My DREAM:
My student body is extremely diverse. Teaching Spanish at the elementary level is difficult due to the wide range of levels in my classes. Some students arrive fluent and literate in the language, while other heritage speakers are unable to write a sentence. At the same time, many students know absolutely nothing. I am constantly trying not to teach to the middle, but it is hard to find ways to engage all learners. I often compare my classes to a math teacher in a room with students doing calculus next to students unable to recognize numbers. In classes with over thirty students, which I see twice a week, and traveling to more than 10 different rooms in the building, time is of the utmost importance. Technology can have a major impact on how my students understand, engage with, and learn the Spanish language. Specifically, if each student had the use of a mobile computing device while in my class, a variety of lessons for all levels could be much more accessible. If students could choose a “track” in my classes, I could tap into their previous knowledge and meet them where they are. This is almost impossible with traditional textbook work and vocabulary drills, common in language classes. However, if apps, podcasts, and the web were always available in the palm of my students' hands, I would not lose precious time, and opening up the world of Spanish, beyond the classroom walls, could be possible. Language is best learned through authentic experiences and assessments. I would like to give my students these experiences and technology can make that happen.