Course Reflections

The outcomes I had envisioned for this course were a better understanding of technology and to become a better classroom teacher. The course outcomes did align with what I had envisioned, but also enlightened me as to how much more I need to learn. During this course I have developed a better understanding of the importance of technology in the classroom and the necessity of using it to reach the students I teach. The required readings really opened my eyes to many issues facing principals, teachers and students in today's schools. If we are going to teach these 21st century students we must grow in our own knowledge as teachers. In my quest to become a better teacher, I know the knowledge gleaned from this class will continue to help me improve and increase student achievement. I am not where I want to be, but I am on the right path.

To the extent that I achieved my outcomes for this class, they are relevant to my work at school. One area I wanted to achieve was to be more proficient with technology and the computer to enhance my teaching and increase student achievement in my classroom. This is very relevant to my work as I am teaching students that have grown up with technology and computers. Connecting with students on their level and interests results in achievement, and I have started this connection. Another area I wanted to achieve was to be a better classroom teacher. Using the technology resources and tools that have been introduced to me in this course will certainly be relevant as I implement the new knowledge in my classroom. Using technology with the students will increase their interest and provide a better learning environment. The relevance will be seen through class participation and higher student achievement.

While my outcomes were achieved, they are a work in progress. I did not achieve my visions according to my standards due to my lack of computer skills and technology training. However, I plan to continue with the online classes to become more proficient in both areas. Until this class, my experience with technology has been basic classroom management tools such as electronic gradebook/attendance, e-mail to parents and staff, and using purchased power points.
With the amount of technology resources that I have been exposed to and are available, I am excited to continue learning. I did improve my teaching by becoming a student again. Anytime I broaden my knowledge base and share with students, I am a better teacher. Many concepts I have learned in this class, I will use in my class instruction. I am anxious to implement some of the new tools and technology information with my students.

I was successful in carrying out the majority of the course assignments. The assignments for me were intense and with teaching 8th grade, I wasn't sure I would be successful. However, being a novice in technology hindered my success and added time. In addition, after being out of college for twenty years, I struggled with writing in a professional voice. Little if any of my daily written work requires professional writing including correspondence with administration. An e-mail is sent and a one or two sentence reply is sufficient. Also, this was my first online class and is very different than how I am accustomed to learning. In one of our initial self-inventories, it was evident that I learn best with someone conducting direct instruction so this was an obstacle that I had to overcome. The challenges were worth the knowledge I take from this course.

In taking this course I learned that I persevere, my technology skills need improvement, and my attitude is one of wanting to improve for myself and my students. When Apollo 13 was in grave danger everyone at NASA began to work to overcome the problems and results happened. The phrase, "Failure is Not An Option," summarized how I felt about teaching. I have used this motto in my class for years and in taking this class I practiced it. I don't give up on my students or myself. Prior to this class, I purchased the two books required, bought a binder for the class, designated study time for morning, evening, and weekend, and even had a physical. I was prepared. After the first week, I was ready to quit. However, I reminded myself of what I tell my students and I had to put forth more effort to overcome my challenges. My computer and technology skills are inept, but are improving. As I continue in the courses I know I will become more proficient. My attitude about learning remains the same as before taking the class. I embrace new knowledge and have the desire to be my best.

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Blog Posting # 3 - National Education Plan

Blog Posting # 3 - National Education Technology Plan

In reading the summary, "Transforming American Education Learning Powered by Technology" by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Technology,  it is stated that "education has become an urgency priority driven by two clear goals: We will raise the proportion of college graduates from where it now stands (around 41 perecent ) so that 60 percent of our population holds a two-year or four-year degree by 2020."  (7). The second goal, "We will close the achievement gap so that all students graduate from high school ready to succeed in college and careers." (7).

We as educators must engage students and personalize their learning experiences so that they can relate to them in their daily lives and imagine how it will help them in their future as they take a place in the workforce. Students should be taught how to take control of their own learning. Educators should have a set of standards for students to meet, then we must learn how to meet these standards by many different methods. Students should have the option of getting information from many sources not just the classroom teacher - and they do.

