Applications
As part of my learning how to use technology in meaningful ways, I have played a lot with iPads and the applications that those devices have to offer. In an age where students are almost dependent on their technology, the integration of applications into my classroom has allowed for students to not only engage in the activity, but to experience a truly authentic learning experience. During ECI 512, Emerging Technologies for Teaching and Learning, I learned about a plethora of applications and technology-rich tools to integrate into my classroom. My final project in the course consisted of the creation of modules discussing the benefits of various applications, with examples of integrating the application into the classroom. Below is a series of screenshots of my module on the application known as Skitch, which is one I use frequently within my classroom still today.
At this point, my showcase will make the transition from an introduction to some of the technology I have integrated into my classroom, into how the technology can be used for global awareness. As a social studies teacher, it is imperative that our students learn about other cultures, religions, and ethnicies. I think the best way for us to do that is to get our students engaged in the content through means that they are comfortable using. As a part of the project I introduced above, I also worked with Maribeth Evans and Kristen Outen to create a "Global Awareness Day" project that integrated the major core subject areas into a discussion on the crisis in Sudan and South Sudan over oil. Throughout the interdisciplinary activity, global citizenship goals were introduced and discussed to help develop awareness amongst middle school students. Below is a copy of the activity that incorporated Skitch into a social studies classroom, as well as the final project that students could complete after attending the other core subjects as well.