TeachersTalkTec

  I had the pleasure of visiting Rutland Middle School and working with the Media Specialist and students there. Although a bit under the weather, she graciously allowed me to ask a million questions. I also had the opportunity to meet with the media clerk and another educator. In the media center, I was able to observe and assist as students checked books in and out, brought equipment for issues, and browsed the shelves. I worked with one student in particular whose chrome book had a blank screen. Although it was an easy fix, I was impressed with this young man. He was able to teach me a thing or two! Also, while on site, I was able to visit a math class that used the IXL program for Math instruction. The math teacher also works as a science teacher and was currently working on a program that integrated Minecraft with Science instruction. The students were learning about the periodic table. Blending instruction with gaming was very engaging and really elevated the lesson.  Th...

  Honestly, I almost gave up and threw in the towel. I was quickly becoming overwhelmed with the number of daily tasks as an educator with too many responsibilities and duties to list, my practicum assignments, my personal responsibilities, and other unforeseen calamities.   I asked myself, “Self, what on earth made you believe that you could earn a master’s degree in instructional technology at age 55?” As I plowed on, I did enjoy quite a few experiences this week. One of the highlights was attending and supporting students in the Middle Georgia Regional Technology competition. Our school had a third-grade applicant who received great feedback on his project. Initially, I was assigned to students presenting in the category of digital game creation. At the last minute, I was moved to the Audio production category. The old-school gamer in me was a tad bit disappointed. (Mind you, I was the neighborhood Mrs. Pacman champion;   circa 1985!) I was however, pleasantly surpri...