525 Week 5

I appreciated the opportunity to apply the learning strategies and their supporting technology. I wish I had more time to work on it however. It would be great to just work on the revised unit (along with the discussions and reflections) for the week. Because I would like to actually create the tools as I plan them it would take me a little more time. Last year I spent most of the time getting used to the Connected Math Program and only implemented technology when it was quick to organize and implement or something I already did (slide presentations, Google Docs/Presentations, Survey Monkey, Poll Everywhere, etc.). I would like to get a plan template made so I can efficiently document how I have incorporated technology and reflect on what worked and what did not. Digitizing this template along with the reflections will also have professional development benefits as our new principal used to be our Technology Coordinator. Saving and collaborating with him may not be an issue.

I am thinking I will be setting up five groups of desks with a computer at each group. I will have to obtain a 5th computer for my classroom, though. If I can get a hold of the computer, I will start experimenting with having students use online tools to complete their classwork (which is generally done in small groups). Unfortunately this will limit the desk arrangements in my room. I truly believe it's all about baby steps. I think the classroom management part will be the most challenging. But, if I can get 5 technology stations (4 graphing calculators and a computer) set up, this will allow for more routine use.