Session 2: Videos on Indicators: Engaging Environment

Whenever technology is used in teaching, I would question its purpose. We teach with powerpoint slides. We may also set up a website for students to download our lecture notes. Or design online quizzes for students to take. By doing all these, we are just improving our efficiency and accessibility. Are we really tapping fully into technology? These two videos gave me some ideas of integrating IT into our curriculum. Here are my insights.

Quilt Maths
IT Tools: Digital Image Editing, Word Processing, Website
The teacher was interested in developing maths ideas in her students, and also encouraged them to read and write about maths. These documents with digital images of the quilt were uploaded onto a website. We can see that the teacher is tapping into the archiving capability of IT. The additional benefit of using IT in this case is the intricate level of bonding between students-teachers-parents.

The project would be better if there is more students' ownership. Can we perhaps ask students to draw quilt patterns using imaging software themselves or scan in their pictures instead of using teacher's designs?

Ms McClane's Bicycle Journey
IT Tools: Emails, Internet
Ms McClane's Bicycle Journey exposes students to real-life practical situations. Naturally, this will pique students' interest. It also provides a benchmark for communication. Compared to the Quilt project, IT has served its purpose here. Students can improve their literacy through reading the emails or updates of the journey, and writing to Ms McClane through emails. This second case is a fine example of an engaging learning environment with the support of IT.

To add, it would be interesting if the journey can be updated real-time through 3G technology. I did not know that the technology is so advanced until I read a review on new Motorola phone that allows user to update their Facebook and chat with their friends on Messenger. It would be cool if Ms McClane can blog and upload pictures through her mobile phone. Video calls can allows students to see Ms McClane's surroundings and people she meet along the way too.