I always get excited about all the new technology I am learning about and I can't wait to use it in my class. Unfortunately, due to so many "technology integration" expectations at my school it is impossible to do anything that I want to do with technology. My school considers technology integration to be Fastt Math (a math fact fluency software), Accelerated Reader (a comprehension and vocabulary assessment program), and study island (a standardized testing preparation program). Although I do believe some of these programs/software have their advantages, I do not really consider it technology integration!
So, you ask, "Why can't you do the required stuff, then do other stuff you choose?" Here is the problem:
20 kids, 3 computers, requirements:
Everyone must do Fastt Math every single day (takes 10-15 minutes a child)
*It usually takes about 1 1/2 hours to do Fastt Math.
Everyone must take an AR test once a week and before returning their library book. *1 hour a day
Everyone must do study island at least 3 times a week! ( about 2 hours a day)
As you can see, not only do I always have a student on a computer, I do not have enough computers or time to really use any of the new technology I am learning. I am trying to figure out a way to do both, but so far I haven't had any luck. Do you have any suggestions???
Why don't you try to integrate other technology tools besides your computers? Maybe while your students are on the computers completing the required assignments, the other students can be taking pictures with a digital camera or video camera that can be used at a later time on the computer. You could then save them until you have a chance to reserve the computer lab and have the class as a whole do a project. Just a suggestion!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea Jessicca! Thanks for your input!
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