What stood out to us after reading the book and spending the day with George was how we currently use the technology in our classroom. Based on our reflections and conversations with colleagues, we realized we are using our technology (iPads, computers, digital cameras) primarily for consumption. We would like to begin guiding elementary students towards utilizing technology more creatively. We are trying to find the balance between the practicalities of using technology for consumption while finding ways for students to express themselves creatively.
Where our learning begins is finding a good starting point – which apps are best, what programs are available, how are other teachers being innovative in this area, and how to connect all of this to our curriculum.
We welcome any suggestions or ideas, as we are excited to start this new chapter in our teaching journey.
Vanessa Madsen
Grade 1 teacher
&
Val Mytopher
Math support teacher
Niji Mahkwa School
Cluster group 1996
November Learning has an interesting article focussed on Consumption VS Creation that’s worth a read… http://novemberlearning.com/blog/2010/07/14/consumption-vs-creation/
There are also many sources online that highlight apps and such that support creation. However, technology is suppose to support learning and so I would always suggest looking at the intents of the learning first and then seek supporting tools. So, if the intent of the activity is for students to collect images around their neighbourhood that show evidence of new life (birds nests, dens, beehives, buds etc…) and then share that information in a way that promotes a lively and healthy neighbourhood, two tools might be needed: a decent camera type device and a collage or postering type tool. A quick trip over to a WSD link site for teacher vetted iPad apps (https://edu.symbaloo.com/mix/ipadappsuite) may yield some app suggestions that may work on the creation side of things.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Vanessa. Here is a blog post I wrote along similar themes I thought I would share…
https://themeaningofmerakicom.wordpress.com/2016/03/15/students-as-creative-producers/