Week 5

Since I am not currently teaching, I really can’t say that I have used many online communication tools in the classroom before. As I have said before, I am currently a paraeducator and I don’t actually have my own classroom. I do use email for communicating with other teachers in the building though. This helps us discuss many important things like schedules, special events coming up in our school, and field trips that classes may be taking. In addition to allowing us to communicate with other teachers, it also helps us communicate with other schools and the district. The superintendent will often send us emails about upcoming board meetings and expectations. Other schools will inform us if they need help with events they are having or send articles that may be written about teachers or students. It really gives the entire district a sense of community and helps us support each other as best as we can. Emailing makes it very convenient for us all to communicate as well since it allows the teacher to look at the email and respond when they have time. It doesn’t disturb the class like a phone call or visit might.

The only thing that has prevented me from not using other types of technology in the classroom is that I don’t have my own classroom. I definitely understand the importance of utilizing all types of technology. Websites, podcasts, blogs, etc. are all things that promote better communication with students and parents. They also allow students to become more familiar with technology which is a growing medium that they will be using for the rest of their lives. Seeing their teacher use these things inspires them to also get their hands dirty.

If I did make a classroom website, it would be important that I teach my students how to navigate it. Using the projector I would be able to put the website up on the screen and click around showing them how they can use different sections on the website. I would do this within the first few days of school so students would know it would be something that we would be using all year. With older students you may be able to create a web quest that allows them to answer questions by navigating through the classroom website. I would also send a note home with students telling parents the URL and that this is where they should look for the most updated classroom information including schedules and announcements. I can’t wait to utilize online communication tools in my classroom.