ImagineIT Phase 5
Focus Groups
Focus Groups
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Update
My students have begun their projects. They have done some entry-level research into their topics and are forming groups. There was a buzz in the air when I announced the project. I started with Algebra students pairing up and picking a topic. From there, students who are not in Algebra picked a group to join. I felt it was good to begin with the Algebra students because they take two math courses per day and have more exposure to math beyond the scope of eighth grade.
I noticed more excitement from the students about creating projects that would be online than any other aspect so far. The ability to take control, demonstrate understanding in a way they decide and be part of a website design is very appealing to my eighth grade students. They have the sense that they are creating something larger than a science fair project or a paper. They are creating something that anyone in the world can learn from. They are creating something that they can show their teachers and peers next year when they arrive in high school.
A challenge that I am finding so far is that some students are turning this into a bit of a career research project. I have to keep them attached to the thought of finding the hidden math in the world around us. The hope is that our work makes the students and their peers more aware of how we use math in our everyday lives, thus placing a greater importance on learning and being successful in math.
I must also brush up on my newly acquired technology skills. I know that students will lok for me to guide them and answer questions but my knowledge is rudimentary. With a little practice I will be able to feel more sure of myself and the support that I can provide.
My students have begun their projects. They have done some entry-level research into their topics and are forming groups. There was a buzz in the air when I announced the project. I started with Algebra students pairing up and picking a topic. From there, students who are not in Algebra picked a group to join. I felt it was good to begin with the Algebra students because they take two math courses per day and have more exposure to math beyond the scope of eighth grade.
I noticed more excitement from the students about creating projects that would be online than any other aspect so far. The ability to take control, demonstrate understanding in a way they decide and be part of a website design is very appealing to my eighth grade students. They have the sense that they are creating something larger than a science fair project or a paper. They are creating something that anyone in the world can learn from. They are creating something that they can show their teachers and peers next year when they arrive in high school.
A challenge that I am finding so far is that some students are turning this into a bit of a career research project. I have to keep them attached to the thought of finding the hidden math in the world around us. The hope is that our work makes the students and their peers more aware of how we use math in our everyday lives, thus placing a greater importance on learning and being successful in math.
I must also brush up on my newly acquired technology skills. I know that students will lok for me to guide them and answer questions but my knowledge is rudimentary. With a little practice I will be able to feel more sure of myself and the support that I can provide.
