Week 8 Reflection

Eight weeks ago I began this class knowing about and using only a very few of the technology tools that can be utilized in the classroom. I was more teacher-centered in my daily activities and did not fully realize the importance of integrating technology into my lessons. In just a short time, I have learned how to blog, create podcasts, and wikis. I have recognized the importance in further developing my own technology skills, so that I can be a true 21st century educator. If someone had told me that in eight, short weeks I would begin not only to greatly expand my knowledge of technology, but also actually put this new knowledge to immediate use in my classroom, I am not sure I would have believed them. But, it is true and this has happened!

Perhaps one of the most important ideas that I will take from this course is the fact that I, myself, can never stop learning. In reading about the 21st century learning skills that are essential for our students to have, I recognize the fact that technology is everywhere in our future and it will become even more integrated in our daily lives as time moves forward. It is imperative for me as an educator to continue collaborating with colleagues, further my studies and training in this area, and above all, continually evaluate my teaching practices in hopes of increasing student achievement. In short, I will be the life-long learner!

My first goal in transforming my classroom environment is to set up a class website. This will enable me to use less paper, while still keeping parents up to date on all that is happening in our classroom. I hope to post pictures, use blogs, and even podcasts. Although it may take a while for my first graders and their parents to get used to this, I believe it will be beneficial to all. My second goal is to integrate the use of more technology in my lessons. Instead of technology being a free-time activity, it will become part of the learning process. This will require more collaborative efforts with my peers and time, but I feel strongly that technology can assist in reaching the various learning styles of my students. We now live in a time where people are used to having answers at their fingertips, exciting graphics, and multimedia. If I don't keep up, then not only will I suffer, but my students will also.

In conclusion, this class has renewed my excitement for teaching. It has opened a window into all that is truly necessary to prepare my students for a successful future. It has also shown me how technology does and will likely always play a tremendous role in our daily lives.