Go go action plan

I think that after todays conversations I have finally started to concentrate more of my action research into a smaller more focused topic. I think that the insight I have gained from some tremendously thought provoking and innovative educators is one that I will maximize and use with the most potential.

I think that my action plan is two parted one that focuses on the marketing/promotion and the other that focuses on maintaining the interest in the STEM field. I want to specifically target females as there is a demand to help improve their participation and involvement in this realm.

1) I want to develop some strategies or techniques that help target STEM interest in grades 7-9. I think that after some discussions today I am starting to see that the integration needs to happen in these grades to make the most difference. The idea that students start to gain interest in these ages is of remarkable truth and one that needs to be fostered and developed. I think that I will try to look into how I can engage students at this level and get them exposed to a topic like programming, so that they can start to form their opinions and become interested.

2) I think that we also need to focus on maintenance of the interest level in my students who have already boughten in. This can be anything from keeping their attention, engaging and continue to develop innovative solutions that continue their inquiry development and help them grow as critical thinkers and learners.

To start immediately I need to dive into some research in both digital and hard copy (i.e. book form). I think that I need to focus on learning more about STEM applications that are working now, from researchers through critical research. I think that I am also going to start looking more into programs that exist like Made with Code, Ladies Learning Code in which schools have had success regarding the implementation of coding based programs in schools with girls. I am also looking at consulting with other schools by visiting them and seeing them in action. These wheels have already been in motion to help embrace the learning process and maximize connections.

I think that publishing during this process needs to become more frequently to ensure that I am working on things and making headway. I want to publish findings in a bi-weekly format and will seek feedback from my cohort 21 peers, facilitators and my administration. I think that the key is to involve multiple perspectives to help spread the message and get the insight from people looking in. I also have built a solid network of CS and Math teachers through Cohort21 and will be consulting with them and will greatly offer them my own feedback as well.

I will present my findings by creating a video that will depict what my findings are and what my future plans are going to be once Cohort21 comes to close in April. I think that the video format will be an easy representation of what I learn. I will also hope to have a concrete action plan in the form of a clearly written document that be shared school wide in a way that will ensure that my STEM team, admin, and other members of faculty can see my progress and offer there help or support in this awesome endeavour.

I think that the mission of todays session was clear, my focus and appreciation of the design teaching process has definitely helped form what my Action Plan is today. It almost looks like I have enough gadgets in my repertoire to properly prepare and implement my action plan. Ready to begin an awesome journey! Go go action plan…