Describing My Craft

I am once again teaching in a position that allows for creative crafting of the classes and experiences I teach... and the challenge is inspiring.

I began teaching... 21 years ago . . . in a program targeted at GT students. No curriculum, no job description.... just a vision and a willingness to guide young minds. I led Stock Market Teams to state-level victories, Coached Knowledge of the Mind Teams, Took a group of kids to Washington D.C., took kids flying in Aviation groups.... every idea that popped up was an opportunity. My job was my craft, but I tired of being an island... longed for collaboration with my peers- so I got my Masters in Interdisciplinary Education and took a position on a "team" of teachers- collaborating and supporting each other over the next 16 years- some great times.

Now I am teaching computers... and the realm of student preparation is changing so quickly - the possibilities of topics, projects, focus ... is constantly changing. Ideas.... and opportunities abound. But this year I have been teaching classes designed by my predecessor....

Today the course descriptions for next year were due.... this is my first effort to describe what my vision of my classroom is:



*NOTE* ALL Computer Classes will include technology concepts and operations, digital ethics and responsibilities, and honing of keyboarding skills.

COMPUTER BASICS: 6th Grade (Required, one quarter)
Develop basic computer knowledge and skills necessary for middle school, high school and beyond! Emphasis will be placed on keyboarding and digital communication skills to help students integrate the use of technology in the school environment.

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS: 7th Grade (Required, one quarter)
Explore the use of computers and technology to accomplish a variety of academic tasks. Learn to combine creativity and critical thinking in the digital world. Network and online applications will be explored along with a variety of electronic devices (i.e. cameras, GPS, clickers)

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH AND PRESENTATION LAB: 7th and/or 8th gr, one qtr
Utilize network and online resources to expand on academic topics and enhance classroom projects. Complete independent projects of your own design related to a topic in the core class of your choice. Potentially earn credit in core class AND computer class for final products.

IT’S NEWS TO ME!: 8th Grade, one qtr
Explore the realm of digital communication and current events. Access, review and evaluate information resources and apply what is learned to create your own. Digital text, audio and imaging technology will be applied to create new resources.

MULTIMEDIA YEARBOOK STAFF: 8th Grade, TWO qtrs(2nd and 3rd quarter),
BY APPLICATION and TEACHER RECOMMENDATION ONLY!
Collaborate as a team to create our school yearbook. Learn and apply journalism techniques, digital photography, methods of design and marketing skills to help create the best MGMS yearbook ever! This class requires that you commit to TWO QUARTERS and that you submit an application to indicate your interest in being a member of the yearbook staff. (May involve some time beyond the school day for photography assignments and meeting deadlines)

LIVING IN THE DIGITAL AGE: 8th Grade, one qtr
Examine the impact technology is having in our world. Evaluate the skills needed to enter the workplaces of today and tomorrow. Explore and apply a variety of digital tools, software and applications to answer questions, complete tasks and solve problems.