PBS Capstone

Has anyone done, or in the midst of doing the PBS Capstone program? Do you like it and if so why? How valuable is ISTE NETS•T proficiency? Is it something that employers would know about or appreciate, because I have not really heard of it before? Any comments would be appreciated.

Tags: Capstone, PBS, Teacherline

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Permalink Reply by Cathy McDonald on September 15, 2009 at 12:58pm

Jonathan,
I have taken both Capstone classes through PBS and highly recommend them to anyone who wants to make technology an integral part of their teaching. Everything that they have you do is research based. You produce a project throughout each course which you can use over and over again. It is an excellent exercise in lifelong learning, and it prepares you to continue the learning after you finish the class.

Frankly, the first course was a bit overwhelming to me. Going into the class, I pretty much considered computers word processors; but through PBS Capstone learned how to integrate so many facets of technology into making learning not just more fun, but also more meaningful. Capstone forced me to actually put to use the professional development it provided. Our facilitator was always there with answers to questions and encouragement to excel.

The following link gives a more detailed look at what I personally did in the two classes. It may help you understand some of what is included.

http://www.slideshare.net/cathyamcd/capstone-reflections-presentation

How valuable is ISTE NETS-T proficiency? How can you not have it in the 21st century! We are in a different world from what it was when I was in school many years ago. My students are thrilled to have other ways to learn than just from a teacher lecturing and giving tests.

I value my ISTE membership and have attended the past three ISTE/NECC conferences. The magazines, the blogs, the ideas, the readiness to share ideas has become a continual source of inspiration and professional development.

If your employer is at all interested in 21st century learning, he or she should know about ISTE and the technology standards. Thousands of educators and administrators around the world participate in ISTE. I consider it as important as my content area organization. It is not about technology just to say you are using technology, but about using technology to enhance learning.

May I suggest you contact Nadyne Hick who currently directs the PBS Capstone program. Her e-mail is nahick@pbs.org She can answer any questions you may have.

Cathy McDonald
Language Arts Teacher
Lovejoy Technology Academy

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Permalink Reply by Jonathan Wylie on September 15, 2009 at 2:18pm

Thanks for your thorough review of the Capstone classes. They sound like just what I hoped they would be. When I asked how valuable ISTE NETS•T proficiency is, I meant more as a qualification. I agree that the standards they set out are definitely worth including in your classroom practice. It is just good to hear from someone else who has done it, and can say it is worthwhile, and I was not sure how well recognized the ISTE is, (despite the International in their name!). You answered that one for me.

Thanks for the email address. Oh, and I tried your slideshow, but the link did not work.