Implementing One-to-One - October 13th Training Session

Classroom environments are changing with the implementation of one-to-one. In Castleberry ISD, every 7th-12th grader is issued a netbook so that they have access to digital content at school and at home. As we have entered into the 21st Century, students are acquiring digital skills that will transport them into their future. However, just carrying the netbook to class each day does not provide the student with these 21st Century skills. Teachers must continue to examine the strategies they are using in the classroom as they implement one-to-one to ensure that the students are using the devices as a tool so that they are thinking at higher levels. In the course I am instructing on October 13th, teachers will examine tips and strategies for best practices when implementing one-to-one. By the end of the class, teachers will be able to answer the following question: How can you improve the way that you implement one-to-one in your classroom?

Web App Highlights - Recordmp3.org and GroupZap

If you have not tried out RecordMP3.org, you need to take a minute to see how powerful this tool can be in your classroom. For the teacher, you can leave personal messages on the Wall of your Gaggle classroom. Teachers can record instructions for students as well. But students can use this app to enhance their learning in your classroom. What a great way for students to reflect on what they have learned in class. I can also see students using this tool to practice answering questions at a higher level. There are so many ways that teachers and students can use this app in the classroom...just use your imagination!

Another web app that I just found recently that is great for collaboration is GroupZap.com. This online whiteboard allows teachers and students to collaborate, using sticky notes and badges to brainstorm together. What I really like about this app is that students do not have to have an account to use a whiteboard that the teacher has shared! Again, this is a great app to start training students on how to answer questions beyond the basic one word answers. Try it out and see how you could use this app in your classroom!