Technology class means many different things to different students. Some students want to learn to create and edit videos, others are excited about creating websites and their own digital art work, and some want to learn programming languages.
My technology students include groups from most areas of our California middle school.
They come from different socio-economic backgrounds, participate in different educational programs such as gifted, general, and special education, and even are at different levels of English language acquisition. They share an interest in technology, however, and enjoy discovering the tools that support their goals.
During the first semester, the class covers a variety of programs, and during the second semester, students use those tools to design and create more individual projects. Student-designed projects often cross the barriers of academic strengths and challenges, and it's not uncommon to see my students who are English learners working with students with autism. All, however, love the hands-on aspect of the class. Learning a programming language that is a bit more complicated, like C++, is less appealing because it doesn't have a hands-on component. Keeping them interested is a challenge.
My Project
My classroom environment fosters collaboration and creativity. Students work together to solve problems that they identify and enjoy finding challenges to broaden their experiences. Last year, I attended a conference where Linkbots were introduced and saw videos of other students interacting with them. I immediately knew that my middle school students would love these little machines and would actually ask for extra opportunities to work on their programming skills. After attending a conference this past weekend, I purchased two Linkbots and watched students get completely engaged in reading the instructions and trying them out.
With the Linkbots, students learn C++ programming and reinforce their math and geometry skills without even realizing it. I can imagine the glitter in their eyes when they figure out how to manipulate their Linkbots to follow paths, to move parts, and more. Can you imagine the competitions they'll design?!!!
Students who are motivated to attend school are far more successful than those who don't.
Elective programs which allow students to pursue their interests are critical in providing this motivation. Even better is when the concepts practiced in elective classes actually support and reinforce concepts learned in students' academic classes. Programming Linkbots is an excellent way to support a variety of interests and to build basic technology skills. Future careers begin here!!!!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Hawes and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
