Monday, February 27, 2012

What matters???

Ever wonder if what you're doing is making a difference in how your students learn????  How can you really tell???? Many districts are jumping feet first (or should I say 'check book' first) into the newly popular world of iPads.  I read with envy about the districts who are purchasing mass amounts of iPads and creating many 1-on-1 classrooms.  Can you see the drool on the screen????  Even though I am soooooooooooooooo envious I want to be able to say with some measure of proof that my work with iPads matter.  Do I think they make my students learn more? Do I think they help create better 21st century learners? Do I think my students are more engaged?
YEP, I do!

Unfortunately, there's not much proof out "there"!  ("There" being the land of peer reviewed scientific studies.)  

So, this kindergarten teacher is embarking on a teacher inquiry on the effects of iPads on student learning and engagement.  I will be reviewing student surveys, test results (compared to my neighbor not using iPads) from common assessments along with student gains on the STAR early literacy test.  

Wish me luck!  May the force be with me, break a leg, and anything else you can think of!

Friday, February 3, 2012

Parlez-vous francais?

I decided today to take a look at my 'stats' for this site.... I was so excited to have over 2,600 views on my blog. As I looked further into the stats look what I found.....

Over 700 views in France!?!?!?!? Je devrais peut-ĂȘtre changer de parler français? My French is a little (a lot) rusty, but I could try! Seriously, take a look at the views per country.... I feel like singing 'It's a small world'! Really?? There is someone is Malaysia who is interested in what this Ohio kindergarten teacher is doing??? 

Ok.... enough of my wide-eyed amazement... Here is my new trick for the day!

If you'd like to take a 'screen shot' of what is on your ipad simply:
  • have your screen set to the pic you want to take a 'picture' of
  • hold down the 'home' button and the 'power' button at the same time for a second
    • You will hear a click of a camera (if your volume is turned up) and a flash of the screen
  • the screen shot is now in your pictures!  Voila!

See full explanation here!

 Au revoir mes amis!