Thing 3

When I think about my own school memories, they are all basically the same. A large room with a chalkboard, desks in straight rows, and everybody is quiet because they don't want to get in "trouble". We might be taking turns reading out loud in our Science or Social Studies book or doing another of the never ending worksheets.

Computers? We hadn't heard of them. (yes, I'm old!) In elementary school, we didn't even use calculators for Math. That would be cheating!!

Today, I wonder if teachers teach the way they were taught except most of them are trying hard to learn, improve, and refine their methods. I say that because some desks are still in straight rows, but there are also a lot of other configurations. Sometimes rooms are quiet, but somtimes they are noisey depending on what's going on at the time. Reading out loud from Science and Social Studies books still takes place but so do projects and presentations.

Computers? Yes, we have them. The thing that saddens me is that I don't believe we use them to their maximum. Why? Unfortunately, districts have spent a great deal on labs but not enough on professional development for teachers. :(

Thing 2

This is the first blog I've ever set up. These words are the first I've ever posted. I'm trying to be open and positive about blogging but I must admit it feels strange to do this. I tend to be a private person and sharing my thoughts with whoever cares to read this seems weird! Who knows......, maybe I'll grow to love blogging. (doubt it)