Final Reflections on Module 8

This module was challenging to complete because of the intense research, reading and editing and the several activities which all had to be completed in the scheduled time.  Although quite intense, it allowed me to review the various technological tools and how these could be integrated into the teaching and learning environment.

I anticipate my teachers using some if not all of these at my school now that the Ministry of Education has launched its ICT policy for schools on my island.  However, finance is a critical issue at this stage as small island states in our region are experiencing struggling economies and corporate citizens and businesses are not willing to invest in such ventures at this time.  It therefore calls for schools to become creative and do things differently if we are expected to provide students with 21st century education and skills.

Some of the best practices which this module speaks to can be utilized effectively based on the economic environment which our country is now experiencing.  It will require teachers to move from their comfort zones and expand their horizons to new practices which benefits everyone in the school environment.

I look forward to their use and the results which will be accomplished from teaching and learning in new and creative ways. 

Module 8 Activity 10 - The flipped classroom

The idea of a flipped classroom is quite new.  It focuses on the learner and not the teacher.  For some teachers it might become an issue knowing that the focus is not on them and their control of the learning environment but the classroom now becomes learner centred.

I could see my teachers utilizing this strategy but my only concerns will be connectivity and students' access to computers.  It is difficult not knowing when the electricity will be suppressed thereby prohibiting connectivity.

Module 8 Activity 9 - Cellphones in the Classroom

Cellphones in the classroom? 

A question that teachers are presently faced with.  These have their place in the classroom but it depends on the teacher and the objectives or goals for their use.  I am of the opinion that teachers must be familiar with how to integrate as this could pose problems.  It is not the tool but how the teacher uses the tool and the monitoring process.

Module 8 Activity 8 - Managing online communication and collaboration

This topic is one which teachers need to come to grips with.  Educators posit that technology enhances learning but to achieve the desired outcomes it must be managed properly.

I am of the opinion that technology can enhance learning but it calls for the teacher to become familiar with the various ICT tools and know how these can be integrated into the teaching learning experience.  After all the objective is to have students build knowledge, acquire 21st century skills and become producers and not just consumers.

In all of this, it requires the teacher to manage the communication and collaboration process. Guidelines ought to be done in conjunction with the students.  Constant monitoring is important thereby reducing bullying, inappropriate behaviour and fraternizing between students.   The teacher therefore becomes an observant member of the group to intervene only when necessary. 

Module 8 Activity 7 learning with Tablets

The inclusion of tablets in the classroom as a learning tool is quite a new phenomenon in the Caribbean.  Its effectiveness depends on teachers knowing how to first use it and then knowing how to integrate it into the teaching and learning environment.

Managing tablet use is also very critical.  I believe that in a class of 30 students with tablets that there in lies the challenge of monitoring.  Students will need to understand and employ the guidelines for the tablet use in class and become owners of these guidelines, thereby ensuring that their peers also adhere to the prescribed guidelines.

Since this is new technology for some teachers, in order for the process of integration to be a success, I would ensure that a community of practice - CoP be formed as a support group for teachers and become an integral part of professional development.

Module 6 Activity 6 One-to-One Learning

One to one learning augers well for differentiated learning.  Although there are pros and cons as to this strategy in the classroom, it forces us as teachers to rethink how we teach.

Module 8 Activity 5 - Interactive Whiteboard

Interactive whiteboards are fascinating to both teacher and student since it is more interactive.  I am concerned though, that it seems to be the trend of getting these tools into classrooms without the requisite teacher professional development.  Yes, we have to move with the times since our students are born in the digital era and we ought to utilize technology but one questions its effectiveness.  The IWB has to be used well in order to enhance learning.  Teachers must be quite knowledgeable of how to integrate it into the learning environment so as to keep students involved.  The issues which are positive for the IWBs are that students enjoy the lessons when these are used and there is constant interaction in the entire class.

Module 8 Activity 4 - The one computer classroom

For many teachers, one computer is the only ICT tool in the classroom.  Its use and effectiveness will depend on the quality of the planning put into the organization of the lesson. It requires teachers to possess knowledge of what to do in order to keep students focused thereby reducing classroom management issues.  Connectivity to the Internet is also important for the teacher in this environment.  If this is unavailable, the teacher has to ensure that other activities are available for his/her use. 

