Describe what the course as a whole has done for you. What have you learned? What would you have liked to have learned but was not covered?

Two things that stand out to me are:

The course provided an opportunity for me to learn more about Intel. The Intel materials, books, CD and web site contain a wealth of information. I have already shared some of the assessment information, and the Visual Ranking Tool with colleagues at school. And I will continue to reference these materials and certainly find more to use.

The study team time provided a great opportunity to learn with and from another library media specialist. Thank you Sue B.

professional development

What ongoing professional development is important for sustaining professional growth?

It is a personal commimment on the part of a self-directed learner that sustains professional growth.

Schools with a culture that value professional growth and development offer a multitude of opportunities for teachers. These opportunities must then be supported with time and funding.

The first place to look to see if this culture exisits is in the library. Is there a section of professional materials with easy access for teachers? Is there a variety of materials? Does the school invest in materials for professional growth and development of all staff?

In addition, common planning time may be scheduled so teachers have the opportunity for professional discussion with peers. Professional learning communities may be organized. Attendance at conferences, workshops, and classes may be provided for.

This module has helped me think about self-directed learners and the role of differentiation in the following ways...

Differentiation and self direction are key to a successful classroom.

Self direction is critical for students to be successful. They need to learn how to set goals and manage the process in working toward those goals. Formative assessments are a tool teachers can use to help students learn to be self directed. As students become aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and learning styles, they can use the information to make choices and become more self directed.

Differentiation is critical for all students to be successful. One size does not fit all. Differentiation whether it be of instruction, content, and or projects allows a teacher to try and meet the needs of all learners in the classroom and set them up for success.

assessment

This module has helped me think about student-centered assessment in the following ways....

I am thinking of student assessment in two catagories: formative and summative. This module has helped me consider additional ways for students to participate more in the assessments. This would include more peer assessment and self assessment. It also opened up the idea of students creating their own assessments.

digital divide

Post to your blog specific digital divide issues that you may have in your classroom setting and possible solutions.

Although we have not completed a formal survey, I believe from discussions with students and teachers that our student population has access to technology. Access to computers at home with high speed internet does not seem to be an issue. We do, however, keep access in mind.

There are three computer labs in our school, so teachers can reserve a time on any given day and take their class to the lab. During this time, students are able to accomplish the classroom assignments.

Individually, students have access to computers during their study hall everyday, either in the library, or in one of the labs.

We did offer before and after school lab time a few years back and there was little or no demand on most days. Due to the lack of interest the program was cut.

Although computer access is not an issue, we are weak in other areas. For example, we are in the process of adding digital cameras, video cameras, mp3 players, gps, and other technology to our collection for students and staff to have in school access. We are also adding SmartBoards to classrooms as the funds become available.

Due to tight budgets, monies raised through Parent Booster Club fund raising events cover the costs of these items. So we continue to do what we can.

Project Based Learning

What is project based learning ?

Project based learning is an instructional method, based on constructivism, that allows students to be central to their own learning. Students learn content knowledge and skills through real world questions, issues, and problems. Inquiry and research are used to gain knowledge.

A variety of instructional stratigies, supports and activities are used to support all learners and accomodate all learning styles. Technology is used to support the learning as well. A variety of assessments are used to monitor and evaluate learning.

And how might you use it in your classroom?

My classroom is the library so it is a natural environment for project based learning. On an informal basis students engage in this type of learning without labeling it as such. For example:

Savanna comes to the library for information about hamsters. She wants to learn more about the cost, where to get one, equipment needed, what they eat, how long they live etc. She mentioned that she was trying to convince her mom to get one and was going to try to persuade her with a presentation, showing a real desire to get pet.

Jacob comes to the library for information about Costa Rica. His family is going on a vacation and he gets to have some input on what activities they might do while they are there.