Personal Learning Reflection

I have learned that there are both benefits and challenges when trying to integrate technology and use multiple teaching strategies at the same time. One of the benefits for using different pedagogical strategies is meeting the needs of many learning styles within the classroom. It also allows for choice which often increases student interest and motivation. Using multiple strategies also presents a challenge. Presenting a concept in multiple ways often takes additional time and resources, which most teachers do not have.

Integrating the internet allowed me to see the many resources available. Learning about the various sites also taught me to be more critical when selecting sites or WebQuests to use in my classroom. Many of the sites can be used to save time and allow more time for teaching. My favorite site is Delicious because I use it on a daily basis to bookmark sites that I want to use with my Promethean board at school.

I feel that my STAIR project is an example of good technology and teaching. It is something that I will take away from this course and be able to directly apply into my classroom. I now view PowerPoint in a new light. Prior to this course, I would have never selected this program to create something meaningful for my class. Now I see how simple and effective the program is and I plan to make many more presentations. One of the strategies incorporated into my project is the inductive strategy. The project provides several examples of various times and has the students analyze the similarities to form a conclusion. The project also incorporates questions and provides the learner with feedback to ensure active participation. The project incorporates scaffolding, as well. Information is presented at the beginning of the project and guides the students toward working independently as it goes on. One of the strengths of the project is the oral, written, and visual components to address different learning styles. It also requires interaction for the learner and provides them with feedback. Extensions are provided at the end for students who would like additional practice or would like to be challenged. This allows for differentiated instruction to meet the needs of many learners. Additionally, the project offers visuals and movements to keep the learner interested and involved. I personally did not care for the WebQuest portion of the course. I felt like the reading level on most WebQuests was too high for the students I work with and they were often tricky to navigate. I preferred using PowerPoint and including additional tasks/links as extensions.

One of my personal goals was to apply and integrate what I learned in this course into my current classroom and teaching practices. I wanted my work to directly relate to the students in my classroom. I believe I have reached this goal. I have more confidence when using new technology in my classroom. (I was asked by my principal to pilot a Promethean Board and allow other teachers to observe me using the board as I teach.) I use my delicious account to bookmark sites I want to use at home and school. I will introduce and have each student complete my STAIR project when we begin our unit on telling time later in the year. I began a Google Document for monthly newsletter so that all the first grade teachers could contribute and edit the document. Additionally, I am more aware of using various strategies and where to find helpful resources.

My goals are to continue to learn about the seemingly never ending technological resources available to educators. I would like to use my Promethean board more effectively and more often. I am hoping to receive training soon. I would like to create similar programs to the STAIR project that I can use within the classroom to introduce or reinforce specific areas of the curriculum. I plan on continuing to follow my RSS page to keep updated on various technological topics and happenings. I would like to create a classroom blog for parents. I would like to look into becoming e-pals with another class to increase student confidence with technology. Another thing I could like to incorporate and further explore is the use of VoiceThreads to increase student collaboration and participation.