Reflection of semester's work with Calculators in the Classroom

 

I think that we learned a lot as a PLC, both individually, and collectively.  The most important thing to remember about achieving success in the classroom, is creating a minimal level of comfort and confidence, not only with your content, but the technology that you use as resources to supplement that content.  How can we expect our students to develop technological skills and content proficiency if we, as teachers, are not fully comfortable with our own skills and proficiencies?  Honestly, in my mind, we are really not that much different from our students when it comes to our attitudes towards change and adaptation to a changing academic environment.  If we truly classify ourselves as “lifelong learners,” then we need to hold ourselves accountable for exceeding our current technological skill levels.  The hardest part for any of us is admitting that we may need a little extra assistance when it comes to meeting new challenges.  Once we begin accepting these challenges and facing our fears, we can get a glimpse into what our students face on a daily basis.  We can become more empathetic and understanding of the reasons for the resistance and failures of students.  Finding common ground with students is a huge step in the right direction for all parties involved.  Especially when it revolves around calculator use in the classroom.  We must overcome our innate fear of Mathematics, calculator skills, etc., and embrace the challenges it presents.  Once we accomplish this, I think that we will be amazed at the positive results, both with the staff and students.