Technology and Pedagogy

Spreadsheet:  https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Av5-K1lPKZSWdDhiaklyS3lRR3Rzc2lFdlVYc3VIN1E&usp=sharing

       The lesson plan called Documenting Communities through Interviews and Film is very unique since it requires students to use skills to socialize with the people in their community. This is not a typical lesson plan where students sit down in front of a bunch of notes and listen to a lecture, which is why I liked this plan so much. I thought it was a really great way for students to learn about their community and how it has been changing, whether that change be good or bad. With the skills they learn in the social studies class, like research, discussion, surveying, and reflection, the students will have a great opportunity to create a video that shows the use of all of those skills. Also, students will learn how the demographics and attitudes of the people in their own community have changed throughout history and why these changes may have occurred.
       The only gap that may occur with this lesson plan is that students might not focus on the social studies ideas of the lesson plan like civil and social justice issues in the community and focus primarily on just creating a good video. Even though they will really be involved with technology, the actual content may be less focused on due to the freedom of creativity. Other then that gap, I feel that if this lesson plan is accomplished correctly, the strategies, standards, and technology will all flow very well. The teachers using this plan will be able to see how the students are using their interview and discussion skills, while also being able to create useful questions that address the content. Also, by being able to record themselves, they can look back and reflect on what they did and other students can comment on their approaches which will hopefully develop into a discussion on the information. The standards that students should meet by the end of 12th grade involve many things about reflecting and understanding human rights, culture, and people and how historical events shaped these things. I feel that if students address their community issues or changes, students can make a connection to their own community and see how history has affected something so relatable to them.