Class Reflection - EDUC-6715I-2

The final class for my degree has come to a close. I wanted to take this time to reflect on all that I have learned not only in this course but throughout the whole program. When I started this journey I would consider myself somewhat in the intermediate level when it came to integrating technology in the classroom. I knew the importance and implemented SMART Board lessons and Microsoft Office programs regularly in the classroom. I quickly learned this was not enough if I wanted my students to truly reap the benefits of integrated technology and learning. The purpose of technology in the classroom is not to teach the students how to use the products that are available now, but to integrate them in such a way that they will adapt to future technologies. By doing this, our students will be ready to conquer new ideas and products as they are created. They will stay ahead of the learning curve and might even be the creators of new and inventive ways to use technology.

In this course, I had the opportunity to plan a lesson with an emerging technology. I chose toe incorporate an online learning module as a way of introducing and teaching the students about some of Georgia's important historical figures: Tomochichi, Mary Musgrove, and James Oglethorpe. With the use of the online learning module (more specifically, Moodle), the students were able to complete most, if not all of their learning from one location. The teacher can assist in online discussions, upload important resources, and distribute online assessments in one location. The beauty of Moodle was the ability for students to learn the information in their own way - whether it be through the discussions with their classmates or the multi-media resources provided by the teacher. Also, because the Moodle is online, it provides quick and easy access to additional resources through the use of the world wide web. What drew me towards using the online learning module is the security it provides because of the private access it gives to only the students in your class.

Using the Moodle demonstrates the learning I have done in this course because it showcases all of the important aspects of technology integration. It shows us how technology can reach all learners because it allows the teacher to provide multiple ways for students to learn the material. It also promotes students to think out of the box when it comes to technology by letting them use the technology in unique ways that will benefit their own learning.

There are some things that I can continue to do to keep up to date with emerging technologies. For starters, I can attend technology conferences and other staff developments where these technologies are being presented. I can also experience the technologies myself by trying to find new and inventive ways to implement existing technologies in creative ways. Finally, I can promote the use of these tools in my school and learn from my colleagues when they find interesting and new uses for technology.

Because of this course and this program, I have seen first hand the importance of technology in the classroom. It reaches so much more below the surface of SMART Board lessons and Microsoft Office applications. It is about using technology to reach all learners, preparing our students for the digital world, and keeping up to date with the latest and greatest tools out there to promote better teaching and learning. By maintaining this passion for wanting a better learning experience for my students with the use of technology, I hope to dig as deep as I can go in an effort to create life-long learners and inventive thinkers.