Network Based Classrooms

I am looking forward to making the transition to a networked classroom. I think it can be very exciting especially with how tech savvy our world is becoming. There are lots of good things that can come from a networked classroom. With as much time as our students spend on some form of device, I think they will be much more engaged in what they are learning. It's so different from the traditional method of learning. There are so many different ways students can submit a project or presentation. It allows their creative juices to flow.

With as many advantages that surround a networked classroom, there are also problems that may arise. Of course, you will always have to deal with WiFi issues that arise. As a teacher, I plan on having a back up plan for that case. I also foresee  dealing with students being off task. I thought I had heard of a program that displays all of their screens onto your teacher computer. If any of you know what that's called let me know! I think the biggest thing we may face is that students may not have internet access at home. I want to encourage my students next year to plan time to come in before school or stay after school to get what they need so they won't need to have Internet at home.

I have a couple of programs in my mind that I want to start out using for next year. I don't want to dive in too deep and overwhelm myself. I think trying something new each quarter or even semester would be great. I'm the type of person that needs to experience things myself, then pass them onto my students. I want to use Edmodo for exit tickets. I already put some of my lessons on Educreations and upload them to my website. I want to continue with that.

I think having a networked classroom can be a huge aid in differentiation. I know I've allowed some of my advanced students to work ahead this year. They watch the video lesson and take notes at home, then come in and work on the assignment in class. They've been following a flipped classroom set up, which I love, and so do they. I also have some lower students that have been working on Accelerated Math. I love this program, and I can see how beneficial it can be for all students. Each student has their own track and have to pass a certain area before moving on. It's a great way to focus on certain skills they are lacking or to help students get ahead and focus on skills needed for higher level classes.