Students come to us with a variety of needs. Being a teacher, I am expected to accommodate those needs; which I do not mind doing at all. However, because of the range of needs that students have, it can be difficult to reach each student individually. Through this course I have learned a lot about how to meet the needs of each individual student through Universal Design for Learning, Differentitated Instruction and technology.
I loved being a part of the Differentiation Station social networking piece of this course. I enjoyed it because I was able to share resources that I had found, look at resources from others and even communicate through chatting with one another. It was fascinationg to discuss our differences in teaching experiences (financial support, schools) and our similarities (goals for students). It was extremely different than using the discussion forum through Walden because I was able to get immediate feedback from someone, and respond right away as well. Through the discussions and sharing I was able to find new resources to use with my students. For example, I found a site that has several games that teach to specific math skills. Those games would be appropriate for all students, because of the variety of levels. There were also sites that teach to other academic skills, such as writing or reading. Not only have I discovered useful websites, but I have discovered different teaching and assessing methods that help differentiate my instruction. Allowing students to choose, or offering a variety of learning methods for them, I am setting each individual up for success. Instrucition that I offer needs to be fair and that does not neccessairly mean equal; it depends on the students' individual needs.
Now that I have a deeper understanding of both Univeral Design for Learning and Differentiated Instruction, I can immedietly implement these methods into my own instruction (as soon as summer break is over). In September I plan on giving my students an inventory of how they learn best and what their interests are. This will ultimately help guide my instruction. Once I have gotten to know my students and their individual needs, I can focus on differentiation and what each of them require in order to succeed. I know that not everyone will be on the same level of success, but if I can help them achieve success on their own learning level, they will become more engaged later on with other subjects. Technology is going to be a big piece of being able to implement differentiated instruction and engagement. I plan on making technology available to all students, each day that they are in school. One way that I did that this past year was a Wiki that I created for the class. For this upcoming year I hope to incorporate a Ning or some other social networking site. I think it will be valuable for the students to communicate with each other through technology.
Throughout all of my courses in this Walden program, I feel that this one was the most valuable to me because in the past I felt like I struggled with differenitating instruction. Now that I have had the opportunity to learn more about it, along with UDL and technology, I have gained a new confidence in my career. I have noticed a great growth in my view on differentiation and feel that I will be able to effectively implement these new found strategies in my own classroom.
Friday, June 25, 2010
New and Emerging Technolgies Reflection (6715)
Throughout the duration of this course, I have learned many things. Each new piece of information will be valuable in my future as a teacher. Being able to explore and discover new and emerging technologies allowed my mind to shift from what is already available to what will become available to teachers. It is imperative to keep looking forward at what may or may not be a mainstreamed technology because, as a teacher, I need to stay ahead of the curve in order to best accommodate my students' needs. I have learned that 21st century learners require a variety to methods to help them learn and exposure to technology is one of them.
Now that I have been exposed to the importance of staying up-to-date with technology, I am able to become an advocate in my own school. The Horizon Report was a very useful resource because I was able to see new technology in a different light. It spoke directly to teachers, giving examples of different technologies that may be implemented in classrooms in the near future, and how long the adoption of them might take. I feel that the Horizon Report would be a valuable tool to use when talking with administration about adopting new technologies. When advocating for new curricular elements within schools, administration wants to see proof that they are going to be worth the money and the Horizon Report allows that.
Another important component to advocating for new technology in schools is the ability to show what the technology is replacing and what it might be replaced by in the future. As teachers, we look to the past and try to predict the future with various types of curriculum. Technology is no different. Looking at the past, we can see a trend from the past to the present. Then from there we are able to predict a future change based on that trend.
From the learning activity in weeks 6 and 7, I learned the importance of covering all bases when recommending a new technology. What I mean by covering all bases is that I need to give an example of how the technology will be used with students, explain how students will benefit from the change, and create a rationale behind it. Together those things will help influence the decisions around its adoption. The completion of this assignment has demonstrated my learning in this course because I was able to effectively support my recommendation of implementing Sloodle in a classroom.
