Lessons from Computer Science
Welcome to the Modern Classrooms Project Podcast. Each week we bring you discussions with educators on how they use blended, self-paced, and mastery-based learning to better serve their learners. In this episode, Toni Rose Deanon is joined by taMica Gaither-Banks to discuss her journey of integrating Modern Classrooms into her Computer Science classroom, while leveraging resources from her mentor and the MCP Facebook community.
She emphasizes the importance of consistency and transparency in her classroom practices, creating uniform lesson documents and encouraging student autonomy.
Here are three key takeaways from this podcast episode:
Consistency and transparency are essential in implementing the MCP instructional model. In order to make the most of her classroom, taMica uses a variety of edtech tools that are provided by her school.
Embracing mistakes in video lessons fosters authenticity and student engagement. taMica shares, “Perfection is the worst enemy out there."
Student-led explanations during observations promote student agency and understanding.
Despite initial concerns about traditional observation criteria, TaMica need not have worried when she opted for the MCP approach - sh received positive feedback and even presented at a faculty meeting. She highlights the value of embracing mistakes in video lessons and providing clear organizational structures for students. Toni Rose underscores the significance of student-led explanations during observations, promoting student agency and understanding. Reflecting on her progress, TaMica expresses aspirations to become a mentor and contribute further to the MCP community.
Discussion questions for PLC and PD:
How can educators leverage online communities and mentorship programs to enhance their teaching practices and adopt new instructional models like the Modern Classroom Project?
In what ways can educators promote student autonomy and engagement by embracing mistakes and providing clear organizational structures in their lessons?
Reflecting on the importance of student-led explanations during observations, how can educators shift traditional observation criteria to better assess student agency and understanding in a student-centered classroom environment?
Our Host
Toni Rose taught MS English for 10 years and will forever identify as a teacher. Toni Rose strives to be the teacher that they never had growing up, so they focus on anti-bias, anti-racist work and wants to create a brave space for everyone around them. As a queer Filipinx, they understand just how important it is to be represented, be valued, and belong. They especially love being a thought partner for and celebrating teachers.
Our Guest: taMica Gaither-Banks
Connect with our guest via Facebook
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