Artifact # 8
Context: I created this project in the spring of 2002 in my Media and Technology class at Appalachian State University. This project has introduced a new way of integrating creative thinking and technology in my classroom.
Impact: This project has students pick out a random object and make a new invention out of it. They will write a newsletter about their invention. In addition, students will use take digital pictures of their invention and use Adobe Photoshop to crop their pictures. This project was planned to encourage creative and critical thinking skills, as well as integreating practice with technology for the students.
Alignment: I can manage student learning by accessing each part of the project using my grading rubric (Tech Comp II E). I will use this grading rubric to evaluate my student's use of technology (Tech Comp IV C). After the assignment is complete, I can provide feedback by emailing the students my comments (Tech Comp IV A). This project will address content standards and student technology standards using technology such as digital cameras and Adobe Photoshop (Tech Comp III A). This project supports learner center strategies by allowing students complete freedom in choosing an object to create an invention and publishing their work (Tech Comp III B). This also encourages critical and creative thinking skills (Tech Comp III C).
The Modern Fashion and Invention Project provides numerous learning opportunities and gives the child the responsibility for beign engaged in his/her learning. This project was created knowing that children need the opportunity to explore in order to maximize student learning, understanding, and student interest (INTASC 2).
As teachers, we know that every child learns differently and needs to be instructed in a variety of ways. Vaiorus instructional strategies were used to ensure student understanding of the project and to increase their abiltiy to use problem solving , critical, and creative thinking skills. Because students are held responsible for the creation of their invention and their publication, this is achieved (INTASC 4).
Email is a way for the teacher and students to communicate questions, problems, suggestions, and comments dealing with the project (INTASC 6).
Assessing students is possible through several methods. Teachers can assess the progress and performance of students through observations and also by evaluating student's finished work. These types of assessment will assist the teacher in creating lessons that focus on the development of students intellectually, socially, and physically (INTASC 8).