Class Reflection

This class helped me develop my technology skills as a teacher by just telling me what the technology is and how to use it. I had a random blog that I use to vent and journal with, but I never knew how to use it in a class until now. I understand better how teaching and learning go together and how to use technology to bridge the gap. It isn't all about me presenting information, it's about the students understanding and learning. I can present all I want, but if I don't taylor my presentation to suit my students needs, then neither of us are getting anywhere. If I continue to learn more about new and emerging technologies and how I can incorporate them into a lesson for the good of my students, then they will be better off for it. Staying on top of technology is so important in this day and age. I need to stay informed and keep my students informed so that they can grow to be the best they can possible be.

One goal for the next 2 years is to consistently use blogs in my classroom. At least once a week I want to have a blog assignment for my students and have them comment on the blogs of other students. Another goal is to use podcasting as a means of student showcase and getting parent and community involvement with the students and the school in general. These goals will not be easy to achieve due to limited computer/internet time allowed in school and the general negativity associated with blogging and podcasting with young people. However, I plan to plead my case with the administration giving detailed descriptions of the assignments and how to manage the entries so that nothing inappropriate will be allowed. The same for podcasting and how I will personally oversee each podcast in class.

I feel that I have grown through this course. I am more knowledgeable and more open-minded about using technologies and how to use them in the classroom. I look forward to learning more about new technologies and how I can use them to better reach a variety of students and learning styles.

-Mary Beth-

Podcast nightmare

Well ladies and gentlemen, after much wailing and gnashing of teeth, I think I finally got this podcast to work on a hosting site. It worked on my computer, the computer at the library, and on a friends computer, so if it decides to quit working... I think I may just give up. *sigh*

I hope it works for you. Take care friends!

-MB

Link:

http://halemary27.podbean.com/