On the Cutting Edge
Web site name: RaezerSharp
Web site creator: George Raezer, Hacker Middle School, Mountain Home, Idaho
Web site URL: http://www.raezersharp.com
"In order to truly integrate technology into the educational system, a teacher has to be willing to take the time to learn how to use it in effective, meaningful ways -- ways that will encourage students to want to participate and take an active interest in their own learning," says George Raezer, the fifth grade math and science teacher behind RaezerSharp. "Teaching students with computers and teaching them how to effectively use computers is extremely important -- it may be our present, but it is their future."
Before his fifth grade assignment, Raezer taught classes in keyboarding and computer applications to students in grades five through seven. Through observation, he found that, for many students, a computer was a means to view a favorite musician or monster truck, or to chat with strangers -- period. He felt that there needed to be an online resource that would not only be entertaining, but would also encourage kids to take an active role in learning outside the classroom.
"My site gives students a multimedia, interactive method of studying coursework, and at the same time, it helps students learn how to use computers as learning tools," explained Raezer. "Chat and discussion boards give students a way to communicate with their peers in a safe environment, while I offer help as needed."
Raezer also has created RaezerSharp Teachers, an educational resources page. His online instructional materials include math and science Practice Exercises.
"I continually post exercises pertaining to concepts taught in the classroom," Raezer said. "The site also provides online tests that students can take, and free downloadable Visual Basic math tutorials and practice programs that will challenge students in grades 5-7."
Raezer is pleased with the response of his own fifth grade students who -- whether they realize it or not -- are doing more math and science work online than they would ever have done if they had just been given book assignments!
Article by Cara Bafile
Education World®
Copyright © 2003 Education World
02/17/2003
