So here is my opinion on this topic. Does Common Core and our upcoming new NC Essential Standards encourage the implementation of technology? Absolutely. Does this mean everyone is going to be super excited and eager to jump on board the technology boat? Absolutely not. For some it means more work which equates to “Not Happening!” For others it is yet another reminder of how there is no funding for technology.

One thing the Common Core does provide is an opportunity for more rigor and diving deeper into the content which truly provides a solid foundation in learning. With this being said there is more time to provide engaging lessons that utilize various modes of technology. For myself, this is a positive influence for implementing technology. If more time is provided to really gain true knowledge on topics in the classroom, then I have more time to expose students to the 21st Century skills they will desperately need in society.

However, just because I feel this way doesn’t mean everyone does (like I mentioned above.) Some people are resistant to change regardless of how positively presented an idea may be. For some it is fear of failure and others it is fear of the unknown. Then there are some that feel they are not fairly compensated as it stands right now so they won’t dare attempt something that requires an effort above and beyond where they currently reside. This sad but true dilemma is what can tear down an eager and fascinated group of educators, not to mention the students they come in contact with each day.

I just wrapped up a week with some amazing kids who just finished 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. This week they built robotic arms, non-motorized cars, straw bridges that could hold up to 2L of water, and gliders. They also had Mars rover egg drop competitions. These kids were so amazing and really inspired me as a teacher and a mom. It was also an awesome opportunity to work alongside John Scarfpin, a Kenan Fellow Alumni from last year. There were definitely some future engineers in this group!!!

Last week I completed a week of working with the NCSU Engineering Camp in Havelock, NC. It was so amazing watching 60 middle school students actively engaged in the world of engineering. A huge highlight for me was working with a Kenan Fellow from last year, John Scarfpin. He gave me so many great ideas and places to search for my classroom. My favorite idea: Squishy Circuits. I’ve already got two ideas for my kindergarten class next year incorporating this activity. My notebook is getting full from all the ideas I’ve heard and formed from my Kenan Fellows experience so far.

Well for me the biggest challenge is with acquiring technology. I was extremely disappointed when I attended a technology conference last year and heard all of these other districts with 1:1 iPads in K-2 and K-5. In addition to the despair I felt from hearing this, I then heard others saying, “Oh yeah, we have that plus 1:1 laptops for all K-5.” Seriously??? I’m doing good to get six desktops with sound!!! I do have AN iPad, as in 1, that is to be used primarily for assessment purposes. In addition, I have brought in my personal iPad (all decked out in its Otterbox because I am working with 5 and 6 year olds) to utilize in class, but my selfish tendencies will kick in when mysterious smudges appear upon its screen.

Yep, NO THANK YOU!!!

Sooooo, how are these other districts getting this and why can’t I???? I apply for every grant possible, but the competition is tough. Especially in the technology department. It would cost appx $10K to get 1:1 iPad minis in my room and most of the grants available in my county max out at $1500. That’s just a tiny bit short. So tell me my fellow Kenan Fellows, how do I get to this level in my classroom?