Hi, my name is Molly Owles and welcome to my blog. I am a math teacher and Math Department Chairman at Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, Illinois. We are one of three high schools in Indian Prairie School District #204. When I am teaching I teach Geometry to 9th-11th graders, but the majority of my work day is spent managing a department of close to 20 math teachers. My job is to support them, learn with them, and encourage them to grow. I have just completed 15 years of teaching and have been department chairman for 8 of those years. TIME FLIES!
I am currently taking graduate level courses that pertain to technology and education. My main motivation to taking these courses is the fact that our high schools are going 1:1 with Chromebooks in the 17-18 school year. I, personally, am very comfortable using a Chromebook, but putting one in the hands of all my students is above my current comfort level. Our department worked very hard this past school year to prepare ourselves for this coming August. We have adopted the philosophy that if it enhances the learning, use it, but that is doesn't have to be used every day in every class. We have come so far in 1 year (even without being 1:1) that I am very excited to see where next year takes us.
My experiences with technology are varied. Like stated above I am very comfortable with a Chromebook and any Google platform. I have limited experience with Google Classroom, but that is a goal I have set for myself. My students and I WILL use Google Classroom next year. I have tried many of the apps, add-ons, and extentsions out there. I have a few favorites that I am comfortable with and fill the needs I have for my classroom or department, but I love to hear from other educators! What are your favorites and why?
If you are interested feel free to visit;
- My class website: https://sites.google.com/ipsd.org/mrsowles/home
- My E-portfolio: https://sites.google.com/ipsd.org/mowleseportfolio/home
- My favorite professional website (for teacher, parents, & students): https://www.youcubed.org
Hi Molly, welcome to the engaging elearning community! I like your perspective on using the Chromebook if it *enhances* learning, use it, otherwise, leave it aside. I agree 100% with that - using for the sake of using isn't really effective. Hopefully, we'll explore some ways for you to ensure your use is engaging and meaningful.
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