That’s All Folks! I wish everyone in group 3 the best of luck in whatever you will be doing after this semester; it went by quite quickly and I am sure you all wish it would have dragged on. For my , sniff sniff, final blog I have decided to share a few last comments on educational technology as a whole in regards to my definition of it and the first objective of this class (I believe this one was the most significant).
Educational Technology: When reflecting upon my previous definition of educational technology written at the beginning of the semester, I still agree with it. However, I would also like to place a strong emphasis on how it is incorporated into the classroom. Educational technology would not exist if there was no teacher who could effectively bring it to the students, teach them the necessary skills and knowledge, and ensure everyone experiences success. Today’s students require technology in their daily lives in order to grow accustomed to it and understand its benefits; this can be accomplished in a seemingly endless amount of ways that will be demonstrated throughout the portfolio. Throughout this course, I have come to understand that educational technology is not taught in a course on its own; for instance, students do not have to wait until computers or practical applied arts class to learn about technology. Technology can, and must, be taught through all subjects. For example, in grade eight arts education the curriculum suggests a theme of constructed environments (http://www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/docs/artsed/g8arts_ed/g8vu11ae.html). Here the students can use digital technology to capture images of a constructed environment within the school or on the playground; this will enhance their observation skills and provide insights into their cultures’ values and beliefs. Once pictures have been collected students can express their work in a variety of ways, such as slide shows, videos, and computerized graphic enhancements. Although my definition of educational technology has grown since the beginning of the semester, I believe it will never be complete because technology is always changing; therefore, there can never be a fully developed definition. It is my goal to constantly be using technology in both my personal and professional lifestyles. I can assure all parents/guardians of my future students, that their child will receive a high level of technology understanding and experience!
Objective #1: Develop knowledge, skills, and confidence in using technology appropriate to K-12 classrooms (objective #1).
Upon partaking in ECMP 355 I was confident with computers; however, my confidence simply circulated around personal use and entertainment. I was able to conduct the basics with computers, such as checking email, creating word documents, uploading photos, listening to music and playing video games. After taking this course, I now have a new found sense of confidence with computers in regards to professionalism. I have gained valuable skills and knowledge in technology, while understanding how to successfully integrate technology into the classroom. I have been presented with new programs and possibilities in which I have experienced success with. I truly feel fortunate to have taken this class because I am more confident in my own abilities with technologies; I will not hesitate to teach computers. I believe I can use technology in any grade level from kindergarten to grade twelve; the ideas would be fairly constant. Technologies offer a wide range of specialties from simple to complex; therefore, I would be able to adapt appropriately to meet the needs’ of my students.
