Reflection of Face 2 Face Feedback Session

First, I’d like to thank Joe and Tim for working with me again, as I did not have a team.  I was truly inspired by your well thought out, innovative units.  Your students are very lucky to have such dedicated teachers. It was great having Ian mediate our group and I am grateful for all of the feedback and Ideas you each gave to help me improve my unit.

I based my unit on Scholastic Big Day for Pre-K curriculum, focusing on a unit on Community. I established the daily Learning Experiences and then looked for technology tie ins that would enhance the lessons, not just add technology for technology’s sake.  I borrowed Amy’s amazing idea of using Google Maps to show students their own “communities” to engage them in discussions about their school and home neighborhoods.  I adapted Susanne’s earlier feedback of having students experience a book read by the teacher for the shared reading, then play the “BookFlix” online book and allow the children to discuss what they liked about each reading, leading them to compare and contrast the two experiences.

Other technologies included videos that tied into fire safety and community workers, as well as, early childhood websites such as PBS Kids and Starfall for use of the smart board for music and movement, and displaying pictures of structures for children to build with blocks; cameras, video camera, Tape recorder, CD player and Gears and scales.

I will adopt the recommendations to build upon this unit, and break out the components to share with other educators; include hints and tips for teachers, and site additional resources.  Ian suggested I blog about this unit, and topics in ECE, perhaps posting a video think aloud about why topics such as brain development and use of technology is important in ECE.

Today I spoke with one of my Pre-K teachers who said she would be willing to allow me to co-teach this unit with her. She seemed very enthusiastic, so we will meet next week to break the plans down between us, allowing for my schedule that requires me to be at two other sites as well.

I would also very much like the chance to work with some of the other women in these classes. I hope by the end of this program I will have the chance to build relationships with more than one team.