At the end of this course, I have been able to reflect back on all of the new and emerging technologies, along with how to implement them in a classroom. I am very excited to use them in my classroom as soon as school starts up in the fall. One fear that I have is not having the financial resources to support them. However, throughout this course, I have discovered many valuable one's that are free. I plan on thinking about my students 21st needs, and teaching to those needs more than I had before. I now see the importance to adjusting what I do to meet their unique needs.
Now that I have been exposed to the importance of staying up-to-date with technology, I am able to become an advocate in my own school. The Horizon Report was a very useful resource because I was able to see new technology in a different light. It spoke directly to teachers, giving examples of different technologies that may be implemented in classrooms in the near future, and how long the adoption of them might take. I feel that the Horizon Report would be a valuable tool to use when talking with administration about adopting new technologies. When advocating for new curricular elements within schools, administration wants to see proof that they are going to be worth the money and the Horizon Report allows that.
Another important component to advocating for new technology in schools is the ability to show what the technology is replacing and what it might be replaced by in the future. As teachers, we look to the past and try to predict the future with various types of curriculum. Technology is no different. Looking at the past, we can see a trend from the past to the present. Then from there we are able to predict a future change based on that trend.
From the learning activity in weeks 6 and 7, I learned the importance of covering all bases when recommending a new technology. What I mean by covering all bases is that I need to give an example of how the technology will be used with students, explain how students will benefit from the change, and create a rationale behind it. Together those things will help influence the decisions around its adoption. The completion of this assignment has demonstrated my learning in this course because I was able to effectively support my recommendation of implementing Sloodle in a classroom.
At the end of this course, I have been able to reflect back on all of the new and emerging technologies, along with how to implement them in a classroom. I am very excited to use them in my classroom as soon as school starts up in the fall. One fear that I have is not having the financial resources to support them. However, throughout this course, I have discovered many valuable one's that are free. I plan on thinking about my students 21st needs, and teaching to those needs more than I had before. I now see the importance to adjusting what I do to meet their unique needs.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Course Management System
Course Management Systems are a great way to get students engaged in their education. But what is a Course Management System? Here is a presentation to answer your questions.
Course Management System
Course Management System
Sunday, April 25, 2010
GAME Plan Reflection
Over the last several weeks, I have learned a lot about the importance of setting goals and the steps to take in order to reach those goals. Once I set my goals, and started the process to accomplish them, I realized that I was doing the same thing I request from my students. However, it was different because I was thinking consciously about achieving what I wanted. Many times with my students I know where I need to go and how to get them there, I just do not think about it much. Because of this discovery, I feel that it will make me more conscious about my decisions in the classroom and allow myself to spend more time guiding my students to reach the goals I have set for them.
I also learned that not only do I need goals in the classroom, but my students would be able to set goals for themselves as well. This makes a difference because it will ultimately put them in charge of their own learning. Students who feel in charge of their learning are taking a responsibility that will guide them to work harder and be more interested. I think the GAME plan format is perfect for students to use on their own. First they would choose their goal(s), next their action plan, then a way to monitor themselves and finally an evaluation of their work. This format is extremely adjustable to any activity. I have decided that I will use the GAME plan for myself and for my students. It is in my best interest to get the students as actively involved in their own education, because it is their education.
I also learned that not only do I need goals in the classroom, but my students would be able to set goals for themselves as well. This makes a difference because it will ultimately put them in charge of their own learning. Students who feel in charge of their learning are taking a responsibility that will guide them to work harder and be more interested. I think the GAME plan format is perfect for students to use on their own. First they would choose their goal(s), next their action plan, then a way to monitor themselves and finally an evaluation of their work. This format is extremely adjustable to any activity. I have decided that I will use the GAME plan for myself and for my students. It is in my best interest to get the students as actively involved in their own education, because it is their education.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
My GAME Plan - Week 7
Over the past several weeks, I have learned a lot about myself and how I can better align technology with the needs of my students. After creating goals for myself and working toward accomplishing those goals, I realized that when I push myself to do something, what I learn will also benefit my classroom.
