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1st course with Rennie Redekopp
I was upset that I wasn't given a paper syllabus -
1st Teaching Job
Got hired right out of university. Had a no devices out policy. I sent lots of devices to the office. Admin had a chat with me later on in the year about classroom management bc of the phones sent to the office (I didn't realize other teachers didn't send phones to the office :o). Decided there must be a better way. -
2nd year
I decided that I would deal with devices out personally and only send them to the office in extreme cases or with uncooperative students. Worked A LOT better. -
3rd school year
Joined the 21st centery learning PL group. Every week we had conversation about the transformation of our students due to technology and the adaptations that are necessary as teachers. -
4th school year - new policy
Decided on a new classroom device strategy. If studentes plan to use their device in class it needs to be on their desk, sound off and used for ONLY educational purposes. I also incorporated a one day a month online language learning day on the ipads. Students LOVED the ipad day (and Duolingo :)) I've had a lot less issues with devices. Often the conflict is a poor behavioral choice conflict vs. device conflict. -
Online university Courses
Figured out that I could get my post-bac by taking 7 out of 10 courses online to get a Inclusive Special Education Certificate, which was the only managable/practical way to study with children, no babysitter and husband that works long hours. -
Social Media Course
Perhaps it was the best option to fulfil my option courses but I feel that social media/technology is an area that any teacher has room to grow and learn new things as it is constantly changing. This course was also an opportunity to 'spread my wings' in experimenting with different programs.