In last week's blog, I outlined two standards from ISTE NETS-T that I wanted to focus on. The first was Standard 4b: Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility. The second was Standard 5c: Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership. The essence of my GAME plan is to become more familiar with and start utilizing the SmartBoard technology that has been installed in my classroom. Also, I want to start accessing the computer labs on campus. Using the SmartBoard will not only allow my students to become more engaged, but will keep me more focused on educating the students effectively.
There have been some developments at school since my last posting. My principal was able to finally schedule the training on how to use the SmartBoards. The training will be taking place on December 4th. Before that takes place, I plan on reading through the manuals that have been provided to become familiar with all of the controls and terminology. I am also going to attempt to access the company's website to explore any tutorials that may be available. With regards to computer lab access, I have discussed options with the computer lab staff. The schedule is rather full right now, but will clear up a little after the winter break. That will be good time for my history students to begin a long term research project.
Ray,
ReplyDeleteThat is great news! You will love using the SMART Board in your classroom, as it involves students more heavily in your instruction through the positive input it provides opportunities for. The other important point to remember is that there are many resources available to you. For example, you can find a SMART Board music staff template simply by searching online for one. I use this in my classroom and create screencasts for lessons such as triad construction. The students love creating the screencasts and viewing them later on - it's so much fun!
-Stephen St. Georges
Hi Stephen,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comments and suggestions. I can't wait to dive into using my SmartBoard with my students. I hope it is as fun for them as I think it will be for me.
When our district purchased Promethean Boards for every elementary and middle school classroom, they also transferred two teachers to a special assigment post where they are specifically "Promethean Board" specialists. They offer monthly trainings at a central location - but they alwo travel to each school and classroom to help teachers in their own rooms. It is great support and I believe it has led to more teachers using the technology. Maybe your district(s) also have a specialist for you to use?
ReplyDeleteHi Todd,
ReplyDeleteI am not sure if our district will have an in-house specialist for us to utilize. There are a couple of teachers on campus who have been using the boards, but most of the staff have not received initial training yet. That is the primary barrier so far. Things should go more smoothly once everything gets installed and we receive the training.
Mr Rust,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the casual approachable tone of your blog. You also gave me a goo idea to check out the smartboards, which I have yet to do!
Well done!
Mrs. Drewes