Falk+School+and+our+history+with+The+Gigapan+School+Exchange

It's the 2007-08 school year and I (Ms. Bianco), the technology teacher at Falk School have been approached by Dr.Tomokyio, a new parent at the school and a researcher from Carnegie Mellon University. She wondered if I was interested in a research project that would provide technology tools and hands-on expertise and support for the purpose of students communicating with other students around the world. Of course, bells were ringing in my head, " Free technology tools! Personal Support! Communication outside of the school! Wow!" I mentioned the idea to our relatively new administrator, "Dr. Wendell McConnaha" who gave me the immediate go-ahead.

I was in the middle of the second 5-week cycle of middle school students

For the last 9 years at Falk School, I have looked at the technology standards posted by ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), in particular, " Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity," Design and Develop Digital-Age Learning Experiences and Assessments," "Model Digital-Age Work and Learning," Promote and Model Digital Citizenship and Responsibility," and "Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership."