Target 1. Student-Centered Learning – FWSU students will engage in personalized learning involving collaborative inquiry, problem solving and creative learning opportunities.
Action Step – Increase easily accessible opportunities for global collaboration for teachers and students.
Indicator of Success – Students and staff will participate in a global dialogue to engage in authentic investigation and problem solving with partners located outside of their school community.
A small group of 8th grade students from GEMS had the opportunity to participate in conversation with two veteran reporters from the Indianapolis Star – Chris Sikich and Beth Winchell. Using video-conference software (ENA Live), the GEMS students along with other students from New York, discussed changes in journalism with the reporters.
Our students were part of a small group who participated in testing the potential of video-conferencing as a tool for connecting globally with others. The program they participated in was “Remaining Relevant: Careers at the Newspaper” offered by The Center for Learning and Collaboration (CILC). In doing so, the students were able to engage with other students investigating how technology and social media has changed journalism. They listened to actual reports of journalists about how their careers have been shaped and how their workflow has changed. The presenters answered questions from the students and provided ideas on how students could pursue this vocation.
The program was made possible by FWSU’s participation in Learning Network of Vermont. LNV provides Vermont schools with funding for innovative learning opportunities not available within a typical classroom.
The FWSU Story 