Project Proposal

Rationale:

This project is meant to serve multiple issues within my school. First, we do not have technology integration or direct teaching for K-3 students. This database would allow teachers to integrate lessons into their regular instruction without taking time away from core content. The tools and execution are carefully selected and laid out to successfully implement the lessons with minimal training or background knowledge.  

Second, our school has available tools that many classroom teachers do not know exist or how to use. This project would help get the tools we have into circulation to improve student access to, and understanding of, STEM education. Computer science is one of the fastest-growing fields and STEM education is the gateway to many career options. It may seem like a simple project but the impact of this kind of educational supplement can be significant. We can help our students be future-ready and provide them with skills that will make a difference for them, in the long term.

Finally, over the last few years, there has been a marked increase in behavioral concerns along with an ever-increasing demand for academic rigor. Hands-on activities such as those with the Sphero Indi bot can provide an incentive for student behavior as well as an outlet for creative thinking and problem-solving that can be very different from the norm in classroom learning. Without decreasing the academic focus during learning time, we can provide students with an opportunity to learn in a more engaging, fun way.

To make these lessons accessible to all teachers, regardless of technological skills or comfort level, I chose simple tools with straightforward and detailed directions. I created a lesson format to enable the task team to create lessons with the same formatting so that teachers could easily look between grade levels for further ideas. This also streamlines the creation process.

Since our district uses G Suite for most documentation and file sharing, it made sense to use Google tools to create and share all materials. While there may be other tools that would work as well or better, this limits the amount of effort needed to maintain clear and consistent formatting. Ideally, this would mean that training for the task team would not be necessary and they would then be able to provide training to the rest of the staff on how to use the tools and materials as presented. 

Given the broad nature of this project, differentiation for students would need to be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the lesson and student needs. The tools being used, however, are generally considered accessible for most students so not many lessons would need modification. Using partnerships or decreased lesson expectations should provide enough room for differentiation to meet needs.