Module Four Notes

Module four focuses on Cultural Understanding and Global Awareness

The group watched an Edutopia video on a project connecting a Choctaw tribe and children in Thailand. Connecting Ancient Culture First People's Project

Sara shared a number of sites that she recommends for global collaboration projects. The list includes: ePals, MyHero, Global SchoolNet, ThinkQuest and Project Registry.

Teachers discussed the topic: Instilling global awareness and cultural understanding in our students through participation in global projects and organizations

Mr. Gonzales addressed the group after lunch and acknowledged the sixth grade teachers for their work in moving the School2Home program forward.

The presenters talked about the skills students need today and shared information about the Partnership for 21st century skills.

Connecting the topic of Cultural Awareness to 21st century skills, Sara shared another Edutopia video about students in a Seattle, Washington learning about the Northwest Native Canoe culture and participating in a service learning project to build a canoe.

Collaboration

Engagement

Productivity

Applying information

Collaboration

Presenters talked about the need for good assessment strategies and tools. Since many of the teachers on the staff are already familiar with Rubistar, it was shared briefly. Library Teachers Mr. Oram volunteered to assist teachers who are new to Rubistar and would like to learn how to use it.

Micheline addressed the topic of classroom management in a one-to-one laptop program. The Irving School District website in Texas has posted some excellent strategies to their website, which includes video clips.

Teachers responded to an evaluation that will provide input to the School2Home professional development team.

Participants closed the day by recording in a Google Doc their reflection on the day.