Concept Statement
Throughout history, anything that the human race has accomplished started in the same manner, with an idea. That idea then grew, often enhanced by the ideas of others. These ideas then lead to an accomplishment. Using that time-tested plan for success, we are establishing a line of communications between schools using various forms of technology entitled, "Project Idea Exchange (PIE)". This program, will permit exactly what its title implies, the exchange of ideas between all of its member schools. PIE will not be a short-term effort. It will establish a permanent communications network, enabling all involved to share their educational concerns, approaches, successes, ideas and solutions. When people share, everyone benefits. This sharing will benefit all schools, especially their students, involved in this effort.
Two types of technology will be used as part of the PIE communications network. One type will be Internet based, using both a website and electronic mail (e-mail). The opportunity for students to use these forms of communications as part of their educational development will better prepare them for the 21st Century. By having students communicate with other students, it will permit and encourage students of different regions and backgrounds to better understand others, not only by learning how each is different, but most importantly, by learning how each is similar.
In Project Idea Exchange, the use of Internet communications will not be limited to students. PIE's goal is to establish communication links between my school and district with my educational counterparts in other schools on both a national and international basis. These communication links will be available to both teachers and administrators, permitting each to share common concerns and benefiting from the knowledge and experiences of professional educators from various regions.
Electronic mail is only one part of PROJECT IDEA EXCHANGE communications network. The second thrust of the PIE network will be the use of Long Distance Learning Technology. This technology will permit each participant to feel as if they are actually "near" their educational counterparts. The possibilities and benefits are limited only by our imagination. By using communications technology, scheduled "Forums" can be conducted; covering prearranged agenda established using the PIE Internet Website. I will establish several such "Forums", including, but not being limited to; Students-to-Students, Teachers-to-Teachers, Administrators-to-Administrators, and, in order to create community involvement, Parents-to-Parents.
Think of the benefits that everyone will reap! Imagine the concepts that can be discussed and the concerns shared by each Forum participant! Imagine the suggestions and solutions that each could offer to their counterparts! Imagine teachers sharing lessons and techniques; veteran teachers sharing with younger and less experienced teachers and administrators sharing their approaches toward educational improvement. Imagine parents and community members sharing concerns and ideas on raising children; and the students, not only sharing and learning from other students, but most importantly, the students gaining and growing as adults because of the improvements created by all the sharing! Just imagine the various educational exchange programs that could be developed and implemented among the member schools!
Forums would not be the only use of the Long Distance Learning Approach. Another PIE vision would be the creation of "Teacher Teams" who would teach lessons to students in other schools! Imagine how much a student could learn from a different teacher concerning their chosen area of expertise. Teams of students could also be established to share their expertise with other students. Academic competitions could be conducted. The possibilities are endless!
This project is not a "pie in the sky" concept. A network of PIE member schools is currently being established, encouraging and allowing for the development and implementation of numerous creative educational efforts. The possibilities are truly unlimited!
I invite you to comment on the PIE concept. It is my fondest hope that you and your school will take part in PROJECT IDEA EXCHANGE because those who will benefit the most are those who we should serve the most, our students!
Ernie Read, PIE Director History Instructor, Perth
Amboy Tech:
MCVTHS 2000 Fulbright Memorial Fund Scholar 1994-95,
1999-2000 Middlesex County (NJ) Teacher of the Year
