This term has gone by very quickly, but it has been very productive. The class blogs were, by and large, good examples of reflective posts. The teachers became much more active in posting on each others' blogs. Some were master commenters, adding comments to as many as 10 blogs.
The final projects also reflected a range of expertise and access to technology resources. Some people hoped to be able to get a data show to use in class, while others were already making use of the one-computer classroom fairly regularly. Most impressive were the creative ideas for using cell phones in the classroom: sending audio, text files, exercises, and the like to students. A lot more students have cell phones than have computers, so it's a great approach to take.
What I'm really hoping to see is ongoing communication among the participants. There was a lot of wonderful sharing during the class: web sites, solutions to problems, and comments on each others' ideas. The Nicenet site will remain open, which allows class members to email each other individually or as a group. Those who are following other people's blogs will be able to see new posts, if any.
I'm also hoping to hear from the participants as they try their project plans. They will certainly have both challenges and successes - as in all teaching. With enthusiasm and dedication, however, I'm sure they will find ways to create satisfying learning environments for their students, encouraging their students to become more enthusiastic about learning (including English) and more independent learners.
It's been a fun 10 week!
--Deborah
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Hello Dr. Deborah,
ReplyDeleteI want on the behalf of my all colleagues to say thank you for the nice experience we have in joining this wonderful course. As teachers, we had acquired excellent information that will support our career and enhance our style in teaching English. I did not knew that using technology has this magical effect on students. Feeling and watching their reaction made me very glad and pleased and I am determined to keep on using technology and develop my style in every possible way. Finally I would thank the University of Oregon and all the nice people who were very cooperative with us in guiding and encouraging us. Thanks
Asma'a