“It allows the teacher to kind of differentiate their instruction and be mobile in the classroom and walk around and individualize instruction,” says Garren. “When students make mistakes they’re able to see that in real time and provide instant, immediate feedback to the student as well, so it really helps the dynamic in the classroom and allows teachers to give students all the attention they need.”
In addition to Stein, 46 other teachers at Don Estridge have implemented Turning Technologies’ Insight 360 Cloud. One of the biggest challenges teachers have faced is finding time to learn how to use the software to best benefit their classrooms.
“We’re all at different levels,” says Stein. “We meet to discuss the technology but we don’t always have time to go into the classroom and help each other, but on our professional development days we have a little bit more time to help each other.”
Garren also provides individualized coaching sessions to teachers to help teachers learn the software and create lessons for their students.
“Some teachers are just learning to control their computer with the iPad, some teachers are learning to give tests with the Insight 360, some teachers are asking questions to the class and having them respond with clickers. They are all in a different place and they’re all on a different level. They’re improving and have been improving since the start of using Insight 360 Cloud,” says Garren.
While it may take some time for teachers to learn the software and grasp a full understanding of how they can use the technology to benefit their classrooms, the impact educational software such as Turning Technologies’ Insight 360 Cloud can have on students’ learning and teachers’ instruction is well worth the time invested in professional development.
“Schools need to be open-minded, this is not a hard program to learn, and the results are incredible. Being able to analyze students’ answers and the reports that are available to you are wonderful,” says Stein.
Since the implementation of Insight 360 Cloud, Don Estridge has benefited from enhanced instruction and student engagement in materials and content. For other school’s looking to implement a similar solution, Garren recommends starting with a pilot program to help accelerate the professional development process and establish ongoing support for teachers.
“Starting with a pilot is a good idea for any school district,” says Garren. “Beginning with a pilot in one classroom or department and trying it out in several areas first will establish some experts in that school or district. They will know the technology and they can help and be an ongoing support for that school and district over time.”
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