I have been lucky enough to spend more time in Bev's classroom this week and have noticed a change in student comfortableness with what is going on. The netbooks now appear to be nothing more than a learning tool similar to that of the pencil, notebook or textbook. Sure there are still a few students who like to spend time changing their screen saver and sharing that with their neighbour, but are there not similar distractions in every classroom? The students are asking fewer questions regarding how to use an application than they were even a week ago. Many have found new ways of applying the applications when completing assignments. For example, there is one student who really needs to listen to a lesson's instructions a few times versus reading them. (Good example of DI btw) He also needs to verbalize his answers before writing them down. He had previously used Sound Recorder for an assignment and chose to use it on his own to record his ideas before trying to write them down.
I thought that was interesting.
I have noticed a considerable change in the learning atmosphere of this class, as well. This morning was a great example of students being actively engaged in their learning. The room was abuzz with students all working but not necessarily all working on the same thing. We had students faciliating the video taping, some practicing their intro, some working on anchoring activities....WOW! This allowed Bev and I the chance to assist those who truly still need guidance and monitoring. It was exciting....should have video taped it!
ReplyDeleteYes, video taping what is going on in the classroom would be great. I did that for a teacher last year. SHe wanted to see how students were working while she worked with others. She noticed a few things she did not expect to see.
ReplyDeleteI also noticed that students enjoy changing their screen savers. Do you see this as some form of personal expression?
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