Module 8 Activity 3 - Pros and Cons of Computer Labs

Computer labs are important areas where students are able to utilize the equipment to practice skills.  These labs can either be high density or low density.
A high density lab is an area designated with many computers to reach many individuals.  A low density lab on the other hand, is a smaller area usually a classroom fitted out with a few computers to be used by students of the class.

Pros:
1. Wide use of Internet.
2. Encourages collaboration and interaction.
3. Facilitates differentiated learning.

Cons:
1. Does not utilize other ICTs.
2. Some teachers are unable to integrate computers in the teaching/learning environment.

How labs are used depend on the objectives of the teacher, the skills he/she possesses and the planning put in to make the experience effective.

Module 8 Activity 2 - Learning in ICT - Enabled Classrooms

ICT has the potential to transform learning in and beyond the classroom.  The new ways of acquiring and accessing information and transforming the information into useful knowledge are having an increasingly important impact on learning and teaching.  However, there are pros and cons to ICT use in classrooms.

PROS:
1.  ICT can enrich the teaching and learning environment.
2.  Students become involved in their own learning.
3.  Teachers can plan for differentiated learning.
4.  ICT can track a student's progress and proficiency at certain skills.

CONS:
1.  Teachers are often ignorant of what is available and also how to use technology they already have.
2.  Insufficient finances to upgrade and maintain existing ICT infrastructure.
3.  Teachers do not plan for the unexpected where ICT integration is in place.

Module 8- Classroom Management - with and without ICT

My reflection point to the issue that classroom management requires careful and continuous planning for the students and planning for the unexpected as well.  This was quite evident when some of us experienced challenges accessing the course wiki.  it encourages us, as classroom teachers and administrators, to have alternatives and to ensure that when issues pop up, that they are resolved and get our students back on a good confidence level.
It also requires setting standards and putting procedures in place for the safe and proper use of resources.

Module 9 Activity 11 Closing Reflections

Whole School Diagram

It was quite enlightening going through this module as some  previously encountered modules were further integrated here. I have learned that as a leader things do not always go as planned and that one has to have alternatives in order to be better prepared to take on the issues and challenges that may surface.  Additionally, planning for the whole school must be done in the context of what is good for the school and not what is the trend.  This means that systems must be put in place before the final introduction of an initiative.  Further, it takes a team approach  for any change to take place.

This module occured at the most convenient time since the Ministry of Education has unveiled its ICT plan and this has further clarified the ICT vision for the school. It encourages all to buy into the vision to have the school functioning effectively in this century and to provide the teachers and students with the skills required for the changes which will come.

Continued ICT development exercises will be my focus.  In so doing, I will be able to coach and assist other teachers in their own development and ways in which they can incorporate their knowledge of ICTs to improve the curriculum.

Final Reflections

During this module, I was able to focus on the aspects of leadership which will be required to steer the change to ICT integration.  In my reflection, I have realized that improvement needs to be made to my time management.  There are several internal challenges which currently exist at the school and every effort will be made to ensure that there is balance between monitoring, supervision and administration.

In steering the change to ICT integration, it requires that a dedicated team to be put in place to manage the change and to have everyone buy-in to the vision. Of importance is that everyone knows their unique strengths, differences and responsibilities and these will be channeled to achieving the school's goals.  This synergy will engender trust in order to get the task done. It also identifies that I articulate the vision clearly thereby ensuring that all contribute effectively.

The aspects which will require my focus will be managing and monitoring the change.  I am aware that there are some teachers who are timid about integrating ICTs because of their limited knowledge and skills.  This aspect will be achieved by ensuring that teachers are equipped with the requisite skill sets for the change through continuous development exercises and by utilizing those individuals on the school plant who have the requisite knowledge to teach those who do not know.  Additionally, forming support groups will be necessary to ensure that individuals are not left alone during this period of change.

