Students in some CESA 7 school districts, from elementary school to high school, are learning about technology and then teaching their teachers.

Sound a little backwards to you? It is, but it�s working! It�s being accomplished through a program called Generation Y (Gen Y.)

Gen Y is a research-proven methodology designed to infuse technology throughout the school. Students work with teachers to bring effective technology into the classrooms and libraries. The resulting collaboration provides the students with project-based learning and the teachers with on-site, sustainable professional development.

Gen Y is being funded by a grant from TEACH Wisconsin and is currently under implementation in 12 area districts, with 10 more scheduled for startup in January.

Kristi Glesne, the lead Gen Y teacher for Washington School District, got involved because she loves how �it puts technology in the hands of the students� and �supports those teachers that are techno-phobic� thus creating a �better learning situation for all students!�

Ryan Kamien, Mishicot School District�s lead Gen Y teacher, has always been interested in technology and likes �the fact that we are empowering students to use their knowledge and creativity to benefit teachers as well as future students.�

And how do the kids feel about being involved in Gen Y?

�My kids are SO excited about Generation Yes,� says Kristi, whose whole class of 4th and 5th graders are involved. �They cheer when Gen Y is on the schedule and beg for it when it�s not.�

Ryan�s Mishicot middle school students are responding well. �After showing them how to use the technologies, they have been able use their own imaginations to soar with the possibilities. It is very neat to watch.�

Both Kristi and Ryan see clearly how Gen Y will enhance their fellow teachers� abilities to incorporate technology into their curriculum. �The kids (who are quickly becoming experts) can take care of a lot of the "grunt" work for the teachers. The #1 complaint from teachers is that we don't have the time to do all of these wonderful things for our students. Implementing Gen Y helps take that worry out of the picture!� comments Kristi.

Ryan sees how Gen Y will enhance the �ability of our teachers to use technology [in a way that] interests the students and makes it easier for the teacher.�

What kinds of projects are the students helping teachers accomplish? Ryan�s Gen Y students are currently working with their partner social studies, science and language arts teachers to create web pages that enhance projects and activities that the teachers already have in place. According to Ryan, though, � I see lots more options to come. It�s amazing, how with a little direction and guidance, where these students are able to go!�

If you�d like information about how to implement a Generation Y project in your school or district, contact Roxann Nys, CESA 7 Interactive Learning Services.
Press release published with permission from Roxann Nys.
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