I think I’ve mentioned that my classroom is in total chaos because new technology is on the way.
Thursday was ROUGH, let me tell you.
When I arrived at school, I saw that workers had installed the framing for my Smartboard. They’d also moved my computer wiring to the other side of the room.
It was then that I suspected that I would be doing some major work that day.
My assistant principal walked into my classroom with about thirty minutes left in first period, and she told me I had to move the bookshelves that were located in the same corner that my new desk was going to be put into.
I envisioned hours and hours of work relocating books, shoving furniture around, etc.
However, I have several strong boys in that class (one of the advantages of teaching high school), and they were more than willing to help me get things moved around…
Oh my gosh, but moving one pile led to moving another pile until there were just piles everywhere…
It was quite disconcerting, let me tell you. I do NOT function well in disorder.
Fortunately, during second period, I was able to straighten things up a teensy bit so that my students would be able to complete the test I’d prepared.
I stayed after school, determined to finish grading the tons of work that had been generated this past week. We’re going to be on Spring Break next week, and I didn’t want to spend my time entering grades.
Thus, I was in my room when the contractors arrived, ready to install the actual Smartboard and put my desk and new computer together.
They “rearranged” my room a bit, but I didn’t mind. It was for a good cause…
I really wanted to stay until they were finished. That’s how much I love new technology. BUT, they told me it would take them a couple of hours, so I decided to head for home.
It was almost like Christmas Eve with the anticipation high.
The next morning, I saw this when I walked in…
Oh baby!
And look at my new computer…
Isn’t that monitor fantastic?!!!!
The contraption to the left is called an Elmo…an electronic document reader.
* also got a microphone thing to wear around my neck. After I get training, I’ll be using this during my class. The sound will come from the wiring in the ceilings.
Oh my.
No more excuses of “I didn’t hear you.”
The new technology also includes DVD players and the capability to watch the in-school television production through the Smartboard.
Here’s the control center for all of the projection stuff…
That’s on my wall, right next to my desk.
Oh.
My.
Goodness.
My students were THRILLED. The ENTIRE school is getting this technology, and my building was the first.
I spent much of the day moving furniture and putting my desk and office supplies in order. The result is better than I could have ever hoped for.
The new layout is much more open with a lot more open space for me to move around…
I’ve still got quite a bit of work to do in there…lots of “teacher” stuff to put away. I’ll go in once or twice next week to get this stuff done and will also get my lessons ready for the following week.
For now, I am one happy camper!!
Filed under: Teaching | Tagged: teaching, technology | 1 Comment »
AuburnChick's Adventures 