One issue that all educators are faced with is securing funding for research projects as most school budgets are very limited. When funds are allocated there is usually certain stipulations imposed that restrict how the funds can be used. One assignment in SED 610, “Issues in Multiethnic Secondary Schools”, addressed the issue of how to develop a successful grant proposal. I chose this research paper as my artifact for the Educational Awareness student learning objective as I believe the document provides convincing evidence and insights to future educators of how to secure funding sources. The ability to locate alternate revenue sources to fund special educational projects is a key ability teachers must acquire if they are to be successful in their profession.

 

Artifact Selection Process

As educators we must maintain an awareness of available educational resources. Unique research and business skills are required to locate sources and communicate objectives of any proposed project. If technology is involved, additional knowledge in that discipline is necessary. Given the above reasons we formed a team to work collaboratively towards producing the artifact. Cynthia Moreno assumed the role as team lead due to her experience as a secondary school teacher. Eric Senesac performed research assessments as his background includes work as a technical systems analyst. Lastly, I acted as the technical business consultant as my background includes operations management responsibilities. Given our collective backgrounds and the process involved in developing a grant proposal, I believe the artifact is a valuable educational resource for future colleagues to utilize as they seek to become effective teachers.

 

Relation to Student Learning Objective

Much effort was performed prior to the development of the grant proposal. The work was the result of extensive research on the various types of fund options available. The search was then narrowed down to programs that provide resources to promote student achievement. Our ultimate goal was to find a solution to an educational issue faced by many schools across the nation, how to secure alternate funding for proposed instructional programs. My interpretation of the Educational Awareness student learning objective was to state an educational issue, provide how that issue affects classroom activities and provide a strategic solution. The artifact provides a blueprint for future educators to follow while implementing student learning initiatives in their respective environments.

 

Knowledge and Skill Assessment

The initial issue we found at Richard Bard Elementary school was that ESL students were having difficulties with their writing assignments. In addition their laptop computers were outdated and lacked modern day features such as wireless connectivity. After assessing the situation we brainstormed on ideas of how to improve their writing skills utilizing new technology. The proposal included wireless portable Samsung Chromebooks with built-in cloud applications. As a result there is no need to maintain operating systems, manage wired networks or relocate to a central lab for access.

 

With the new technology students will be able to collaboratively work on writing assignments together and provide immediate peer assessments on each other’s work. The proposed solution reduces current equipment, application, license, and support expenditures with minimal new equipment purchases. The proposal required critical thinking and problem solving skills. In addition research, technical writing, and negotiation expertise was necessary. The collaboration efforts of the project team members along with our background experience provided the necessary aptitude to produce a successful proposal. 

 

Final Reflective Thoughts

The Student Learning Objective was very beneficial as a real-world problem was identified, researched, and a solution proposed. The knowledge gained from such an exercise can be utilized as we encounter similar issues in our professional careers. The use of modern technology to promote student success is a viable asset available to all teachers. Lack of revenue should no longer hinder project development but be replaced by a basic desire to acquire alternate funding sources for student enrichment programs. The work presented in the Educational Awareness artifact and the ideas stated in the reflective essay can be used by current and future educators to develop strategic curriculum objectives that enhance knowledge and promote collaborate information exchange.