Reflective thoughts

It is important to set goals for our classrooms. For this course, I had to create a GAME plan to focus on two areas of integrating technology in the classroom. I set two goals: (1) to promote and model digital citizenship and (2) engage in professional growth and leadership. I learned that I have to make intentional efforts to model digital citizenship for my students. I focused on citing the sources I use in the classroom and I made sure my students cited their work when they researched information on the web. I also learned that engaging in professional growth is essential for me to stay current with new technologies. I have fun talking and discussing educational technology with other teachers and always walk away with new ideas to try.

I have already made some adjustments in my curriculum. Before break, my students engaged in a research project for science where they used the computers for research. We discussed digital citizenship and then talked about ways that they could use technology to present their information. I spend a significant amount of time discussing the citation of their sources. This next semester, I want to talk with other teachers in my content area and create activities where students are creatively using technology, but also learning the standards simultaneously.

Students enjoy using technology and I am always so surprised by their creativity. I have learned that high standards still need to be set, even if the students are using the computers as a learning tool. Creating rubrics is a great way for students to know the expectations. I have really enjoyed this course and have learned a great deal in regards to using creative project-based learning, collaborative activities, and digital storytelling to help my students understand the content.