I'm going to follow the directions bullet by bullet so I stay on task for this post! It probably doesn't make for compelling reading
Things to think about as you create your post:
A. Current Classroom Learning Environment
- I'm really at the mid-point on the scale of teacher-directed and student-directed. While I'd love for my classroom to move farther toward student directed as the year progresses, I struggle with the feasibility of that with middle school kids (their ability to have enough background knowledge to make it work well, differing levels of motivation/discipline, etc.). Perhaps, I really need to look at how I structure the first half of the school year in order to ensure success in my classroom.
- My use of my classroom Wikispace really helped move my students and I toward a student centered learning environment.
- I don't know if "they should be" as 12 and 13 year old students who need explanation and direct instruction on some topics. I really struggle with their ability, developmentally/cognitively, in order to learn "on their own." I think, at the 7th grade level, it might always have to be more of a 50/50 in order to set kids up for future success and help lay the necessary foundation.
- No, they wouldn't describe it the same way, but I think we'd be on the same page.
- It means to give them the tools to succeed in my class.
- a. Develop proficiency in iTunes U b. Structure my class using iTunes U for next year c. Develop at least one unit on iTunes U prior to the school year
- **** I'm currently reflecting on the pros/cons of iTunes U vs. Wikispaces. Perhaps my project will be based on the Wikispace or iTunes U. Stay tuned.
- The work on iTunes U will be the proof of moving/working/achieving my goal.
- Colleagues can help me by reviewing my ideas and providing feedback.
- I feel that my lessons are completely technology dependent now. I feel that I do use technology as a "substitute" for paper/pencil (or traditional materials), but naturally my integration as become more authentic and able to modify and redefine (SAMR terms).
- Wow, looking at the TIM model is really humbling, but exciting. Of course, I want my project to move toward the transformation end of the spectrum while being active, collaborative, constructive, authentic, and goal directed. I should create my own rubric/checklist to keep me focused on this!
