Through telecommunications, American students can communicate with students in other countries to share personal experiences or research projects of interest to both groups. Computers are used in many classroom activities, from helping students solve math problems to learning English as a second language. Teachers must continually update their skills to use the latest technology in the classroom. Teachers design their classroom presentations to meet student needs and abilities. They also may work with students individually.
Teachers assign lessons, give tests, hear oral presentations, and maintain classroom discipline.
Teachers observe and evaluate a student's performance and potential. Teachers increasingly are using new assessment methods, such as examining a portfolio of a student's artwork or writing to measure student achievement. Teachers assess the portfolio at the end of a learning period to judge a student's overall progress. They may then provide additional assistance in areas where a student may need help. In addition to classroom activities, teachers plan and evaluate lessons, sometimes in collaboration with teachers of related subjects.