Upon completion of my first semester of the Ed.S. technology program, more specifically ITEC 7400, I have learned many different new ideas for technology integration with my students. Most importantly, I now know how to implement technology in a meaningful way for my students to make sure they get the most out of their learning opportunities in my classroom. Today's 21st century learners need authentic learning experiences to gain the most knowledge and be able to apply this knowledge in future educational endeavors.
The engaged learning project we created in this course also helped me realize how technology can help teachers improve the higher order thinking skills of students in their classrooms. When students have to create final products that use technology, they are engaging their creativity skills but also have to collaborate with their peers and other members of the community. Technology can also be integrated via formative assessments to measure student learning. I also realized the importance of technology literacy of my students and ensuring that all students are familiar with the technology and how to best use it in the classroom.
During this course, I also learned the importance of being able to troubleshoot technology problems and being familiar enough with technology tools to teach basic understanding to students and fellow teachers. I am already somewhat viewed as the "technology pro" within my department, but by referencing the ISTE-C standards, I now realize the varying aspects of being a coach. I now need to make sure that I am coaching my peers in a positive manner and helping them effectively manage the use of digital tools in their classrooms.
The engaged learning project we created in this course also helped me realize how technology can help teachers improve the higher order thinking skills of students in their classrooms. When students have to create final products that use technology, they are engaging their creativity skills but also have to collaborate with their peers and other members of the community. Technology can also be integrated via formative assessments to measure student learning. I also realized the importance of technology literacy of my students and ensuring that all students are familiar with the technology and how to best use it in the classroom.
During this course, I also learned the importance of being able to troubleshoot technology problems and being familiar enough with technology tools to teach basic understanding to students and fellow teachers. I am already somewhat viewed as the "technology pro" within my department, but by referencing the ISTE-C standards, I now realize the varying aspects of being a coach. I now need to make sure that I am coaching my peers in a positive manner and helping them effectively manage the use of digital tools in their classrooms.