As I reflect over the past few months, I realize taking a multimedia course ended up being a great help during this time. Having a variety of useful tools in this time of E-learning has been a great benefit. Whether the course reminded me of a tool I have used before or introduced me to something new, it has helped me on my remote learning journey. Everything I have created in this class; I have put to good use. Even though the class I am taking has come to an end, I look forward to taking what I’ve learned and continue to apply it in the future.
My Journey and Taking Seesaw with Me
After 16 wonderful years in 6th grade, I decided to go back to my first love, kindergarten. Regardless of the age I am teaching, technology plays a major role in my classroom. It may look different from 6th grade to kindergarten, although I was surprised to find how many aspects stay the same. Both grade levels need clear expectations of when and how to use technology.
We are a 1:1 iPad school and technology is part of our daily lives, but I am amazed at the fact that I use the iPads in kindergarten just as much as I did in 6th grade. Even when the district did the iPad refresh and made my classroom 2:1, I still found meaningful iPad usage as a must!
One of the outstanding apps that I found crossed over well when I made my move was Seesaw. In 6th grade, we used it as an online portfolio and a way to share work with parents, but over the years I have found there is so much more! When my son`s school began using Seesaw, I realized how much I enjoyed seeing into his classroom. Seesaw provides parents with a window into their child`s classroom. Parents see on a daily basis what we are working on. I take pictures, send videos, and messages. Students post their own work by taking pictures, drawing, or recording themselves. As a teacher, I can assess their work and comment. Parents can also make comments. I can also upload items for the students to work off of and can make activities for them to complete and access through Seesaw. It is so easy to use and such a fantastic tool. My kindergartners use it daily!
Amidst Remote Learning right now, the tool is even more important than before. I send daily photos and videos to help stay connected. The students in turn, send me photos, videos, and share all their work through Seesaw. I am staying connected with parents through the app as well. Sending them daily announcements, which help with reminders or even videos to help with instruction. I can provide them links and they can ask questions. In truth, I don’t know where I would be without Seesaw at this point!
As a Seesaw Ambassador, I have been able to help spread my love of Seesaw.
Thank you Seesaw for helping me to stay connected with my families!
Janice Conboy
