Friday, October 12, 2007

No trees in my classroom year.

One of the many goals technology is supposed to provide the world is saving of resources or at least shifting of our use of resources. We see this in many of our classrooms where money is shifted from one resource to another. For example our classrooms that have Smartboards installed should no longer require chalk, dry erase markers, or cleaning solution. This money saved helps offset the price of the Smartboards (minimally, short term) but let's look at the real resources saved long term, no more chalk, dry erase markers and their plastic casings, and chemicals for 10 years of use, which the Smartboard should provide us.

In my classroom I have set a goal that this year is a paperless year. I am no longer accepting homework on paper and I am no longer giving quizzes or tests on paper. I have 100% dedicated my three classes to complete online organization. All homework is submitted digitally and all quizzes and tests are taken online.

I look forward to providing a follow up to this blog in June to report on the success of this challenge. So far it has been liberating! I find work is graded with much more ease and quicker response time. I also believe the students appreciate the quick response time when it comes to having their tests graded.

I'll keep you updated. Wish me luck!

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