Technology Research and Readings - What the Curriculum Says...

These are some key pieces that I have pulled from the curriculum about technology and are things that I am continually trying to build on and better what I am already doing.

I enjoy using technology especially as a platform for teaching and learning especially and have such passion and desire to learn more and more myself.  It is fascinating and so interesting as it is evolving so quickly and requires us as teachers to continually evolving with it, keeping us humble and a reminder that we to will always be learners and to always keep an open mind. I love the fact of knowing there is always more out there to know and will always be researching for better ways to do things and therefore will never allow a chance for boredom. 

The following is from the curriculum in which I am doing all of, however, the whanau engagement I am still developing through student journals and blogs. 

Using technologies to engage parents in student learning

There has been recognition of the importance of reciprocal two-way communication to enhance the understanding of student backgrounds and learning needs; to consult with parents, whānau, and communities on school priorities; and to engage in collaborative goal setting.

Using technologies to support communication

Examples of ways you can use technologies to support communication with parents and whānau

• Leave computers on at the end of the day and invite parents and whānau to view students’ digital work
• Find out the types of technology that parents and whānau use and share in those mediums.
• Consider using multiple channels, such as mobile devices, email, instant messaging services, social media, and the school website, to connect with parents and whānau.
• Provide deliberate support or training to show parents and whānau how they can engage with students’ work, both face-to-face and through technology.
• Create and promote online spaces such as blogs that invite parent and whānau participation and feedback.
• Establish a site or portal for parents and whānau to access and contribute to student learning.
• Design e-portfolios to inform future steps in learning..

Using digital portfolios

e-Portfolios and three-way student led conferences help parents to develop a deeper understanding of how their child is progressing and how they can support learning. 

• Involve whānau in learning-focused discussions (wānanga). 
• Actively engage Māori learners and whānau in the learning partnership through regular, purposeful feedback, and constructive feed-forward.

Using technologies to support parent voice within the school

Review your school’s localised curriculum with parents and whānau.  

Ask:

• Where are the voices of whānau in this curriculum?
• How does the curriculum fit the students and the graduate profile? (or do they have to fit into it?).