VoiceThread Demonstration

Description: This field experience consisted of using the technology tool VoiceThread in my own classroom to gain experience using the tool in the classroom.  Then, I shared the lesson I created with my team and demonstrated the use of VoiceThread in the classroom.  This field experience allowed me to gain knowledge in technology leadership and further my expertise in a technology tool.

Standards: TF-1.A, TF-1.B (Technology Operations and Concepts), TF-II.A - E (Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experiences), TF-III.A – E (Teaching, Learning, and the Curriculum), TF-IV.A (Assessment and Evaluation)

Semester: Spring 2011

Hours:  1 Hour

Population: Fourth Grade Teachers (General and Special Ed.)

Reflection: I created a VoiceThread lesson for my students, because I found the experience to be enjoyable for myself and I wanted to see how my students could use VoiceThread to further their understanding.  I also wanted to develop a lesson so I could test it out in my classroom.  Then, share my experiences with other teachers so they too would want to use the Internet tool with their students.  After implementing the lesson, my students were very excited.  They really enjoyed using VoiceThread and I knew that other teachers would be on board after they saw the enthusiasm from my students.  I shared the tool with my team at a team meeting.  I explained how to create a sign in for VoiceThread and took them through the steps of creating their own discussions that students could comment on.  I answered any questions and concerns they had as well as showed them the example from my class so they could see what the end result may look like.

Interactive English/Language Arts Enrichment (For Team Use)

Description: This field experience involved creating and implementing technology-driven English/Language Arts lessons to best prepare students for statewide assessments that were coming up.  The lessons were to be taught over a three week time frame and should implement technology to improve student learning and test scores.  The lessons were created using SmartBoard Notebook software as well as internet tools, resources, websites, and computer games.  Materials were all standards based and available for use by the fourth grade teachers.

Standards: TF-II.A – F (Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experience); TF-III.A – E (Teaching, Learning, and the Curriculum)

Semester: Spring 2011

Hours: 10+ Hours (Ranging from March 2011 to April 2011)

Population: Lessons created for Fourth Grade Teachers and Students

Reflection: Research states that students who are engaged in learning will yield the best results.  As English/Language Arts can be a weaker area for many of our students, I decided to created a series of lessons that would review standards from the year and engage students.  The lessons were planned to be taught over a three week period; therefore, they needed to pack a punch.  I chose to focus on technology as a means to engage the students.  I planned interactive activities using a wide range of strategies and tools.  Students were exposed to different concepts using SmartBoard Files, PowerPoint Presentation, videosharing, BrainPop, and online games.  Since there were many standards to cover, it was important that the students remained focused and engaged.  Overall, the lessons were effective.  To include a technology facilitation element to this field experience, I provided the lessons and materials to all fourth grade teachers.  At team meetings, we discussed using the different resources with students and I answered any questions at that time.

iRespond Training

Description: This field experience consisted of attended two iRespond training sessions.  The trainings consisted of ways to use iRespond in the classroom and for productivity.  This field experience allowed me to further implement iRespond in the classroom and with students as well as help my colleagues and coworkers through their iRespond questions.

Standards: TF-I.A, TF-I.B (Technology Operations and Concepts), TF-V.A-C (Productivity and Professional Practice)

Semester: Spring 2011

Hours: 2 Hours (February 17 and February 24)

Population:  Elementary School Teachers (General and Special Ed.)

Reflection:  This field experience allowed me to gain deeper understanding in using iRespond Response Systems.  This is important because I can implement the use of iRespond in my classroom with my students and help my coworkers develop a deeper understanding as well.  Professional learning opportunities allow me to grow stronger as a technology facilitator and leader in my school as they give me an opportunity to teach others what I have learned.  Also, they are allowing me to become an expert in the field I plan I getting in to.