Introduction
Overview
Narratives 
Exhibits
Reflection
 
Tricia Tidswell
Standard 1: 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.
I have had a few technology classes, but I take the initiative to self teach myself with most programs I use. I have an interest in technology to increase what I don't know and improve upon what I know. Participating in MiTTEN is an example of my personal effort for continual growth in technology. I have demonstrated different skills and procedures of using the computer, different software and tools within programs to accomplish many tasks. With 1st graders, it ranged from the simplest; how to turn on/off a computer, to the more complex problems of putting animation into their PowerPoint Presentations.

Standard 2: 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.
The lessons that were planned fit the varied developmental levels of all the children in the classroom. Support for the children and the amount of instruction during the lessons could be adjusted to fit the individual needs of each learner. We went to the computer lab were every child had their own computer, or we used the in-class computers as centers throughout the day. We used the computers in the class more often because that made for easier classroom management for those who finished quickly or who needed more time. I sat with the children to observe and assist them when needed.

Standard 3: Teaching, Learning, and the Curriculum

Teachers implement 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.
  • Use technology to support learner centered strategies that address the diverse needs of students.
  • Apply technology to develop students' higher order skills and creativity.
  • Manage student learning activities in a technology enhanced environment.
Technology was used throughout this project to enhance student learning. Each lesson that I developed addresses state standards. Bringing technology into the classroom gave me another tool in which to address such standards. The children had many opportunities to interact with technology. They used Microsoft Word, Microsoft Paint, PowerPoint, the Internet, scanners, and digital cameras. Every child had the opportunity to create several pages of a slide show using their own ideas and creativity, as well as, incorporating facts they learned from the lessons. I observed that the integration of technology into the classroom makes for an engaging learning experience.

Standard 4: Assessment and Evaluation

Teachers apply technology to facilitate a variety of effective assessment and evaluation strategies. Teachers:
  • Apply technology in assessing student learning of subject matter using a variety of assessment techniques.
  • Use technology resources to collect and analyze data, interpret results, and communicate findings to improve instructional practice and maximize student learning.
  • Apply multiple methods of evaluation to determine students' appropriaate use of technology resources for learning, communication, and productivity.
The assessment of the children's abilities went along with every lesson and all the steps of making the slide show. For the most part, assessment was done by observations, but also by checking the children's work on the worksheet and pictures.

Standard 5: Productivity an 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, an the larger community in order to nurture student learning.
The children presented their slide shows to their class and then, to 5 other classes. We went a step further to communicate with parents, the school board, the newspaper and the cable station in our area. I am always looking for new and exciting ways to present material to children. The Internet is a great tool to do so. It has created countless opportunities for educators to share resources, lesson plans, and ideas world-wide. 

Standard 6: Social, Ethical, Legal and Human Issue
Teachers understand the social, ethical, legal, and human issues surrounding the use od technology in PK-12 schools and apply that understanding in practice. Teachers:

  • Model and teach legal and ethical practice related to technology use.
  • Apply technology resources to enable and empower learners with diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and abilities.
  • 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.
Written permission by parents, is important and necessary to display the children's pictures and their work on the Internet. Keeler Elementary has done their homework. When the children start school in September, parents fill out a form to grant or deny permission. It is just as important to verbalize this with the students. A girl in my class who loved creating and presenting her slide show, refused to do so when I recorded them on video to use on the Internet and possibly cable.
Back to Top
Questions or Comments: fishtlyn@yahoo.com