1. The American Dream...myth or reality? American Studies West Valley High School Ron Zimmerman U.S. History Instructor

2. My Expectations My expectations for CTAP 295 –increase my computer technology skills HTML, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Presentations software and skills –integrate a variety of media into a learning unit –work with colleagues to develop and implement an integrated thematic unit

3. Actual Learning Results In CTAP 295, I learned… more advanced HTML, additional skills and shortcuts in Word, Excel and PowerPoint the value of preparing resources ahead and planning for computer hardware, software, and Internet failures working with colleagues on an integrated unit takes ample planning time and reflection time to work out the bugs

4. Implementation successes and shortcomings Lesson successes –Student interest was very high at the beginning of the lesson –Students liked not starting out a History class in the traditional manor –Teacher enthusiasms was very high

5. Shortcomings Initial planning was adequate but more planning was needed for the end of the unit. Student equipment was not working properly or not setup yet, which worked against the project. Students failed to follow directions and as a result missed some of the units objectives.

6. Student Data

7. Student Data… On average student performance went down from the initial American Dream quiz to the American Dream project. The class average dropped from 88% to 82% from the quiz to the project. One reason student performance might have gone down was because the quiz was an individual effort and the project was a cooperative effort. In addition, the project was far more involved and several students had major technical difficulties in completing their projects

8. Reflections and revisions Overall the American Dream project was a success, but major revisions should be made for future use. The most important revision would be to make sure that all students have easy access to the necessary equipment to complete the assignment within the guidelines. Project expectations and outcomes need to be more clearly stated and reinforced during the unit.

9. In conclusion... The unit was a success in teaching the students how to use PowerPoint, the Internet, and other audio/video programs. Teacher preparation and having the necessary equipment on hand and working is a requirement for successful use of computer technology.