Top Techie Teacher - December

The Top Techie Teacher for December is Mr. Gene Smith.

Mr. Smith is a 6th grade Math teacher at Bluestone Middle School.  His dedicated use of technology in the classroom has increased efficiency in instruction, stimulated student participation, and inspired others. 

Mr. Smith’s technology tool of choice is the Tablet PC.  He uses the tablet daily.  In fact, he stated that “…[he’d] hate to think about teaching without it.”  He also said that being able to see the kids as you “write on the board” is great (you never have to turn your back to them).  Being able to save examples, pull different material into a lesson, like Flanagan, or being able to print the material covered in class for those who are absent makes him more efficient and instruction more flexible.” 

When visiting with Mr. Smith’s class, it was evident that the students enjoyed using it.  His students were attentive and excited; they were volunteering to work problems, discussing the process as a group, and helping each other with concepts.  Not one student was disengaged -- what a great learning environment!  

When the students were asked what they liked about using the tablet they said:

“It’s fun!”
“It’s better than using chalk.”
“We don’t waste as much paper.”
“It’s neat because you can change the colors you write with.”
“It’s easy to use.”
“I like it because you don’t have to get in front of the class to use it.”
And you've got to love this one: “It fits me.  I am short and I don’t have to reach the top of the board.”

If you would like to see the tablet in use, drop by to see Mr. Smith at Bluestone Middle School!