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Room 106 on the Web

Web site name: Room 106
Web site URL: http://www.fwsd.wednet.edu/cam/riley
Web site creator: Jeffrey Riley, Camelot Elementary, Auburn, Washington

"I could talk for days about how the Internet has changed the way I teach and the way kids learn!" fifth-grade teacher Jeffrey Riley told Education World.

Riley and his students established Room 106 to showcase what they do in the classroom, especially what they do well! Riley views the Web site, which averages approximately 200 hits per day, as an opportunity to show the growth of his students through their work and to reach parents and other members of the community.

"The site provides a connection to our family and friends, many of whom are in other countries," explained Riley. "The Internet has motivated my kids to make sure their work is the best it can be, for an audience that numbers in the millions."

Each of Riley's students has an individual Web page with original drawings, writing, photos, and favorite things. In addition, the Web site posts a monthly classroom calendar, identifying upcoming assignments and events. Riley also noted that the recent addition of guest books to the site has been extremely effective. "The guest books allow others to send comments, ask questions, or just celebrate the students' efforts," he said. "Kids need feedback and direction, like all of us!"

Each school year, as a new group of students enters Riley's classroom, the work of former students is archived and the new class redesigns the site. Said Riley, "Parents love to be connected to our classroom, and students love to show off their talents as writers, artists, readers, and Webmasters."

Article by Cara Bafile
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