Preparations

As I prepare myself for the implementation of my research project I found myself thinking and reflecting a lot during the last two weeks about how to define and answer my initial guiding questions. I feel a little overwhelmed about the amount of work required in this process. Although I believed my plan to be thorough I feel that there are so many things that need tweaking. I have already changed a couple of things in my initial plan and after re-reading it many times I believe that I have finally further defined the foci of my research question, which is:

"How can I use ICT daily in my practice to support 21st century skills development and increase students' engagement?" by narrowing skills to the following, which I would like to teach with the aid of technology:

• on-line collaboration, work in teams
• critical thinking, take on complex problems
• oral communication, present
• written communication, write
• learn technology, use technology
• develop citizenship, take on civic and global issues
• learn content, research
• innovation/creativity

I have no doubt that the use of ICT in my teaching practice will enhance my ability to deliver engaging lessons whilst modelling the use of modern tools of communication, complex research, productivity, organisation, on-line collaboration, self-direction, analytical skills, critical thinking, innovation, creativity and global awareness.

The use of technology fosters 21^st century skills primarily because we are using 21^st century tools which students need to be familiar with for life and work.

When I think of a classroom where 21^st century skills are at the centre of the curriculum, I see technology being used by all, I see students writing journals online, researching independently, managing themselves, meeting in groups, planning together. By integrating technology into instruction I will be providing students with a wider range of resources, interactive experiences, and will promote willingness for self directed learning which in turn will transmit into life-long learning.

Of all the preparations I still have a few to organise before next week, primarily some proformas and data gathering tools. Today I looked at the teacher's term and weekly planner and she and I suggested a few ways in which we could integrate technology.

Alejandra