Final Reflection

This class has made me realize that I need to teach little first graders all about technology because their futures depend on it. Future, as in their education as well as their life after school. Teachers are expected to keep up with the times and prepare students for jobs that do not exist yet. Wow! What a challenge!

My GAME plan is to continue learning about technology in a professional atmosphere. I have already been through some PD while in this class. I have learned how to create an Avatar, integrate iTouches into my lessons, utilize iMovie using my Flip Camera and I created a classroom website in iWeb. I believe that using this technology will increase student engagement and provide meaningful and purposeful lessons.

I have also investigated the use of VFT in the classroom. I am thrilled at the places I can "take" my students to. I will widen their horizons with the click of a button and a projection on a SMARTboard.

Although these students are merely 72 months, they are at times, ahead of the game and me! I love that I get to introduce these little kiddos to new technology before anyone else.

GAME plan check up

After referring to the NETS-S I have found that I am on track for assuring my students meet their standards. I feel that the communication and collaboration standard is the one I meet the most. I utilize a class website that also incorporates a blog for the parents and students to participate in.

I look forward to introducing my students to:

• iTouches
• Class blog
• Class website
• SMARTboard
• Lap top cart
• Flip Camera

All of these technologies that are available to my class will be useful in fulfilling my requirements to the NETS-S standards.

Revising the GAME plan

As I mentioned in my last post, I am going to use a pod cast or create something in Gargeband instead of trying to continue to find a VFT. This does not mean that I have given up on VFT because I think they are awesome. I just feel that I need to look into a VFT that can be used to engage learners in another area. I have found some really fun "destinations". Just need to figure out where they can fit into our content. :)

This past week during my training at the 21st Century Academy, I learned about a site called Glogster and I love it. I may try to also incorporate this into my plan.

School is nearing quickly and I am anxious to utilize all that I have been learning. It's hard to take some of these classes during the summer and not have the ability to "try out" a lesson or technique.