If you're an administrator, you might sometimes wonder how you can support teachers in your building when it comes to integrating technology into the curriculum. Remember, staying up to date with technology as an administrator is just as critical as it is for classroom teachers. Here's a few people you can add to your PLN:
If you're a "Pinner," here's a board for you to follow: Jennifer Phillips, Ed Tech and Social Media
If you're a "Tweeter," here's a great new lead for you: Jen Sigrist
As we move towards the Common Core, we have a greater need than ever to focus on technology integration. Not only is technology embedded in the Core Standards, but we also aid in student's learning, understanding, and innovation when we use their tools to meet learning goals and objectives. Here's a middle school project idea to meet Common Core Standards for all core subjects of math, ELA, science, and social studies:
"Your community is redeveloping and wants to find a way to bring families and neighborhoods together. A plot of land has been set aside to build a park. Your group must research other parks and poll community members to make conclusions about what the community would like to see in the new park. After collecting data, you will design a prototype model to present to the project development board as well as publications in the form of brochures or videos to attract visitors. You will integrate maps and pictures into your publications."
An example project such as the one above would involve critical thinking in the form of evaluation, analysis, and synthesis. Students would be involved in researching using Internet tools and would compile the collected data in a spreadsheet so preferences could be easily graphed. Interactive maps could be accessed for layout, and students would use a variety of tools to experience geometry in the real world. Students will write rough drafts and publish finished products as a community resource using visual literacy skills.
Although the above is an example for middle school, it could be adapted for both high school and upper elementary classes. If you need resources for grade levels that do not fit either of these categories, please contact me.
I'd love to come work with your school during a PLC or other PD day to show you how technology tools can be used to meet CCSS. Check out my calendar for availability:
