My GAME plan already needs to be tweaked. I decided that I would like to create another goal that is more measurable and will have an immediate impact on how I communicate with parents. This year, I plan to create a class website that will contain all important information pertaining to my class. Although I know that this is a large undertaking, I feel that it is critical to finding my place in a family’s busy lifestyle.
My district recommends teachers to create their websites in the form of a wiki. Although I am relatively familiar with how to create a wiki, I have located a how-to guide to assist me with the basics. I also have referred to many other teacher websites, noting the most commonly included information. Examining other websites provided me with greater clarification as to the direction in which I should be taking with my own website.
My other goal outlined in my GAME plan is to become more knowledgeable about my future Interactive Whiteboard. Although I will be receiving district training about how to use the equipment, I want to have a better idea as to how to incorporate it into my Kindergarten classroom. I have already subscribed to several technology blogs that provide Interactive Whiteboard ideas. Sifting through activities found on www.ilearntechnology.com and http://primarytech.globalteacher.org.au/ has allowed me to determine which activities are aligned with my curriculum. Dr. John Ross reminds teachers that sometimes you have to “train yourself to go out and find information” (Laureate Education, Inc., 2010). Fortunately in this day in age, a simple Google search can get you headed in the right direction – well, most of the time that is.
Reference:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Integrating Technology Across the Content Areas. Baltimore: Author.
Bad News- The Game
3 months ago
Erika,
ReplyDeleteI also am starting a class website for the very first time! I am using a blog format and have encouraged parent interaction through school newsletters, etc. Mine is slow to start but I plan on posting projects we are doing in our art room on a consistent basis. Good luck with yours and meeting your goals!
Robyn
Erika,
ReplyDeleteI started using a class website last year when I started teaching in my school's in-house STEM program. As part of the program, all of the students were given netbooks, and therefore had the necessary access to the internet. This website was such a success that I am now using it to cover all of my classes. Through the website, parents can view my Google Calendar, where I put all of the daily assignments for each class. This way, students can no longer tell their parents that they have no homework. I also have links to various websites that I feel are helpful/useful to students taking my class. I also use the blog feature on my website to post discussion prompts for my students. This feature can be both hidden and open for parents to view. Of course contact information is also clearly visible for parents and students to contact me about anything at all. I got a lot of positive feedback from parents who appreciated the ability to check in on my class and keep a closer eye on their kids. I think you will be very pleased once you get yours up and running as well!
~ Jennifer