Final Thoughts on Last Class

Well the 8 weeks for my Understanding the Impact of Technology in Education, Work, and Society is coming to an end. With the course ending I have realized how much of an impact technology has in our society. With activities such as podcasting, blogging, and creating a wiki I have become more efficient in technology myself. I am now more aware of how to incorporate technology into my lessons in my classroom and how to relate to my students more with technology. I was very impressed when I did my podcasting that many 3rd graders are very comfortable with technology. My students are comfortable in using technology and yet I am still learning some of the devices that they use. The world is changing quickly!

One way that I plan on increasing student achievement is to talk to my students. The students are the ones who know how they learn best. I am going to talk with my students about what they would like to see in the classroom. I want to get their take on what I should be doing in my teachings. Not only can my students learn from me but I can learn from my students as well. It is naieve of me to think that only teachers have great answers. My students have taught me a lot over this course about technology. With that in mind I am now going to foster their knowledge into my lessons.

Two goals that I have for the next two years is to try to get more technology for my school. We only 2 computers per class and a limited amount of Elmo's. In order to get more technology for my school I plan on writing a grant with some of my coleuages in order to get the technology that we need for our students. It is sad to see that our students are not able to learn by using some of the greatest technology. I also plan to incorporate more technology within my lessons. I plan on having a blog next year for not only my students but for my parents as well. I feel that with a blog both parents and students can be discussing things that go on within the class not only during the school year but over the summer as well. For instance if a student (or should I say a parent) would like some extra practice over the summer I can easily send them links or work with them through blogs. There is no reason that learning can not take place just because school is not in session.

You Tube Video Regarding My Students Technology Experience

Here is a video where I ask 3 of my students questions about the technology that they have access to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHENjR2J6R0