21st Century School Teacher

A short post to highlight  a video that documents a class project by a local fifth grade.  It underscores a conversation that Nicole (other blogger and co-creator of this web site)  and I have been having.  Technology use does not necessarily equal 21st century learning.  For me, it is more about a collaborative culture and putting kids in a situation of uncertainty (with support, of course) in order to create something new.  This project clearly achieves both of those objectives.  http://www.spokaneschools.org/MediaRoot/VideoResources/The_Difference.wmv

I have been intending to start blogging for some time now, but you know how it goes in the day-to-day life of  teacher.  One more paper to grade, one more parent to email, one more . . . something.  But it is summer.  No more excuses. 

I am not sure exactly what this blog will be about, but I know I will discuss my twin interests--writing and curriculum design.  When I stumble on a great teaching tip, I'll share that, too.  Here's one from Imelda and Rosa, two great teachers I worked with this week in Fresno, CA.  Need white boards for your classroom formative assessment / diagnostic checks?  So do I--but I don't want to spend the money.  Try white card stock in a sturdy (clear, of course) page protector.  Simple and cost-effective!

In keeping with the theme of our web site, Nicole and I will discuss the concept of the '21st century learner'--and perhaps even more importantly--the 21st century teacher.  I think we have some catching up to do with our 'digital natives.'