Technology in the Classroom: Embrace the Bumpy Ride!

Technology in the Classroom: Embrace the Bumpy Ride!

Is using technology in the classroom a bumpy ride? You bet, says primary teacher Kathy Cassidy, who’s gained a worldwide reputation for her work with tools and apps in the primary classroom. “But we need to begin thinking the way our children do. We use technology not just because it is technology, but because of what it can do. It engages us and helps us to learn.” Teaching is always a journey over rough roads, Cassidy says. But we master what matters for kids.

Passion Based Learning (PBL) in Primary: Making Up the Rules

Passion Based Learning (PBL) in Primary: Making Up the Rules

Science and health lend themselves easily to PBL (passion or project-based learning) in my mind. But I wasn’t sure how I was going to make it all work in a social studies unit about relationships, rules and responsibilities. I want this to be based on what the students are interested in. Yet there really is nothing about the words “relationships,” “rules” and “responsibilities” that has the ability to inspire passion in most six-year olds. But then I thought about our six Nintendo DS gaming devices.

Passion Based Learning (PBL) in the Primary Grades: Who Asks the Questions?

Passion Based Learning (PBL) in the Primary Grades: Who Asks the Questions?

Because we are doing inquiry or PBL (passion-based learning) this year, my students have asked more questions than they ever have before in my classroom. Both the students and I are still learning about this process, but I like this shift. The person who asks the questions is in charge of the learning, and I want my grade one kids to be in charge of their own learning.

Even Our Youngest Students Need Digital Citizenship Skills

“While my six- and seven-year old students don’t yet even understand the words ‘digital’ or ‘citizenship,’ they also need direction and support as they explore online spaces,” writes primary teacher Kathy Cassidy. “In fact, they need this instruction even more than their older counterparts.” Here’s how Cassidy teaches kids to be good (and safe) digital citizens.