Hands-On Learning

I am a strong advocate of hands-on learning. Lecturing is okay in its place as a teaching tool, but it can become quickly worn out. In the age of computers, video games, and "get it now", its hard to keep anyone interested in what you're talking about by just having them sit and listen to you. I have worked in education a long time, and I know that it has become a well established fact that when the learner becomes part of the learning process, information is retained longer and in more detail. Therefore, when I am teaching English/ Language Arts, I will remember that I am dealing with people--people who will get more out of a learning experience of which they are a part. That is why my intention is to use the "smart board", podcasts, Google Documents, group projects, rap sessions, and any other tool that I can think of to facilitate a more hands-on and involved learning experience for my students. I want my students to look forward to learning something new and to know that the appreciation for knowledge and love of learning should extend not only beyond the classroom, but also beyond English and Language Arts.