Tipi imageI think we can now say for certain that the VoiceThread projects have been a resounding hit this year at Sheridan School. With the completion of “England” by H. H. – The Puck Master and “How Native Americans Hunted” by O. B. – The Artistic Ant, we have published a total of 11 student-centered, student-driven VoiceThread projects.

To be honest, at the beginning of the year I was hoping to have 5 or 6 projects created with VoiceThread. Needless to say, we have surpassed my expectations.

The great thing about these projects is that each and every one of them are wonderful examples of what our students can do when we give them ownership of their learning. What I mean is that all of these projects were the result of the students having the desire and motivation to research and report on their areas of interest (and expertise).

We have also noticed some other important benefits. Students became keen assessors of their work. When we were recording if they stumbled on a word or two, or did not present their information to their liking, they were quick to “want to get it right.” And because their projects were to be published online the students knew that people other than their teacher would be viewing and listening to their projects, so their standards and performance expectations were high. But these were self-imposed standards, not teacher or curriculum driven. And isn’t this pride of work an important skill set we want our children to have?

I hope you take the time to see and hear the great work that is coming from these students. I also hope you give them a “Hey, good job on that VoiceThread project” the next time you see them.

It would be really great if you left us a comment, or two. I know the students would love to hear from you…