It's not the technology... moderator's musings

Sandi's post reminds us of the "side effects" of the project. I'm glad it has become a springboard to such learning and problem solving for Sandi's students and colleagues. I suspect this is the case in the classrooms and schools of many participants.

When I was doing the project with students, myself, my learning goals for my students included real-world activities: problem solving and organization and writing for a real audience. The major goal, of course, was to make my students aware of far away places in a very personal way. Just as primary sources can put a face on "history," so personal postcards can put a face on "geography."

I get many notes about the success of the project from participants, but, frankly get more notes of disappointment and frustration from teachers who feel that the return on their effort has been inadequate. At this point in the project (near the end) I always begin to question whether the efforts we all extend are worth the outcomes.

I have conducted this project for more than 15 years.I have seen many changes in participants and participation over these years. I know that the "community of learners" feeling seems to be gone. It may not matter to anyone but me :-)

It is obvious that the realities of classrooms and their use of technology has changed tremendously over these 15+ years. Those of us out there "early" were totally enamored with the newness and new possibilities that technology presented. That "aha" is gone, of course! And today's classroom environments allow fewer curricular degrees of freedom and less choice. It is harder to engage in projects like this, let alone reach beyond the immediate requirements of the project.

You may find it useful to reflect with your class about the outcome of participation in the project. What worked, what didn't? You may want to add your/your students comments to this post. It might provide some "communal closure" to this year's project :-)

The "official" end date for Postcard Geography is Feb. 2. Try to get your cards sent by then. If you don't make the deadline, please send your cards when possible. Most participants would prefer to get cards "late" rather than not at all.

Thank you for your participation. I hope it has been a good experience for you and for your students!

Leni