Final: Reflective Post!

Photo credit BryanAlexander on Flickr

In all honesty, I was not very excited when I found out I needed to take the course “Intro to Technology for Educators”. For some reason, technology and I never seemed to work well together. I believe it had a lot to do with the fact that I am old fashioned. It made me anxious/nervous just reading the syllabus and all the technology oriented assignments I would have to do. After getting to know the professor through her videos and all her helpful posts, I was able to relax and take it day by day. I must say now, “this has been the BEST and MOST influential class I have ever taken!”. I learned many different forms of technology to use inside as well as outside of a classroom that would allow students to enhance their learning experience. I can see clearly now how technology gives students the motivation to learn, then if they were without technology.

The required textbook for this course that we used is called "Transforming Learning with New Technologies" by Robert W. Maloy, Ruth-Ellen Verock-O'Loughlin, Sharon A. Edwards, and Beverly P. Woolf. This has been the first textbook that I enjoyed reading so much. This book helped me understand more about the different teaching methods and how to incorporate various forms of technology into them. Each chapter was simple enough to comprehend with great examples of how to use certain digital tools.

I would never imagine myself saying this, but I really enjoyed the discussions and different assignments we did for this class. I have accomplished more than I ever thought that I would. For instance, we had to set up a blogger and write blogs throughout the course. I never saw myself as someone who could blog, but I learned to enjoy it quite a bit. We also had to create a collaborative lesson plan, a WebQuest, a collaborate Wikipage, and a Teacher Webpage/ePortfolio. Doing these assignments made me more excited to become a teacher. I believe every learning objective for this class was hit spot on. Through each of these assignments and discussions, as a class we were able to learn in great depth the necessary factors of incorporating technology into classrooms. Allowing students to learn using digital tools, will help them progress and succeed academically.

As I mentioned before, this online course is definitely my favorite. Throughout this course, navigation was very simple from one section to the next. The Professor made everything understandable and precise. I loved the fact that, we could feel her passion for teaching and desire for each student to succeed. Professor Coleman has left a lasting impression on me of what a true teacher should be like and that is something I will never forget! Everything that I have learned in this course will be implemented in my future classrooms and I cannot wait to begin!

Resources:

K,K (2014, Feb. 16). Why is technology important in education? Retrieved April 29, 2017, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMi13DoDBAM

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.  

Digital Blog Post #L

The first concept that I chose to reflect on is the Stages of Technology Integration. The stages of technological integration include entry, adoption, adaption, appropriation, and invention (Maloy, 2013). In the entry stage, teachers are beginning to learn information technologies (Maloy, 2013). In the adoption stage, teachers begin to blend technology into their classroom practice without making any significant changes to those practices (Maloy, 2013). In the adaptation stage, teachers fully integrate new technologies into traditional classroom practices (Maloy, 2013). In the appropriation stage, teachers easily and confidently use technology in the classroom and professional work (Maloy, 2013). In the last stage which is the invention stage, teachers start to experiment with many instructional patterns and ways of relating to students (Maloy, 2013). I believe that each one of these stages are so important for teachers to know and understand which stage they are at.  Growth through theses stages will help teachers give their students the ability to gain technological knowledge and skills.

The second concept I chose to reflect on is One-to-one Laptop Computing. This term is used when every student has his/her own computing device to use in school (Maloy, 2013). One-to-one laptop computing is supposed to prevent digital inequality among students and give them all an equal chance to succeed (Maloy, 2013). I remember in high school when laptops became a relevant tool to use for the students, and how beneficial it was us to do our daily work. I see how it helps many students and motivates them to succeed as well.

  The third concept that I chose to reflect on is Developing a Technology-Learning Mindset. Teachers that possess a technology-learning mindset are the ones who are willing to investigate how digital technology can be used to transform teaching and learning in schools (Maloy, 2013). This form requires both creativity and critical thinking; exploring variety of technology tools for their education (Maloy, 2013). Incorporating different tools helps change the learning styles and makes it beneficial for the students. I believe with all my heart that a teacher who has this technology-learning mindset, understands that there is always room to grow and learn. It gives teachers and students the opportunity to continue learning and growing together.

Resources:

Kobenko, K (2017, April 15). Stages of Technology Integration. Created with emaze

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

Digital Blog Post #I

The first concept that I chose to reflect on is Teaching Goals, Methods, and Procedures (How to Teach). This concept talks about what each term means and how they are used in educating students (Maloy, 2013). Goals are the reasons why a lesson is being taught (Maloy, 2013). Methods are the instructional strategies teachers use to teach academic material to students which can include a small or large group, discussions, lectures, role-plays, etc. (Maloy, 2013). Procedures are the scheduling and grouping of students by teachers during a lesson and the decision of how much time to spend on each activity (Maloy, 2013). I believe it is so important for teachers to combine goals, methods, and procedures throughout their lesson planning/teaching. Knowing the difference between each one and incorporating them through technology will motivate student progress.

