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.

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.

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.