Interests - Educational
During my time as an ICT teacher I have engaged students in a number of different ways which I feel reflect the nature of my teaching. I encourage students to explore, discover and achieve through guided learning and providing the tools and support necessary.
TAS, my current employer, is an American School with a curriculum based on California state standards. However, the state of California does not have standards for ICT. As at previous schools, I have therefore based my courses on a variety of materials. These include the standard Key Stage 3/4 curriculum (UK) and also GCSE and A Level materials for high school. Within these courses are integrated the standards of the ISTE (National Educational Technology Standards) used by many states in the US. I have always taken it as my responsibility to be informed and up to date on what is happening in the ICT classrooms of international schools around the world. I believe strongly that my variety of experiences help me to be flexible and creative with any program (when the need arises).
With technology the teacher's formal role is diminishing, the role as a guide is increasing. Preparing students for the 21st century and the jobs they will fill means it is essential we embrace the technology today which is shaping communication and the way we connect and even find jobs. Some schools and teachers around the world are already taking up the challenge using web2.0 tools like wikis, student blogs, RSS and tools like Voicethread. Recently I have participated in the Student Blogging Challenege, enabling students to connect and share with students in classrooms in North America, South America and Australasia.
The way young people communicate and learn has changed, and will continue to change, with a frightening pace. We as educators need to not only be prepared but to be one step ahead, introducing new ideas. The role of the ICT teacher therefore is taking on a much greater significance, as staff in all areas of the educational landscape need better training and support to include the use of ICT in their classes.
The Future
I am specifically focused on International School teaching. My teaching career started and has continued in Asia. Internationally raised children already have a profound understanding of our world and its myriad of cultures. They sense the opportunities available and are eager to learn. My ambition is to remain in this environment, and I wish to see my daughter learn, grow and explore through this international upbringing.
In the long term I see myself working towards educational management and positions of leadership, which is reflected by my current Masters program in Educational Leadership and Management.
Interests - Other
My blog regarding my life in Vietnam over six and a half years is published at It's the Final Word.
The guitar. Music is also a valuable resource to classroom teaching.
Football (The Saigon Raiders)
Yoga
Links
