Write about one piece of technology that you would like to try this year, and why. You might also write about what you’re hoping to see out of this edtech integration.

I mentioned technology in my post yesterday about classroom goals. I know that I don’t use technology as effectively as I should, and that is in large part due to the fact that I’m just not as skilled with it as I should be. However, I’m doing a disservice to my students if I let my own incompetencies affect their learning; therefore, I plan to research a few types of technology and attempt to implement them as effectively as I can.

Something that I think is simple, yet hasn’t been as effectively implemented in my district as it could be, is using technology for communication. We’ve used SchoolFusion a bit, but it’s not very user-friendly. I have had a bit of success, though, allowing my students to create accounts and use the message boards to discuss books we’ve read and share ideas. The kids LOVED this! I feel like it’s a great way to introduce students to online etiquette and safety guidelines in a very safe, protected environment, since none of their personal information is posted. I’ve always had a classroom website, and I want to encourage students to use online resources more often. (For example, if they forgot to write down homework, I want them to know that they can check SchoolFusion.)

This isn’t groundbreaking technology, and it’s not going to change the world. But introducing my less tech-savvy students to online communication in a safe, semi-private forum will teach them to be skilled communicators as they get older.

However, it we take just a minute to pretend this is a perfect world, where budgets are limitless and science has just exploded… how cool would it be to have a Holotable like the one Fitz and Simmons use on Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.?

Image from Marvel Cinematic Universe Wiki