MET 6203 In the Future...

In the future, I would like to see more interactive technology experiences in the classroom. Taking students out of the book and enabling them to see, hear, tough and interact with the lesson at hand. I believe this creates a deeper connection and allows the students to become a critical decision maker, drawing from a wealth of personal knowledge. Online learning opportunities for students are also important. Giving students the chance to work about grade level, re-mediate, or even have access to information or learning not offered at the school is an exciting prospect. Giving these same students the skill to manipulate the technology is essential. Incorporating keyboarding, Internet research skills, and presentation software in the elementary school has to become the norm. Funding to support student learning and the integration of technology has to be in place.

I recently asked our board for $45,000 for technology! We need to have a better infrastructure and new server! But, if I only had $10,000, I would prototype 2-3 classrooms with technology essentials and work hard to document my students' learning progress through test scores over the year. I would purchase:

2 Smart Board Kits with projector and arm mount - $4,200.00
2 Document Cameras - $2,000.00
1 Student Response System - $3,000.00
1 Digital Camera - $250.00
2 Web Cameras - $160.00
2 Microphones - $100.00
1 Digital Video Camera - $400.00

Total - $10,110.00

This equipment would support a more interactive learning environment and create excitement throughout the school. Currently, we have none of these items!