Reflection 8

Some ways to build connections and branch out are to use digital age projects. The students can consult with experts in the course of researching a particular topic. They can design a project so that they can communicate with fellow learners from other classrooms or even around the world. This way they can become proficient at working in a culturally diverse world. The EAST Initiative Model is a network of schools demonstrating the benefits of using technology for a real purpose. These projects solve problems and make improvements in their communities. These projects make use of geospatial technologies and multimedia tools that are more commonly found in professional laboratories or design studios. The EAST model is built on four essential ideas. 1. Student driven learning: students need to be responsible for their own learning. 2. Authentic project based learning: students should be engaged in solving real problems in their communities.3. Technology as tools: students need access to relevant technologies that professionals use to solve real problems. 4. Collaboration:When students collaborate in teams to pursue authentic projects, they accomplish more than any one person can do in isolation. As teachers become more comfortable with the project approach they can see that their students are capable of leading their own projects. This allows students to start thinking and generating ideas that they care about. Concepts in this chapter relate to my topic because our students will be reaching out beyond the classroom to other students around the world. Our students will build connections and use digital age projects too. This will allow our students to communicate with others any use the knowledge of what they know about technology.