Microsoft Corp. tonight announced the winners of the 2011 Global Forum Educator Awards. 18 awards were presented to educators and their projects in six categories. The top three finalists in each category were recognized and received an Intel-powered classmate PC for their classroom. Winners of each category are named below.
Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom
Chris Clay (New Zealand): “Linking Educational Accomplishments to Real-World Needs”: Created an online community that connects more than 140 teachers and students across New Zealand to tackle real-world biological challenges.
Collaboration
Doug Bergman, Johnny Kissko, Louis Zulli, Donna Thomas and Margaret Noble (United States): “When Fish Fly”: Integrating computer science, fine arts, business and economics, student design teams developed a dynamic motion-based game simulation for Kinect for Xbox 360 that replicates the sights, sounds, history and “sense of place” of Pike Place Fish Co. in Seattle, Wash.
Knowledge Building and Critical Thinking
Margaret Noble and David Stahnke (United States): “Illuminated Mathematics”: Using technology and creativity, students researched math theories and then produced self-selected digital art projects, which examined mathematics through the lenses of art, history and science. This inspired students to dig deeper, find real-world applications and develop their own perspective and understanding of how mathematics impacts their world.
Innovation in Challenging Contexts
Sandra Caldas Saragoca (Brazil): “Education Beyond Walls”: Focuses on educating and mentoring girls aged 12 to 21, who are currently in prison. Through this project, students learn valuable interpersonal, social and academic skills, and then use technology tools like Windows Movie Maker to engage and share lessons with students in local schools.
Cutting-Edge Use of Microsoft Technology for Learning
Louis Zulli Jr, (United States): “Center for Advanced Technologies News and Information Portal (CATNIP)”: Using a wide variety of technology programs, students collaboratively developed and managed their school’s intranet, which integrates campus communication, curriculum planning and facilities management into one site.
Educators’ Choice
Carlos Antonio Carlo (El Salvador): “I Want to Make Movies”: Designed to create significant learning opportunities where students are protagonists of their own learning. Through this effort, students used Windows Movie Maker and Windows Media Player.
