The basic premise of this project proposal is to integrate self directed learning of spreadsheets in the Finance Unit (AMAT 20 and 30) and the Number Patterns and Tables Unit (AMAT 10) of the Alberta Learning Applied Mathematics Curriculum.
Current Practices
Traditionally students follow instructions given on paper handouts and are forced to create spreadsheets with little to no prior knowledge of spreadsheet formatting and layouts. I have developed spreadsheet templates that incorporate the learning of the desired outcomes without burdening students with the problems associated with generating a novel spreadsheet for each new question.
Prior to students reinforcing table concepts by the use of spreadsheets, they work on paper copies to develop and practice the necessary mathematical skills and concepts. Once we, as a group, have completed the pen and paper practice, we move on to computer practice.
Currently students retrieve the prefabricated spreadsheets from a common drive. They save the application to their personal drives allowing them flexibility to work on the assignment from any computer in the school, both inside and outside of the class and class schedule. I usually begin each class with a demonstration of the spreadsheet and its capabilities via laptop and LCD projector. I have been using this model for all three levels of Applied Mathematics for 4 years and it has been accepted as a preferable option to direct teacher lead instruction.
In previous years, I have used the computers in my classroom. Most students have completed the assignment within the allotted class time. Some however, have required extra time. These students use their work periods to complete the assignment. I have always been available during class time to answer questions regarding content or formatting. Due to the independent nature of the assignment and a strong community of inquiry established in my class, the majority of my time is spent silently hovering; patiently waiting for a question to arise. In addition, I circulate to ensure on task participation.
Assessments are given to the students to determine their level of understanding of patterns and tables prior to reinforcing these skills on the computer. After the students have completed the spreadsheet assignment they are assessed again with regards to their knowledge of patterns and tables as well as basic spreadsheet formulae.
This has been successful but I am looking for an alternate delivery method to give my students exposure to what they may encounter when they enter post secondary education.
Proposed Future Practice Procedure
Given the current availability of technology and technical knowledge of myself, I will try to make this project as simple as possible. I will try to use the existing resources. This will make the project easier to implement initially. Furthermore, it will be easier for other teachers to implement as they will access to similar facilities in my school.
1. Students submit their preferred email address to the teacher
2. The teacher creates a distribution list and emails the class the spreadsheet attachment.
This email should include
* A request for receipt of the email and attachment
* The class discussion forum web address and login procedures
* Timelines for expected example completion and assessment dates
* Encouragement to participate in the discussion forum
* A reminder of Academic Honesty
3. Students open and save the file on their home computer or in their personal drives at school.
4. Students attempt to complete the assignment independently using the “pop-up” hints provided in the application
5. Should a student encounter a problem that they cannot solve themselves, they should go to the discussion forum or contact a peer in the group.
6. Students will participate in quizzes, as per the timeline, to assess students’ progress and understanding throughout the unit.
7. Students return the completed assignment to the teacher via email
8. Students complete an assignment-end live computerized spreadsheet quiz as well as a pen and paper quiz.
Teaching and Timeline Considerations
Due to the asynchronous nature of the discussion forum, care should be taken to allow students time to attempt learning, ask questions and have their issues resolved prior to assessments. Moderation by the teacher should include monitoring the forum to ensure that no question goes unanswered within a reasonable amount of time. This can be accomplished by monitoring the discussion at regular intervals and providing feedback either immediately via the discussion forum (if no answer is forthcoming) or the next day in class.
Assessment Strategies
Students will be required to return electronic copies of the completed assignment to the teacher via email. The teacher can then easily and quickly open the file, skim through for correct answers, check formulae, and note any omissions or errors. Students will be required to complete a live spreadsheet test as well as a paper quiz. Questions regarding the formulae and applications will appear on the unit test, midterm and final examinations.
I don’t think it would be neither necessary nor fair to assess students based upon their involvement in the discussion forum. This would reward students for encountering difficulty. However, bonus marks could be awarded to those students who make a concerted effort to assist others by responding to their queries.
Ethical Considerations
Due to the ease of students copying and submitting others digitally produced work, the ethical responsibility of individuals must be reinforced by the teacher. These reminders must be clear, open and constant. One reminder would not be enough. Although it may be difficult to determine if a student had copied a file and then submitted it as their own, students must be reminded that truth to their competencies will be determined on the in class computer and paper tests.
Areas for Growth for me
I will need to learn how to create, develop, save and open a discussion forum. I will need to learn how to give students access to the forum. I will need to check with the computer technician at the school about the required level of clearance to do all of the afore mentioned. In addition I will need to request more memory space to save the completed student assignment attachments.
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