ILP #2

I interviewed a first grade teacher about how technology is implemented in her classroom, here are the questions and answers.

1. How do you implement technology in your classroom?

We try to use various elements of technology throughout the day.  I have a Promethean Board (interactive whiteboard) that we use to present lessons, watch videos, etc. There is a document camera hooked up to the Pro Board that allows me to present information, display text in a larger format, read books for the students to follow along, or display student work to the class.  We have a technology table (white board table top that has a monitor that can hook up to student devices to display information to a small collaborative group working at the table). I have five Chrome Books for the students to use during the technology station during literacy and math stations.  I also have a school Ipad and a personal Ipad that I use for individual enrichment.  

2. Does your school have a computer lab, or do the laptops come to the classroom?

We do have a technology lab.  My students have technology as a special once a week.  I also have five chrome books in my classroom for student use.  All of the fifth grade classrooms in our county have a one-to-one technology ratio with each student having a Chrome Book.  Fourth grade is not at a one-to-one ration yet but they are close. 

3. Do the students incorporate technology in their lessons, or is learning how to use the technology the main lesson?

We incorporate technology in our lessons.  Our school has subscriptions to several websites that the students use for literacy (Raz-Kids and Education Galaxy) and math (Education Galaxy).  The upper grades might have more....I'm honestly not sure.

4. How is the use of technology different at the different schools you have taught at?

The main difference between the technology between this school and my old school is that at my old school I had six school Ipads in the classroom instead of Chrome Books.  For the younger grades, I have found that the Ipads were more user friendly.  I did not have a technology table at my old school.

5. Is the school properly preparing the students with technological skills in order to function as a student in the 21st century?

I believe that we are. 

6. What is expected that the students should know how to do regarding technology by the end of the year?

Honestly in first grade......being able to log themselves into the computer haha.  They are learning beginning typing skills in the technology lab.

7. Are there blocked websites to prevent students from inappropriately using the technology?

Yes, each student can log into the computer with their student ID and password.  On a student account, certain websites are blocked.  There are blocked sites even on a teacher login.  YouTube is blocked for teachers as well as students. 

8. Do you have a Smart Board in the classroom?

I do not have a Smart Board but I have a Promethean Board.  I had a Smart Board in my old classroom.

9. Do you feel that technology adds or takes away from the learning in your classroom?

I feel that it adds to the learning.  The students love it and are more engaged when technology is involved. 

10. Do the students enjoy using technology in the classroom?

YES!