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| Mrs. Brucker's students taking a math test |
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| Online math assessment |
This has been a fun-filled week of "experimentation." We have been using our computers daily, for everything from researching distances between historical sites, to adding events to the Google Calendar. At the moment, the students are taking a math test online, using the Test Builder in Pearson Success Net. In the past when I have tried to use this product, I have had to either cycle students through our classroom computers (which is a pain because of the varying amounts of time the students take to complete it) or reserve the wireless lab. Since the lab is booked out virtually every morning for 3rd and 4th grade Read About, we are usually left with no batteries in an afternoon time that has to be squeezed in between specialists, recess, and the end of the day. This morning, I announced that we would be taking a test with our computers, and instead of the usual, "Awwww... a test?!" I heard, "Yay! A test!" As I look out across my class, I see eager eyes scanning the screens for fractions in simplest form, pensive pencils calculating least common denominators, and speculative students calculating the fractional distance from school, to Aunt Mary's house, and then to home.
Tech Time Transitions
It became very clear about a week ago that we were going to need to figure out some kind of system in order to make the transition between getting the computers and using the computers go more smoothly. I decided that a code word, followed by an orderly progression of 3 students at a time getting their computers, would make the most sense. We only had to practice it twice before they had it down... I think this speaks to the eagerness they feel to use their equipment and their willingness to do it respectfully in order to make it happen more often. Now, all I have to do is say, "It's tech time!"and students numbered 1, 2, and 3 make their way over to the cabinet. As they are seen walking away with their laptops carried safely with two hands, 4, 5, and 6 follow suit. Each person has another students to whom they look for their cue to move. So far so good.
