Reflection

When I started this course eight weeks ago I was quite naive to the different tools that existed to create a technology rich classroom. Here I am eight weeks later more confident with the practices that I can implement in my classroom.
As a 21st century teacher of math I have learned about various web 2.0 tools such as web logs, wiki, podcast and voice thread. I was a little apprehensive initially but with guidance and direction from my instructor I gained confidence in applying these tools. I have come to realize that my first duty as a teacher is to prepare students with the knowledge and skills required to have the competitive edge in today's work world. I have tried to create a more student-centered classroom and moved away from the teacher-centered environment. I still take charge of the content and foundation skills that I want them to learn but more time is spent working collaboratively in groups to solve problems and incorporate more web 2.0 tools.
I understand more that our students have all this technology that they use everyday in their lives and by incorporating it in their daily lessons school can be a little more exciting for them. When they are held accountable for their own learning we encourage them to be independent thinkers and great problem-solvers.
The main reason I am pursuing this masters in integrating technology in the classroom is because I want to expand my knowledge of teaching, learning and leading with technology in order to increase student achievement. I will be incorporating blogs as a means of giving the students a voice to discuss their feelings in a positive light and to offer constructive criticism and practice their communication skills. I want to use wiki as a means of collaborative group projects. Most of my students today enjoy working in groups. By encouraging them to produce their work by using a wiki they will have a medium that even in years to come after they have graduated from high school they can look back to see their work they produced. I am still unsure how I will incorporate podcast in the teaching of math.
One obstacle I face is that we have to teach to the test. My goal is to incorporate more technology to reinforce concepts learned and required for passing the state tests. This should increase scores since students will be able to practice even when they are not in a school setting. Incorporating the web 2.0 tools will also allow them to speak about their individual problems with a particular topic or skill and receive feedback that will help them to be more proficient.
My other goal is to encourage as many of my coworkers to embrace this new tool. Too often we change our method of teaching by instead of lecturing we place the same notes in a power point presentation. Nothing has really changed but how we deliver the content. In incorporating web 2.0 tools we not only change the way we transfer information but create more responsible leaders for the 21st century. Students learn how to work together and take responsibility for their learning.
It sure was great meeting many new people. I especially liked working with my groups. I was challenged to ask more meaningful questions and write more challenging posts. This course really took me a little out of my comfort zone but it was a great challenge. I really learned a lot.