In Mrs. Giboson's Class We...
+ Use voice and choice
Students deserve to make choices in their learning and explore their interests. It's never a matter of whether or not they learn, but letting them drive their path encourages them to take ownership of their education. I strive to empower students to advocate for themselves and to know they have the right to always be learning. To do this, I implement Genius Hour and utilize choice boards. By demonstrating more choice in the classroom, I am able to better learn about my students. They don't all have to show what they know in the exact same way.
+ Learn through real world challenges
Project Based Learning is one of the most engaging ways I know to teach. When students realize where the content they learn lives in the real world, they are instantly more invested. PBL essential design elements include authenticity. Students are quick to realize busy work, and are significantly more interested when they feel they are making a difference, their voice matters, or helping others. I enjoy bringing design challenges, and connect students to the world around them. One other way I do this is through class jobs and connecting career pathways to the learning that takes place in the classroom.
+ Are creative with technology
It is critical for students to create with technology instead of just consuming. I strive to bring opportunities for students to make and create using technology, transforming their learning. All my technology integration is planned with SAMR and TPCK in mind. I have lead MTAC teams to inspire teachers to do the same, and find ways in which technology can allow us to do things we haven't done before. In my classroom, students maintain blogs and see the power of communication and collaboration.
+ Are hands-on
No student remembers worksheets for years to come, but yet projects stick in their minds. the more I can allow students to build and create, the more learners I am reaching and more memorable their learning. In my previous schools, I have created a STEM Lab or MakerSpace as a place where students can make and create. It's so important developmentally for students to work with their hands and various materials.
+ Collaborate in learning
Learning is amplified when it happens between students. Building relationships is essential. When working together you gain others insights, background knowledge, and other perspectives. It's important for students to learn collaboration and communication. Through paideia seminars, collaborative groupings, and partner work students are nearly always work or talking with others. We especially learn more by teaching, I have often collaborated with other classes to be able to build relationships within the building for my students.
+ Love learning!
Every moment is a learning opportunity and boredom is self-inflicted. I like to keep students learning and give them ample opportunities to keep learning. This requires options for fast finishers, finding teachable moments even at lunch or recess, and connecting learning to their extra curricular activities. Building relationships with students encourages conversation and trust, we must be more than teachers.