Reading Reflection #5

1.      Discussion on the items that should be considered before starting a project with students.

-          Before starting a project, a teacher should plan for what resources/items will be needed. First, a teacher should check available inventory to see what supplies, tools, and other materials are available for use. Computers, computer software, and the Internet are technology resources that may need to be available before starting a project. Referring to experts of the community may also be a resource to take into consideration before starting a project. Knowing in advance the resources you have available will help organize the project and help things run smoothly.

2.      Discussion on the teachers’ and students’ management needs.

-          In order for a project to be successful, teachers and students need to work collaboratively together. Teachers and students also have to entail certain management skills so that the project is organized and productive. Teachers need to plan for how they will communicate with their students and others about the project. Teachers also need to plan milestones and make events visible for students to notify students of possible changes. Also, teachers must manage the methods for getting resources to students and managing a system for working projects. Management tools and strategies students need include: managing their time and flow of work, managing materials and control work drafts, collaborating, get and use feedback on their work (through self-reflection, team input, and teacher advice), and work iteratively and to see how parts add up to the whole.

3.      Discuss some of the technology applications that should be considered for use in a project.

-          Web-based applications are important aspects of project-based learning. There are several ways to go about using web-based applications to make your project successful. Some of the web-based applications are a wiki page, a blog, Drupal, and Textpattern. All of these web-based applications help students and teachers communicate among each other. It makes it easier to plan, set milestones, manage research, add web links, and edit information collaboratively.

4.      Discussion on how concepts in the chapter relate to your topic/project.

-          The concepts of this chapter relate to our project because we are using web-based applications (such as a blog) to communicate among group members. The blog makes it easy for us to communicate on a day to day basis about our research and discuss project progress. A blog is something I would incorporate in my classroom practices; whether it’s with students, parents, or other teachers in my school or other school districts.