Post #5
I believe that young people learn best when they can relate to and identify themselves in the content. This type of critical thinking requires practice, and my preferred method is storytelling. Like myself, so many of the young people I work with come from cultures where folk lore, oral history, and music has kept our history alive.
I plan to create a website that allows for young people to submit stories about their identities, experiences, families (chosen or not), and communities. Ideally this information would allow for young people to take ownership of how their own stories are remembered, as well as giving them the space to answer questions about themselves that adults don't normally ask them. This would also be an amazing source of data for youth workers, educators, or researchers who do work around youth development and education.
To-Do List:
- Create the prompts for voice, written, and video submissions
- Explore different website building platforms
- Select a website building platform & design website
- Create a plan for marketing the site
- Research any potential release/privacy obstacles that may arise
Jenneya, this plan sounds awesome! As an educator, I know I would love a website like this to share with my students (talk about an authentic audience!). I'm wondering if you've considered reaching out to other organizations (I'm thinking AS220 youth, PSU, YIA) because this seems like something right up their alley and perhaps they could help you on the marketing front (for getting the word spread in the community).
ReplyDeleteJenneya,
ReplyDeleteI share the same belief with you as students being able to learn best when they can relate to and identify themselves in content. This is so important for our MLL students!I love your idea about creating a website, what a wonderful resource to always have and for the students to refer back to. Its a great way to build classroom community! I am excited to see your final project!