Blog Assignment #6

What Did I Learn From Conversations with Anthony Capps?

In the first two videos, Project Based Learning part 1 and part 2, I learned several techniques on project based learning. As teachers, we must create projects where the students learn the skills they need to meet their state standards and requirements. Project based learning helps the students retain those skills and knowledge by making the lessons more meaningful. Projects get students more involved in the classroom, and when students are engaged they are learning.

When creating a project for the class, they should be relative, and the students should be interested. The project should teach the students the the information they are required to know. It is also benifical if you involve the community, because you would be surprised by the respone you get from your students. Anthony Capps brought up a good point when planning projects, "Don't limit students. Give them they opprotunity to go beyond and surprise you.". (Capps) Lastly, have your students revise and reflect. By doing this, the information they have learned will stay with them longer.

A great tool to use for research during projects is ICURIO. It is an online tool that allows students to safely search information that has already be filtered by credible sources. It allows students to search for information, images, audio, and video, and it is all creditable by state standards. The way ICURIO works is like a search engine. Students simply log in and begin to do research. A feature of ICURIO is that teachers and students can store the information they find valuable. This way they can quickly come back to information they found useful. ICURIO has a directory, so information can be searched by critera. It also has a feature that will read the information to you, incase the student is blind or has a learning disability.(Dr.Strange and A.Capps' video on ICURIO)

Another useful tool to use in the classroom is Discovery Education. It helps students by giving them a visual through images and videos. I went onto Discovery Education and found a lot of useful resources for teachers. I found that it has a lot of tools that teachers can use as well. It has a resource section where you can find 5 minute warm ups, brain boosters, and worksheets to go. It also has lesson plans, and links to other websites related to the subject and age you have searched.

Remember Teachers: Students have to be engaged to learn, and you dont want to leave a child behind. Make learning fun, creative, and exciting through project based learning. It will get the students engaged, and make your job even more exciting and enjoyable.