ISTE and NETS*T - Requirement One

The requirements of teachers in a digital age are outlined in a document by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) are called the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS*T).  There is an outline for Students as well called the NETS*S.  I consider myself a pretty technological person, not a wiz, but overall competent to fluent.  But I will be working with students who have grown up with every type of technology imaginable.  My own son was manipulating our iPhones before he was three.  So even with a classroom full of four and five year olds, I will be expected to incorporate technology into my curriculum.    I plan on discussing these over my next few posts. 

Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity*

Teachers use their knowledge of subject matter, teaching and learning, and technology to facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation in both face-to-face and virtual environments. 

Teachers:

a.        promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness.
b.       engage students in exploring real-world issues and solving authentic problems using digital tools and resources.
c.        promote student reflection using collaborative tools to reveal and clarify students' conceptual understanding and thinking, planning, and creative processes.
d.       model collaborative knowledge construction by engaging in learning with students, colleagues, and others in face-to-face and virtual environments.

For a PreK classroom this could mean utilizing digital drawing and painting programs, projects using digital photography as well as utilizing many of the available math and language games to reinforce class lessons.  Creating class and personal schedules using calendar programs is another way to reinforce both life and digital skills.  I do know of some problem solving games online that I have used with my son, but would need to do further research to find some more appropriate for a PreK classroom.


*(ISTE NETS for Teachers, http://www.iste.org/standards/nets-for-teachers.aspx)