I work with a smart group of curious students. I am constantly being asked things such as, "what's that, how does that work, what does that mean, how was that made, can I try that, can I have one of those". Even though I am with 21 first graders most of the day, we do change groups for WIN (what I need) time and I get to spend time teaching and learning with all 106 first graders at some point. Getting to know and teach this many students is a real treat!
We are currently in the process of investigating and updating our teaching to include more 21st century learning skills.
We want our students to be familiar with up to date programs and skills so that they can compete for positions at universities and then jobs upon graduation. Problem based learning, exploring with new technology tools, and hands on experiences are all skills in which we strive to provide our first graders. My first grade students are motivated learners and are willing to try almost anything in which they are challenged. All learning is very important to us!
My Project
Students love having opportunities to explore their world and using motivating tools to do this. I have learned that when kids are given the opportunity for hands on learning and are also able to make their learning their own, meaningful educating takes place! For this reason, I have requested a makerspace cart. This cart is perfect for organizing and holding materials that students can easily access to complete any hands on project. The cart is also on wheels and can be moved around from classroom to classroom to be shared all over the school. This would allow opportunities for many students to share in this experience.
Upon preparing 21st century learners, learning environments are in need of change.
Students are teaching themselves to do activities of interest by watching YouTube, and are also using new technology tools to create and make their way through their learning. The need for schools now is to shift their focus from being learning centered to learner centered. Providing the tools that students need in order to promote this new way of learning is a must. Having a tool such as a 3D printer will help foster this growing trend in education. My students are learning how to use programs such as Tinkercad and I would love to give them the opportunity to print some of their creations. Any support on this mission to accommodate my 21st century learners is greatly appreciated!
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