Assignment Description

A.  Group Process and Collaborative Requirements

This process requires your team to come together as a group and make something new out of what you have learned. This section should engage your team in a pursuit that requires you to use the acquired information and expertise in a new way, thus constructing a deeper understanding.  You will choose an innovation based upon your group's interest although no innovation may be taught more than once.

Each group member will receive the same grade unless problems with the collaborative process indicate members did not EQUALLY contribute. It is expected that the group will make frequent communication a priority to minimize misunderstandings. Should problems occur, professionalism is expected. If you cannot handle problems within the group, please be proactive and ask for instructor assistance. In most cases, if it is not too late, I can mediate group processes, and will be happy to do so.

I'm Frustrated: Hopefully you won't need this form, but if you are having difficulty with collaboration in your group, fill out this form and give it to your professor.  The professor will help the group mediate the conflict.

Group Preparation:

BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE: Read the “inside scoop” web page your instructor has created. There you will find pertinent information for various innovations.  Your group must choose one of these innovations on which to focus.  Feel free to come to me with a suggestion that is not on the list.

NEW KNOWLEDGE: Learn more about the innovation and prepare your wiki page for viewing by other students. Be sure to follow the criteria listed in the evaluation rubric to assure comprehensive coverage.  Use the Group Contract and Planning Template to determine how you will get the work done as a team.

ACCESS: Make arrangements for access to any special equipment needed on the day of your presentation. This should be accomplished by one week prior to the innovation.

ALL IS WELL: Have a “touch base” meeting with your instructor one week prior to your innovation. This can take place before/after class and is expected to be very brief

POLISH: Practice your presentation paying attention to staying within the 20-minute limit. Everyone should help present and demonstrate proficiency with the innovation.

PROFESSIONALISM: Teach your mini-lesson with your group on your assigned date. Come to class early to set up whether your group is first or last.  You will be expected to call the class to attention, start on time, and end on time. You will only have 20 minutes.

B.  Class Presentation

In your innovation teams you must design a 20 minute class demonstration. In this presentation you must explain the innovation and engage students in the use of the innovation to the greatest extent possible. No PowerPoint is required for your presentation but you may certainly use one if it will support your purpose.  Your presentation should:

1. Be 20 minutes long (plan carefully) and ENGAGING!

2. Follow the Technology Integration Plan model.

3. Provide ideas and materials for uses in a variety of classrooms (grade ranges, subject areas, special needs)

4. Describe the digital resources for future use by peers including tutorials, informative websites, and suggestions for classroom uses posted on the class wiki.