Technology helps my students balance big creative ideas with tight deadlines.

Teaching media production, media print, and business writing at William Allen High School in Pennsylvania is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is balancing the need for technical training with fostering creative energy. To address this, the teacher relies heavily on technology to keep the fast-paced classroom environment organized.

Google Drive is a crucial tool for storing large video assets, exchanging high-resolution photos, and providing real-time feedback on students' work. This cloud-based storage solution ensures that all students have access to the necessary materials, regardless of their physical location within the school.

In order to maintain adherence to ambitious broadcast schedules and yearbook print deadlines, the teacher utilizes Google Sheets. This spreadsheet software allows for the assignment of tasks and the management of production timelines. By keeping track of deadlines and progress in a digital format, the teacher and students can ensure that work is productive and organized.

The integration of these simple collaborative tools has significantly enhanced the classroom's ability to produce high-quality pieces while maintaining order. By providing structure and a sense of organization, the teacher is able to instill technical confidence in her students, encourage teamwork, and ultimately help them bring their creative ideas to life.