I would like to share a resource that I think would be very beneficial for a math classroom. I created this webpage for Teachers College and it is something I would consider using in the future:
http://teacherweb.com/ON/Nipissing/MissEngel/apt1.aspx
I realize that this webpage is designed for a hypothetical grade 11 biology class, but that's the beauty of this resource - you can modify it in a variety of different ways. You can change the background design and colour; the number, order, and title of the tabs along the left side, and can personalize the course and teacher name. You can also upload images and files and even add links to pages. Not to mention it is exceptionally easy to use.
I think having a class website is a great tool and a great way to integrate technology into the classroom. Having a class calendar including field trips, assignments due, scheduled quizzes/tests, school-wide events, etc. keeps students informed and up-to-date. Teachers can post assignments, worksheets, extra help sheets, and useful links related to the course. Furthermore, it allows parents to be in-the-know about what is happening in their child's classroom and in the school.
The main downfall I can see with having a class website is that not all students have easy access to a computer. Albeit the school should have a computer lab that students can access; however, this website is mainly designed for students to access at home when the teacher is not available.
I love the idea of a class website and agree it can be easily modifiable. I like your comment on how it keeps parents in the know. I think this along with the students having access to the information can eliminate a lot of the "I didn't know" or "I was away" It may be a little time consuming to keep it up to date, but then you avoid all of the time keeping all 30 class members and their parents up to date.
ReplyDeleteI never viewed it as a way to pass technology on as well, but this could be a great place to post video's or online resources that could help students who are struggling. Those shy students know where to go to get help if they are not comfortable approaching and asking for extra help after class or just catching them up when they missed a day.
Exactly. It's also a great idea particularly for senior students who may be attending college/university soon. Almost all courses have some kind of "blackboard" where resources are posted online. Having a class website would introduce them to this and allow them to gain some responsibility for their education by checking in and downloading any work they missed.
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