Blog Post #10

What Can We Learn From Mrs. Cassidy?

First Graders in Mrs. Cassidy's Class

The students in her first grade class are advancing technologically just as we are. They are utilizing blogs, using Skype, as well as a number of other tools. They are accomplishing the lessons while still enjoying it by using technology as a medium.

Mrs. Cassidy & Dr. Strange Part 1-Part 2

In these interviews Mrs. Cassidy explains how technology and the use of it in the classroom is an everyday thing and that you are always searching for new and exciting technologies to use. This also will keep your curriculum fresh and new every year. A key thing that is important is having the support of your students' parents and your superiors. With the change and growth of the generations to come, it is imperative that we continue to expand our knowledge of technology to benefit the students.

She goes on to explain that since blogs have audiences it helps the growth of the writer. As well, this makes our students aware of his or her impact due to the feedback from around the world. Not only is technology important in the growth of writers it is important in just the mere growth in technological understanding. Cassidy says to grow your PLN starting off with something your interested in and go from there.

A major help to building our PLNs is Twitter. Starting off it may seem as though you only have a few connections; however, it will grow in time as the many followers who share the same interest begin to follow you and you follow them in return. Following teachers from all backgrounds, subjects, and geographic locations is another good habit to get into.

Part 3- The Tips

1. Blogging can be used at any time, for any subject, anywhere.
2. Cheating is less of an issue when teachers and students remain interactive and innovative with the lessons.
3. A Facebook account can be useful, as long as it's only a SCHOOL FACEBOOK.
4. Safety is key when using internet forums or any technology where it is possible for the student's identity to be put out there. It is the teacher's job to equip students with the proper online etiquette and know how to not add their last names, phone numbers, sensitive information, pictures, or things of that nature to their blogs.
5. Between school and home, there must be a balance for students to be able to practice with technology. 

In my English class I hope to utilize blogs to enrich the writing skills of my students. As well, I would like to use PLNs and maintain a project based learning environment to better my student's skills when it comes to researching and analyzing information. Also, by using technology I want to ensure that there will be ample opportunity for my students to express themselves as creatively as possible. With these tools and the tips from Mrs. Cassidy I believe my students will go far!