How can I utilize technology to engage students in reading and writing?
Abstract
When I enrolled in the NLGL program I was excited to learn more about reading instruction and the new literacies. I have always enjoyed learning about new technology to use in the classroom and thanks to my classes over the past 2 years I now have a multitude of tech tools in my teacher toolbox to share. I chose my compelling question, How can I utilize technology to engage students in reading and writing?, because I wanted my students to become successful 21st century learners. Some of the findings from my Graduate school journey include increased student engagement, student empowerment and an increased love of reading. Student engagement in written activities increased, thanks in part, to the app, Scribble my Story. With this app, students wrote and illustrated their own books about spiders. They enjoyed the process and sharing their work with others. This past winter we learned about arctic animals and students learned how to create presentations using the app, Chatterpix. This led them to feel empowered by engaging their writing skills, creativity and utilizing their love of technology. They took ownership of their learning and wanted to share it with others. They continue to use Chatterpix in the classroom during their free time. My students eagerness to read increased after my introduction of the app, GetEpic!. Recently students have been choosing to use GetEpic! to read books about ocean animals when we have the iPad cart. In the past students only wanted to play games. I am excited to see their love of reading grow! My time in the NLGL program has been very fulfilling. I have grown as a teacher and as a leader. In the future I will continue looking for innovative ways to use technology in my classroom and I hope to help other teachers feel more comfortable using technology in their classrooms.