Week+7

I am very excited about the progress my teachers have made. Many of them are experimenting with project based learning this week and are experiencing both pros and cons. Although the project was perfect timing with the curriculum it was to late for the students. The students are tired and ready for vacation. I was however impressed with the teachers positive attitudes and continuous ability to motivate the students during their group collaboration sessions. The teachers used open-ended questions to prompt discussion amongst the students and trigger creativity.

I was a witness of technology integration this week as one teacher introduced students to PowerPoint for a social studies projects. The students had one tutorial on the software and were begging to start experimenting and having fun. Many of the students were caught-up on the background colors but moved on to inserting text and images. First the students created a storyboard for their project and then got to work on their slides. This project was an excellent example of 21st century learning as the students collaborated, used their creativity and integrated technology. I am looking forward to seeing the final project!

After we return from winter break I would like to have the teachers integrate the collaboration activities into their classes. The students are having difficulty thinking for themselves and this will be a good opportunity to build collaboration and critical thinking in our students.

Happy Holidays!!