Eric Lister

web page:  homework4mrlister

Abstract:

 

This presentation (web page, document) will describe my experiences attempting to create a paperless classroom—a classroom with (almost) no photocopies, no filing cabinets, and no writing portfolios; a classroom where (nearly) all assignments are distributed and collected electronically using free, web-based applications. I will be explaining how I believe a paperless classroom streamlines both pedagogy and organization in an effort to spend more time teaching and less time chasing paper.

 

 Technology in the classroom:  

 

Although I like gadgets, I really can't afford many of them and I know that the school district can't afford them; so I don't seek to use technology in the classroom just for the sake of technology; rather, I only attempt to use technology to solve problems I've recognized in my own teaching.

 

As an English teacher, I'm a firm believer that if you've got a relatively safe classroom, a few books (or a photocopier, or access to the internet (so many wonderful texts are freely available in authoritative editions on the web)) www.projectgutenberg.com , www.luminarium.org and a blackboard, then you can effectively teach English.  This has been my creed as a teacher, but even as I make this statement, I do realize that this may not be the best way to teach students in the 21st century and that leads me to the rationales for this experiment.

 

 

The Technology and the Rudimentary Web-Based System I’ve begun to Develop:

Having outlined the reasons that I’ve attempted to incorporate more technology into my classroom, I need to admit one important detail.  I have absolutely no formal computer training.  I haven’t taken a computer class since my freshman year of college when we had to take a one credit class on how to use computer services at my university.  So if I can do these things, then you can too.

Positives Outcomes:

1. I can (almost) always find student work
2. I have a backed-up, interactive portfolio of student work
3. All work is date and time stamped
4. Students can always find the majority of their materials
5. Students who miss class have no excuse for not being present and up to date.
6. Reliable web-based back up.

Flies in the Ointment:

1. Google Docs is a little persnickety
2. Sometimes hard to keep up with the maintenance of the system.
3. Self-Taught
4. School computers and internet are not always reliable

Wish List:

1. Free Wi-fi for all computers in the district.  Student computers allowed.
2. School supported computer lease system. Each student should have a computer.

Questions: