As I wrap up my first Master’s of Education course directly related to my area of study, I walk away with new insights and some reaffirmations of things I thought about prior to this course.
So what technologies are you more comfortable with now?
I now feel more comfortable using the database searches for the various articles we were assigned to read. I revisited posting on a blog and managing that blog (with new features in the software that weren’t there when I learned blogging a couple of years ago). I had never used a RSS aggregator prior to this class because I didn’t see the benefit of them prior to now.
How has this course deepened your knowledge of teaching and learning?
I now have more resources in regards to the 21st century skills to share with teachers, administrators, and other folks involved in the discussion of technology in schools. I learned that it’s okay if technology is “doing old things a new way” if it makes life easier for teachers and students. I was reminded that many of the teachers I’m working with are “digital immigrants” and that I have to teach them in a way that makes them comfortable with the technology, not fearful of the bad things it might do.
How has your view of a teacher role in a classroom changed?
I entered the class a firm believer that the role of teacher in a technology infused classroom takes a dramatic shift from the “all knowing boss of the class” to the “facilitator of learning.” Through the various readings and discussions, I did come to realize, however, that in order to be an effective facilitator I need to carefully craft lessons to best meet the academic needs of all the students, whether it’s a gifted student or a student with limited English skills. In a nutshell, I can’t just make a “one size fits all” lesson using technology and expect it to work for all students.
What things can you do to continue building on your knowledge?
I need to continue to use the RSS aggregator to keep up to date on new technologies, websites, and strategies. I also need to continue to read blogs and publications (e.g. Edutopia) and share what I learn with the teachers in my district.
So what are 2 goals you hope to meet in the next couple of years in regards to technology?
I will continue to help teachers implement teaching strategies and learning strategies which best meet the academic needs of the students (e.g. for the end of year test), keeping them engaged and excited about their learning. This will be a bit tougher once my teachers are no longer required to attend meetings with me, but I will plan a way to continue to touch base with them, thereby continuing their growth and learning with technology in their classrooms. My second goal will be to continue to push the importance of the 1 to 1 initiative in my district to meet 21st century standards, regardless of current economy. I’m on the 1 to 1 task force and feel like I can contribute a meaningful part to the group. I’m already planning on setting up a blog where teachers and community members can openly discuss their feelings in regards to this program. The more I can address the issues and concerns folks have, the more successful the program will be.
Final thought
The more I learn about technology the more I learn about what I don’t know. That statement in itself may seem bleak, but I actually look at it as an open door, inviting me in to continue my study of the impact technology can, and should have, in schools.