I have just finished my iPad for educators course in the past couple of weeks and have been developing my skills in the classroom. The course went through general information about how to use the iPad in a functional way; including simple things (that I didn't know!) such as using 'fast keys', motions, handy applications, syncing of email and updates, and using Siri. We also learnt how to use the iPad for educational purposes with the use of sharing apps like 'Dropbox', 'Evernote' and apps that allow you to mirror what you are doing on your iPad and have it show up straight onto the projector or computer without it being plugged in. I am currently working on pre-filming some of my theory lessons for Senior Science classes (namely year 12) and uploading them so my students can access them should they be absent from class. This will allow me to spend more time with my students in class developing and applying their knowledge in the classroom, and less time for them having to listen to me lecture and writing notes; hence, a focus on active learning rather than passive learning. This will also be of benefit as it will prepare them for the style of learning they encounter at university. I still have a long way to go with using the iPad to its full potential - but I plan on spending some time developing this in the next year.
This last month has also seen the arrival of the Mimio Voting System at school. These devices allow me to use them in class to gather immediate feedback from the students. We have been toying with the idea of using them for processes such as pre and post testing of topics so that we can then collate the data and apply Hattie Effect Size after finishing a unit so that the progress and learning of the students can be directly measured and accounted for. They also make a really good formative tool where I can gather direct feedback regarding student understanding. The whole school is looking at using them to engage the students in learning feedback quizzes to identify areas of professional development for teachers.
In other news, I have been studying a topic at university for my Masters of Education that is looking at Positive Behaviour in Schools. I have learnt a lot of useful classroom tactics and theories surrounding behaviour management, and in the process have been forced to question what values I hold central to my own teaching paradigm. It has reiterated the importance of developing a positive working relationship with my students and refreshed the idea that what I do and how I act really does have an impact upon their behaviour and perception . I will be continuing study over the next year so will update as I learn. Until then, enjoy the remainder of term 3, and happy holidays!
Esther
