EDLD+5364


 * EDLD 5370 – Part 2.4 Course-Embedded Reflections for EDLD 5364 Teaching with Technology **

**Self-Assessment ** I envisioned the Teaching with Technology to be a course that would share best practices and how to implement them in our lessons. My perception was that we would cover strategies and theories; the learning of technology skills was a plus. This course allowed me to become more knowledgeable with Microsoft Word and Excel and how it can be used in different ways by the students. I felt that the content presented in this course was very valuable and applicable to my career. The resources, Web 2.0: New Tools, New Schools & Using Technology with Classroom Instruction have a wealth of information that I will be utilizing in the classroom. Originally, I had borrowed the books from a friend but I found them so useful that I decided to purchase them. I also felt that my technology skills were enhanced by this course because I was exposed to Google Documents and Sites. Through my readings, I was able to obtain knowledge of other websites available for learning. I have now been sharing with my colleagues some of the websites that I have read about. They have responded with much excitement of these technology tools especially rubistar.org. I told them this would be a great tool for teachers another form of evaluation.

**Learn as a Learner ** I was online quite often because I had to work with a team. My team utilized Google sites and documents to collaborate on a daily basis 24/7. Most of my team were very highly organized, motivated and always on top of all assignments. So, all team members worked collaboratively to complete all assignments before due date. This allowed adequate time for review or to make any adjustments necessary before the actual due date. I learned to work at a faster pace than I usually do on my own but I learned I was able to keep up and contribute to my team. As a learner, I would ask for my team’s opinion or feedback on the task I had on hand. I was seeking feedback as to the expectations of quality of work. Another aspect of my learning was the exposure of web conferencing. This was my first experience with web conferences and I really liked this form of communication. I would like to find a way to influence our campus to perhaps participate in using this type of technology. I find that it could be beneficial in sharing best practices perhaps with other campuses in our district. At first, I had reservations about collaborating with others to solve a scenario-based group project. I could not envision collaboration on-line with total strangers. Though apprehensive, I was amazed how it could be done through a Wiki or Google documents. To see the work unveil itself in the Action Plan made me realize its value in accountability. I would love to share this experience of collaboration with my students. I think they would be excited and very engaged to build our own site. I envision creating poetry, writing, or have an on-going discussion about novels or math problems.

**Lifelong Learning Skills **

I feel I can better support our Campus Instructional Technologist in promoting technology in the curriculum. I have also taken more of an active leadership role in my school in the technology area. Through my course work with Lamar, I now have a better understanding the role technology plays in the classroom. Technology can have a great impact in supporting student success for all diverse learners if teachers are willing to implement as per state standards. In addition, I am planning to complete my master’s degree and pursue a position as a Campus Instructional Technologist in the future. This will allow me to utilize my skills and knowledge to assist the teachers in enhancing their technology skills and implementation of technology in their curriculum. I also enjoyed the experience of collaborating with my team. I have established a great relationship with individuals that I might get to work with in another class in the future. They are also have been great resources for me since we have met. I do find an issue that comes up almost every year is the search for a software program that will assist us with student’s learning. And this will continue to come up year after year so I know it needs more research in the future. But I would like to share on what transpired this year. Earlier this year, our principal called an emergency meeting for Campus Leaders and Technology Leaders. We were to discuss the pros and cons of Study Island, A+ Learning Lab, and Raz Kids. Incidentally, being the smallest campus we have the smallest budget in our school district. During our discussions, the Primary grade levels wanted Raz Kids and A+ Learning Lab so I asked them why they were selecting duplicating programs. One of the two programs would be sufficient but not both so if Raz Kids was going to be used as a reading program then there is no need to pursue A+Lab. It sparked quite a bit of discussion and controversy that it will require more research before a decision is made. I felt it was important to get all the facts before we spend money from our limited budget.

**References **

(n.d.). Retrieved November 26, 2010 from []

(n.d.). Retrieved November 26, 2010, from rubistar.org: [|www.rubistar.org]

(2007). In G. &. Solomon, web 2.0; new tools, new schools. Washington, D.C.: International Society for Technology in Education.