Blog Post 6

What do you learn from these conversations with Anthony Capps?

Conversations with Anthony Capps Video Series

1. Project Based Learning Part 1: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher
2. Project Based Learning Part 2: Experiences of a 3rd Grade Teacher
3. iCurio
4. Discovery Education
5. The Anthony - Strange list of Tips for Teachers Part 1
6. Don't Teach Tech - Use It
7. Additional Thought About Lessons

Since Capps is a new teacher, it is important for us to hear his advice because he is exactly where we want to be in a few years--successfully in our own classroom and dedicated to our students. There were many points in these videos that I simply hadn't thought about before but are worthwhile to know. First, project-based Learning requires reflection by both the teacher and the students. Capps mentioned his favorite project as well as admitting there were projects that were not as successful. Learning from your own thoughts as well as listening to your students' feedback is essential to the project-based learning process. As Dr. Strange says, "If you are not a learner, you will not be a successful educator." Teachers can use this reflection to enhance future projects."Create an opportunity for them to go beyond what you want them to do," says Capps.

Next, we must use technology in effective ways. That means we must spend more time using the technology and less time teaching how to use the technology. Capps says that his students pick up these skills quickly and I agree. Plus, there are several programs such as iCurio and Discovery Education to help both the teacher and the students engage in learning. However, we must be prepared and flexible whenever technology is surprisingly unavailable to us. Teachers must be able to make modifications and engage as many students as possible in the new lesson.

Also, teaching is more than a profession. It is a lifestyle that lasts longer than the 8 hours in the school. Teachers must be prepared to spend time at home working--whether that be reading over material, creating lesson plans, modifying projects, talking about your classroom and dinner at dinner, etc. It may sound overwhelming at first, but Capps says that he enjoys his work both inside and outside of the classroom. He says to make the most of your job and be willing to learn and enjoy it. As he says, "Let your work become a fun experience for you." It is impressive what all Capps has done in his short time as a teacher, but I hope and will strive to do the same.