Flipping classroom

So I just keep making videos - with my smartboard recorder, my flip cam and screen-o-matic.  I get some problems on the board and work thru them for students to have for reference.  I post them on youtube and schooltube.  The next step is to have students view the videos on review items that require attention.

Just tonight I did Midpoints and Distances for Geometry.  Nothing magical - just some examples and more info, trust me I know I stumbled while talking but the videos are out-there for students now and I have decided I cannot concern myself with quality of speech and production.  Only quality of concept and explanation -- though now I use it for the skill side of my classes.

I am excited - I am quickly approaching 50 videos on you tube.  That is actually a useful library.....
Now - to use the videos to individualize each students required review!

Technology is great.

Digital means lasting effects....

Today I received an email from a teacher who left our district over 5 years ago and ran across our Math Rap from last year (done by our math team in 1 period of PreCalc).  It was nice because he took the time to drop me note about it.  That really shows the power of youtube and other things, it is a great way to tie people together across schools, across real geography (he is now states away).  I had not heard from him in the time previously so it really was a professional connection.

Now the video/the idea is planted somewhere else to see and be considered.  Whether you think it is good or bad, you need to think about it (reflection is a mother isn't it!).  I slowly see "my library" expanding on media and hopefully seeing some more comments and hopefully new thoughts. 

It reaffirms my belief that change needs to be continous.  Meaning slow progress on making each course better -- whether thru the use of technology, or taking chances and truly reflecting on what works (and doesn't) and making improvements.  As each thing is recorded, created, posted or whatever we are making a log of reflection.  Also it starts to make a lasting culture for the school and district....

The big programs -- NCLB, Race to the Top, etc. don't focus enough on creating the cultural change needed in the classroom for true improvement.  I am now recommiting the "good" to only try and do "great."