Technology Course Learning Experience 4 Reflection

This last part of our learning experience was all about how do we implement technology into the classroom. It is one of the main reasons why I took this course. From everything we did in this section of the course, the one thing that stood out the most for me wasn't actually the integration portion but it was actually the planning portion. Whether it is creating a short and long term technology plan for your school, or whether it is teaching your staff a specific program that will be beneficial if they implement into their teaching plans, the thing I noticed the most was how much planning is needed in order to begin your school in the right direction in terms of integrating technology. A well thought out, developed plan that is put into place will really help you achieve you goal and vision instead of just winging it year to year. 

Another big topic that I think will really shape my teaching is the idea of using mobile devices in the classroom. So many students nowadays have access to their own mobile device. Instead of being scared of it, I think we should embrace it. Undoubtedly, we will have some issues, but I think if we constantly are reminding students of the rules and consequences to not following rules, then students will be more inclined to use it properly. As many schools including mine, we are just starting to build our technology hardware inventory. There is definitely not enough for a 1:1 device to student ratio. However with the addition of personal devices into the mix, there is definitely more ability for teachers to use technology on the go. 

This course has really been a great experience. Yes, I have learned about integrating technology into the classroom but really it is so much more than that. I was able to takeaway how everyone is unique in their own way of thinking about challenges and ideas. It showed me that these challenges can be tackled in more than just my own way. I'm looking forward to utilizing many of the ideas I've taken away from course material, peer interaction, and feedback provided.