As
the course comes to an end, I would like to share about my journey. My
teaching practice will definitely reflect the new technologies I have
learned. When teaching technology it is best to vary teaching strategies
to reach learners with varied learning styles. I have discovered that I
can integrate technology into just about anything. I can incorporate a
new technology, such as Popplet, to mind map with my French students.
Or, I can use Twitter to stimulate a class discussion on what students
know about French food and etiquette. I have learned that technology can
enhance and bring a more meaningful connection to the material. My
students can use technology to be creative and transform the content
they are learning and engaging with. After taking this class, I am
confident in my ability use the web 2.0 in my classroom.
I
find that by integrating the Internet, I can discover which technology
tools work best for my classroom and online collaboration. For example,
in this class, I worked with a group. We used Angel, email, Google Docs,
Popplet, Delicious, Pinterest, Skype and Prezi to collaborate. It was
not easy. We worked our way through these technologies, and I discovered
that it was a lot of work to stay up to date and communicate with all
group members. I evaluated each technology as we were integrating it
into our project. I found that some technologies I preferred to use by
myself, whereas others were fun to collaborate on. I really struggled
never meeting via a video chat. I really value face time, and like to
hear the voices of the people I am working with. In this project I never
spoke or had any face time with my group members, and yet, we were able
to collaborate, and create a group product.
I
found that the NETS assignment that I turned in, exemplified good
teaching. I created a great lesson, aligning to both Michigan’s State
Standards and Benchmarks as well as the National Educational Technology
Standards. I really put a lot of thought into it, provided an
instructional plan, as well as a lesson with examples. This lesson would
be really fun and engaging for students. I am excited to test it out on
a real class when I return to teaching.
I
have met the goals that I shared in my Personal Growth Plan, devised at
the beginning of the course. My goals were to use technology more in my
daily life, and be transparent in my growth and record my journey on my
blog. I have met these goals and have enjoyed sharing new
technologies with my family and friends. Some look at me as their
technology consultant now!
Now
that this course is over, I plan to continue learning and using the new
technologies that I have learned. I plan to revisit my Personal
Technology Plan every season and take other Educational Technology
courses with MSU. When I return to teaching, I plan to integrate mobile
learning, 21st Century Skills, and the NETS for students and teachers. I
also plan to be mindful of copyright laws and teach my students about
digital citizenship. I want my students to be good stewards of the 21st
Century and know how to be creative and use technology to stay on top of
their affairs and life ahead.
