As I take some time to reflect on the progress I have made for my GAME plan, I am actually surprised at how much I have been able to accomplish in such a short amount of time. I have subscribed to 3 technology magazines that focus on integrating and new and emerging technologies in the classroom (Technology and Children, tech Trends and Mac Life). I have actually received the first issues of 2 of the magazines. The Technology and Children magazine seems amazing and is filled with useful websites, ideas and articles from other educators. This journal is very interesting and has helped me not only plan but also to introduce me to things I did not know existed. The second magazine, Tech trends, is like reading stereo instruction in a room that is 90 degrees with 99% humidity. It is extremely lengthy and not very friendly. I am still trying to push myself through the first issue, but I have not had much luck with it yet.
Although I have joined www.betterlesson.org, I have not really seen much benefit from it yet. It is, currently, not the easiest site to join and members do not really interact a whole lot. It is a good idea, but maybe in the long run it will pan out. I do meet with several other colleagues to plan with a specific emphasis on using technology in our plans, but time has been a real challenge since the end of the year is approaching and many times we end up talking about everything except what we are there for.
I have gone on the web and just done some research and exploring for various technologies and resources. I have tried to give myself 2 hours a week to explore the web and look at new things. I have found this the most promising and worthwhile part of my GAME plan so far. I have discovered many new and interesting gadgets that could be very useful in the classroom. One that comes to mind is a media player. These little gadgets, which I was aware of before this, are amazing. They can allow students to view broadcasts and shows from across the world. In addition, teachers can use these gadgets to show downloaded movie clips, shows, YouTube videos etc. and they are not that expensive. I have also been reading how other educators are using tools like iPods and Flips in the classroom for projects and alternative assessments.
Overall, I feel I am making steady progress in my GAME plan. The biggest obstacle, besides some very dry material, has been time. Between work, home life, graduate school and just life…time is often very short.
Richard,
ReplyDeleteYou do seem to be making progress with your goals. I do not think that you should be forcing yourself to read that second magazine though it if is not giving you the information that you were searching for. There is no easier way to discourage a learner (you) than with material that is not reader friendly. Thank you for sharing the first magazine, Technology and Children. I am going to check into that one.
I also wanted to share with you a tech magazine that I get that also has a very informative website. It is Tech & Learning. http://www.techlearning.com/ I get weekly emails, a free magazine, and free access to their website. Most of the time I get something out of their literature so it is worth looking through. Hope you find it useful.
Dawn
Thank you for the magazine suggestion. I will look at it this week. I also think that I will be canceling that other magazine as I do find it terrible. Thank you
ReplyDeleteDawn, thanks for the tip on a great magazine!
ReplyDeleteRichard, you are on your way! I too feel that the biggest obstacle right now is time. With summer coming, I am hopeful that I will make great strides with my GAME plan as well.
What sorts of things are your colleagues doing with ipods?