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introdUCtion Media Consent
Many of the strategies provided in this book direct teachers to take photo-
graphs and videos of children. In several cases, these strategies include ways to
share the photographs and videos with others. Before you share photographs
or videos of children, consult with your administrator to ensure that all neces-
sary media consent forms are on file for the children. If consent forms are not
on file, ask your administrator to provide one for you to have families sign.

Explain to families how you plan to use photographs and videos. Be sure to
include how you may use them to share how and what children have learned.

The administration should keep signed consent forms on file each year from
participating families.

◆ ◆
◆ I have seen children embrace concepts I never thought possible. I have been
impressed by the levels of thinking and speaking that young children are able
to reach. I have seen how technology can be the escalator to higher-level teach-
ing and learning. I encourage you to read this book with an open mind, a mind
that is open to possibilities and new experiences for yourself and the children
you teach. No doubt the strategies in this book will push some of you out of
your comfort zone. I encourage you to think about teaching in a new way and
try something you have never tried before. Ellin Oliver Keene (2008) titled one
of the chapters in her book To Understand “To Savor the Struggle.” She speaks
about the value in being mystified by uncertainty. In the context of this book,
there may be moments when you choose something to try that renders you ner-
vous and unsure about what may come of it. It is important to remember that
uncertainty is not negative. Embrace the uncertainty and look forward to what
you and your students can learn. Like children learning about cause and effect
in a water table, you need to explore today’s technology to learn the possibili-
ties. Good luck!
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