Using my technology menu in my Eagle Class

I have created a menu of choices to create a personalized learning environment  in my Eagle Class. The challenge of doing this was  not so much what those menu choices consist of but how to piece the choices together to form a cohesive menu that met the needs of my varied gifted students.
Most importantly, personalizing learning for the current  student demands specific technologies. I  needed to understand that children are growing up in a media-rich environment. I needed to create a menu that engages students and generates within them the desire to learn and I hope I have done just that with my wikki site.  But I have also learned that technology also plays a more important role in the personalization process. Ultimately it is the conduit for me to move to a learning approach that features materials developed for each individual student.

Enganging classroom

Students, especially those who are visual learners, often respond well to interactive education.
Doing something that is hands-on for them, such as pressing buttons or using a promethem board to learn, makes my class more enjoyable...I hope?
Students who enjoy learning are going to retain information much better and be increasingly motivated because they are more focused I feel when they are engaged in the use of technology.
Education has always been the standard pencil, paper, scissors and glue, so for some, the idea of making the transition to technology-based learning is not ideal but I have enjoyed using both to engage my students.

Getting in the lab

Getting good chunks of quality computer lab time at school can be difficult.  Sometimes in my mind I feel that one or two days is enough time for my students...but soon find out they struggle with the activity and need more time but more time is not available.  It would be so great to have ipads for each student.

Tech is a tool when it works...when it does not its just a TOOL.

As I have been using tech more and more I find that it is the tool that lends itself to students being excited about learning.  If you give them the tool and explain what to do and then incorporate the curriculum you have the students learning two things.  The tool and the curriculum.  But it is frustrating when the tool does not work though. 

Same old Same old

Been working with glogster.  What a great program.  But...I have had (I should say students) saving their work.  Some kids no problem, others had problems.  But here is what is interesting.  It seems that the kids who have problems in school are the ones having trouble saving.  Why?

Whip My Hair ft Neil Young & Bruce Springsteen

Use of the blog

Students I have created this blog for you to post projects and have discussion around what we are learning about in science class.  Please use this blog appropriately.  If you abuse this blog or post inappropriate material you will be removed from the blog.