Reflection

I have always felt strongly about integrating technology in my classroom. Many teachers have come to me with questions since I began teaching Business in 5 years ago. I do not consider my myself to be an expert in the field of technology but I certainly put forth the effort to be an effective user of technology.
EDUC6710 has been an enjoyable course that has allowed me to improve my technology skills for my students. Not only have I had the opportunity to explore new Web 2.0 tools, I was able to apply the skills in my current classroom teachings. I have become comfortable with using blogs, wikis and podcasts and appreciate all the great resources that were available throughout this course.
As a teacher I was able to communicate with my peers that taught in teaching environments very different from mine and it allowed me to get new ideas for my own students. Technology can enhance the teaching and learning process. Technology should not be optional. In 2009, students are expected to have basic technology skills. It is our responsiblity as teachers to ensure that they get them.

I have learned in this course that in order to be learner-centered we must be willing to do things that will directly benefit the student. It may be a challenge to keep up with the latest technology but technology integration is what students need. As teachers, it is impossible to prepare students with 21st Century Skills without being able to integrate the technology that they need to be able to use and understand.

As long as there is new technology, there will be the need to expand my knowledge. In order for me to teach with technology, I will have to constantly sharpen my skills and seek professional development opportunities. I am committed to lifelong learning because I know that it is the only way to stay abreast of the ever-changing technologically savvy world in which we live.
I am motivated to work with the teachers in my school so that I can help them with their technology skills. As an Academy Leader, I plan to have a work session to teach teachers how to use their class websites and blogs. I believe that with some training, technology can be integrated in all classrooms, regardless of content.
One long-term goal for my classroom is to become totally web friendly for my students. I want to have everything that they need to complete my course on the web for them and organized by units as we progress. Another long-term goal is to create a course wiki that would allow students to connect from semester to semester. In Business, it is imperative that students learn from each other. My school district currently has most free Wiki sites blocks and I am working to gain access to a Wiki site for my students.

Resources:Richardson, W. (2006). Blogs, wiks, podcasts, and other powerful web tools for classrooms (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.