Stacy Fuller, Creighton School District, Squaw Peak School 6th Grade

In my classroom, technology is used as a tool, not as a separate curricular area. Technology has enhanced the curriculum, which allows my students to be actively engaged. The technology used in my classroom is implemented in a variety of reading centers. For example, PowerPoint is used to reinforce literary elements from AZ state reading and writing standards. In addition, students tap into their prior knowledge of different topics before reading brand new stories to increase their comprehension, using the program Inspiration. They can then research those same topics on the Internet. My students also use computers to practice test-taking skills such as vocabulary, spelling, and comprehension of short passages. They would far prefer to use the computers for these types of activities versus the "boring old worksheets" that they would do otherwise.

Of course, I have observed tremendous growth in comprehension, fluency, vocabulary and computer skills, but the true strength of technology in the classroom is heard through the voices of the kids.

" The use of technology is more exciting/interesting/motivating and makes reading more enjoyable." Taylor B.

" Using computers makes us work harder and concentrate more." Sierra

" Using all the gadgets have made me a fluent reader." Caleb

Each year my technology skills have improved, but this year, my third year in Project Venture has been the best. I have been able to successfully and seamlessly integrate technology into my classroom with confidence and ease due to my Project Venture Mentor, LeeAnn Lindsey. Technology has completely changed my teaching and has opened a whole new door for my students and myself!!!

 

Inna Duarte & Drucilla Campa

Excelencia School

Inna Duarte

Project Venture has really changed the way I teach the students. This program helps to make technology a strong resource and learning tool not only in the classroom but in the everyday lives of students. My students now feel confident about using technology in the classroom. They are even more motivated to learn all content areas in an integrated curriculum. Students enjoy completing research reports by using the Internet and various computer programs. Students make use of higher order level thinking skills such as evaluating and selecting information from the web in order to complete assignments.

Project Venture has contributed with a wonderful teaching tool that stimulates the building of prior knowledge, enhances collaborative learning, and provides students with abilities necessary to succeed in real life situations.

Drucilla Campa

Project Venture has really changed the way I teach the students. This program helps to make technology a strong resource and learning tool not only in the classroom but in the everyday lives of students. My students now feel confident about using technology in the classroom. They are even more motivated to learn all content areas in an integrated curriculum. Students enjoy completing research reports by using the Internet and various computer programs. Students make use of higher order level thinking skills such as evaluating and selecting information from the web in order to complete assignments. Project Venture has contributed with a wonderful teaching tool that stimulates the building of prior knowledge, enhances collaborative learning, and provides students with abilities necessary to succeed in real life situations.