-tictech message:
I'm not a teacher, but I do understand some of the problems with how
technology (everyone must remember paper and pencils are technology, albeit
somewhat of an old technology) is adapted for use in the classroom. If I
remember correctly, the point of having education is to make our children
responsible and learned adults and prepare them for what some call "The Real
World": that is life outside of a controlled learning environment. With that
in mind, the question arises of why spell checking is not able to be used.
There are very, very few math tests in which a simple calculator can not be
used, and generally that is up to the instructor. I can't remember the last
time I was not allowed to use a calculator in "The Real World".
Sorry, but when I am trying to figure out 38.7 / 238.9223 I'm going to
require the use of a calculator. When I spell "obsequious" I'm going to want
to check it for correctness. Why can I only check it in a dictionary? They
don't require me to use an abacus when I can't use a calculator, no one is
that asinine.
Devin Fisher
Technology Consultant
Van Asselt Elementary
dmfisher@seattleschools.org
-----Original Message-----
From: Crozier, Kevin
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2003 5:16 PM
To: tictech@learningspace.org
Subject: tictech: DWA comments
-tictech message:
Mark,
I too was once angry at the mismatch of skills taught in my classroom and
skills assessed by district tests.
I tried adapting to the CBA, DWA, etc. needs/demands but felt wrong inside.
This was especially so in the timing of when I wanted to teach a skill
within a unit of learning and when that skill "should" be taught in the
school year for best "results".
These days, I am confident that the powers to be aren't keeping up with the
learning of today's students nor allowing teachers to create optimum
learning opportunities via their own creative lessons (because of the
pressure to "optimize" the students to perform their best on the scheduled
tests).
With that, I teach what I think is best in the ways that I think are best.
When assessments arrive at the office, I use that as a learning opportunity
for the students and parents. I explain that what is asked in the tests does
not accurately measure what is learned by their children. For example, in
this DWA, we did write by hand and correct spelling by dictionaries, a new
event for some. But as in real life, we do our best when not given a choice
. . . then move on to true, natural, student-centered learning unrestrained
by the boundaries of the materials in or the processes of standardized
tests.
I once supported "standards", now I think their over-emphasis is destroying
joyful learning and teaching. Ignore those leaders who now worship them.
Kevin
Kevin Crozier
Gr. 3 - Lowell School
Seattle, WA
kbcrozier@seattleschools.org
http://www.seattleschools.org/schools/lowell/kevin/index.htm
"Understand the conflict with your brain, but solve it in your heart." -
Erin Jones
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