Reflection of DFI to date

DFI Session 1

During our first DFI session, we had Dorothy come to deliver the Manaiakalani Kaupapa and share some of the founding research behind this great initiative. Although I have heard the korero before, it was lovely to listen to it again, and just remind myself about the importance of the teacher within a digital classroom.

It was a shame that I couldn't share my section of our agenda that day, as I didn't have an adapter for my computer. Straight after our session, I ensured  I went down to the nearest Noel Leeming to pick up my adapter, in preparation for the following week.

The delivery of the content went really well, with the participants all keen to give their new learning a  go during the 'create' session of our day. What made it hard, was that many people has their blogs set up differently, were saving things in different places and naming documents differently.  It emphasised the importance of teaching students structure and routine at the start of every year to make life easier. 

DFI Session 2

The session started well. We covered the Manaiakalani Kaupapa, and then got into our deep dive with Kerry. I ran the 'chalk and talk' sessions about Gmail and Calendars, but realised that I spoke way to fast. I think nerves got the better of me, and then I rambled. I lost a few of the participants, and had to cover some ground again when they were all having a tutu.  Goal for next week; slow down, deep breathe, make sure everyone understands.

Then in the afternoon we had a few technical issues. Hangouts kept disconnecting our participants, so we weren't able to show them how to successful participate in a hangout. We tried many different work arounds, but with no success. They were all very patient, and were happy enough to schedule their own Google Hangout during the week within a small group. It was very clear that both the coaches and the teachers were getting a bit frustrated with the issues, showing just how behavioural issues can happen within a classroom if things do go the way they were planned. It's always a good idea to have a back up plan, just in case everything turns to custard.