Blog Post # 5: What did you learn from these conversations with Anthony Capps?

In the video, Project Based Learning Part 1: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher, I learned that projects can be a means for learning. Projects are not just a measurement of material retained. Mt. Capps emphasized the importance of an authentic audience, relevant subjects, incorporating communities, and content driven assignments when selecting projects. Mr. Capps also pointed out that peers can offer valid points for revisions. He also emphasized democracy in the review, revision, and grading processes.
In the video, Project Based Learning Part 2: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher, I learned that Mr. Capps is not only willing to share his experiences with successful projects, but he is also open about unsuccessful projects. He used the project in which he assigned Narrative scripts and videos as a child from Afghanistan. One of the parents of a student of Mr. Capps was opposed to the assignment. The parent had served time in the military and was stationed in Afghanistan. The parent chose to protect his child from the culture of Afghanistan. Mr. Capps also talks about giving the children choices, and how they are enjoying learning.

In the video, iCurio, Mr. Capps talks about the online resource. It is a search engine that searches text, audio, and video that meets the Alabama College and Career Standards. This technology is currently being used by Baldwin County Public School System. This tool assists students with filtering useless information. Students also lean to create folders online with this resource.

In the video, Discovery Education, I learned that this resource has numerous images to accompany student's textbooks. Discovery Education allows experts into the classroom via video. The videos on various subjects enrich student's educational experiences. In the video, The Anthony-Strange list of Tips for Teachers Part 1, I learned that teaching is hard work. Despite the hard work, teaching is also fun. Teachers learn the art of teaching in their spare time as well as during instructional time. Teaching is rewarding and never ends. Educators are always learning from their own mistakes and refining the education process.

In the video, Don't Teach Tech-Use It, I learned that technology should not be a rigid part of the curriculum. Technology should be incorporated into lessons in a meaningful way. Students should be instructed on new technology as it is used through out the lesson. In the video, Additional Thought About Lessons, I learned that lessons are 4 layers thick. When planning a lesson it is important to consider: how the lesson fits into the year, how the units will be stretched over 6-8 weeks, how the weeks will be devised to ensure goals are getting accomplished, and daily lessons that will keep the students engaged. I found all the videos engaging and useful.