Week 5 Blog: Evaluating my GAME plan progress

I have attempted to work on my GAME plan over the last week, but I haven’t been very successful. I was on track until this past week when other deadlines seemed to take priority. As Cennamo, Ertmer and Ross state, in order to be effective at achieving a desired learning goal, self-directed learners must first establish a GAME plan. The first was to set a goal, take actions, monitor and finally evaluate how effective the actions have been towards meeting the goals (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009).

My first goal was to set up a blog on our school web site as a communication tool for students and parents. I am still planning to do this as long as it doesn’t get stopped by the district. So, far I do not see that happening.
The second goal was to follow NETS.T, http://www.iste.org standard 3b. Collaborate with students, peers, parents, and community member using digital tools and resource to support student success and innovation. I have been more successful in this area because it is something I am more familiar with. I have been teaching my students how to use voice thread. During reading students had to write a different ending to a story, so I had them write it and draw pictures of the characters and setting. When they were finished they were able to record the ending and post their pictures. Each student was given feedback by me or their regular classroom teacher. They were also encouraged to share with their parents and ask them for comments as well. They have been motivated to want to write more, which is encouraging since they don’t typically like to write.

I have learned that things don’t always go as planned and I need to continue to try and not give up on my goals. I have been collaborating with my colleagues about my GAME plan and it is encouraging to know they are willing to help me accomplish my goals.

I still need to learn how to set up a blog on the school website, but it is more a lack of me not following through with the plan than it is the district stopping me at this point.
At this time I will continue to work towards my plan and adjust it as necessary.

Cennamo, K., Ross, J., & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology integration for meaningful classroom use: A standards-based approach. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.

National Education Standards for Teachers (NETS-T) located at http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/NETS/ForTeachers/2008Standards/NETS_T_Standards