My Growth Plan - Utilizing Google Docs for the Red Room Teaching Team

June 28, 2017

Introducing technology into our classroom seemed like an uphill battle at first glance. Our school philosophy is built on learning-through-play, with an emphasis on natural materials, so computers, screens, even worksheets, are frowned upon. After numerous attempts at trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, I realized EDU 614 could actually benefit my CCPDS Red Room prekindergarten class. I simply needed to explore more of the possibilities, rather then limiting my idea of classroom technology to smart boards and iPad games. Technology can streamline our curriculum planning and team collaboration, saving us time and initiating greater brainstorming power and idea sharing. 
  
First I set my goals: 

1. Use technology to assist in team curriculum planning.  
2. Become proficient at Google Drive and applications.
3. Set up Google Drive and share with teaching team to utilize in 2017-18 school year.

To get started. I gathered the websites that we currently use and organized them with URL links.  Most centered around Responsive Classroom practices and activities, and others utilized community resources we introduce to the students or visit annually. Finally I pulled up various resources on exceptionalities that we have needed in the past.  

Bloggers:
Responsive Classroom Educator Amy Bisson
Selective Mutism and Anxiety in Children
Will Richardson - Tech in the Classroom
3Rs4Teachers - Teaching Young Students
Make Something - Empowering Students

You Tube:
Responsive Classroom Best Practices
Responsive Classroom Energizers
Alan November - Who Owns the Learning?

Institutions for Field Trips:
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Green Meadows Farm

Guest Visitors:
Dr. Priscilla Magnuson - Dental Health
Hamilton Fire Department

Other Resources:
North Shore Therapies
Edutopia
Alan November - Tech in the Classroom
Common Sense Media

One of the most difficult challenges of team teaching is keeping all teachers informed and on the same page. By utilizing technology, we can enhance our abilities and effectiveness as educators. I'll post more about my attempts in the next post - Technology for Administrative Tasks and Communication.