tech3

Standard Three | Application of Technology in Instruction

One of the most interactive units I planned while student teaching, was the elections unit. As mentioned elsewhere in this portfolio, the students had to participate in a presidential campaign simulation. The students worked in a group of up to five members, trying to elect one group member "President" of the classroom. While planning the campaign, (creating posters, commercials, preparing for debates) I also introduced other important factors that are naturally associated with campaigning.
 * Elections **

The artifacts that I have chosen for this unit that depict my use of various technology and media are a PowerPoint on interest groups and answers from students after viewing a popular TV show about a Mayoral race. The PowerPoint explains the basics of interest groups and t o check for understanding and application of knowledge, I coupled this with an activity involving lobbyists in Chicago and the students own school-related special interest group. I played and episode of //The Simpsons// in which Sideshow Bob challenges Mayor Quimby to be the next Mayor of Springfield. We had just finished talking about campaign strategies, so I asked the students to describe the tactics that both candidates used in order to get votes as well as who they would vote for and why. Many of the students enjoyed the show and it was a great way for them to see the strategies in action.

Recognizing and using a variety of technology and media is very important as an instructor. There is a plethora of information available to students that has not always been there and I think it is important to embrace this technology as well as pop culture to relate concepts back to the students. I continue to find different websites geared towards teachers finding ways to really engage their students in the material and I feel that the below two examples helped my students apply their knowledge to something new.

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