How to reach Josh

Let me introduce you to Josh. Josh is one of those students that most teachers rather not have in their classroom because he interrupts class, rarely does quality work, does not focus and is vocal about his disdain for school. A teacher is told that all students can learn if you are able to engage the student, connect with them, or spark their interest with a prop or gimmick. This is easier said than done. Education classes and online resources are packed with ideas to address this issue, but one carefully crafted method or ingenious technique seldom works for all students. The great task of any educator is to motivate the unmotivated. What can I do to interest Josh? I could inspire him by revealing the value of the content and show him why he wants to know this. Or I could deliver the lesson in an entertaining way, making the lesson fun and tricking him into learning. Or I could relate to him by utilizing familiar terms, situations, and analogies. Or I could do all three. If done correctly the lesson should be inspirational, fun, and relatable. But how can I do this for Josh? Technology is the key to all three. The best way to teach is to enter the student’s world and present the opportunity for the student to create their own knowledge and shape it in ways we never imagined.

This is why I have taken on the journey of learning more about technology education through a graduate program. To reach the hard to reach through properly incorporating technology in the classroom. I also hope to be the technology ambassador to the rest of the school district. I will be posting my progress on this blog and I hope you enjoy the journey with me.