive presentation using Nearpod.  After showing my students the work I was proud of, they begged for me to create more for them to do.  I want to create another activity with my students so they can see the process.  After much practice, I will begin to allow them to create presentations on Nearpod for assessment purposes. 

My students also enjoy playing Kahoot, an interactive game where students answer questions on their device and it shows the leaders on my screen.  They really get into this and works great for reviews. 

I use Google Drive on a daily basis in my classroom for students to see the "Game Plan" for the day.  I create my station rotations with expectations in a doc for them to see and keep open so they know what is expected next.  It works so well for organization during transitions. I can also use this for collaborative sharing in response to various questions and/or activities. 

At the end of the week, we have a special Makerspace time.  We spend the afternoon creating any type of presentation as an extension of our learning.  Students choose what they want to continue to learn about or what they are curious about.  They then create any type of presentation to share with the class their findings. 

While whole group teaching has a place in the classroom, society has brought us to a time where students need to be active in order to learn and retain information.  Students must be engaged and take ownership of their learning for it to be meaningful.   I am excited about the future of my classroom and I can't wait to share with my coworkers.