How Do We Get from Here to There?

Right before the winter break, one of my students moved.  This wasn’t the first one to do so, and won’t be the last. This was one was special. He came from a lousy, lousy home situation and had to move away because the apartments his family lived in are being torn down. He and his brothers are the kind of kids everyone tries to look after. Before he left, I took him around school and had him take pictures of whatever he wanted.  He was absolutely gleeful as he went around school choosing people and places to photograph. His choices were refreshing and unpredictable. He was choosing people, places, and situations that had meaning to him. He couldn’t wait to get the memory book when it was completed.

It was a reminder that technology integration doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.  Something as simple as having students take pictures can be incredibly valuable.  Photos can be used in any curriculum area and adapted to any grade and ability level. When students have control of the camera, or even choosing online photos, there can be a meaningful connection. That connection can make learning possible.