Standard+6

**Standard 6 - Teachers Communicate Well **  The teacher uses effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques as well as instructional media and technology to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in the classroom. ** Evidence 1 ** Classroom learning community, known as the SLC. (This is a student-sensitive area and is restricted. I can provide tangible evidence of the functionality of the site upon request.) Mr. Dunning's Writing Colony

Many, if not most, students have daily access to multiple forms of technology. From owning cell phones and MP3 players to creating wikis and Facebook accounts, students’ lives are infused with digital devices. In stark contrast, innumerable teachers have limited access to classroom technology, while others have inadequate training or are unmotivated to respond to student needs. Proficient instructional use of technology in the classroom serves multiple purposes. First of all, it addresses multiple learning styles and allows for differentiated instruction. Simply using a computer is more kinesthetic and visual than playing the role of a passive learner. In addition, teachers who are knowledgeable in the latest digital advancements are not only able to deliver instruction in a more relevant manner, but are more relevant as individuals. Students will likely commit themselves to a teacher whom they perceive as clued-in to the latest advancements and then, perhaps, the digital divide can begin to be bridged.
 * Rationale **

A Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment, or Moodle, is one way to mobilize the classroom around a technology hub. Moodle is an open-sourced program that allows educators and learners to communicate in a virtual classroom. Participants have access to web links, documents, surveys, quizzes, a calendar, and a discussion forum during the teacher-taught units. Each of the resources included on Moodle is designed to help students practice what they have learned, find out more information about something taught in class, and discuss a previously introduced topic. Moodle is accessible from classroom laptops or from home computers that have Internet connectivity.

Fortunately, the Milwaukee Public Schools District supports a Moodle called the Student Learning Community. I created a site on the SLC called Mr. Dunning’s Writing Colony that I consistently use with my seventh grade language arts students. I am able to create specific modules on the site for whatever topic we are discussing in class. Modules include discussion, live chat, assignments, quizzes, videos, documents, and external links.

As a professional, this experience has increased my proficiency level when it comes to gathering electronic resources and organizing them in a meaningful way. I have learned how to develop an online learning space where participants come together to analyze, discuss, and critically think about the material being covered in class. As a teacher, this project helped me gain valuable experience in developing content that is not only relevant to my students but engaging. Currently, I am running a writing unit centered around identity on the Moodle.

It was anticipated that by giving students access to the learning environment, there would be an increase in engagement with learning and academic gains were expected. According to my observations and data that I collected, those students who participated in the online learning community experienced greater academic gains than those who did not, thereby confirming my predictions.

The Moodle site, Mr. Dunning’s Writing Colony, is used in the hybrid format. This means that students work on the site and face-to-face in the classroom. Nonverbal, verbal, and media communication are intricate parts of the functionality of the Moodle. For example, students were often required to view a short video, participate in an online discussion or live chat, and then bring their ideas and questions to the classroom setting.
 * 6.K.4 The teacher recognizes the importance of nonverbal, verbal and media communication techniques. **

Mr. Dunning’s Writing Colony uses multiple media formats including online games, film, articles, and slideshows to enrich the learning topic in the classroom. A recent unit on identity included all of the above.
 * 6.S.5 The teacher knows how to use a variety of media communication tools, including audiovisual aids and computers, to enrich learning opportunities. **

Before posting discussion or written assignments to the site, students thoroughly explore the idea of community and safety. Additionally, students are taught how to post appropriate responses and what to do when they find someone else’s comments offensive. This is an ongoing process facilitated by the teacher and practiced with regularity throughout the academic year.
 * 6.D.4 The teacher appreciates the cultural dimensions of communication, responds appropriately, and seeks to foster culturally sensitive communication by and among all students in the class. **

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