For example, my first goal (Netiquette) taught me the different ways to interact with others in social networking situations. I had no idea what "flamewars" were, and no idea that students use social networking to be brave enough to say mean things to others. I guess in the back of my mind I knew there was a possibility because kids often act this way at school, but did not think that it could be worse with the use of technology. One way that I am promoting Netiquette in my classroom is by monitoring discussions that the students have on my Wiki. I get emails about what they post and can delete inappropriate things. The students know that I am monitoring it, therefore have put a great deal of effort in communicating appropriately online. I have also found supporting videos from Brainpop to show the class about Netiquette. They loved it and learned a lot from it.
My second goal was a bit more fun for me to do research on. I discovered multiple uses for PowerPoint (minus what I had already used it for), started student penpals through Epals.com, used Skype as a communication tool in my classroom, and implemented more use of my Activboard. Along with these technologies, I have also continued to use word processing, and my classroom Wiki. Since I have had the opportunity to look and learn about new technology I feel that I have more confidence when trying something new in my classroom. This comes out because even if it fails, the students will enjoy the fact that it is something new, and it is technology. The area that I teach in has a lot of Microsoft and Boeing families, so they are well to do and strongly support technology in the classroom. I have heard nothing but positive comments about my use in the classroom.
All around I felt that by creating goals for me to obtain, as well as learning goals for my students create a cohesive classroom because we are all working together. They help me to reach my goals and I help them to reach theirs. I have also learned that by making goals, I can better align my teaching to the National Standards for Technology, which I had not done before. To me, it is important to keep learning and trying new things. By doing this, I will always be interested in teaching.
For example, my first goal (Netiquette) taught me the different ways to interact with others in social networking situations. I had no idea what "flamewars" were, and no idea that students use social networking to be brave enough to say mean things to others. I guess in the back of my mind I knew there was a possibility because kids often act this way at school, but did not think that it could be worse with the use of technology. One way that I am promoting Netiquette in my classroom is by monitoring discussions that the students have on my Wiki. I get emails about what they post and can delete inappropriate things. The students know that I am monitoring it, therefore have put a great deal of effort in communicating appropriately online. I have also found supporting videos from Brainpop to show the class about Netiquette. They loved it and learned a lot from it.
My second goal was a bit more fun for me to do research on. I discovered multiple uses for PowerPoint (minus what I had already used it for), started student penpals through Epals.com, used Skype as a communication tool in my classroom, and implemented more use of my Activboard. Along with these technologies, I have also continued to use word processing, and my classroom Wiki. Since I have had the opportunity to look and learn about new technology I feel that I have more confidence when trying something new in my classroom. This comes out because even if it fails, the students will enjoy the fact that it is something new, and it is technology. The area that I teach in has a lot of Microsoft and Boeing families, so they are well to do and strongly support technology in the classroom. I have heard nothing but positive comments about my use in the classroom.
All around I felt that by creating goals for me to obtain, as well as learning goals for my students create a cohesive classroom because we are all working together. They help me to reach my goals and I help them to reach theirs. I have also learned that by making goals, I can better align my teaching to the National Standards for Technology, which I had not done before. To me, it is important to keep learning and trying new things. By doing this, I will always be interested in teaching.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
My GAME Plan - Week 6
I have learned through pursuing my goals, that there is an endless amount of possibilities. There are many things to learn about technology and different programs. As I continue to progress toward my goal, I have noticed that the way my thinking has changed. I am now beginning to look at things through different eyes, more technology directed eyes other than eyes focused on what the norm is. This has been a great revelation because I am seeing things that are going to be able to extend knowledge in standard programs.
As far as "netiquette" goes, I think that I have exhausted the amount of resources to support this goal. I have found information that lead me to creating my own list of "netiquette" rules to follow. By taking ideas from others and creating my own, I will be able to find a way to have them relate to my students on a closer level.
Now that I have a good grasp on my previous goals, I am looking to aim toward a new one.
Goal #3: Participate in local and global learning communities to explore creative applications of technology to improve student learning.
