My first goal of engaging students in more self directed activities, while enhancing their learning through the use of technology has not yet fully taken shape. Through the unit that I started this week (which was our dance and rhythms unit), my students will eventually have an opportunity to explore new dances through jigsaw dance, which is where students are placed into groups and then split up to learn all the parts of the dance. Once each student has learned their part of the dance, they then get back together with their group to teach them their portion of the dance. I'd also like to record students performances via FLIP camera so they can see what their dances looked like and so they can reflect on their learning experiences. So far, my biggest concern is being able to complete this type of an assignment with the limited amount of time that I see my students (considering all the snow and missed school we've had in the northeast).
The second goal that I had, which was to provide students with a variety of assessments that align with technology standards has been addressed somewhat in this week's class discussion. One way in which I could develop forced-choice assessment through the use of technology would be to use a "classroom response system" as described in this week's video by Dr. John Ross (Laureate Education, Inc, 2009). I'd need to request the classroom response system and figure out how to use it and input my content questions into the program. I have come up with a couple of other of forms of assessment that I don't already use in my class, however, I think it will be key for me to continue to think of ways in which I can assess student learning through the use of technology.
My last goal of reflecting and adapting with the everchanging digital tools and resources that support student learning is an ongoing process. I haven't set aside a specific time to reflect on the things being done in my class, but I do think I reflect and think about those things every day. Just recently, I put together a Wellness Day for my staff and created an evaluation form for teachers to fill out and it made me think about possibly creating an evaluation form for students to fill out after given units. Because my curriculum provides me with plenty of flexibility, I could easily take the opinions of my students into account when planning for specific units next year. Although I have thought of many ideas of how to incorporate technology into my class, the challenge for me will be to continue to find creative ways to engage students with technology in a physically active setting.
References:
Cennamo, K., Ross, J., & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach (Laureate Education custom edition). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). 6713: Integrating Technology Across the Content Areas [DVD]. Assessing Student Learning with Technology. Baltimore, MD: John Ross.
David Chiarella
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David:
ReplyDeleteThe one thing I really like is the jigsaw dance concept. That’s a great cooperating activity. It even focuses on team building. I personally would like to use the FLIP cameras you have mentioned. I understand your frustration when you talk about time seeing the students. In p.e we see them either two or three times a week for 45 minutes. Most of the time is to get them moving getting their heart rate up. We don’t have the time to discuss assignments like a general education teacher. That’s the frustrating part; I’m really a supporter of bringing homework assignments as another component of physical education. This part will include content based on health and nutrition. Similar to a class in college where you had class, and then physical activity another day. Assessments are great to get an idea of what content your students are learning, but I also incorporate exit slips, and assessments on how the unit or lesson can be better. It’s always good to hear from your students to make your lesson more productive and engaging.
Mike Benson
David,
ReplyDeleteI like your idea of giving students an evaluation form to fill out at the end of each unit. This will help both you and your students reflect on the unit. I also like asking the students for their opinion on what they want to take away from the unit or how they would like to incorporate technology. I think the students would take more away from the unit, if their opinions/ideas were used. Great post!
Liz Dauksha
Mike,
ReplyDeleteWhen I was student teaching I had the students do homework assignments and it seemed to work very well. After reading your post, I think it might be something that I have try in my class for the future. Thanks for post!
David Chiarella
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ReplyDeleteDavid,
ReplyDeleteI know not every school has this, but I suggested to my principal to purchase a Nintendo Wii. I brought mine into school a few weeks ago along with the games Just Dance 1 and 2 and Zumba. They've used it in one of the gyms during lunch time since there are mountains of snow in our yard (NYC had gotten dumped with snow the past few weeks). While a few kids actually get to hold the controller, the rest of the entire group dances along with the game. A lot of fun and great exercise. My principal actually purchased a Wii now (so I finally get to take mine home). I know you were talking about rhythm and dancing and we don't use it for gym in our school... so I guess you gave me an idea that we could. If you or someone you know owns a Wii, all you need is to hook it up to a projector and speakers.
Matt