Reflection 5

I enter the class feeling like I knew all I wanted to know about technology, however, by Friday I found myself inspired again to learn using technology and to enhance my teaching skills by continuing to update my tech skills.  I am one of the few people in this country who has yet to get an Iphone, ipad or ipod for the simple reason of addiction.  My 75 year old parents have all of thI spent a week at Disney World this past Thanksgiving and I was mortified that so many people who traveled to the "best vacation place on earth" spent so much of their time talking, texting, checking e-mail, checking the weather, planning tomorrow and missing all that being in the presence has to offer.  I was impressed that my children chose not to engage in the use of technology during this vacation and the fact that I didn't have to take the devices away.  They were just occupied by having a great time.  I am so afraid of becoming like everyone else who doesn't look-up from their gadget that I refuse to buy into one.  I don't want to be a hypocrite. After leaving the class and learning all the different ways I could use these devises to enhance my teaching I am eager to get one.  I know I will need to put limits on my use and know when to leave it at home.

Once I allowed myself to let go of my tech hang up I jumped right back in where I left off with my technology use and skills.  I am self taught which makes having conversations a challenge when asking questions or helping others, but I think I managed.  I have shared so much of what I learned with different people I have run into since the class which is not all that uncommon when I get excited about something.

I enjoyed the constructivist format of teaching and learning and I will admit that I have moved away from it for no other reason than conforming to what I was seeing and hearing in the classrooms around me.  I know my passion for this approach stems from my interest in Gardner's multiple intelligence theory of learning, as well as, my understanding of how to engage children in their own learning.

I have to step back and take some advice when it comes to not over doing it.  I have spent so much of my time working on the stuff I have learned mainly because I am afraid I will forget something.   I have added so much to my livebinders to organize my upcoming school year as well as creating a webpage for the 3 schools I teach at.  Each school will have their own link with just there stuff on it along with combined pages that have pictures of projects, tips, parent info, ect.

The presentations were a great way for me to see new uses of technology.  I took so much away and have checked in to many of the ideas.  I will say I am disappointed that I can not find an e-lesson book for art that includes the standards.  How easy would that make life.  

Adam, I thank you for revitalizing my passion for technology as a tool.  I enjoyed your class, your stories, your interests in others with talents.  I would love your play list.  I struggle finding suitable music to play in the classroom.   Did you create it yourself or is there a tool for that too?  Take care, Tessa