PSJA Java Chat Episode 2
In this episode of PSJA Java Chat, the host interviews Andrea Gonzalez, a fifth-grade RLA teacher at Cesar Chavez Elementary and the November District Tech Innovator. Andrea shares her 15-year journey in education, highlighting her passion for integrating technology in the classroom to engage students effectively. She discusses the importance of teaching typing skills and utilizing tools like Learning.com to prepare students for future challenges. Andrea emphasizes the need for intentional and functional tech integration in lesson plans, ensuring that technology is a purposeful aid rather than a distraction. She describes successful projects that encourage creativity, collaboration, and student choice in using various tech platforms, such as Google Slides and Canva. Andrea also addresses the classroom culture of support, where students help each other navigate technology, and the significance of balancing traditional teaching methods with new tech tools. Furthermore, she expresses excitement about the potential of AI in education, advocating for personalized learning pathways and the continuous evolution of technology in the classroom. The episode concludes with Andrea reflecting on her recognition as Innovator of the Month and encouraging teachers to embrace technology with support from their colleagues.
