My Students need the "Basics"

“My students need the basics before the bells and whistles.”
 
This is a fair statement.  I have three responses.  
 
First, I agree students need some basics before using computers or other technology.   They do need to be able to communicate.
 
Second, technology may provide the opportunity for students to learn the other ‘basics’ of communication.  A student using an iPod to share their learning with the teacher allows them to communicate beyond their ability to write.
 
Thirdly, you teach in your classroom.  This is an opportunity to conduct Action Research.  Action Research helps you focus what you are doing and making sure that it is impacting student learning.  You need to develop a question to investigate.  Our IML performance standards might help you identify an area of focus, then you can pick a learning activity that is aimed at improving that focus.  Using the PLO correlations, you may identify specific areas that you can make the connection so that you are not doing extra work, rather multi-tasking.
 
Surrey has more information on action research at
 
http://www.leadershipacademy.sd36.bc.ca/actionresearch/index.htm