Gaga over Gaggle

Well, folks, it's been a couple of weeks since I introduced my students to Gaggle, and it's been surprisingly successful. Sure there are a few kinks we have to work out, but the benefits far outweigh the stress of learning something new and having to reteach it to a group of students.

For one, we've already cut down on so much paper in the classroom. My students can now upload almost all assignments to Gaggle, and teachers have the ability to mark and grade the papers before sending the assignment back to the student. Students can then edit their papers and resend them.

Secondly, it makes it easier for me to note who has not turned in an assignment even before I grade them. I can casually remark to a student that I'm still waiting for their work.

Finally, it eliminates the need for me to carry papers home. I can whip up a frothy cup of hot chocolate, get into my jams and slippers, open my computer and grade away.

On the downside, it is a bit overwhelming seeing an influx of around 40 essays arriving in your inbox over two days. And that's why I'm paying my babysitter to watch the girls the whole day tomorrow. In addition to having to clean my very disorganized and cluttered classroom, I have to grade these essays and get materials ready for Monday. But it's not so bad spending my day in the classroom--it's my home away from home. Think about it, where do we teachers spend the majority of our time besides home? I turn on Netflix and project it to my board and watch movies or shows while I clean and organize the room. And when it's time to grade the essays, I'll turn on Pandora and listen to a variety of music. It's almost like a daycation!

Until next time,

Jenn

The Prodigal Teacher . . .

has returned. I know it's been a VERY long time since I've posted to this blog, and I feel kind of sheepish attempting to start it again; however, I have this need to record my thoughts about teaching. A reflective teacher is a good teacher. I want to be the best I can be for my students and for myself. Teaching is my passion and my craft. I'm positive many of you feel the same way, right? Learning is an organic process that can't be turned on and off--we're always learning.

So, please excuse my two year hiatus. It is my hope that I can get in here and write at least 2-3 times per week about the magic that is happening in DuranLand. 

Gaggle

Today I plan on introducing Gaggle to my Creative Writing students, maybe my ELA-8, as well. Until two days ago, I really had no idea what Gaggle was all about; however, after the training provided, I feel excited and motivated to use it in my classroom. I only have nine computers, so I'll mostly use it in small groups, but that's perfect because it gives me conferencing time with smaller groups.

Technology is not something I'm well-versed in, and I know that as time goes on, technology will only take a stronger role in education and in the lives of our students. So, I need to hop on board the Tech Train. :-)

We'll see how it goes.