Hello Light Bulb, Good To See You Again

So, I just completed my Photo Voice project and it really got me thinking about how much is out there that I can use in my class (if you want to see the project, go to http://www.slideshare.net/rush4280/making-school-cool-again ).  One of the most dangerous things a teacher can do is to go into a rut and just accept it.  I'm glad to say that I have not reached the burnout stage of teaching, but I was beginning to question whether I was really doing the necessary things to keep up with the interests of my students and to teach them how to learn in the 21st century.  What I realized is that I can't put out 21st century students if I don't become a 21st century teacher.  I have started to use YouTube clips to facilitate discussions (without written work), using Prezi's instead of powerpoints, and had my students create a facebook group for our AP class so they could work with each other outside of school.  The Photo Voice project gives me another non-conventional approach to teaching where I can let the students take the lead and serve more as a facilitator of knowledge rather than the sole giver of it.  My goal for this year is to adjust my approach in the classroom to increase student engagement and learning, and trying out new things has reinvigorated me in that pursuit!  I encourage everyone who is beginning to wear down to accept the challenge of new ideas and practices, it can really start to move you closer to your students.