Teaching Goals, Methods, and Procedures - Created with Haiku Deck, presentation software that inspires

The second concept that I chose to reflect on is Using Electronic Grading Software. Electronic grading software is a virtual recordkeeping system allowing teachers to quickly calculate and record student grades/performance on the computer (Maloy, 2013). With this software, teachers can input the students graded homework, quizzes, or test and receive an exact grade within seconds. I remember when this software was becoming popular while I was still in high school. I thought it was so convenient because it allowed students to see their grades right, instead of waiting for a monthly progress report. This software also gives parents a chance to stay on top of a child’s performance.   

The third concept that I chose to reflect on is Student Performance Rubrics.  Teachers use student performance rubrics to evaluate student work on course assignments and activities (Maloy, 2013). 

Rubrics establish known-in-advance criteria to assess student performance, describe in concrete terms what students need to do to meet those criteria, and allow students and teachers to discuss areas in which the best work has been done or improvement is needed (Maloy, 2013). I believe rubrics are so beneficial in student performance on a certain assignment. I noticed in myself best work on an assignment is done when given a rubric because they provide me with very clear instruction about what is expected from me to succeed. It is so important that as educators, we have a clear framework and know exactly what we want the students to accomplish.

Resources:

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New

Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

Digital Blog Post #H

The first concept that I chose to write on is Multimodal Learning. Multimodal learning "happens when teachers combine spoken words with visuals or written text with audio or utilize simulations and models" (Maloy, 2013). I believe this concept targets different learning styles. For instance, if a student is more of a visual or audio learner, multimodal learning targets more than one learning style at a time. This allows teachers to give their students a great advantage to learn effectively through more than one teaching/learning style.

 The second concept that I chose to reflect on is PowerPoint in the classroom. PowerPoint is a software program designed to create presentations. It is very commonly used in schools by both teachers and students. There is so much creativity that can come from using PowerPoint beginning with text, data, imaging, colorful graphics, videos, and other attention grabbing techniques (Maloy, 2013). There are many advantages and disadvantages when using PowerPoint.  I believe that PowerPoint is a fun and exciting way for students to get creative with different assignments and group projects.

The third concept that I chose to reflect on is Video in the Classroom. Videos are oftentimes used for classroom instruction while redirecting the method of instruction from teacher to screen for part of the class time (Maloy, 2013). I believe videos are great for student learning because they tend to interest students, provide resources as well as offer a fun learning experience for all ages. I remember when I was in school, I would always look forward to when the teachers turned on educational videos for the class. We were interested in the subjects/topics for longer periods of time which was beneficial.

In conclusion, technology plays a big role in how our students learn today. As future educators, we should know the importance of integrating the use of multimedia technologies in our classrooms. It will greatly help the students learn in different and interesting ways. We want students to learn effectively while using the new technologies this world has to offer.

Resources:

Kobenko, K (2017, March 1). PowerPoint Advantages and Disadvantages. Created with Piktochart https://magic.piktochart.com/dashboard

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New

Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

Digital Blog Post #G

The first concept that interested me was on Using Technology with Linguistically Diverse Learners. Today, we have many resources available where technology supports the learning of culturally and linguistically diverse students. The resources support the education of students learning English as a new language as well as those who want to learn another language (Maloy, 2013).  Online language translation services, multilingual web resources, international newspapers and interactive maps, and English language word origins are great tools for both teachers and students to use in a classroom (Maloy, 2013).  I am bilingual and before going to school the only language I knew was Russian, things like translation services and multilingual resources helped me in learning the English language very quickly. Understanding where the English language comes from helps students automatically connect and understand the language.

The second concept that interested me was Universal Design for Learning (UDL). UDL is the application of universal design principles to educational settings (Maloy, 2013). The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) defined UDL in terms as: Multiple means of representation which is giving learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge (Maloy, 2013). Multiple means of expression provide alternate ways for learners to demonstrate what they know (Maloy, 2013). Multiple means of engagement taps into learners' interests that offer appropriate challenges, and increase motivation (Maloy, 2013). UDL advances in knowledge of how the brain process information to the design of a curriculum. I believe this helps such a wide range of students, those with special needs as well as the rest of the class. Daily I see how students tend to learn in different ways, having various resources helps them in the learning process.

The third concept that caught my attention is Differentiated Instruction (DI). DI "an instructional approach in which teachers create different educational experiences as ways to meet the learning needs of individual students"(Maloy, 2013) Students have different learning styles and teachers should combine different teaching styles to help the students understand and practice concepts. This may include combination of spoken words, visuals, videos, and hands on activities to reach every type of student. Growing up, I loved learning by doing hands-on activities whereas my friend, she read things and understood them that way. We can see every day that people learn and understand things differently. 

