Riverbend students learning, teaching others about dog behavior, training

GAINESVILLE - In celebration of National Kids & Pets Day on Thursday, and supported by K-9 Coach, an award-winning dog training, boarding, daycare and grooming company, a group of students at Riverbend Elementary in Gainesville is learning and teaching others about dog behavior and training, using the award winning book "Good Dog! Kids Teach Kids about Dog Behavior & Training."

The youngsters are learning how to observe a dog and try to understand, through the dogs behavior, what he or she is feeling or thinking. They are also learning to use clickers and markers to train dogs to sit, stay and come.

Taking that knowledge, the students will begin to use technology to share what they have learned with others through Skype lessons, blog writing and presentations. K-9 Coach trainer Vicki Tate will visit the students Thursday, along with her dog Daisy, to answer questions and let the kids demonstrate their new dog training skills.

This project is taking place under the 21st Century Skills Program, an initiative designed to increase elementary, middle and high school students understanding and application of 21st Century mediums such as blogs, PowerPoint presentations, online learning, Skype, social media etc.

The aim of this program is to better prepare students for the ever-changing face of technology in the 21st Century and will enhance their ability to make successful use of these mediums in college and the workplace. Students will use these applications to teach each other - not only at their own school but ideally through outreach to others.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/4/247881