1. Description of some ways to build connections and branch out beyond the classroom:
Technology in itself allows our students to reach out in the community and to reach a broader audience. Motivation is a big connector when it comes to technology because our students will know that others are reading, writing, and listening to what they have to say. Creating digital stories is something students can do to get their research or topic out in the community and this is all done through technology.
2. Discussion of the EAST initiative model:
EAST stands for Environmental and Spacial Technologies. This model has students working to demonstrate the benefits of technology in order to solve problems and make improvements in their communities. The students get the community involved to show them the significance of their projects and getting them to support their projects as well.
3. Discussion of some reasons to let students lead their projects:
As students become more familiar with technology and project based learning, it becomes well aware that the students are in fact capable of leading their own projects starting with the basics. Asking students what they are passionate about and having them be responsible for their own project gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility. Having students share their ideas and come up with their own plan is a great way to expand critical thinking skills as well.
4. Discussion of how concepts in this chapter relate to your topic/project:
This chapter relates to our project through the talk about building connections. By creating a podcast and reaching out in the community through a fundraiser, we have to know how to get the word out and we do this through technology too.
I really like the way you related this chapter to your project. I agree with the fact that you have to reach out to the community so much for help. This is a great relation. We really do have to know how to get the word out in order for fundraising to be successful.
ReplyDeleteI like how you pointed out how motivation is a big focus and connector in technology. I also think that this is very important because it motivates the students and allows them to see that people actually want to listen to their ideas!
ReplyDeleteI agree that students need to take ownership of their projects and by doing this they learn to be more responsible for their projects. Its important for students to be learning something that interests them, this makes the project better and the students will retain more information. We as teachers need to recognize when students are ready to lead their own projects, and we just have to support them.
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