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Completed: Missed Class? Just Hit Play From Any Computer!

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"I'm on the cutting edge of science education with my eighth grade students. Since they can't readily read the textbook, we basically are creating our own in our interactive notebooks this year.

The students really love the interactive notebooks. They are finally encouraged to use both sides of the... " MORE

"I'm on the cutting edge of science education with my eighth grade students. Since they can't readily read the textbook, we basically are creating our own in our interactive notebooks this year.

The students really love the interactive notebooks. They are finally encouraged to use both sides of their brains to process the often complex science topics that we have. The only problem with this great set up is that it basically hinges on a student being in class to receive the specialized instructions for how to be taking notes and how to be completing the various assignments.

Yes, it is fair to expect that students be in school, but many of my students miss school to translate at the doctors office for their parents or to translate for the utility company coming to turn back on the power. By capturing class in a visual form, students will be able to see the demonstrations and visual cues that I am giving even if they're not in class.

I can't assign book work to compensate for being in class because the book is not aligned to what we should be learning and, more importantly, what I'm teaching day-to-day. I know I can't figure out a way to ensure my students have 100% attendance, but I can be creative using technology to overcome this barrier.

I believe the answer to this problem lies in harnessing a technology that exists and using it in a format that is familiar to my tech-savvy students: online video. If I could record my lessons and then post the recordings with ease to an online site, a student can make up missed work by simply attending class at any computer with an Internet connection. Additionally, students who need extra help with a topic can re-attend a class session.

Recording classes is a popular technology among leading universities. Why not implement a similar system for my learners?

I know this project is pricey, but I've found the cheapest camera that will allow me to succeed in executing this project. Basically, I will be able to record my class and then post it online without need for special editing software. Because this is a digital recorder, it's automatically ready for online upload.

I am confident this is a feasible project for me to take on, as my school operates on a block schedule. This means I have a new lesson once every two days. I can commit to posting these videos online every other day since I know that it is going to be able to directly impact my students' ability to be caught up.

I can build the "I want to succeed" mentality in my classroom by providing engaging instruction that leads students to success. You can provide the "I can succeed" for all students -- even the ones who don't make it to school everyday.

My students need a camcorder with a case and a tripod. The cost of this proposal is $611, which includes shipping for any materials requested and fulfillment ?."

HIDE

Mr. G. sent this note after the project was fully funded:

Sep 16, 2008
Dear Maxine Clark and Nancy, 
All I can say is "wow." And "thank you," of course. It is an amazing feeling to have this proposal fully funded in one day. I always check my email before going to work, but I never imagined to receive the email that I did from DonorsChoose.org this morning.

Just last night I was telling a friend over dinner about DonorsChoose.org. I am excited to update him today to let him know that everything I said was true: this is a way to connect people who really do care about helping fix education with people like me that are trying to find a way.

Thank you again. Your show of support is truly overwhelming. Now, I must run... I still need to get ready and go teach!

Most sincerely,

Adam

On Oct 20, 2008, Mr. G. followed this note with student letters sent via mail to the donor who completed this project, and to donors who gave $100 or more.

Live Updates
Reviewed the project essay and sent follow-up questions if needed.
Kelly H. (staff member) on Sep 12, 2008
Verified the cost of the requested technology and posted this project.
John C. (associate) on Sep 15, 2008
"I gave to this project because I know how hard all teachers work and especially our Teach For America Corps Members. It takes a village to raise a bear, a school and a community to the highest levels. Thanks Adam, for all you do for our children and for the pride you bring to Teach For America."
Maxine Clark from St. Louis, MO gave on Sep 16, 2008
"I gave to this project because I know how hard all teachers work, especially our Teach For America corps members . It takes a village to raise a bear, a school and a community to the highest levels. Thanks Adam, for all you do for our children and for the pride you bring to Teach For America."
Maxine Clark from St. Louis, MO gave on Sep 16, 2008
Nancy from Flushing, NY gave on Sep 16, 2008
Project fully funded!
Happy news on Sep 16, 2008
The teacher Mr. G. on Sep 25, 2008
Purchased the technology for Mr. G.'s classroom and notified the school principal of delivery.
Jenni D. (staff member) on Sep 26, 2008
Packaged the thank-you letters written by Mr. G.'s students and sent them on to the eligible donor(s).
Hadiatou J. (staff member) on Oct 21, 2008
Please notify our staff of any messages or photos of concern.
Funded!
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