EDUC 6717I-New and Emerging Technologies Reflection

As I sit down to write this final reflection, I feel a huge range of emotions. I am thankful to have been a part of such a wonderful program and to have learned so much from the instructors and colleagues. I am excited to be finished, yet apprehensive as to exactly how I am going to implement all that I have learned. The new school year is almost here and already I am staying awake at night trying to think of ways to incorporate technology into my lessons. Perhaps I need to remember one of the first things I learned...baby steps!

At the beginning of this program I didn't know what blogs, wikis, podcasts, or even voicethreads were. I looked at digital gaming to be something that should be left at home for free time. I couldn't have been more wrong. Probably most importantly, I have learned that change is good and necessary. I have colleagues who refuse to catch up with 21st century learning skills, saying that it's just too difficult to implement. As a change agent, my goal is to show them through my lessons that it is not too difficult. I believe that the more they see students getting excited about their learning, they too will want to get involved. Although these classes have come to an end, I will strive to keep the lines of communication with others open so that I can continue to identify even more emerging technologies and how to use them effectively. It is really true to say that we as teachers are life long learners! This class has shown me that digital gaming can be a successful teaching tool when used appropriately. These tools actually play a part in transforming teaching and learning in that it is no longer teacher based. Students are able to take into consideration their own learning styles and adjust the tools as they see fit. This gives even young students so much power. Finally, this class has made me realize that lack of funding or tools is no excuse. As the change agent, it is my job to research the grants, communicate with my administration about our needs, and work with my colleagues to find a way.

In closing, I would sincerely like to thank everyone who has gone through this amazing journey with me. I agree with those who say it's all a little blurry right now, but I wouldn't have traded this learning experience for anything. I look forward to keeping in touch and continuing our learning, even though we may be miles apart. Thank you for sharing all of the great resources and giving such insightful comments. I wish you all the best of luck and I can't wait to implement some of our new ideas together!

Amy