TCEA Austin 2009

I went to the TCEA in Austin with my friends from LIBS friends and Twain! Ask the group about Pete's Dueling Piano Bar! Remember - what happens in Austin stays Austin!

Here are some comments on a few of the sessions!

TCEA, February 2 – 6, 2009, Austin, TX

Session # 90601
The Paperless Classroom
Presented by Erin Murphy, Klein ISD

Each campus/district needs to determine what the minimal technological needs are for each classroom. For example: document camera, smart board, LCD projector & laptop. Also teachers need to be trained and use the technology in the planning and delivery of instruction.

Session # 90210, So You Have a Smart Board – Now what?
Presented by Cindy Booth, Giddings ISD

Second grade teacher uses the smart board for the delivery if instruction in her classroom. This includes everything from recording lunch choices, to display the pledge of allegiance, and the morning math meeting which includes the calendar and making change and counting, Hundreds chart, daily depository. Many resources are downloadable for free. Also e-books.

Session # 90087, Save More Trees
Presented by Laila Patrick, Keller ISD

Classroom arrangement – bring computers to students desk to allow students to work cooperatively together throughout the day. Let go of the old classroom set-up; www.inspiredclassroom.com All instruction of core subjects can be accomplished via computers and internet access. Students assigned to “work” groups. Students have e-mail gaggle accounts.

Session # 90304, Video Book Talks/Reports on Teacher Tube
Presented by Melissa Hall, Lewisville ISD

Teachers using Teacher Tube to upload student video projects, i.e. book talks. Suggest getting teacher buy-in, requiring projects from students, obtaining permission slips from both students (high school), and parents. Project required but posting to internet is optional. Videos can be viewed on Windows Media Maker. Power point that will be on TCEA site explains completely.

Session # 90384, Big 6 Research Process
Presented by Linda Koehler, Northside ISD

Utilizing the Big 6 Research skills in the GT classroom;
Step 1 Task Definition
Step 2 Where do I look to find the resources I need.
Step 3 Locate and access
Step 4 Use the gathered information
Step 5 Synthesis – put it all together
Step 6 Evaluation – reflection on success of project/assignment

Instructor develops HOT LIST of web sites to ensure a safe and successful research process.
Software: Dreamweaver Fireworks
Citations required/MLA format
Rubrics used to define project