Lessons+Learned

When I began this class I had a very narrow idea of what implementing technology in my classroom entailed. I figured that it meant using a projector/document camera, smartboard, maybe some clickers, and a very basic idea of a class website. I didn't know what an aggregator was, or what it did. I did not understand all of the various tools that a teacher could use to elevate the level of education that took place in their classroom. For instance, I had never thought of recording a lesson, or a text book onto a podcast in order to help students with disabilities, or who are learning English as a second language. This class has exposed me to many new ideas and strategies that I know will help supplement my teaching, and ultimately my students' learning.

 In my own classroom, I plan on using as much technology as I can, as long as it is purposeful and appropriate. In addition of the standard projector, smartboard, and document camera, I fully plan on having a well developed website for my classroom. I plan on packing as much information onto it as I can, with the goal of keeping my students and their parents well informed about that is taking place in the classroom. I also like the idea of creating my own assessments and surveys to have students fill out while in class, or at home. Depending on where I teach, access may not be readily available to the internet for many of my students, so I won't be able to use as many internet-based strategies or lessons. Overall, as long as the technology isn't being used just for the sake of using technology, it can be used to greatly increase the learning of students.