In monitoring the ICT integration, it requires that I am knowledgeable of ICTs and familiarize myself with the curriculum in order to assist teachers with their integration. If every learner is to succeed then it becomes important for constant monitoring to take place.  This is a task which will reqiure time management but can be achieved if other persons are selected to assist in the monitoring process.    

Module 9 Activity 10 - New partnerships to achieve the shared vision

Pigotts Primary School

Pigotts Village

Antigua.

Tel:  462-6058

e-mail: pigottsprimaryschool@yahoo.com

 

May 14, 2013

Mr. Phillip Harris

President
Rotary Club of Antigua
Rotary House
Sir Sydney Wallings Highway
St. John’s

Dear Mr. Harris,

The school applauds your club’s ‘Computers for the world’ and the dictionaries projects which it has maintained with selected primary schools for over 6 years.

As you may be aware, the Ministry of Education is about to launch its ICT policy for schools in Antigua and Barbuda for the upcoming academic year 2013-2014.  With this in mind, the Pigotts Primary School is positioning itself for this exciting period of ICT integration into the classroom.  I am very much aware that in the past, the Rotary Club has been a partner in our ICT vision by donating the required computers to establish our lab.  

In keeping with our vision of catering to the 21^st century learner, I welcome the opportunity for dialogue at your convenience, in order to continue our partnership which will benefit the students at Pigotts Primary School.

 Anticipating a favourable response.

 

Yours in partnership,

 

________________    

Theoline P. S. Croft

Principal

 

Mission Statement

To provide opportunities for each student to achieve his or her personal best by the development of knowledge, attitude and skills essential to successful achievement in school and society.

Module 9 Activity 9 - Creating a shared vision for your school towards ICT integration

Leaders ought to be visionary individuals conceptualizing what the future would be like when an idea is to be introduced.  That vision or idea is sold to other stakeholders for their buy-in and additional suggestions because the intent is to have ownership of the vision before implementation. All this will be in keeping with the direction in which the school ought to be heading, in order to achieve its goals and objectives.  

Module 9 Activity 8 - Teaching and learning at the school

It is important that teachers remember that in creating a vision where ICT is integrated in learning areas that ICT will be the tools assisting in these areas and not teachers teaching ICT. Learners are the primary focus and how we assist them in achieving, functioning and surviving in this century with ICT is critical. 

Module 9 Activity 7 - Role of the Leader

As leaders, we have ideas of where we want to take our various organizations but sometimes do not know which roads to take in order to get there.  Realizing this, leaders surround themselves with individuals who share their vision for the organization.  Leadership is challenging and causes first the building of trust to make persons follow you. There are several dimensions to leadership.  Leaders lead by example, set goals, provide requisite resources to get the job done, is passionate about what he/she does, coaches, sets standards and delegates responsiblities.  Most of all, they are visionary and put plans in place to embrace the changes which will come in education.  How the change is managed depends on how you lead yourself and lead others to succeed.

Moduule 9 Activity 5 - Learning Communities

The Eastwick Junior School is an inclusive school with a specialist centre for children with autistic spectrum disorder.  The school maintains a high local profile as a centre of excellence and their motto: Think, Learn, Care, encourages children to aim high and achieve their potential.  The school is committed to change and the effective management of that change.

 In its ICT plan, Eastwick prepares the students for a future in which ICT is integral to society by ensuring that ICT skills are developed and that ICT is safely utilized.  The school stays abreast with educational and technological developments in ICT and the teachers are equipped with the necessary tools (laptops, whiteboards) in order to do their jobs effectively.  The teachers use a wide range of ICTs to plan, deliver, assess, evaluate and improve the curriculum and they share their knowledge, skills and experience beyond the classroom.  The teachers use videos to reflect on their own practice.  The administration records and publishes on- line all activities of the school even the external examinations ratings of the students and the school overall.  Data is used for planning the way forward.

The students are engaged through enriched multi-media learning experiences. ICT is used to enhance their learning and deepen understanding, and their learning is extended beyond the classroom through the use of the Virtual Learning Environment.  Students are empowered to take control of their own e-learning.

 The parents access data and information from the school’s website, and support and understand the e-learning of their children.

 Future:  Classrooms and student work areas will be effectively ICT equipped.

