T.O.C. by NCDPI & NCATE Standards
Children's Literature Reflections
Artifact 4: Classroom Technology
These artifacts were created for RE 5220: Computers in Educational Settings, under the instruction of Dr. Richard Reidl, and RE 5420: Hypermedia in Instruction, under the instruction of Dr. John Tashner. My classroom webpage is also included.
| Classroom Webpage | Hypermedia Figurative Language Page |
| Choose Your Own Adventure | Pirates Project Web |
| NCaect Technology Conference | NCaect membership |
Context
In RE 5220, we studied the computer's use as a "mindtool" for students. During a unit of study, a student who has truly internalized the content can create and develop these "mindtools" as products showcasing what was learned. In the Pirates Web I incorporated an intentional search, a PowerPoint with hyperlinks, graphic organizers, and a WebQuest among other tools to choose from. I also wrote a "Choose your own adventure" story and created a PowerPoint for students to navigate through using knowledge of a pirate's life.
I also began improving my classroom website during this class. On the site I post all assignments, give explanations of my instructional strategies for parents, post pictures of student work and activities, and include many other resources for students, parents, and other teachers. In 2007, my page won North Carolina's Best Teacher Website awarded by NCaect.
In RE 5420, we studied the use of web pages as learning tools in our classrooms. With two other students, I created a webpage focusing on figurative language. This is a difficult concept for many of my fourth graders as it is so abstract. We created examples of commonly used figurative language, links to games and examples, podcasts, and quizzes. I continue to use the website each year with my students.
The use of technology keeps my young students interested and engaged, while improving problem solving and supporting student learning. We incorporate a multitude of technology from GPS caching to the creation of hypermedia to foster the variety of learning styles found in today's classroom and build 21st century skills.
Alignment:
Standard 2: Instructional Strategies and Curriculum Materials
Candidates use a wide range of instructional practices, approaches, methods, and curriculum materials to support reading and writing instruction.
Rationale: These artifacts demonstrate my enthusiasm for technology in the classroom and ability to reach many levels of readers with a wide range of instructional methods. By varying the delivery and scaffolding instruction, I am able to reach more of my students.
Standard 3: Assessment, Diagnosis, and Evaluation
Candidates use a variety of assessment tools and practices to plan
and evaluate effective reading instruction.
Rationale: My classroom webpage demonstrates how I use the various assignments to address students' strengths and weaknesses and communicate results to parents, students, colleagues, Student Assistance Teams, and others. Parents play a key role in their child’s education, and with effective communication they are better able to provide support.
Standard 4: Creating a Literate Environment
Candidates create a literate environment that fosters reading and writing by integrating foundational knowledge, use of instructional practices, approaches and methods, curriculum materials, and the appropriate use of assessments.
Rationale: These artifacts demonstrate my use of multiple genres, interests, technology, and print materials to guide my students through a variety of learning experiences. Projects I assign are meant to encourage creativity and freedom of choice. Students are exposed to more than just one type of media and print.
Standard 5: Professional Development.
Candidates view professional development as a career-long effort and responsibility.
Rationale: Through my choice of the reading masters program, staff development, and trainings, my intentions are to further develop as an effective reading teacher. I continue to advocate my beliefs to administration and remain informed of issues related to my profession. All projects are available on my webpage, and are accessible to any teacher.