Technology has arrived

Over the last couple days the tech guys have been installing the computers, software, and smartboard in my classroom. I just had today to use my new tools in the classroom. A lot of my students were interested and intrigued by the new technology in my room. Everyone was ready and willing to offer answers to questions when I allowed them to write it on the board. Twice today however I had issues with the smartboard. Each time the markers lost signal and the board was unable to use the writing and capture function. When the computer was restarted the problem was resolved.

I plan on using my computers on Friday to prepare a brief castle learning assignment in class that my students can complete for a stations review activity.

Binders and Technology

Our academy has started requiring binders to be carried by all students throughout the course of the class day. If a students does come unprepared they will have a lunch detention. So far every student today has brought their binder with them. On top of that homework grades have improved. In one of my classes the average grade has increased from a 32 to a 56. All classes have shown some increase.

Today the IT guys came to my class and began the process of installing my smartboard and my computers. They said that next week they will have my 5 computers and smartboard installed. Hopefully the netbook will soon follow. This will be great for my classroom because I will be able to assign castelearning assignments and let my students have access to the internet for projects. For the first time in a while things are looking up.