ETEC 424: Assessing Meaningful Learning with Technology and Inspiration/Kidspiration

This week there have been assortments of assessment tools to filter through. The three include: Technology Based Rubrics, Clicker Assessment Tools and Inspiration/Kidspiration Software. The first assessment tool located at: http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/assess.html where Kathy Schrock has put together rubrick tools, specific grade level projects with rubrics, plenty of how-to tools, and so many other helpful items for teachers, students, administrators and even parents. 

The second assessment tool is the Clicker Assessment Tools and this is what I first saw used with “Who wants to be a Millionaire” show when Regis Filbin was the host. The contestant had three lifelines and one was “poll the audience”, and this was in relation to a question they weren’t sure of the answer and the audience would give their opinion of the answer. But if I had the opportunity to use the clicker format in my class I would do that. I would find out who read the material for class that day, find out who understands my lecture or not, and play math games or political games with it. I would love having the clicker assessment in my classroom.

The final assessment tool was the Inspiration/Kidspiration Software. I am not too familiar with this software but I know I’d want to have the Inspiration Software if I were teaching high school kids or even college students. Having the use of a smart board gives the teacher so many more teachable moments and tools to add to their daily routine.

What have I learned in this class so far? I found out that I wasn’t as savvy and up-to-date on the latest technologies that students are using today. My knowledge was very limited and now I have discovered interactive power points, wikis, blogs, podcasts, multiple intelligences, Prezi’s, social book markings and voice threads so as to name a few. I believe that incorporating all this emerging technology will not only benefit my students but me as well. I want to incorporate as many tools possible for fun, for a challenge and for life-long learning in every classroom I teach, every administrative meeting I attend or hold or kitchen table I sit at and discuss with family or friend. The heights of knowing what can be accomplished with these Web 2.0 tools my never be known and I will need to catch up on 3.0 tools by then…and who knows what heights technology will go?!!!