During the course of CEP 810 and 811, I have gained so much understanding regarding both effective teaching strategies, as well as the integration of technology in a classroom.
Technology and Effective Strategies
Prior to my coursework, I really had no idea or any solid expectations about how implementation would look on a practical level. I expected to learn more about technology in general, but beyond that I just wasn’t sure. What I found, however, was that technology can be used to support instructional strategies on a very practical level and can become seamlessly integrated into the curriculum in many instances. Briefly, these are some of the areas where I envision using technology to support and enhance these strategies:
Cooperative Learning: supported by use of WebQuests, Blogs, Wikis, Word (for peer editing), PowerPoint and podcasts
Feedback: supported by Blogs, StAIR projects and Word
Scaffolding: StAIR, WebQuests, Inspiration/Kidspiration, PowerPoint presentations
Setting Objectives: Rubistar, SMART Boards, PowerPoint
Web-Based Technology
I really enjoyed creating my WebQuest because of its usefulness and flexibility of use. Students are able to research information on the internet in a safe and meaningful way. They are also able to synthesize the information by use of other forms of technology. It also uses strategies such as scaffolding and cooperative learning. So this idea of a web-based technology that combines all of these different elements together and can be shared and utilized in a variety of ways, is definitely a valuable addition to my tool box.
I also understand that there are other web-based technologies out there, such as the simulation used for the 24-hour lesson in CEP 810 that are very useful and can be easily accessed and used by anyone.
Personal Goals
I definitely met and exceeded my personal goals regarding the use of technology and its integration. I am now using blogs for my personal use because I see how beneficial that they are for reflecting and sharing ideas and thoughts with others. I created a wiki for my church as well, because I quickly saw the potential for its collaborative value, and I believe that it would help us stay connected outside of the weekly meeting. Just as I have many ideas as to how I am going to integrate technology in the classroom, I also have a more in-depth understanding for its use in my own life.
New Goals
1. To continue exploring the current technology that I’ve learned about and discovering more about how it works and how it can be used in a learning environment, as well as for personal use.
2. To practice using technology in meaningful and practical ways.
3. To seek to learn about other types of technology and how it can also be integrated.
Basically, I plan to do three things to accomplish these goals. One is simply to continue learning about them and their uses. I’m strongly leaning toward pursuing my MA in Educational Technology after taking these classes because of the discoveries that I’ve made regarding its use in the classroom and the future of technology integration. Next, I will continually challenge myself to think about new ways to use what I’ve already learned. Finally, I plan to practice using this technology and reflect on its use along the way.
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Stacey it has been a great pleasure to have you in my class. You have really contributed a lot to your group and to the whole class. In this reflection, your list of strategies with technologies that would work well with them shows that you have really applied the readings and discussions we have had to how you will use technology in your teaching. Your new goals are also well thought out. It is good to take the time to play with the new things we learn and that helps us become more comfortable with them. I can apply these things better when I have some comfort using them. I hope you do continue on in the Educational Technology. Your are an excellent candidate for the Master's program. Let me know if you need a reference.
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