Technology is making what was once impossible, possible. Technology allows us to connect our students with people all over the world; the world is at our fingertips! It is now possible to bring in a number of guest speakers into your classroom without breaking the bank. How is that possible you ask… Well Skype them of course! Content providers and video conferencing are the ways of the future. Having an in-class field trip has many advantages, schools save money by eliminating transportation and reduces admission costs.
Last Thursday, in my technology class, I was called out for “texting” by a representative from the Royal Tyrrell Museum. I was not actually texting; I was taking notes on my phone, I swear. What surprised me was that the representative was more then a floating head on the screen it was like she was right their in the classroom with us. The experience was highly interactive, engaging and personalized. The representative could both hear and see us on the screen in the studio and made us (me in particular) very aware of that fact. The information presented was personalized and not only matched the age and grade, but it also tied into the curriculum. There was even an element of fun with interactive games that supported learning while engaging students of all ages. Distance learning can’t replace field trips; but when its not in the budget it is a good compromise because students still partake in the experience and learn something new.
Some tips, tricks and possible things to expect when setting up and experiencing long distance learning:
· Expect that technology will work! (Be positive)
o Make sure to test it before conferencing with students
o Know technology basics
o If the technology does not work, check the remote first!
§ Option two: find your schools tech savvy person!
· Expect that students will learn
· When booking prepare q-cards with all the information, then book
o Some programs can be booked online and others can only be done by calling
· When booking select two dates because one might not work
· Understand the program – Be prepared (have everything ready to go)
· Prepare the students
o Students are allowed, when prompted, to shout out answers and ask questions, but should still be respectful.
· Prepare yourself
o You should also be involved and engaged in discussions, lead by example!
Last Thursday, in my technology class, I was called out for “texting” by a representative from the Royal Tyrrell Museum. I was not actually texting; I was taking notes on my phone, I swear. What surprised me was that the representative was more then a floating head on the screen it was like she was right their in the classroom with us. The experience was highly interactive, engaging and personalized. The representative could both hear and see us on the screen in the studio and made us (me in particular) very aware of that fact. The information presented was personalized and not only matched the age and grade, but it also tied into the curriculum. There was even an element of fun with interactive games that supported learning while engaging students of all ages. Distance learning can’t replace field trips; but when its not in the budget it is a good compromise because students still partake in the experience and learn something new.
Some tips, tricks and possible things to expect when setting up and experiencing long distance learning:
· Expect that technology will work! (Be positive)
o Make sure to test it before conferencing with students
o Know technology basics
o If the technology does not work, check the remote first!
§ Option two: find your schools tech savvy person!
· Expect that students will learn
· When booking prepare q-cards with all the information, then book
o Some programs can be booked online and others can only be done by calling
· When booking select two dates because one might not work
· Understand the program – Be prepared (have everything ready to go)
· Prepare the students
o Students are allowed, when prompted, to shout out answers and ask questions, but should still be respectful.
· Prepare yourself
o You should also be involved and engaged in discussions, lead by example!