Curriculum Based Learning, Data Informed Decisions And World Class Standards And Personalized Professional Development

Technology of the past 20 years has become a focal point of teaching and learning. As a teacher, it is my job to facilitate the learning for an individual by creating an environment that not only conducive for learning, but also places the child in a position to discover and learn them for themselves. Technology has given teachers to opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom, and has begun to reshape their role in the learning process.

Project Based Learning is a teaching method that allows students to gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an engaging and complex question, problem, or challenge. Through this approach students acquire a deeper knowledge through active exploration of real-world challenges and problems. Beautiful Stuff! is a book written by Cathy Weisman Topal and Lella Gandini that shares the journey of real teachers in a real school who were inspired by educators from Reggio Emilia, Italy. Cathy Topal spent two mornings a week in the preschool and kindergarten as a visual aid teacher. Lella Gandini consulted with teachers about aspects of the Reggio Emilia approach. The teachers in book Rite Harris and Debbie Grubbs observed and recorded what happens when the focus is on process rather than product in project- based learning. The book provides approaches on how to nurture the creativity of children, which is a key part in a child’s development. In my paper I will summarize the five chapters within the book, along with providing two researched based article on project based learning (PBL), and give insight into my beliefs of project work with children.

This paper is a personal technology plan that includes my personal philosophy on integrating technology in the classroom as well as my professional goals concerning technology in the classroom. My Mission and Vision Statement are included as well as a plan for communications, integrating technology, software to support assessment, and technology ethics for a strong guideline in the classroom. Although this plan will need to be revised as advances in technology are made this is strong ground work that I can build on as a professional educator. Using this plan I can ensure that my students are using the latest

The article “Project-Based Instruction: A Great Match for Informational Texts” by Nell K. Duke, discusses the concept of implementing project based learning and how it can markedly improve student’s education. According to Duke, project based instruction involves “working over an extended time period for a purpose beyond satisfying a school requirement” (Duke 2016). This includes doing projects in order to “build something, to create something, to respond to a question [students] have, or to solve a real problem” (Duke 2016). The article maintains the benefits of this type of instruction and includes specific examples of how it can be implemented in the school curriculum and Common Core State Standards. Duke also emphasizes how the projects should serve a real- life purpose so students can feel more engaged knowing their work will be seen by

(1) The article “Project-Based Instruction: A Great Match for Informational Texts” by Nell K. Duke, discusses the idea of implementing project based learning and how it can greatly improve student’s education. According to Duke, project based instruction involves “working over an extended time period for a purpose beyond satisfying a school requirement”. This includes doing projects in order to “build something, to create something, to respond to a question [students] have, to solve a real problem, or to address a real need” (Duke 1). The article talks about the benefits of this type of instruction and specific examples of how it can be implemented in the school curriculum and Common Core State Standards. Duke also emphasizes how the projects that are implemented should serve a real- life purpose so that students feel more engaged knowing their work will be seen by others outside the classroom and can even help solve a real-life

Anderson, L. (1996). Technology planning at the state, district, and local levels. ERIC Digest [Online]. Available: http://www.eric.ed.gov/contentdelivery/servlet/ERICServlet?accno=ED393448

1) During the Avalon Ambassordor project I, went to different schools educating teachers and student what project based learning was. I went to Cretin-Derham Hall High School spoke on a pannel. Me and other students from Avalontalked about the details of what project based schooling was and how it can be used in regular schools.

“Project Approach is an in-depth investigation of a topic worth learning more about” (Morrison, 2012). A small group of children within a class, sometimes a whole class, and occasionally an individual child carry out an investigation with the purpose to search for answers to questions about a topic worth learning more about, something the children are interested in (Morrison, 2012). It benefits the children due to the fact that it makes them thinking in a higher level. Children’s enthusiasm for a specific subject convey them to ask questions, make decisions about what they are going to do keeping in mind the end goal to research and use real life experience.

I think Project Based Learning has a more positive impact on learning and understanding than traditional learning. When I was an elementary student, I always enjoyed projects more than lectures because I was never bored. When I’m being talked at in a lecture about new information the important points tend to go in one ear and out the other. I also know that I understand a concept better when I’m shown an example or when I try it out myself.

In Lavin, Korte, Davies). The result of the study further pushes the notion of how important it is for school staff to understand the given technology so they can distribute the information effectively to their students. All the technology in the world will be ineffective if the teachers themselves are not passionate of their work. “Technology has the potential to transform the learning environment from passive to active and more subject to the control of the learner.” (qtd. In Lavin, Korte, Davies).

By and large, it is of little debate in today's sophisticated world that education is of great importance. This is inasmuch as education is the basic necessity of life and brings self-confidence. With this in mind, it is quite expected to notice some of its aspects are somewhat controversial due to its prominent standing; many people wonder which way helps students to learn more. One idea of prominence in this regard is that students learn more when they work together on a project. I personally concur with it. The rationale behind this thesis will be elaborated upon and exemplified in the ensuing paragraphs by giving two outstanding reasons.

2. Cooperative learning directed towards focusing on students’ team work while doing their project assignments.

As we navigate through the 21st century, technology in the classroom is becoming further predominant. iPads are replacing our textbooks, and we can research any desired topic on our smartphones. The impact that technology has had on today’s schools has been utterly momentous. Educators have now seen firsthand the numerous benefits of technology in the classroom. According to a study by IT Trade Association CompTIA, around 75 percent of educators have come to the conclusion that technology has a positive impact on the education process. Educators have also recognized the significance of developing these technological skills in students so they will be prepared to enter the workforce after they graduate (Cox). By incorporating technology in the classroom, teachers are setting our students up for a successful life outside of school. The increase of technology has even changed how teachers teach along with how

Education is one of the most important professions in the working world. Technology has done many things for us in today’s society especially for education and schools. Technology in the school system has impacted the students and teachers in many positive ways, including virtual field trips, testing tips, teacher resources, class web sites, and lesson plans. With computer use in our schools, we have access to many different sources and various types of learning.

The education world has been greatly influenced by rapidly changing technology and the increasing availability of information. Schools have advanced by leaps and bounds when it comes to incorporating technology into the learning environment, however, many more advances need to be made. In all areas of the country, educators are trying to help students keep up with technology, but there are more changes that are essential for preparing the next generation for the future.