Hi Everyone,
I teach grade 8 and 9 LA combined and grade 9 science and social studies. In my school students are allowed to bring their own devices and in grade 8 and 9 each student has a laptop from the school, so they are always engaged with technology.
I started using Google drive, and Google hangout with my students over three years ago and it was exciting learning and discovering these resources with my students. This year our school board decided to introduce Google Apps for Education to our school district and I was one of few teachers that was excited about the change and eager to engage with this technology.
I try to find one thing in technology to challenge myself with every term.
Technology in the classroom is definitely one of the ways to keep students engaged in their learning and so I try to keep abreast with my students. I started a Minecraft club at my school when I noticed my students interest in this game. I can’t wait to see all that I will be learning from my students in the Minecraft Club. I am also interested in examining the implications of video gaming in education.
I volunteer with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization in my town.
It will be a busy time in the next few weeks but I think I prefer studying when it is good weather here in Fort McMurrray than battling our winters while studying
I hope that we have a wonderful journey as we learn together.
My goals are to to be able to select, evaluate, and implement technological resources for sound pedagogical reasons. I would like to be better able to use technology in all different types of learning environments especially focused on junior high to adult learning environments. I am also interested in using technology for ESL students to create authentic learning experiences for them.
The resources I will need to achieve these goals are access to new and emerging technologies, on going research and professional development.
cheers
Donna-Marie (dm)