December 2020 - Pamela Aaron
Name
Pamela Aaron
What Do You Teach?
3rd Grade ELA and Social Studies
Where Do you Teach?
Highlands Elementary School
How Long Have You Been Teaching?
26 years
How Does Educational Technology Play a Role in Your Classroom?
The year 2020 has brought a new definition to technology in every teacher's classroom. I have learned so much this year in the area of technology in the classroom and I am excited that I have had the opportunity to be part of this challenging experience. We use multiple devices at this time because I am one of the 100% virtual teachers on my campus and my students use what they have available to them. Whether it is an iPad, tablet, laptop, desktop, or even a phone, I have to find a way to make it work on all of the different devices! My students are engaged in learning and excited to try new activities through the use of technology. It has made learning fun on a whole new level. I want to say thank you to Lisa Gauthreaux, Jeremy Reyes, and my techy friend Michelle Stangle for being my support system and always available to help when I have questions or need assistance with devices or apps.
How Do You Find Technology in the Classroom Helpful?
With the challenges and virtual learning we have experienced this year, without technology our students and teachers would be lost. Technology has become a staple in the classroom, or should I say where ever we are having to teach from. It has made accessing data faster and easier therefore allowing me to provide feedback to my students in a more timely manner. I use the timers and spinners on our new Promethean boards for classroom and time management which helps keep me on track and the students focused.
What Is Your Favorite Piece of Classroom Technology? Why?
I have really enjoyed our students having access to the iPad. I love using Google Classroom and the variety of apps such as Google Docs, Google Forms, and Google Slides that I am able to use to create assignments for my students. I also love using ActivInspire with my virtual students. Google Jamboard is another platform that I like to use. I can see their thinking and we are able to have discussions based on their comments. I am just starting to use Pear Deck and so far love it!
What Is On Your Technology Wish List For Your Classroom? Why?
I can't wait to get the new Apple TV. I have heard so many exciting things about it. Keyboards for the students' iPad would be a blessing because the small keyboard on the IPAD can be challenging to use. Also, earbuds would be another thing on my wish list! It would help with the noise level and be less distracting to other students when they are working on assignments with videos.
What Do You Love Most About Teaching?
One of the things I love most about teaching is seeing my student's faces light up when they finally "get it". I love to see my students excited about learning. My students are my heart and I love my job!
Nominated by:
Lisa Gauthreaux, Technology Integration Specialist - Elementary Schools
"Ms. Aaron has gone above and beyond to make technology fully integrated in her hybrid classroom this year. She is always asking me how she can add tools for her students to be more successful using different technology applications. Ms. Aaron has also taken the lead with technology for her grade level and has a very positive attitude to the changes that have happened in the past few months."