Implementing technology to break down the traditional walls of a classroom

The last few months have been very exciting and fast paced. I have been implementing technology to break down the walls of a traditional classroom. I should have probably written multiple blog posts about each of these amazing events.  I will break it down into three categories: 1. my class 2. other classrooms 3. communication with parents.

1. In March and early April, I was able to connect my students with students in North Carolina and Illinois on a March Madness project. Everything was focused around the Essential Question "How can one individual affect a group of people or the United States?" Students collaborated on projects using Google docs. Voting happened using Google forms. What made this project so great was that students used 21st century skills throughout. They were communicating with students in other states, collaborating with each other, thinking critically to make projects better because they creating for an authentic audience. It will be great to add a Google Hangout component in the future. Thanks to @sofiageorgelos and @amcrowe5.

2. In March, I worked with the Art teacher and a Social Studies teacher connecting their classes with  students in Jordan and with the Sheffield Museum in Canada. It was great to help teachers connect their classrooms virtually. Watching students connect and learn from experts and students halfway across the world was both exciting and meaningful. The art students sent their projects to Jordan and vice versa. They were able to ask and discuss each other's projects. In Social Studies, students met virtually with a "Medieval Serf" from the Sheffield Museum in Canada. Students were able to ask about are parts of life and learn from an expert. He even played music and taught the students Medieval Dance. They were breaking down the traditional walls of the classroom.
















3. At my school we have been able to find new ways to communicate with parents. First, we have started using Google Hangouts to stream live for parents who cannot attend. This is revolutionizing parent communication. On our 8th grade trip to Washington D.C. I wanted to communicate with parents in real time about our trip. I used remind101 and twitter to take pictures and keep parents informed. I received multiple e-mails of gratitude for this new and exciting way to connect with parents.

Technology is changing education faster than any force in history. Remember, it is simply a tool. Tech should be implemented to improve learning, engage students and communicate more effectively.