Objective: “The candidate demonstrates selection and integration of technology to deepen and personalize student learning and to prepare students to participate actively and ethically in a digitally connected world” (UMUC, 2013, p.16).
Each class in this program has allowed for new experiences reviewing and learning about technology tools to support the classroom. We’ve been asked to choose software to review, as I did in one paper reviewing tools to create webquests, to creating lists of useful tools on a website. “Integrating principles of technology into even low-tech classes can help motivate learners, differentiate instruction, and increase student learning”(UMUC, 2013, p.16). |
In EDTC 620 I created a webquest for 4th grade to explore and learn about multiple aspects of Colorado. The students were able to learn about the state’s past, present, and future. Students had multiple, creative ways to engage in the material and illustrate their learning. Student presentations included student blogs, VoiceThreads,Infographics, and online presentation to demonstrate their learning throughout the project. These applications provide an open ended opportunity for students to utilize their knowledge and present the material in a creative and innovative method. During this class we were also asked to create a DonorsChoose proposal to support active tech use on the classroom. I tied my application to the Colorado webquest I created proposing for a classroom set of Google Expeditions VR sets for students to take virtual field trips. I’m happy to report that my proposal was fully funded and the school I based my proposal on now has the Google Expeditions set and all grades are actively sharing them to support their curriculum. |
Our world has grown increasingly smaller with the advent of the internet. Preparing our students with skills for online collaboration is becoming more and more imperative for the future endeavors. Throughout this program I have learned about multiple ways to engage my students in both their local communities, but also the global community. As a student in this program, I engaged in an in-depth study of another country in regards to their educational structure and technology integration. “Collaboration and community-building involve ongoing, two-way communication and advocacy where teachers work together with others for the benefit of students” (UMUC, 2013,p.19 ). We were asked to research the country intensively, as well as engage in online interviews with local educators. I focused on a Australian Case Study, which illustrated that this country has many similar challenges as our own when considering technology use in the classroom. Following this in depth study on Australia, I was prepared to create an engaging lesson for two classrooms for a Colorado/Australia Classroom Collaboration to learn about each others’ country and culture. Before technology was so accessible, a project of this level would be almost impossible considering the time limitations. However, with our current situation in society and availability of technology, it’s increasingly important for students to be exposed to the cultures around the world. As an educator, I fully support all activities that expose students to the similarities and differences of cultures. I look forward to creating many more dynamic activities for my students that will bring the world into our classroom. |
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I previously mentioned that I developed a proposal for a new virtual school that incorporated Colorado learning standards in a PBL format. I also developed an online class designed for a 4th grade literacy class. The availability on virtual classes and schools for K-12 students is likely to grow in the future. Having the understanding of strong pedagogical approaches to online design and teaching is crucial for progressive educational change. |
Throughout this program our understanding and action towards students data has been steadily scaffolded. This has resulted in the understanding and experience to effective analyze data, and then design effective curriculum to address positive instruction and assessments for all learners. An example of my data analysis is documented in this video that was one part of a semester long analysis of data which resulted in curriculum recommendations. |
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Learning about effective Professional Development(PD) also has supported my journey into progressive educational change. I had never heard of andragogy or any study done covering adult learning. However, after learning about this theory, I felt that it made considerations in designing courses for adult learners more clear and effective.Teachers need to fully understand and embrace new concepts and methods involving technology, so considerations about effective curriculum for adults is important for positive adoption of new concepts. This new understanding of adult learners lead to my presentation of effective PD for teachers.
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