One of the biggest ways that I can increase productivity in my classroom using technology is by, being more proficient with Excel. Being a teacher, the classroom is centered on breaking down the data, and using the data for instructional purposes. In many instances the data is retrieved in Excel, and I have a hard time trying to break the data down by TEKS and percentages. I hope that by increasing my knowledge in Excel, I will be able to take the data and individualize lessons geared towards an individual students' weakness, instead of having whole lesson instruction which many students may not benefit from.
Second, the next biggest task is using technology to create lessons using Power Point. Although I am able to create lessons within a program called Activ Board, Power Point lessons are ones in which I can add sounds and pictures to increase student understanding. Power Point will allow me to not only create lessons that are fun and creative, but also allow me to share the lessons with parents and students alike. Unfortunately, the Activ Board can save and create lessons, but the training in which we get limits me on how to actually share with others who do not have access to the program.
Lastly, I could improve productivity by fully being able to teach the students how to create favorite folders, and place much needed websites on their task bars. One of the biggest problems that I have had in the past is, losing precious time by having students type in the particular website I need them to access. Many times, the students may forget to enter the www, simply leave a letter off, or not remember the steps in getting to the website. This creates chaos due to the fact that I may have five or more students who need assistance, and I am delayed in giving instructions to those who are ready to go. Since the students use the same computers each time they enter the computer lab, having the task bar already set with the websites will be a great plus in ensuring that maximum time is spent on the lesson, and not surfing the web for a particular site.
I totally agree with you about that using Excel to organize data is an excellent way to improve productivity in the classroom. Power Point is another excellent tool to to use in the classroom because we as educators are able to get students engaged and interested in the lessons. You selected great tools to use in your classroom!
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