1. I’ve learned a couple things about effective teaching strategies when integrating technology. First, and probably most important, be prepared. Technology works differently depending on the computer you are using or the program you are running. There is always a really good chance that a video clip that once worked on your home computer might not work on the computer you are using in the classroom. On a more serious note, I’ve learned ways to incorporate technology into my teaching that I don’t actually have to present. For example, a StAIR will allow students to learn a concept or practice something they have already learned using technology and I don’t need to be there telling them what to do. Technology can be a great way to make learning more effective for students if used appropriately.
2. Integrating web-based technologies has helped me think about and evaluate uses of technology in different ways. Some teachers might think that using Power Point to present information to students is a good way of incorporating technology into their teaching. While this is technology, there are so many other ways to help students learn concepts. Take wikis for example. Students can contribute to an existing wiki or create their own to prove that they have understanding of a certain concept. Other students can also get on to that wiki and contribute their information or edit what has been written. It can be a great tool for collaboration as well as demonstrating understanding. If a teacher is set on using Power Point, then there are ways to make the presentation more appropriate for a variety of different learning styles. They should add video clips or even their own sound or voice-overs.
3. Personal Goals for Learning and Technology and Integration:
One of the things I really wanted to do before this class started was create a class web page. I have one through my school district, but it is not a very good system- it is more of a holding place for information. I was extremely excited to be able to use Weebly with such ease and most importantly, without taking so much time. I was able to create a professional looking web site for my classroom and can use it to communicate information to families. Another goal of mine was to be able to learn about some tools that would better incorporate technology with ease into my curriculum. I have found tools like using wikis and creating a StAIR to be two things that I can use.
4. I am not sure about new goals. Right now I am still trying to take in everything I’ve learned and am trying to incorporate them into my teaching. It is hard to imagine what else I can do right now, but hope that in the future I will be able to use technology in all areas of my teaching and that it will become second nature to think about technology when doing plans and designing lessons.
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