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Char Soucy, First Grade Teacher, Fernan Elementary School
Coeur d'Alene, ID
School Type: Public
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School Setting: Urban
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Level: Elementary
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School Design: Traditional
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Content Presented By:
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Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (NWREL)
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Northwest Educational Technology Consortium (NETC)
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Summary
The practice: Standards
All technology-enhanced activities should be deliberately and consciously aligned with local, state, and national standards.
- focus is first on curriculum with technology as a support tool
- technology activities often have deliberate literacy objectives
- students learn to distinguish when technology is the most appropriate tool and are given choice in using it
First grade teacher, Char Soucy, sees her role related to technology as an important one -- to teach students the best uses of technology to support communication, build community spirit, and as a tool for learning. Soucy keeps her focus first on the curriculum, and because of the age and developmental needs of her students, especially upon literacy. Much of their work at the computer is accomplished in small groups and in pairs. Because students work together at the computer, their social and communication skills are developed. She finds the conversation and problem solving that occurs during their work to be valuable. As Soucy's students learn to use scanners or other technologies they teach others how to use them. "When children have to explain how to do things to someone else," says Soucy, "it reinforces the task for them. It also reinforces their verbal communication skills..."
Research suggests appropriate and effective uses of technology in early learning and provides guidance in selecting the tools and creating the environment essential for successful technology use. Studies point to how technology -- computers and other tools such as tape recorders and cameras -- can be used to support and encourage the development and learning of preschool and primary age children. The critical factor is a balanced approach to technology in learning, with thoughtful planning to provide for the important needs of childhood. Char Soucy and her principal support this type of thinking. It is learning first, using the best available tools to achieve success.
This site also exemplifies the following practice(s):
- Multiple Learning Strategies
Technology-enhanced lessons and activities should represent a variety of learning strategies that include active learning strategies, constructive learning strategies, authentic learning strategies, cooperative learning strategies, and intentional/reflective learning strategies. 
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