Our teachers and students love participating in Read Around the Planet. Do they really learn anything? YES! Here are some items from the National Educational Technology Standards for students and teachers that are addressed by participating in RAP.
Students
- Examine the geography of where you partner class is located.
- Calculate the distance between classes and what time it is in different time zones.
- Communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats.
- Develop cultural understanding and global awareness by engaging with learners of other cultures.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving by planning and managing activities to develop a solution or complete a project.
Teachers and Coordinators
- Facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity by guiding and leading the students.
- Engage students in learning with other students via videoconference
- Manage time and effectively communicate with partner teachers and coordinators.
- Expand your people network.
- Develop ongoing partnerships with other educators and professionals from other states or countries.
Coordinators
Learn how videoconferencing works in different states and countries. Read Around the Planet is the best way to test interoperability among systems. I really wish that the manufacturers would each lend a video engineer to support RAP. I know that we use their equipment in ways they have not thought of.
- How to communicate with personnel managing statewide bridges, provincial bridges, national bridges (JANET in the UK),
- All the different ways that you can dial and receive a call.
- How to connect outside your network(s).
- How to best show what your classes are doing.
- Best practice for using microphones, cameras, and visuals.
Your Turn
- What are other things that students, teachers, and coordinators can learn during Read Around the Planet?
If you are totally new to collaborative projects and/or would like step by step assistance making a collaborative project happen, from start to finish, sign up for Kid2Kid Videoconference Connections, a six week online course beginning January 25.