GP Continued

My first goal is to design and develop Digital-Age learning experiences and assessments and my second is to grow professionally. After studying this week's resources I definitely considered the idea of social networking in my first grade classroom. Specifically, I thought of how I could use it to add to my first goal of designing digital aged assessments. I love everything I have heard on this topic. The idea of collaborative learning between students in other classrooms and even other countries is fascinating to me. I do feel this type of activity works best with older children. Even second graders can spend more time on the concept than strictly focusing on the "how to" of using technology. I would like to give it a try though. Maybe I can prove myself wrong. Some ideas that I had were to assess I could have my students ask questions to one another on a blog. Their ability to ask a question would be an assessment all in itself. I would also look at whether or not the questions they are asking or answering reflected a knowledge of content. If anything an activity like this would introduce blogging and social networking and I feel that as a first grade teacher my job is to often introduce new things and not master them. The exposure they have with technology when they are young, the more comfortable they will be using it when they are older.

This topic has also made me think of my second goal of growing professionally. I would love to attend a conference or training that focuses on technology with lower elementary teachers. I know that I could learn a lot from other teachers who are in the same position as me. Has anyone had an opportunity like this? If not, has anyone seen any online learning communities that are separated by grade level? I know that in our class I have been able to discuss technology issues with other lower-elementary teachers but and entire PD on this would be helpful. So often my challenge with technology seems to be their age. Not always an issue of "what can they do" but the issue of "what's appropriate for their age-group" and "how will they most benefit from using technology".