 

I am encouraged through the success of this primary school, to development an ICT plan for my school which will allow for the whole school to embrace technology.  

 

Module 9 Activity 4 Part 1- Whole school conditions for ICT integration

When a needs test has been conducted and the results point to ICT integration into the whole school framework, one expects positive changes to take place from the leadership right down to the way business is conducted with our partners.  Attitudes will change because individuals will no longer have a myopic view but one that is holistic, taking into account that the efforts of all are required for school improvement.

Module 9 - Activity 3 Thinking about the whole school

Over the past year, the school has made significant strides in ensuring that the necessary infrastructure are in place to improve teaching and learning.  The good relationship which exist among the school, PTA, NGOs and the business community have proved beneficial in that we were the recipients of some forms of technology in order to improve the school's overall effectiveness.

Teachers have embraced technology but more needs to be done in terms of technical competency in utilizing these in their teaching and learning.  As the educational leader, I have seen the fear in some teachers to incorporate these into their lessons.  There needs to be more cooperation and collaboration through teamwork in order to overcome this issue.

Module 9 - Activity 2 Schools scenarios

Within organizations and in specific reference to schools, leaders are expected to solve those issues which undermine the stability and ability of the organization to effectively undertake its mandate.  Some of us have had to deal with similar school scenarios and have had to make those tough decisions which are expected to improve our organizations.  It is not easy making those decisions which ruffle the feathers and comfort zones of others.

Module 9 Activity 1 - Leadership in the digital age

It is all about change and as a leader in this digital age, it requires that leadership changes to meet the demands of this era. It calls for visionary leadership and for the will to encourage participative decision making.  Also, leaders must lead by example and engage with ICT if they wish others to catch the vision and live the dream.

Module 7 - Activity 11 - 21st century learning spaces

Teachers have come to realize that it is not business as usual in respect of 21st century learning.  More and more, teachers are expected to change the way in which they engage students, construct their classroom for learning and assess their roles in an evolving educational system as it pertains to learning spaces.

The students are engaging regularly with technology and the changing classrooms must allow for students to become more involved in their learning (seld-directed).  Ideas of the flipped classroom, social media, real world projects and adequate technology tools are in themselves agents for change in learning spaces.  As spaces change there will be change in practice for teachers as this will cause their roles to change.

How soon this will be realized in our country depends on us as practitioners to advocate for the change and the political directorate to have the will and give the level of priority needed for this to happen.

Module 7 - Activity 10 - Sharing (publishing) online

In this activity, I was exposed to various online sharing tools which one can use for project product ideas.  From my review, the use of some product ideas would depend on the age, skills sets and maturity of the students.

Module 7 Activity 9 - Learning and collaborating on line

I see collaboration adding value to the learning environment.  Workplaces require its workforce to collaborate in teams to complete tasks and in order to get our students to this level where they be ready for the future and can function in a society that requires teamwork it requires that they be equipped with the skills necessary for collaboration to take place.  Collaboration causes individuals to work together for the common good as everyone learns through this common experience and takes what is relevant to him/her and applies this to their specific learning situation.

In working together it requires the development of specific skills to include communication, problem solving, critical thinking, active listening, respect for the opinions and ideas of others and reflection.

In this type of experience there is sharing and learning taking place through constant communication.  Everyone brings their strengths to the learning environment and no one feels threatened as each person is given a voice.

Module 7 -Activity 8 Communicating online

Communication tools have value in the connected classroom once one understands how they are to be used to achieve the desired results.  Sometimes, the unfamiliarity of the tools and the fear of failure in their use cause individuals to restrict using them.  This was quite evident when we conducted our in-group session and became frustrated along the way.  We are very much aware that this could be the same scenario for our students.

Knowing that our students are technologically driven should inspire us to incorporate these into our classrooms and to narrow the gap between those students who will participate in class and those who would not and also for those who might require a different strategy for learning. 

Teachers will need to become familiar with these tools and teach students to be responsible in their use and use them for good and not as distractors. 

