I have gone back to school.  No, it is not what you think…no Ph.D. in my future.  Instead I have elected to volunteer to teach fourth grade technology to 76 fourth graders!  Due to budget cuts, the teaching position was eliminated.  I could not fathom these kids not getting this very important information, though.  Now let me say, that I have no experience or training teaching elementary kids.  All I know is that I have a smart, inquisitive fourth grader that is thrilled to have me in the classroom with her.  She even mentioned “that she would help me out if I fumbled at times.”

So I began creating my lesson plans with all my naiveté.  I figured, “At least kids aren’t afraid of the computer!”  As I began my first class, though, I underestimated the condition of the computers.  Even for adults, if the computers are not working or do have the programs needed, it is disruptive to the learning process.  I spent almost the entire classroom time trying to troubleshoot computer problems.  Beyond that, I did manage to run through a scavenger hunt with the kids.  They were quick to raise their hands or even just shout out the answers.  So, if nothing else, they are engaged, which is a great first step.

It is going to be a fun school year exploring technology with energetic, unfocused, inquisitive kids!  I will keep you posted on my progress.

 Thanks for reading!