Unit 1: Getting Started
Unit Overview
The introduction to this volume gives an overall perspective on
the Generation www.Y program and its goal of improving student achievement through
the more effective application of technology in instruction and learning. The
purpose of this first unit is to provide that same perspective to Generation
www.Y students who, after all, are the primary agents for achieving that goal.
In the Gen www.Y model, students learn technology skills with an emphasis on
curricular integration, academic standards, mentoring, collaboration, cooperative
group work, and problem solving. It is unlike the old skills-based or networking
classes, where technology was taught in isolation and in a very closed and competitive
environment.
Establishing a classroom community based upon clear expectations, high standards,
trust, collaboration, and respect is crucial to a successful Gen www.Y class
and to the future work students will undertake with partner-teachers and students.
Consistent modeling of desirable social skills, instructional delivery models,
and collaborative problem-solving will increase the success of the Generation
www.Y class and the students’ project work.
Activities & Prioritized Objectives
Following the completion of Unit 1, students will be able to:
| Activity 1—The Gen www.Y Way | ||
| 1.1 | Understand the ways the Generation www.Y program improves student learning | |
| 1.2 | Understand the origin and history of Generation www.Y program | |
| 1.3 | Describe the support community available to Generation www.Y teachers and students, including consultants, Gen www.Y graduates, corporate partners, and the program administrative team | |
| 1.4 |
Understand how Generation www.Y will be implemented in the school |
|
| Activity 2—Essential Classroom Conditions | ||
| 2.1 | Understand classroom expectations and procedures | |
| 2.2 | Understand and describe the important concepts of collaboration, mentoring, respect, and risk-taking in a Gen www.Y class | |
| 2.3 |
Know the names of Gen www.Y classmates |
|
| Activity 3—Essential Technology Conditions | ||
| 3.1 | Complete a technology pre-assessment survey for class | |
| 3.2 | Understand the commitment to following the AUP or other school or district guidelines for online or network behavior | |
| 3.3 | Understand netiquette as it applies to network and Internet use | |
| 3.4 | Understand safe behavior on the Internet | |
| 3.5 | Understand and use a userID (account logon) and passwords, and grasp the need for secrecy, security | |
| 3.6 |
Understand how to use and access the school network: the server, individual folders, the Web browser, applications, and so forth |
|
| Activity 4—Online Activities | ||
| 4.1 | Register online with the Generation www.Y Web site | |
| 4.2 | Explore the Generation www.Y Web site while completing a Web scavenger hunt | |
| 4.3 |
Complete the online preliminary student survey |
|
The lessons which support these objectives are included in The Generation
www.Y Program and Curriculum Guide, available from:
International Society for Technology Education
(ISTE), or by calling 1-800-336-5191.