Personal Digital Story

As I reflect on the project this week, I come to realize how important it is for me to keep precious moments alive. I based my video on my husband, who has had a tremendous year receiving accolades that he is well deserving of. I've kept photos but never had the opportunity to develop a video detailing his achievement.

This course has allowed me to do this. It has also given me an opportunity to learn and utilize tools that can help me in the classroom. I will definitely incorporate the Photo Story concept.

Took 8.1 CARE Model: Planning Tool

Identify Concerns that must change (look to the future)

1. Administration support
2. Faculty participation
3. Technical support

Identify Affirmations that must be sustained (look to the present)

1. Teacher collaboration in the form of department/team meetings
2. Utilize "Late Start" meeting times every week for review/discussion
3. Confirmation/Knowledge in the need for change

SMART Recommendations that must be implemented: (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Timely)

1. There is specific need for technology - integration in content area
2. New technology in campus will help in attaining goal (technology integration)
3. The relevance of technology in content will enable teachers/students tie-in into new innovative ideas and concepts

Evaluate - Specifically and Often

1. Classroom observation
2. Team collaboration/discussion
3. Reflection/Complete assignment projects

Harris, S. Edmonson, S., & Combs, J. (2009). Examining What We Do to Improve Our Schools

Challenges we must face... but can also use to our advantage!

 The challenges I foresee in implementing my action research study is involving transition. At this point and time, I will have a new principal along with three new assistants. This is actually a new administration team. I recently spoke to one assistant who is remaining and he stated, "as with anything there will be some changes, but we will try and transition with no interruptions." This is probably one of my main concerns because I am not sure if I will receive administration support for my project due to the fact that our campus is desperately trying to reset a weak structure, dealing with compliance issues and low performing standardized testing. This is only one concern amongst others that includes; faculty turnover, participation, timing, lack of resources and implementation. Whew... if that is not enough.

So my plate is full in planning to address the challenges. I will begin by meeting with my site mentor to discuss possible ways we can overcome these concerns and schedule an appointment with my new principal and basically "sell' my project to her. One tool I can use and present is the CARE Model: Planning Tool (Harris, 2009). The information on this form will identify, recommend and evaluate the concerns that need to be addressed. Preparation of an idea is key.

Harris, S., Edmonson, S. & Combs, J. (2009). Examining what we do to improve our schools: 9 steps from analysis to action. Larchmont, N.Y.: Eye on Education.