I began this class with hopes of learning about a few Web 2.0 tools and how to implement them into my classroom. What I gained was far more than that.
Before this class I felt like I was pretty knowledgeable in the area of technology. The first thing this class showed me is that I have a lot more to learn. Prior to this class I knew how to e-mail, navigate my way through a computer, and use different software programs like Keynote, Powerpoint, Garageband, and iMovie to name a few. I had begun dabbling in Twitter and Diigo. However, it was just dabbling. I had used Glogster twice, but never really viewed it from the standpoint of "Is this the best tool to use for this lesson?". It was more like, "Wow, this is cool and students will enjoy this new avenue of showing what they have learned." Now, I see the difference.
Throughout this course I was forced to actually stop and take the time to learn about different applications as well as to think about 21st century students and how we need to change our teaching to reflect changing society. I had to read and watch videos that were thought provoking and made me reflect on my own classroom and how I teach. This, I think, has been the most valuable part of the class. Reflection.
To begin, some tools I hope to implement into my class are blogging and wikis. As part of my class project I created a blog and I have created a wikispace for communication to students and parents. I hope to continue to extend my PLN and help my co-workers see the benefit of this. Interestingly, I received my "Back to School" letter from my principal and one whole afternoon of our first workshop next week is devoted to PLNs. I will now look at this differently than I had in the past. I can see how it is already working from me in this class and I am excited to see how he plans on integrating them into our school.
Moving forward, I know I will look back and see this class as a launching pad for changes that I will make. I will look at my lessons more closely. I will think about the students that sit in front of me and try to figure out the best way that I can help them on their path to becoming integral members of our future society. Thank you Kim, Theresa, Kirsten, Mel and Diane for sharing this learning experience with me and helping me to become a better educator. I wish you all success and I hope we will be able to stay in contact... maybe even perhaps become part of each others digital PLNs. Farewell!
Amy - What I am so excited about when I read your post is your thoughtful reflection of your teaching practices. As we know, it is not all about the fancy tools that we bring into the classroom, but it is about student learning. It is so wonderful that you are beginning to create a community with students and parents with your blog and wiki. I love that you are branching out and sharing what you learned with your coworkers. This is how we can integrate technology into our classes with ease and without fear. Because of teachers like you who are willing to share your knowledge and encourage others to do so. As we know, it takes time, planning and a lot of patience. How exciting that you will be working to create a PLN with your school community! Share away! Feel free to share any and all of the resources we have in our wiki. I will keep your membership open to come back anytime. Thank you for being a wonderful participant in this course.
ReplyDeleteAmy I think it is great that you are striving to bring your PLN to life. You have so many wonderful ideas that would be great to share with others. I hope we can stay in contact as I have really enjoyed communicating and collaborating with you!
ReplyDeleteHaving time for reflection is so vital to moving our practice ahead especially with technology. I appreciate your point about Glogster. It is cool but I think there are other ways to accomplish the same thing. It is great you get to spend some PD time on PLNs. That hasn't even been mentioned in our district :( which is odd given our amount of PD time and emphasis on collaboration and reflective practice.
ReplyDeleteI hope you have a wonderful school year implementing your ideas and projects!