Blog Post # 12- Final Reflections

This course has been very challenging for me, in that I arrived with just the most basic knowledge, but also a definite fear of technology.  I'm happy to say that, although this type of learning does not come naturally to me, I have become much more comfortable with the various technologies, most of which were completely new to me, and also it all makes sense once I have gotten the "hang of it."  For example, the steps involved in uploading the various projects to my website were confusing to me at first; now I have no problem saving to the right file, connecting the links, etc.  Like following a recipe, it all makes sense, and with more and more practice, it becomes easier to master.

Besides the technical skills I have gained, I now have a good understanding of the fundamental technologies that are available to enhance the classroom learning experience.  Digital storyboards, podcasts, concept maps, interactive powerpoints, and so forth are excellent tools for engaging students in self-directed learning.  That is, the students can focus on areas of particular interest to them, and indeed, they can take advantage of technology to help them learn in the ways that best suit them; for example, auditory learning works best for some, visual for others.  And everyone benefits from the interactive nature of technology, which allows for students to not just receive information, but to create it as well.  A huge advantage of technology in the classroom is that it easily accomodates reflection:  students can reflect on their learning through blogs, wiki posts and such, and from saving drafts of their work along the way; but also can receive input from teachers and fellow students which allows for further thought by the student.

In sum, I have gained a greater knowledge of the available technology and how to use it, and a better understanding of the ways it can be used as a tool to enhance education.  I was pleased that the class also included a good amount of outside material to help us reflect on current issues, such as copyright infringement, gender and socioeconomic equity issues, and such.  The combination of technical skills, fluency in the application of these skills, and more abstract thinking about the pros and cons of technology in the classroom has been most helpful in preparing me to teach in the secondary school setting.