Sharing Lessons Through Video Conferencing

Often I will send out a quick note to AJUSD staff and let them know about different technology happenings in the district. I recently highlighted the use of our video conferencing equipment and our public relations guru turned it into a press release. I wanted to share. (Apache Junction, Az., Feb. 21st, 2011) – While each of the six schools in the Apache Junction Unified School District has its own identity and procedures, they are linked by a common objective of providing students with the best educational opportunities possible. When one school creates an exciting and innovative lesson plan, why not share it with the others? AJUSD is utilizing technology allowing each school to do just that. Using video conferencing equipment, classes at different locations are able to come together to share information, learn new problem-solving methods from a variety of teachers, or enjoy some friendly competition with one another through academic games and contests. “There is great teaching going on at all our schools and with video conferencing, you can bring these lessons not only to your class, but others across the district,” said AJUSD Director of Technology, Jon Castelhano. “Team teaching projects can take place and younger students can tap into the expertise of those at the junior high and high school. The possibilities are great.” Video conferencing equipment is available at each AJUSD school, as well as a dedicated room for conferencing at Apache Junction High School, and can be used to connect with schools around the world. Instructors are able to schedule sessions through the Technology Department, who provide tech support at each session.

Thought For The Day 12/3/10

Thought to pass along. I participated in a webinar this Wednesday through ISTE, the International Society for Technology in Education. Great webinar, valuable information we will pass along to our teachers. The most interesting thing about the webinar though, was the audience participating. The presenters were in Virginia, Illinois, and North Dakota, and there were participants from around the world, USA, Canada, England, Japan, and Australia.

In one hour we were able to collaborate, share, and learn with people from around the world. Not too many years ago, this type of collaboration was not possible. Most of our students now were born with this type of access at their fingertips, they will probably not understand that we as adults did not have the ability to talk to others around the world with the click of a button when we were in school. Preparing all students for today’s world definitely has taken on new meaning and this is an exciting time to be in education.