New PD Introduction
With the switch from Macbooks to iPads coming this year we need to prepare ourselves so that we are as comfortable and confident with the transition as possible. Spending time with your device is the best way to increase your proficiency ensuring effective implementation.
Due to the huge time constraints for teachers to learn new programs and apps, I have planned to offer a different type of Professional Development this year.
Each of you will receive a blank iPad poster to hang outside your classroom. Your goal will be to fill the iPad's screen as you complete app challenges. There will be a new challenge each week or two giving you the opportunity to do so. These challenges will be for you to complete on your own, with a partner or group, or with my assistance. Initial challenges will cover getting your iPad setup and will progress to documenting the use of certain apps with your students. Each time you complete a challenge you will receive a badge to place on your iPad screen for everyone to see! There will also be opportunities for some of you to earn extra badges as I work with your individual classes. You will receive CEUs for the time you spend on this year-long PD. The goal is for each of you to complete at least half of the app challenges.
Lastly, a few of you will be chosen as "iPad Experts". This means that you will have a special badge on your iPad so that others know who you are. In order to be recognized as an iPad expert you must have a solid foundation of knowledge about iPads and the iOS system. You must also be willing to be a go-to person for other teachers needing assistance with their devices. If you are interested please let me know ASAP. My plan at this point is to choose the first five teachers who volunteer.
While most of your learning will take place "at your own pace", we will still meet as a group to reflect on the process and progress. These meetings will usually take place during your planning periods. I will do my best to let you know about these meetings at least a week in advance.
Here's to a great year!!
Due to the huge time constraints for teachers to learn new programs and apps, I have planned to offer a different type of Professional Development this year.
Each of you will receive a blank iPad poster to hang outside your classroom. Your goal will be to fill the iPad's screen as you complete app challenges. There will be a new challenge each week or two giving you the opportunity to do so. These challenges will be for you to complete on your own, with a partner or group, or with my assistance. Initial challenges will cover getting your iPad setup and will progress to documenting the use of certain apps with your students. Each time you complete a challenge you will receive a badge to place on your iPad screen for everyone to see! There will also be opportunities for some of you to earn extra badges as I work with your individual classes. You will receive CEUs for the time you spend on this year-long PD. The goal is for each of you to complete at least half of the app challenges.
Lastly, a few of you will be chosen as "iPad Experts". This means that you will have a special badge on your iPad so that others know who you are. In order to be recognized as an iPad expert you must have a solid foundation of knowledge about iPads and the iOS system. You must also be willing to be a go-to person for other teachers needing assistance with their devices. If you are interested please let me know ASAP. My plan at this point is to choose the first five teachers who volunteer.
While most of your learning will take place "at your own pace", we will still meet as a group to reflect on the process and progress. These meetings will usually take place during your planning periods. I will do my best to let you know about these meetings at least a week in advance.
Here's to a great year!!