Module 7 Activity 7 - Learning through social media

Social media, once used properly, can be of benefit to students in enhancing learning.  The most commonly used is Facebook and for the most part, is used for socializing.  Teachers are encouraged to use it with their students to further educational goals and to build student knowledge and capacity.

How can teachers use social media to enhance learning?  There are quite a few benefits to its use but first it calls for the will to move beyond the negatives associated with its use and to embrace the good and the potential that there is to engage our students.  Teachers need to recognize that in a given day students are at school for approximately 5 hours and after school our students will become engaged with social media for more than 4 hours bearing in mind that within the 5 school hours, there is no evidence of the use of social media for learning.  There is an inbalance here which speaks to the issue of teachers using more of what seems to be of interest to students, but  are we, or our system ready for this?  The changing dynamics of the classroom demands a change in how students are educated.

Infusing social media in and out of the classroom for learning purposes in a structured and controlled way will be beneficial to students in this era. 

Module 7- Activity 6 - Real world collaboration

Projects are used in modern classrooms to develop 21st century skills in students.  One expects that by providing the interesting stimulus will make leaning real and come alive for the students.  In order to make leaning meaningful, connecting to other subject areas means that there will be no limit to the amount of knowledge students will acquire.
In the past, teachers have been asking students to reproduce content for projects instead of having them investigate an issue which encourages knowledge building.  I have learned that by identifying an issue of importance to the community is an excellent way to use projects for knowledge building and developing 21st century skills.

Module 7 Activity 5 - Engaging 21st century learners

Teachers cannot continue to do things the way things have been done for decades.  The new thrust is to engage 21st century learners and this requires the teacher to apply the principles of relating learning to real world situations, creating an environment where learning is fun and takes place in an atmosphere of mutual respect and providing the opportunities for students to share learning/knowledge.  These principles are enhanced when teams are formed for collaboration, cooperation and communication, investigating issues, documenting and producing information in its various forms, and providing the students with opportunities to conduct peer assessment and critical thinking.

This encourages me to become involved in knowledge building and build my technical capacity in order to engage my students.  Learning to integrate ICT into my teaching learning emvironment will be necessary if I intent to meaningfully engage my students.

Module 7 Activity 4 - Knowledge Building

This activity focused me to better understand how to build knowldege in students and not to provide them with already-made knowledge.  In understaning this strategy, I must:
1. Align learning with 21st century skills (assessing and analysing information, critical thinking, problem solving, agility and adaptability, entrepreneuralism, curiosity and imagination and effective communication.
2. When students build knowledge they are engaged in interpretation, analysis, synthesis and evaluation.
3. Connect all the subject areas which have similar content to be taught.  This will ensure understanding and retention of knowledge.
4. Utilize technology to enhance knowledge building and to have students collaborating and cooperating with each other and to acquire relevant information.
5. Create an environment where students have fun while learning.
6. To have students engage in knowledge building, be creative in selecting issues which are current, relevant and interesting to students, and align this to a project which can be used as a communit service project.
 

Module 7 Activity 3 - Critical Thinking

In encouraging students to become critical thinkers it causes me to become a critical thinker as well.  One notes the leading questions used to stimulate thought and in order to acquire the skill of critical thinking, there are standards which ought to be employed. These are: be clear, logical, fair, accurate and relevant.  We are living in an era where information is critically analysed for its correctness and teachers are to ensure that the students acquire the skills needed to do this and which can be achieved through further questioning.
This activity helped me to further understand how many subject areas can be incorporated and linked to one project in an interesting and collaborative way.

Module 7- Activity 2 - A vision for my subject in the 21st century

The importance of this activity was to get me thinking on the way forward to realizing the goal of ICT integration in my subject area.  I am now required to ensure that learning for 21st century students align with how they function and use technology.  It afforded me the the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues on best practices to be employed and focused me to new ways of upgrading and acquiring new skills in order to effect the required change.

Module 7 Activity 1: What is 21st century learning?

This module is quite interesting and I am becoming excited to see where it leads.  I believe that this module is timely as more and more I am realizing that the ways in which I have done things in the past are not working for the times in which we now live.  Indeed, it encourages me to change by employing today's trends as far as practicably possible.