Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Planning Professional Development

The challenge for me this school year is planning and leading professional development in my school this year.  I taught some PD last school year, but looking back do not think that I was very successful in motivating the teachers to utilize the strategies that were taught.  


Looking back there is a lot I would change.  For example, I didn't give the "play" time that people need.  This school year when I deliver PD I am going to make sure that I have enough time that the participants will be able to create or at least brainstorm lessons utilizing the technology or strategies presented.


Another challenge I face is the knowledge levels varying.  I have many coworkers that you can give a handout to and they take off!  Then we have others that need me to stand over their shoulders to help them along.  I plan on having a "backup" so to speak with me at all times, so that while I am continuing with those that are keeping up, someone will be there to assist those that need it.  This will also help in the others not getting bored while waiting.


I am looking forward to taking the knowledge I have learned at Pinnacle this summer to plan successful staff development for my school!

My Classroom in 2011-2012

Both articles made me really stop and think if someone walked in my classroom could they tell where the front of the room was, could they see my students engaged and working together to be problem solvers of the future? 


 The answer to the first question is yes.  I want my room to be centered around the learning that is taking place.  With this in mind, I would really like to turn my room sideways in a sense.  Where the students are in smaller groups not necessarily facing the Smart Board, but rather have the Smart Board as a learning tool.   


As far as the second question goes, the answer is yes.  I think that it is evident in my classroom that students are in charge of their learning.  I place more responsibility on them to be great problem solvers.  I do a lot of discovery learning, where my students research, do hands-on activities, and work together to figure out the how's and why's of things prior to me teaching them the concept.  


I am going to continue to do the discovery learning in my class next school year, but would like to incorporate even more into my daily lessons.

Professional Development Presentation Reflection

I was very nervous going into this.  I normally am when presenting in front of other adults.  Overall, I thought my presentation went well.  Some things I would change for next time is maybe incorporate more information to cover more grade levels.  I have only focused on the Algebra and above in the past with this, but I know it can do more for lower grades as well.  I would also like to have all the teachers download this feature and "play" before leaving from the training.  I know if I don't get to play around with new tech before I leave then chances are I won't utilize it later.