Journal+-+Nichole

=Instructions=
 * For your first entry, double-click the text below and replace it with your content
 * Place each new entry at the top (in reverse chronological order)
 * Begin each entry with the day's date

=Entries= 1/20/10 Second Entry: It is interesting how technology and IT in a school/district affect the way technology can be implemented into the classroom. Yes, I have videotaped my students in the beginning of the year, working on positive behaviors and school rules. However, without the proper connections and software available, our projects halt at the hands of IT and their ability (or inability) to install software to support our projects. Though our film has not been published yet, it was interesting to see the personalities of my students come out (or hide in some cases). Some students automatically took charge of the camera, while others were ready to do Take 1-10 just to be in another shot. There were those few who hid behind papers, or tried to cower down and appear hidden in the lens, as if their part wasn't important. Interesting enough, those are my students who I must give extra encouragement daily to bring them out of their shells and build confidence in their own skin.

Though our Digital Storytelling experience stopped there, others at my school have moved on. My friend and colleague, Catherine, began her National Boards application process in the fall. Per her request, I began videotaping her during different lessons. This was great practice in camera angles, overall picture approach, and working with others to complete a film that tells the desired story. We've filmed over 8 different lessons in her room, focusing on her teaching and student interaction. It is amazing to see the transformation of her students as they have become comfortable with others in the room, and more confident in their own little kindergarten bodies. Catherine's teaching has changed as well. Watching and rewatching video after video has given her a new outlook on her teaching and brought about fresh change and life into her classroom practices. Through this experience, I have decided to begin filming my own teaching as I begin a new unit this coming week. I too want to experience the growth in my students and myself, as I have seen in her.

9/19/09 First Entry: The Plus Side of Things- I love my class. We have started filming my students acting out their personal perspective of the HOWL (school) rules. The students wrote a script and then acted out their script, showing both the 'correct' and 'incorrect' behaviors. Some of the students are very shy with the camera, but all of them are very excited. They can't wait to see the film in it's final copy. My administration seems excited to have us working on this technology and bringing it to our school.

The Down Side- One week from today I will be losing half my class. We are switching students around and I will have 14 new students. I am sad to see my class go, especially since we've spent 8 wonderful weeks together. Additionally, our technology department has been a NIGHTMARE! Our IT person doesn't seem to have much knowledge about the in-depth questions we have. Also, before we can work on the computers, we have to install the software. In order to install software, we must submit a Software Installation request and have it reviewed by the board and approved by the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. Now we have to wait.....and I have to retrain my new students about video etiquette, etc.

Overall, when I'm within my classroom walls I am very happy at my school. I love my students and enjoy learning with them. I also enjoy the team I work with. Outside my walls is out of my control. I'm doing the very best I can to be positive and keep a smile on my face and just keep moving forward. Our 4th grade motto this year is: "Surprise..................Whatever." All said with a smile, of course.