21st+CL+-+Gonzalez

Twenty-first century learners need to have access and be able to use technology to help them express their ideas in writing, and to be able to read, reflect, and respond to other people’s ideas. Education needs to meet students where they are at in their technology usage and carry them beyond. Technology allows for differentiation and pacing. Instructional videos allow students to learn at their own pace and stop and start or replay the video in order for them to absorb a concept; and on their own time in their own home. Educators need to beware of how they use technology in the classroom, know that using Dictionary.com is not 21st Century learning, it is a substitute for functional improvement; new way of doing the same old thing.

Twenty-first century learners need instructional strategies that promote engagement, collaboration and deeper levels of thinking. Students need to be aware of their own thinking. They need to have time to process, think and share with classmates. Sometimes students are more comfortable when they have specific tasks and can work with partners to solve problems. Kids need to be active in their learning. Middle school students are social creatures by nature, so instructional strategies need be focused, allow for movement, discussion and reflection. Questions for discussion need to be open-ended promoting deeper levels of thinking that may foster meaningful discussion. I need to be mindful of the fact that much support is needed in preparing students with these skills before they can perform them independently. Less time teaching, more time learning.

The ecosystem element that I will implement in my classroom this fall is to incorporate technology into my reading program. I struggle with what my independent reading program should look like. I want kids to read. I want them to think about what they are reading. I want them to be accountable, BUT I don’t want to kill the joy of reading. I have read and re-read Steven Layne’s book __Igniting the Passion in Reading__ and have decided that that’s what I want for my students. One way that I can instill the passion of reading is by creating an environment that “talks up” books. I would like to create a “live” book chat in Edmodo. Students will be able to post their reviews, peers will be able to respond to the initial post, AND they have accessibility from anywhere. Edmodo is providing a technology resource that is real world application.

Artifact 1 Edmodo Groups with Assignment Attached



Artifact 2 Pixar Pitch Book Summary Assignment