Ahhh...TechQuest almost done! Now, it is time to evaluate the process.
I really enjoyed researching and learning more deeply the use of Wikis in the classroom. I had a basic idea before the TechQuest project, but I have so many resources and ideas now! It is somewhat hard to say what I would do differently, because I haven't had a chance to actually use my TechQuest in my classroom yet. As I'm sure every teacher knows, nothing goes as planned. So, I'm sure there is something, but at this time I don't realize anything major because I haven't used it yet. I spent A LOT of time researching, I was looking for the "perfect" resource instead of compling a bunch of resources that worked together to be perfect. I looked at a lot of example wikis without much luck. So, I believe that my educational need was possibly too specific.
A lesson to others that will follow in my footsteps is to really have a passion to change your educational need. I was very driven as my educational need is something that I have been dreaming to improve since I began teaching. If you aren't passionate about the change, it won't happen. Also, spend time researching WHY the technology is going to address your need. Don't just assume it is and roll with it.
I do believe that I do techquests in a small way often in my teaching. I am always evaluating my teaching and classroom and looking for ways to improve. The first place I look is to technology. Not always do I end up using it, however I often do. I have had successes and failures but am confident in my choices and love that I will always have a chance to be a better teacher by finding new and exciting ways to deliver the material.
Evaluating the TechQuest outcomes is always difficult when students take this class during the summer months. After reading through your post, I'm still wondering - How would you evaluate (or measure) whether or not your project was successful? In other words, what method will you use to determine that your using a wiki for student feedback was working? Would you expect to see an increase in the number of quality posts by students. An increase in the number of posts each student is making? Based on past grant writing experience, I have learned that once you have identified an evaluation tool, you will have valuable data for modifying your project so that it continues to meet the learning needs of your students. Good luck as you begin to implement this project next month. You will have keep in touch and let me know how it all turns out. ~ Sue
ReplyDeleteI, too, am interested in seeing how this process would actually be carried out in my classroom. I can look at it and think it is ready for implementation, but who knows, because you are right, things don't always go to plan. There are many factors that can make or break this type of technological implementation. Hopefully, for all of us it is just a matter of working out a few kinks, not huge knots!
ReplyDeleteJen,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed learning how to use wikis also. I know that I will continue using the in my classroom and I believe with you passion for education that the technology will fit right in to your classroom.
Jen,
ReplyDeleteI think it is so important that we understand that sometimes to improve we have to make serious changes. It isn't always easy, but the rewards can be great. I really think your wiki will help you with your goals with student feedback.