Partnering in the Classroom

I really like the idea of partnering in the classroom as a pedagogy.  Partnering allows students to be problem solvers, learners, and teachers! In order for partnering to work at its full potential, the climate control (also known as classroom management) must completely shift from the traditional mentality of “teacher lectures, students listen” to one that embraces student interaction with peers and teachers.  Partnering is completely different from the traditional teacher directed environment where students play an inactive role. Instead, partnering revolves around a student centered learning environment that allows them to be self-teachers. I think this is very important to student learning as it allows them to be discoverers, which is more meaningful and purposeful.

Partnering is also technology friendly as it allows technology to be easily incorporated to student learning. For example, technology can be incorporated in a meaningful way in which students are able to be explorers, learners, and teachers – all at the same time.

I incorporate technology into my students’ learning through partnering with my younger students. I bring in two of my own Ipods and use two school-issued computers. I am able to allow students to use technology daily through centers in which students become partners with each other as well as myself. I serve as a facilitator of their learning as they are able to seek help, help others, or simply work on their own.

Simply put, I cannot wait to delve into more information that Prensky presents on the topic of PARTNERING!