Reading Reflection #8

Chapter 8: Building Connections and Branching Out

1. Description of some ways to build connections and branch out beyond the classroom.

• Online Collaboration: it integrates a wide range of technologies to help students connect across thousands of miles.
• Authentic opportunities for students to share their research or advocate for a cause offer a robust contrast to more traditional "report out" methods at the end of a project.

2. Description of the EAST Initiative Model.

• The Environmental and Spatial Technologies (EAST) Initiative network of schools have been demonstration the benefits of using technology for a real purpose. EAST students master these tools and applications in context while solving community problems that interest them. The EAST Initiative started in rural Arkansas in 1996 and has grown to include more that 260 schools in seven states. It has expanded from high school program to included students from second grade to post-secondary levels.

3. Discussion on some reasons to let students “lead” their projects.

• When teachers become more comfortable with the project approach, they sometimes find that students are quite capable of leading their own projects. Students have the potential to chart their own learning path by students with learning disabilities. Collaboration is key for students to work together and lead their projects. 

4. Discussion on how concepts in this chapter relate to your topic/project.

• This chapter relates to my project because it relates to the virtual penpals assignment in regards to students being able to communicate to other students across thousands of miles.