Angela C. Keacher
Introduction Overview  Narratives Exhibits Reflection
I. Technology Operations and Concepts:
Teachers demonstrate a sound understanding of technology operations and concepts. Teachers:
  • Demonstrate introductory knowledge, skills, and understanding of concepts related to technology.
  • Demonstrate continual growth in technology knowledge and skills to stay abreast of current and emerging technologies. 
The mitten project has helped me develop my knowledge of technology. Participating in this program has provided me with a greater awareness of the technologies out there, while at the same time making me realize the simplicity of incorporating technology in my classroom. My lesson planning will now make use of the Internet as a teaching tool, long with many programs that are "kid friendly." I have gained an understanding of creating web pages, and plan to use this form of communication in my own classroom. To see how technology has enhanced my classroom refer to the exhibits page.

II. Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experiences:
Teachers plan and design effective learning environments and experiences supported by technology. Teachers:

  • Design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology-enhanced instructional strategies to support the diverse needs of learners. 
  • Apply current research on teaching and learning with technology when planning learning environments and experiences. 
  • Identify and locate technology resources and evaluate them for accuracy and suitability. 
  • Plan strategies to manage student learning in a technology-enhanced environment. 
Throughout the unit I used many different sources of technology to reach all students, since all children learn in a variety of ways. When planning lessons, I used the Michigan Content Standards and Benchmarks along with the school's curriculum to ensure developmentally appropriate activities. 

III. Teaching, Learning, and The Curriculum:
Teachers implemented curriculum plans that include methods and strategies for applying technology to maximize student learning. Teachers:

  • Facilitate technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards. 
  • Manage student learning activities in a technology-enhanced environment.
This standard was accomplished by integrating math and language arts into this unit plan. The objectives that were met for each lesson coincided with the Michigan Curriculum Benchmarks and Standards. Technology did not drive the lesson, however, it certainly enhanced it. I have found that technology is a wonderful tool for motivating students. View each lesson to see how I integrated technology into this unit. 

IV. Assessment and Evaluation:
Teachers apply technology to facilitate a variety of effective assessment and evaluation strategies. Teachers:

  • Apply multiple methods of evaluation to determine students' appropriate use of technology resources for learning, communication, and productivity. 
Throughout the unit, the students were assessed in a variety of ways to accommodate a variety of learning styles. The students printed their graphs as one method of assessment, also, they were observed while conducting practice surveys. Students were assessed on their writing by writing in "Kiss Journals" where they had to write "sweet" things to fellow classmates. Another method of assessment that was used was to have the students illustrate on Storybook Weaver the main idea of their story. Hopefully with such a variety of assessments, we were able to reach every student. 

V. Productivity and Professional Practice:
Teachers use technology to enhance their productivity and professional practice. Teachers:

  • Use technology resources to engage in ongoing professional development and lifelong learning.
  • Continually evaluate and reflect on professional practice to make informed decisions regarding the use of technology in support of student learning. 
  • Apply technology to increase productivity. 
  • Use technology to communicate and collaborate with peers, parents, and the larger community in order to nurture student learning.
Developing an electronic portfolio was the largest contributor to my professional development in technology. It has forced me to become familiar with many resources and programs, and has benefited both myself and my students. The MITTEN workshops and seminars were also very beneficial to my development.

VI. Social, Ethical, and Legal Issues:
Teachers understand the social, ethical, legal, and human issues surrounding the use of technology in PK-12 schools and apply that understanding in practice. Teachers:

  • Model and teach legal and ethical practice related to technology use. 
  • Identify and use technology resources that affirm diversity. Promote safe and healthy use of technology resources. 
  • Facilitate equitable access to technology resources for all students.
The technology used in every lesson was modeled for the students. Instructions were given on how each student was to use the technology. When using software programs, each student was assigned to a computer and was encouraged to ask questions when needed. The students loved exploring the software, and were proud of their accomplishments!
 
 
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

 
 

 

  
Questions or Comments: Ack1127@aol.com