Project Copernicus describes an initiative which allows and encourages students to bring their own technology to class, while teachers create lessons which encourages
Laptop Cell phone iPod touch Nintendo DSI Anything else that can connect to the internet
She would have been the first person on board. Even at 100 Florence loved seeing what we had on our laptops or looking at our SMART Phones. She delighted in the times that our 4-yr-old grandson would show her things on the phone.
Nicolaus Copernicus (b. 1473) first astronomer to propose that the sun, rather than the Earth, occupies the center of our solar system. The Copernican theory challenged the conventional wisdom. evidence eventually convinced his critics. Unfortunately for Copernicus, it took more than 200 years for that to happen.
Prior belief - the Earth occupied the center of the solar system. Nicolaus Copernicus (b. 1473) first astronomer to propose that the earth rotated around the sun. The Copernican theory challenged the conventional wisdom. The evidence eventually convinced his critics. Unfortunately for Copernicus, it took more than 200 years for that to happen.
Filters - Web 2.0 access is limited because many of the sites are blocked. Cell phone rules - keep phones in lockers Distraction - technology distracts students
Project Copernicus represents a new approach to utilizing technology for student learning by putting students at the center of our technology integration efforts.
Who we are - NW suburban area of the Twin Cities. Large district - 25 schools and auxiliary sites, nearly 21,000 students There is wireless in all of the schools, at least two access points. That includes a public wireless network, which does not require a password for access. Goal for the summer - full wireless across the school system.
Map of the Minneapolis / St. Paul metro area - note ISD 279 in blue block at top left.
Teaching and Learning - student centered, collaborative, interactive
Administrators - solid AUP or behavioral policy creates a greater sense of confidence. - knowledge of support with problems - flexible at the school district level - stress security for equipment - locked cabinet, etc. Technical Team - Install wireless, - be willing to support the technical variety - will NOT need to support student devices Teachers- need time to process the concerns. - different devices Unpredictable Can be messy, it’s OK Lock the classroom
Even digital cameras - take pictures for data
Collaboration - students working together
Single Sign on to Google Docs through Moodle
Ms. Drake’s class now
The first activity integrated project in Copernicus into was a 6th grade insect field ecology project. Students accessed the Internet to find information about their insect and took photos of the insects collected in the school yard on their own device! Students bringing their own devices added a higher level of energy, excitement, and engagement for the student and the teacher. ex: teacher who comes running into our office regularly saying did you know the DSI takes photos??? A future activity will be for them to take notes together using Google Docs.
Authentic Learning - this is what it’s about - the student using whatever he has to organize learning.