In conclusion, there are so many resources and tools in today’s society that allow us to be able to reach/teach every child effectively. Technology has allowed us to go beyond and teach special needs children as well as linguistically diverse children in different ways in classroom. As educators, we know that many children learn in different ways and it is vital for us to be able to incorporate different teaching styles in our curriculum.

Resources:

Kobenko, K (2017, February 23). Using Technology with Linguistically Diverse Learners. Created with emaze https://app.emaze.com/mypresentations#/my

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.

Digital Blog Post #E

The first concept that interested me was the Standard Software Applications. Many of us should know that we use software applications almost every day (Maloy, 2013). As educators, using software applications on our computers is a big part of our technology based teaching environment. Let’s consider Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, these are all vital parts in our education process. We use them to make lessons, charts, and the teaching process more exciting for the students. If we really thing about it, standard software applications are a part of most professions in today’s society.  

The second concept is Google Earth which is something many students enjoy. Google Earth is a free, downloadable application that works as a browser for different information on Earth (Maloy, 2013). It uses satellite imagery to grab, spin, pan, tilt and zoom down to any place on Earth. I have used this application before to motivate students in learning more about geography and the important events that happened in history. The students had a fun time measuring distances, creating tours, and finding important landmarks. More information can be found on how to incorporate more of Google Earth in to our lessons can be found in the article Google Earth in the Classroom.

The third concept is Inquiry Tutoring Systems (ITS). ITS is a powerful new software program that promotes inquiry learning through the computer responses to student actions (Maloy, 2013). These programs record the responses of students to see where their knowledge level is at (what they know and do not know). Then this program gives students their level of work and allows children to practice, which will help them become better as academic learners and test-takers (Maloy, 2013). I think this is beneficial to both the teacher and student. Students will not always need a human tutor and can practice wherever they go on a technical device, and teachers can keep track of student progress. This will make the learning experience fun for the student, especially through the different formats, games, modules and etc. that will be provided on the programs.

In conclusion, being aware and having different software applications in vital in today’s technology based learning environments. We can do so much to help the students learn by incorporating these software programs into our daily lessons. Having them will also help the teachers come up with new way and ideas to encourage/motivate students to learn certain topics. I believe students will also begin to see learning in a whole new way.

Resources:

Google Earth in the Classroom. (n.d.). Retrieved February 07, 2017, from http://k12teacherstaffdevelopment.com/tlb/google-earth-in-the-classroom/

Kobenko, K (2017, February 7). Technology in the Class. Created with ToonDoo www.ToonDoo.com

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.  

Digital Blog Post #D

The first concept that I wanted to reflect on is the three ways to search the internet. The first one is free-text search also known as full-text search which allows you to search for the title, keyword, and the description of each resource for the word or phrase that is typed. The second search is called keyword/exact match search which retrieves only the resources that contain the word or exact phrase that is typed. The third one is the Boolean search which uses the terms AND, OR, and NOT to create more of a broad search. I believe all three ways are important to know and use. Knowing the difference between each search will help us chose the correct words/phrases or topics to search for. We all know that some searches may be time consuming but beneficial overall.

The second concept that I learned a lot about in this chapter is the criteria for evaluating web resources. The criteria consist of Accuracy, Authority, Objectivity, Currency, and Coverage. Accuracy is where you want to make sure the website provides a clear description of the site and the purposes. Authority is where you want to make sure that the author has credibility and to see if it's commercial or non-profit. Objectivity tests if the website is fair and nonbiased as well as free of advertising. Currency is where you want to make sure the website you are using is updated and date is clearly visible. Coverage is where you want to make sure the website has information on the site that is viewed without any difficulties or commercial messages. We all know that today anyone can make a website and for us to know whether these websites are reliable or relevant, we must know and use the five criteria. These criteria really stood out to me, many people do not actually take the time to see if the sources they use are reliable for their studies or reports.

The third concept that is familiar to most educators is standing up against cyberbullying.  Cyberbullying is the willful and repeated harm using technology. This topic is important for teachers and students to be aware of because it is a very common threat today with technology. Cyberbullying can be just as harmful as a face-to-face- verbal and physical threat. Teachers should positively implement rules in the classroom against cyberbullying. I have seen many cases of students get bullied and this would cause depression, poor grades, suicidal thoughts, and etc. Teachers should always be alert and make it their goal to make students feel safe and protected against that. 

In conclusion, this chapter had some very important concepts that are very vital to our academic system today. When researching, it is important to know which sources are reliable and relevant. Technology in education today has become an enormous factor. How we teach our students today to use technology, will benefit them in a positive way. We must also teach them to use technology to help others and motivate them to always move forward. 

References:

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.