This week has been one of minimal improvement, but for me any improvement is worth noting. I am not positive if the changes were completely due to my GAME plan or the fact of the mid week field trip but they were noticeable. This week I instituted a few new practices to reinforce an idea of community in a collaborative setting within our classroom. In my classroom I try to provide an environment where all students, “feel comfortable challenging others’ point of view,” at the same time my students must learn to do so respectfully, thus the update in my GAME plan (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2009, pg. 167).
Are you finding the information and resources you need? At this point of the GAME, computer usage outside our normally scheduled computer lab time is a reward for remaining within their assigned seat group. As previously mentioned, this has been a major challenge as the students have a very difficult time getting along with one another and respecting each other’s opinion. During their free computer time, the students are allowed to visit Coolmath.com, Edheads, or one of the software programs our district subscribes to. I have had difficulty finding resources that would reinforce positive treatment of others in a fun way, but I have spoken with our school’s counselor, Program Specialist for special education, and Assistant Principal for Discipline for additional resources in hopes of new outlets for upcoming weeks.
Do you need to modify your action plan? The past week was one to get the students into a routine of, if you remain in your group, then additional computer time with activity will come. In the weeks to come my GAME plan will be modified when additional internet resources are found to teach and reinforce positive behavior. The student’s web activity will transition from the aforementioned sites to those to help behavior.
What have you learned so far? Thus far I have learned that directing fourth grade aged behavior is my biggest challenge, especially when it is multiplied by twenty four. Setting a goal for learning is easily measured; you either make the grade or you do not, but with behavior, it can change in a second.
What new questions have arisen? The main question of the week was of the overall positive behavior in the class. I cannot determine if is because ‘I got GAME,’ the moon was not full, or the mid week field trip; either way, I welcome the outcome and the learning environment in my classroom. It is my hope this week is a positive one as well.
Reference:
Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). *Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach.* (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.
Greetings Ms. Rich and thank you for your advice. I have been told in my lifetime that patience is not my best attribute, but with this group of youngsters and their activeness, I am certainly learning. As you note, "all improvement counts, no matter the size," and I toast that on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteAs for your GAME plan, it does seem that you are "floating right along." Benefits abound when you have the backing and support of those around you and with the new pieces of technology, a new world is bound to open. Good luck with those and with the use with your students. Lastly, where are you in Georgia?