Activity 10: The Flipped Classroom Approach: Best Practice

I think the flipped classroom when use appropriately has its place in teaching and learning. This approach can help students to learn at their own pace. The teacher can post material that the students can access without the limitations placed on classroom time. This can better prepare students to practice or question the material in class.
In Social Studies the teacher can post lots of useful material on topics such Government and Caricom which have a lot of concepts that students have difficulty grasping in class. The Fipped Classroom will give students time to look at the material before coming to class and better prepare them for  discussion and activities on the topics.

Activity 9: Managing Cell Phones in the Classroom

My attitude towards cellphones in the classroom has changed. I first saw them as a big distraction. Now I have come to realize that cell phones are a distraction because a lot of students only see phones as devices to be used for making and receiving phone calls and texts messages. I realize if teachers show students how the cell phone can be used for learning their whole attitude to the cell phone will change.
I also realize that the teacher has to put some rules in place for the management of its use in the classroom. Rules such as all phones must be turned off in class and phones that go off in class will be confiscated for a period. I realize that a well supervised use of cell phones in the classroom will minimize distractions.

Activiy 8: Managing Social Networking in the Classroom

 Social Networks have much to offer in teaching and learning in the classroom but it can also be a dangerous place for students. Students should be taught how they can benefit from social networking. Teacher can post notes for them and they can communicate with each other on assignments and projects. Students must also be taught about the dangers such as cyber bulling and predators.
Students need to be taught also about the careful use of social networks. They need to be taught things like not giving out personal information such as phone numbers and addresses.

Activity 7: Tablet devices in the Classroom

The tablet has great value in the classroom. Among its many uses is that it can be used with students with various abilities. It is light weight and is easy to take around therefore it can be used outside a physical classroom. It also has many valuable apps.
I think that the tablet poses a security problem though. They are expensive and will need to be stored properly. They also appear to be fragile and will have to be handle with care. Students can also be distracted from the lesson at hand by their many apps.
With or without technology in the classroom, teachers need to always have established rules for the management of their classroom. These rules need to also include instructions about respect for the property of others. Teachers need to plan lessons well to prevent boredom and distractions. Lessons must be planned to ensure that students are meaningfully involved in sessions. Lessons need to be planned also to cater for individual needs.