Skyping with Alan November

          When speaking with Alan November last week through Skype I was a little nervous.  Not many people were asking questions, and the brief moments of awkward silence was slightly uncomfortable.  Skyping with friends and family is easier.  I think getting administrators to act upon the necessary technological changes for schools will be a difficult sell in this economy.  Budget is a touchy subject.  We are getting a new Principal and maybe a new Technology Specialist, so changes may be coming.

         I loved his idea that it's so important for students to learn about validating their information through multiple reference sources.  The activity of looking up "mouse" and "ears" on google images was interesting. Then to assign going on wikepedia and other sites to cross reference.  Followed by student evaluating, and determining which one seems to be a best representation. What a great way to show kids that Wikipedia is not always factual.  My students think Wikipedia is the best, but after this lesson they will realize the importance of looking at multiple sources to be sure it is a fact and not just an opinion.  I always avoid  commenting publicly on anything political or religious...but this cartoon below says it all when it comes to Wikipedia.

      I was aware of the new testing standards and the push to get students ready for the online assessments.  My concerns about the writing portion were somewhat addressed.  I'm realizing that my district will need to begin teaching Typing much earlier.  We currently don't begin typing until 3rd grade.  They use a keyboard in K-2, but aren't expected to have proper fingering until 3rd grade.  If they will need to type the writing portion, they will need to increase their wpm.  Otherwise their slowed typing could interfere with the fluidity of their writing.  The Typing program my school purchased is called Typing Pals and my class and parents really love it.  They can access it from anywhere that has internet service.  It tracks their progress, gives feedback and tips, and allows me to adjust individual expectations.  

         I'm realizing with the new changes focusing on problem solving and critical thinking that my classroom library needs to include more Non-Fiction, Poetry, and Digital Stories.  I feel I was just getting comfortable with the skills and strands needed for the CMT tests and now I need to switch gears and relearn ways to teach.  The reference to Kathy Cassidy's Blog was fantastic.  I went on her blog as soon as I got home and checked it out.  She is an amazing teacher that uses technology to it's fullest.  If you haven't had a chance to check out her blog, I strongly recommend it.  The videos of the students demonstrating their learning can be viewed.  Her videos inspire me to become a better "more technology friendly" teacher. I love the idea of a Flipped Classroom because teachers get to watch students take the leadership roles and learn from each other.  I'd love to use a Professional Development Day to visit a Flipped Classroom in action...maybe I will need to request one.  Does anyone know of an Elementary teacher who has Flipped their classroom in Northeast Connecticut?  I liked the model below when first learning about the Flipped Classroom.