Amanda Miller
Reflection #8

1. Some ways to build connections and branch out beyond the classroom are using digital tools. This makes it easy for students to share their work and exchange ideas with diverse audiences. Another way to branch out in the classroom is to use blogs. The book says that “This helps connect with other content experts, to reflect on their own learning, and to engage in global conversation that would not otherwise take place (p 127.)” It also states that “students can communicate with fellow learners and become more proficient at working in a culturally diverse world (p 127.)” In this case, students become the experts. This has to do with digital age projects.

2. In the text, The EAST Initiative Model is based on four essential ideas.

a. Student driven learning: Student need to be responsible for their own learning

b. Authentic Project Based Learning: Students should be engaged in solving real problems in their communities.
c. Technology as Tools: Students need access to relevant technologies that professionals use to solve real problems.

d. Collaboration: When students collaborate in teams to pursue authentic projects, they accomplish more than any one person can do in isolation.

3. Some reasons to let students “lead” their projects are starting with an idea they care about. In this case, students can come up with their own idea based on what they are passionate about. Creating resources that may benefit other kids may really be beneficial and help other students out.

4. Concepts in this chapter relate to my topic/project because it is extremely important to build connections and branch out in the classroom. I feel my group has a pretty good grasp of these concepts that are talked about in this chapter. We communicate and connect well and have a good understanding of what happens in the class J