IEP Project

To advance myself technologically I learned how to use Stiggins. Stiggins is a computer program for weight training that allows phys ed. teachers to develop individualized weight lifting programs for every student in their class with just a few clicks. Generally this would be a very lengthy process; however, with this program I can have custom workouts for each individual student in a very short period of time.

In order to start this unit I had to first teach a lesson introducing the program to my students and explaining the maxing forms. Each student had to fill out a max out sheet before they could plug their data into the computer. The max sheet has student choose 15-17 different exercise that each target a different muscle group, allowing for a full body workout!

After my students finished maxing out we tried the program out. My students responded very well. For secondary students it was perfect. It allowed choice and freedom, both of which I find very important. Allowing students to have choice and freedom helps them develop lifelong fitness skills. At the end of the unit I asked my student what they thought about the Stiggins program. Everyone in the class enjoyed it so much, that we continued on.

This was a very valuable learning experience. I feel fortunate that Sitka High School invested in this program. Physical Training classes for years to come will benefit from this software. It is a wonderful tool that allows teachers to meet the needs of each individual student. I was really happy the program progressively got harder, many of my students noted benefits and looked forward to their next workout.

For an example I filled out a Stiggins max out sheet and put the numbers into the computer. I had to input my data to create a workout. This allowed me to learn how to use the program before doing it in class and gave me an example for my students. Check out my first 6 lesson plans!

Social Web Project

For my online community project I joined The Teachers Corner. I should have done more research before joining this community. Over all I was disappointed. This network was used mostly to ask questions and not as a place to share meaningful ideas. When I joined it looked like a valuable resource because it was described as a place to share classroom ideas and lesson plans. However, after reading the threads it seems more like a question board. I contributed on some of the threads and posted my own.

My post was an Alaskan Native Games Unit that I had taught in my Team and Individual Activities classes. I wanted to share this unit, because my students had a very positive response to it. My thread had 555 views and 0 feedback. I didn't really feel like I was part of a community. I think I would have benefited more from a community that specifically focussed on health and Physical Education.

There are some online Physical Education communities, but unfortunately many of them cost money. I have also been looking into Health communities, there seems to be a lot of options out there. It would be useful to connect with other wellness people around the world and share ideas. The online community I chose was not the right one for me, however, I do see the value in connecting with other professionals and sharing teaching ideas and strategies.