October 3, 2012
I transferred to this PLC last week. Last week I spent some time talking to the group to obtain a better understanding of what their goals and objectives are for the PLC. I spoke to each member and asked what student lead inquiry activities they have implemented so far. Then we preceded to discuss what problems have been experienced when implemented these activities.
My take is that the student lead or inquiry activities are great ways to convey different information to the students. The problem is that students struggle with the skills to complete some of these activities. The students do not know how to conduct research, how to follow through on the projects, or how to use technology appropriately. Working in this group will be very beneficial because we can bounce ideas of each other and see if we can figure out ways to help the students obtain these skills.
Currently my students are working in groups to be able to teach the rest of the class about biogeochemical cycles. Each group has 4 to 6 students and a list of grading requirements. I am not limiting my students on how they go about presenting their information. I am giving them freedom to choose their presentation method. They must have a visual, but they can choose what they put on it too. They will be presenting on Thursday and Friday, so next week I will follow up with my results.
Today our PLC also decided to discuss ideas to share with the Turbo Tech Team. One of our group members, Ms. Troyer, is on the Turbo Tech Team. We wanted to discuss ways to encourage students to use computers appropriately and in useful ways.
I am very interested in hearing how your presentations go. I am always curious with the appropriate balance of structure and choice when developing student project guidelines.
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