Module+8+Week+13+-14

Summarize your learning for this term. How will you use the knowledge you have constructed to improve your use of technology for learning in your class and for your own personal and professional development?


 * Description -** I really believe I have begun to learn a great deal. I think we are only truly scratching the surface of what technology will bring to the classroom. I think the most useful resource I was introduced to was Evan Abbey's Digital Curriculum. I thought the article was extremely interesting and I really would like to see that in my classroom. I really wish these types of ideas were available during my undergraduate time so that I could be a better teacher with technology now. I don't know if I am a better teacher with technology yet, but I do feel like I was introduced to some new ideas and concepts of how to incorporate technology into the classroom.


 * Impact -** The more I think about the future, the simple reality is computers and online learning are going to be the wave of the future. I don't necessarily think the way we teach online learning now is the end all be all way of educating online, but in some capacity this is how education is going to work. The bottom line is no matter how much I dislike the fact that I also have to entertain my students as well as educate them this provides an easier solution because of all the different technologies I can use. When students see technology being used in an interesting way they are completely with you. As long as we can move past just Microsoft Office, students are simply ready and willing to soak up this type of information like a sponge. Technology is just as much a part of their life as paper and pencil was a part of my education and upbringing.


 * Intent** - My intent with what I have learned is to find the best possible way to teach my students using the latest technology has to offer. I have to be willing to adapt because much like Darwin stated only the strong survive, if I am going to make it another 30 years in this profession I must be willing to change with the times. If I continue with the same concepts I am currently teaching with 20 years from now I may be in a bit of trouble given the students in the future. If I am unable to relate to my students will the type of learning they are most used to using then I may find myself being labeled as irrelevant. To make it in this field you have to be relevant or the kids will know and if you loose their interest you will not be able to gain it back.