Friday, March 13, 2015

Flipping the Classroom: My first screencast!

I have to admit, when I watched this video on flipping the classroom, I was a little intimidated.  I love using my classroom as a place for research and trying new things, but I have some fears about being able to flip my classroom.  I am not afraid to put in a little extra time, because I believe that my students would reap the benefits immensely.  The easy part is creating screencasts and sharing them with parents.  The hard part is getting everyone on board.

My biggest concern about flipping the classroom is how I would reach every student.  I know that at least 5 students in my class do not have access to internet at home, so I would have to problem solve how to make it work for these students.  My co-worker, Jason Wilmont mentioned that when he flipped his classroom, he had a few students that would watch the screencasts with a volunteer at school, so it worked ok for him.  In addition, I would have to get my parents on board and really make sure they understand what I am doing and why I am doing it.

This screencast is a lesson on problem and solution using the 2nd Grade Wonders Unit 5 Week 4 Shared Read Text: The Art Project.  I would have had students read the text independently during the day before assigning this video.  In addition, I would send students home with a blank graphic organizer to fill out while they watch the video.  The screencast would be the student's second read where they are completing close reading with the text.  I included the text in my screencast, so students can easily jump back and forth in the video as necessary.  I am very excited to share this first screencast with my class on Monday!

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Digital Citizenship Ideas

As teachers work toward the goal of creating responsible, future-ready citizens, it is crucial to teach them how to be digital citizens.  Just as a teacher must model social and educational expectations, it is key to devote time to digital citizenship expectations.  The following are a few ways that teachers might provide instruction about digital citizenship for the K-2 classroom.  

Pause and Think Online: Includes a video and song that teaches students how to be safe, responsible, and respectful online.  There is also a poster to go with the video.  The resources are primary friendly and I love that it ties to being safe, responsible, and respectful, since this is a school-wide expectation as well.   It could fit with a Health Unit on safety or when reviewing classroom expectations.  

My Online Neighborhood: This kid friendly video compares the internet to a neighborhood, where you can visit many places, communicate, and learn new things.  This might tie in nicely with a Social Studies Unit on Communities.  After discussing the many possibilities for the internet, the video provides 3 key safety rules: 
1. Always ask a parent first.
2. Only talk to people you know.
3. Stick to places just right for you.  

Care and Maintenance Poster for Younger Kids: This poster provides a nice visual to remind students how to properly care for devices.  I have quickly learned the importance of reviewing laptop procedures, just like I would review any other procedure.  
1.  Please don't get me wet.
2. Share me with others and take turns.
3. Be gentle with my screen and buttons.
4. Turn me off when you are not using me.
5. Carry me with two hands.   (This one is especially relevant in my classroom!)