My first step toward reaching this goal had already been taken this past November without my realizing it. I was accepted into my school district's Integrating Technology Program for this summer. We call it ITP. This program is a week long retreat where we learn several ways to implement technology in our classrooms in various ways. I feel that this is taking a baby step toward reaching my new goal.
As far as "netiquette" goes, I think that I have exhausted the amount of resources to support this goal. I have found information that lead me to creating my own list of "netiquette" rules to follow. By taking ideas from others and creating my own, I will be able to find a way to have them relate to my students on a closer level.
Now that I have a good grasp on my previous goals, I am looking to aim toward a new one.
Goal #3: Participate in local and global learning communities to explore creative applications of technology to improve student learning.
My first step toward reaching this goal had already been taken this past November without my realizing it. I was accepted into my school district's Integrating Technology Program for this summer. We call it ITP. This program is a week long retreat where we learn several ways to implement technology in our classrooms in various ways. I feel that this is taking a baby step toward reaching my new goal.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Reporting on Progress - Week 5
As I get further and further in reaching my GAME plan goals, I am learning more about myself as a teacher and person.
Goal 1: I have discovered that I have not always followed digital etiquette policies because they had never been brought to my attention. One mistake that I have made, at school, was not taking the time to double check an email before sending it. There are too many times where I am too busy, or am rushing through something to even think twice before sending. That has come back to haunt me the one time I actually said something I should not have. Now that I have had time to find resources and create an actual definition for digital etiquette that works for myself, I am more aware of my Internet and email interactions. This is useful because it will, in the end, keep me out of trouble in the future.
Goal 2: As I have started learning about different technology and the way it can be used in my classroom, I have found myself taking more risks with my students and allowing them to "play" with the technology for the hands on effect. Most recently, I have implemented a new use for PowerPoint. In the past, I have always used it for support to presentations; each slide sharing something new. Now I am using it for something more entertaining. Last week my students had finished their reading group books and I needed a culminating project for them to do. Instead of having them do something individually, I allowed them to work in groups on a Book Trailer (similar to a movie trailer), to share their book and try to get other people interested in reading it. I have never seen so much creativity and expansive vocabulary than I had seen on their final products. I was thoroughly impressed by them. This shows me that stepping outside of my own comfort box and allowing the students to display their creativity is an incredible experience and therefore has alleviated some of my concerns.
As of this moment, I am still comfortable with my goals and the steps I am taking to reach them. I do not have any questions, but I still have some concerns. The main point of where my concerns come from is my hesitation in trying new things. However, now that I see that stepping out of my norm works, maybe I will be more inclined to try it more often.
Goal 1: I have discovered that I have not always followed digital etiquette policies because they had never been brought to my attention. One mistake that I have made, at school, was not taking the time to double check an email before sending it. There are too many times where I am too busy, or am rushing through something to even think twice before sending. That has come back to haunt me the one time I actually said something I should not have. Now that I have had time to find resources and create an actual definition for digital etiquette that works for myself, I am more aware of my Internet and email interactions. This is useful because it will, in the end, keep me out of trouble in the future.
Goal 2: As I have started learning about different technology and the way it can be used in my classroom, I have found myself taking more risks with my students and allowing them to "play" with the technology for the hands on effect. Most recently, I have implemented a new use for PowerPoint. In the past, I have always used it for support to presentations; each slide sharing something new. Now I am using it for something more entertaining. Last week my students had finished their reading group books and I needed a culminating project for them to do. Instead of having them do something individually, I allowed them to work in groups on a Book Trailer (similar to a movie trailer), to share their book and try to get other people interested in reading it. I have never seen so much creativity and expansive vocabulary than I had seen on their final products. I was thoroughly impressed by them. This shows me that stepping outside of my own comfort box and allowing the students to display their creativity is an incredible experience and therefore has alleviated some of my concerns.
As of this moment, I am still comfortable with my goals and the steps I am taking to reach them. I do not have any questions, but I still have some concerns. The main point of where my concerns come from is my hesitation in trying new things. However, now that I see that stepping out of my norm works, maybe I will be more inclined to try it more often.
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