In the report, "Transforming Ameican Education Learning Powered by Technology", the teacher is viewed as a vital link to changing our education system. This is refreshing as sometimes the educator is  left out of the education reform equation. A classroom can be provided with the most modern of technology but you still must  euip that most important factor, the teacher. The report emphasizes educators having the tools and resources to ensure successful teaching and to be able to ultimately produce a self-directed learner.

Professional development would be addressed as "collaborative, coherent, and continuous." (10). The normal same old tired and ineffective professional development would be replaced with professional development that empoweres teachers to provide meaningful lessons in the classroom. All professional development should be modeled after the quote, "provide preservice and in-service educators with professional learning experiences powered by technology to increase their digital literacy and enable them to create compelling assignments for students that improve learning, assessment, and instructional practices." (16).

One insight I relate to in reading this summary is the idea of using professional experts in various disciplines. I have been very successful in my teaching career and one of the reasons is I always look to the experts. It is my experience that these professionals are willing to help and their expertise enriches my teaching tremendously. Over the years I have built a network of professionals in the various fields of science. Their participation with me and my students creates excitement, curiousity, and achievement.

U.S. Department of Education Office of Educational Technology. (2010)

Blog Posting # 2 - School and District Technology Plan

Blog Posting #2 - School and District Technology Plan

The goals for  my school district's Technology Plan are: to improve student achievement through use of technology,  integrate technology skills and use into the various content areas, provide technology and learning opportunities to the community and parents, and to improve teacher/administration skills in using technology in instructional settings.

The strategies that are being utilized to meet these goals are: students becoming technology literate by the end of 8th grade, increasing the integration of technology and curriculum instruction, offering learning opportunities beyond the school day, and teachers and administration participating in professional development targeting the districts identified proficiencies.

We have a multi dimensional plan to ensure that the progress and attainment of the goals are being met. This plan includes use of surveys, STaR charts, class visits, and written documents.  For the goal of 8th grade technology literacy the Tech Literacy Assessment is given at the end of 8th grade. Students are provided remediation if found to be at risk with programs such as Read 180, Read Naturally SE, Rosetta Stone, Study Island, with documentation in lesson plans. Administrators monitor the use of class technology with periodic visits from the principal including documentation. Hands on workshops are provided where teachers use TAKS results to plan for the needs of students using technology resources. In addition, the implementation of the campus website, Parent Portal and parent e-mail increases the role of parents and community to ensure success of our students.

The district believes that proper use of technology is an essential tool to meet the commitment of providing excellence in education and to meet the needs of every student.

Blog Posting # 1 - Technology Assessments

Blog Posting #1 - Technology Assessments

The value of assessing the educator's technology leadership knowledge and skills is vital to ensure that technology is meaningfully implemented in the classroom. The results of teacher technology assessments should be used to plan and conduct professional development. After receiving professional development that targets a weakness, a plan should be in place to provide ongoing support throughout the year. The benefits of teacher technology assessments are to inform the leadership of the campus' strengths and weaknesses therefore, effective professional development can be planned. An additional benefit of the technology assessment is allowing teachers to have input on their needs for technology training and classroom needs concerning infrastructure.

It is also vital for the students to be assessed to determine their knowledge and skills and perceived needs. This assessment at the beginning of the year can provide the instructor the chance to produce a custom curriculum to meet the skill levels and needs of the class.

One weakness I see in the technology assessment tool, the STaR Chart, is the time of year it is given to be completed. Teachers are asked to fill out this survey in May when the school year is ending and many other reports are due. In the past, I have completed the chart and submitted it without giving it the time and thought needed so that it would reflect a more accurate assessment of my needs. In my opinion, the assessment should be given at the beginning of the year and professional development could be planned and scheduled throughout the year addressing the needs of the campus' and individual's weaknesses.

Web Conference

I participated in the Web Conference on August 30, 2011 at 8:00. This was my very first web conference and I was most excited to participate.
The professor discussed the degree plan and Lamar's accreditation and standards. The requirements for the internship plan was discussed and the selection of a mentor although audio was breaking up and I didn't hear everything on the mentor selection. She discussed grades, when they would be posted and the importance of reading the feedback once posted.
The professor went over the textbooks needed for the class, the class website, courseware, and the TK20 account.
During the web conference some questions were answered but difficulties in the audio prevented everyone from getting to ask questions. 
Even though the there were issues with the audio, I was able to hear enough to get some  much needed information.