Intern+Hours+August

 This past month I gave a training on using webpages. I used the time to inform them about district standards, what makes for a good webpage, and how to create an easy to update page. This is like the the analogy of leading a horse to water. I gave them work time. I think offering time is the most important thing in getting a teacher to actually get teachers to do anything extra. I checked and most did a very good job on their website, some even included pictures. I was calling staff members since the training and have found many have not updated their phone messages. I have really big hopes in getting the teachers to see the advantage of a up to date website that can inform and guide parents. If they can see that it is helping the students and making their life easier by opening another channel of communication with the parents then they will really use this tool more often (Williamson and Redish, 2009). Using technology to increase productivity is one of the main reasons we use tools. As we move forward I think these webpages will be able assist in delivering distance learning opportunities for many with internet at home.  I had one whole team that wanted to use the computer lab as soon as possible. The came in and I led a lesson on using inspiration. I used the I do, we do, you do method of instruction. I showed the program as the students made a web about them. I then had the students create a web using their notes on Christopher Columbus. I think the lessons went well. The teachers really liked that I demo the program without adding in the curriculum. Many of them responded well to the way I modeled all the skills. I didn't want any student to feel like they were left out because they haven't had much experience with computers. Even though Prensky (2008) talks about how the “digital natives” will be more at home than those of us not from that generation, I see many students at my school who are not used to technology. I can see the digital divide between students clearly. My school is a title one school and many of the homes don't have computers with high speed internet yet (Dickard & Schnieder, 2002). Showing these students the skills necessary to interact with more advanced technology is still a major part of our role.  I have been lucky to have a kindergarten team that has also responded well to using technology. I have really liked the way we have set it up so that I can work with them for a couple of weeks on just learning to use the computeand the program. The students have done really well. A few have used Kidpix before but for many this was their first time. I have been teaching them about the backgrounds, the stamps, the free draw tools, and even the music you can add. **  References  **  Dickard, N., & Schneider, D. (2002). The digital divide: where we are. Edutopia: The George Lucas Educational Foundation.  Prensky, M. (2008). Adopt and adapt: Shaping tech for the classroom. Edutopia: The George Lucas Educational Foundation.  Williamson, J., & Redish, T. (2009).  //ISTE's Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards: What Every K-12 Leader Should Know and Be Able to Do.//    Wahsington, DC: International Society for Technology in Education 