In my room this is what engagement looks like:
Upon entering the computer lab, Rex exclaimed, “OK no fooling around we have work to do!” All of the boys got right to work. George and Joseph were working with clay figures, taking photos for use in a short, stop action film. Sante, Ian, Rex, Braden and Carlo are actively writing scripts, filming and producing. Rex is the director and lead producer. Some of the boys are working with the green screen, generating ideas and collaborating. Jack is searching for “the best background music” and more ideas. He is also filming the other boys using the flip camera. Oliver asked about creating a website, although he knew making it live might be a challenge, he was still intent on learning. He has begun a quite amazing website, creating hyperlinks to all of his favorite games, importing images, adding a video he made last week and changing all of the graphics to his liking. Trevor has been exploring creative games, creating avatars and providing valuable input, helping with the filming and occasional cameos for the film project.
What the boys were saying to each other:
” I could really use your help” “I’m not sure that will work, let’s try this” “We can’t go to recess we have to get this done first” “Ready, set, action” “Ok, your challenge is to…”“Oh my gosh, that is so cool how did you do that?” “I know what to do, trust me”
And quotes from the boys to me:
“Mrs. Sivick, why can’t we have all day technology classes?” “Mrs. Sivick, this is going to be so awesome, wait to you see it!” ” This is the best day ever”
All of this, from a group of third grade boys! The setting was a 8am -4pm computer workshop offered on a day school was closed due to conferences.
I must be honest and let you know I absolutely loved the time I spent with these creative boys! As this was a conference day and I am a technology coordinator, I was required to be at school but had no specific plans for the day. I was anxious about spending this much continuous time in my lab with 8 year old students, but with a few breaks for recess and lunch, the time flew by.
This leaves me wondering how we can make this happen more often? These students were completely liberated knowing they had a full day to create. Students that are not known as writers, had pages laid out on the floor as they furiously collaborated on scripts and storyboards. Natural leaders emerged, minor disagreements worked out and creativity and collaboration abounded. My presence was necessary only for technical advice (and of course in case supervision was needed as these boys are only 9 years old).
It was a wonderful day, students were completely engaged.
