DFI Session 8

DFI Session 8 - EMPOWERMENT 10 May 2019

A Manaiakalani expression for "Student Agency"

Why use digital technologies in the school?

Not merely a "tool."  Otherwise much cheaper to use a pencil and exercise book.  Digital devices open up a world that can significantly make a difference to people with low incomes who battle against all the problems of making ends meet from an educational, health, diet, educational challenges of being successful in society.

Today's Reflections:

• What did I learn that increased my understanding of Manaiakalani kaupapa and pedagogy?

Dorothy's presentation was awesome. Clearly outlines the Why Manaiakalani? "Empowering" learners from low socio-economic backgrounds through the connectedness, visibility and ubiquity of the digital world. Manaiakalani supports whanau getting through the barriers through cost restraints.

• What did I learn that could improve my confidence, capability or workflow as a professional?

Need to spend about 20 minutes per day practicing the new learning. Take the plunge with doing Google Level 1.

• What did I learn that could be used with my learners?

As I am not in a classroom teaching role I am more able to articulate the key principles around Manaiakalani with local school leaders and teachers.

• What did I learn that could improve my confidence, capability or workflow in my personal life?

With a Down Syndrome grandson I would like to utilise Co-Spaces to create social stories for him to learn how to cope with challenges he faces. For example what to do when he finds himself getting anxious during a school assembly with lots of noise and people going here and there in order to avoid him lashing out at others around him.

OVERALL today at MindLab was excellent. Loved learning how to use coding with Co-Spaces.

Also great introduction to the Technology Curriculum.