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September flew by!
To get us off to a great start, students and I have come up with a set of rules for technology class.
- Sit properly while at your computer
- Voices off while teacher is talking
- Do not click on the folders or work of other students
- Do not fidget with the widgets
- No water bottles in class
- Raise your hand if you have a question
This year, we will continue to work on our keyboarding skills. By improving these skills, we become more efficient and effective workers.
Educational technologists usually agree that assessing keyboarding skills, technique and speed should begin in the 4th grade. With this in mind, E2 students will spend 1 or 2 days a week practicing and developing their keyboarding skills. They will also be expected to:
* Keep eyes on copy
* Arms at sides and still
* Wrists straight
* Sitting up straight
* Typing without pausing
* Sitting centered at j key, feet flat on the floor a hand-width apart
* Hitting return key with little finger without looking
* Keeping fingers on the home row
E1 students will focus on the introduction to keyboarding. With developmentally activities and websites that assist in developing fine motor skills, letter recognition, spelling, numbers, and keyboarding symbols, students will be prepared for those difficult aspects of computer keyboarding.
This year E2 (and 3rd grade) students will also learn how computers and technology can be utilized to improve grades and increase learning. For example, using dictionary and thesaurus widgets, maps, online websites for research and gathering information, in addition to Word Document for writing: Or an effective use of interactive assessments and games to improve math skills.
Students can learn "from" computers—where technology used essentially as tutors and serves to increase students basic skills and knowledge; and can learn "with" computers—where technology is used a tool that can be applied to a variety of goals in the learning process and can serve as a resource to help develop higher order thinking, creativity and research skills (Reeves, 1998; Ringstaff & Kelley, 2002).
Last year E1 students did so well learning the computer basics. This enthused bunch learned to turn monitors on and off, use their address bars and navigate within (interactive) websites. I’m so happy for them=)
This year I would like to incorporate ‘Year-At-A-Glance’ science units, as well as other classroom units and themes as our focus for activities. Also, using those educational websites that offer opportunity to improve and reinforce what is being taught in the classroom.
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