Looking back on this project, I learned a lot from the process of sewing my first set of curtains. While they didn’t turn out perfectly, the experience taught me several lessons that I would definitely apply to future sewing projects. The first lesson is that it might not be the best idea to make your…
After days (and days!) of measuring, cutting, pinning, and just a little bit of cursing, I finally thought I’d reached the finish line with my curtain project. Today I sewed the band into all four panels and finished the side seams. There’s something so satisfying about seeing a pile of fabric finally become a finished…
This week we explored inclusive technologies that support students. There are so many different technologies, like speech-to-text, mics, screen readers, communication supports, and organizational tools. I’ve noticed that these tools work best when schools have enough resources and can use them thoughtfully. Sometimes, though, I’ve seen them cause problems for other students. For example, teachers…
As I’m nearing the end of my curtains, I wanted to reflect on some of the sewing resources I’ve discovered along the way. I still have some finishing touches and to hang them, but these are some resources that helped me, or inspired me. One of the coolest finds for me was Craftsy. It’s a…
I finally finished hemming the tops and bottoms of all four of my curtains, which felt like a big milestone. While looking them over, I realized I also needed to sew the sides to prevent the fabric from fraying, so I started working on that. I finished one of the large panels and got excited…
It turns out that I really enjoy Minecraft. I had never played before, but after Kara’s presentation on Minecraft: Education Edition, I got curious and decided to give it a try. I explored the lesson library and was amazed by what teachers and students can do with it. The lessons are creative and open-ended, covering…
Today felt like the real test of everything I’ve been learning. After practicing and gathering advice from more experienced sewers, I finally sat down to sew the curtains. I had been given some helpful tips about keeping seams straight, and going into this part, I felt like I had a better sense of what to…
This week we were looking at different models for using educational technology. The group I was in was looking at TPACK. The framework is essentially that the technology used in the classroom should align with your pedagogy and content. If it does not, it probably isn’t helpful to use in the classroom. I think this…
I need to learn how to thread my machine. We are so lucky to live in the age of information. All I needed to do was Google search “thread a Brother LS-2020,” and I found this video: The creator was using the same machine I have, which made it feel like she was guiding me…
The first Focused Ed meeting I attended was the general K-8 one. I am so excited to really get access to these resources when I get hired by a school district. 4 Canoes, Worldbook, and KnowBC are the ones I think I’m looking forward to most. I loved the idea of creating a scavenger hunt…