Looking for an engaging way to spark student engagement in your secondary school classroom? Learn about the collaboration between a classroom teacher and library media specialist which led to the incorporation of project based learning units supporting the US History curriculum. Using a variety of technology tools including G-Suite, online research databases, and 3D printing, students used their 1:1 devices to create various projects, such as comic books and monuments. Through these project based learning assignments, student engagement increased and allowed for more opportunities to differentiate learning. We will describe some of the projects we have already completed and those that we are planning to incorporate in the future. Samples of student work will be shared. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the online tools used in these projects, including a 3D printing tutorial. Workshop participants will then collaborate on figuring out how best to implement these tools into their own classroom setting. These types of projects provide students with an alternative means of instruction about various historical events and people, while promoting blended and personalized learning.
PBL & Collaboration | 3D Printing | Comics | Makerspace | Resources
Alice Johnson, Library Media Specialist, Dedham High School
ajohnson@dedham.k12.ma.us | twitter: @ajlibrarian
Since 2012, Alice Johnson has worked as the library media specialist at Dedham High School where she enjoys working with all students, collaborating with teachers, and exploring new technologies. She has also led several professional development sessions in her district. With over 17 years of experience teaching at the secondary level, Alice holds a M.Ed. in Library Media from Bridgewater State University and is currently working on her Google Educator Certification.
Michael Medeiros, Social Studies Teacher, Dedham High School
mmedeiros@dedham.k12.ma.us | twitter: @mrmedeiros1776
Michael Medeiros is currently only in his third year of teaching, but has already made an impact at the school where he teaches, particularly in the realm of integrating technology in the classroom. Recipient of the Dee Meloski award, granted to a new teacher who has demonstrated veteran teaching skills, he has already led various professional development opportunities for his colleagues. Michael recently earned his master's degree in education from Fitchburg State University, with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Dedham High School | 140 Whiting Avenue | Dedham, MA 02026 | 781-310-1100