Reflecting on Integrating Technology

Throughout this course, I have used the GAME plan process to stay focused during a journey of self-directed learning. Selecting two standards and creating an action plan were the first steps. The weekly monitoring and blogging on the GAME plan kept me on track to achieve greater proficiency in the two standards initially selected. Over the past eight weeks, I have discovered many great resources and ideas for engaging students in real-world, authentic problems using digital tools. Beginning with lessons I have already taught, I have been able to confidently add technology, collaboration, and excitement to existing units of study. It was not necessary to reinvent the wheel, just tweak it. Students have been very engaged with these updated lessons.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue working on my initial goals but set new goals as well. The new goals really extend or broaden the current ones to greater learning communities. I hope to connect with other school systems, not just other classrooms in my building and district, and to exhibit more leadership in the area of technology by showcasing the work being done in my room and elsewhere.

The immediate adjustments that I am making include adding more collaboration with digital tools such as wikis and Google Docs. Another immediate adjustment is to highlight the NETS-S standard(s) of focus in each new project or unit. Posting a standard as part of the essential question introduces the language to the students and keeps the class focused on both the process and the content. I am also incorporating digital storytelling throughout all content areas. There are so many tools to use and ways for students to demonstrate learning through digital storytelling.

Students love to use technology, and they are comfortable with it. Technology supports students' individual needs, facilitates creative problem solving, and enriches the learning experiences. Introducing tools that build powerful connections to information and to peers, we are preparing our students with 21st century skills.