Final Reflection

Before beginning this CEP course with MSU, I had the understanding that the only real type of technology that could be used in the classroom was Smart Boards and ELMO Projection Systems.  This was not the case. I have learned that you can use other forms of technology, such as blogs and Twitters, to effectively communicate with students and parents. Some of the things I have learned about effective teaching strategies when integrating technology are direct and indirect instruction. I have also found that StAIRS (Stand Alone Instruction) are something that I can use throughout the year with my students to  help them understand concepts.

By integrating web-based technologies helped me think that I can really use with my students.  This would allow my students (and school) to not have to purchase expensive equipment and programs for the students to really utilize technology.  This helped me evaluate the use of technology because I don't have to rely on expensive software to use certain technologies.  Also by using programs such as Google Docs, the students can work on documents as a group or individual from school and home.  Something that can make learning easier.

By learning all this information about technology I have developed a few goals.  One of the goals I have is really use technology in my classroom.  As I said earlier I had come in with the preconceived notion that all technology in the classroom was Smart Boards and ELMO Projection Systems.  I have surpassed this goal because I have learned more ways technology can be used.  This leads to my new goal of integrating technologies like Google Docs and Blogs into my classroom.  By using a blog I can steer my students away from the traditional journals and reading logs. To reach this goal I will be utilizing the new resource my school has called Gaggle. Gaggle provides a safe monitored blog that students can post their comments and reflections on.  Similar to how we are doing reflections to things in this course.  Another new goal I have is to share with my peers in a PD about everything I have learned.  This relates to using Gaggle and blogs.  Sharing with my peers is a way for me to increase our schools use of technology and make sure we are all progressing together.