Reflection+Two

=Reflection Two=

Description:

As I begin to evaluate artifacts for my pre-competency verification, it becomes evident that using technology in a transformative way is quite difficult. I have had only one experience that could be considered transformative and that is having guested an international student from Brazil who was here in the USA at Kent State University studying how American teachers use technology in the classroom. These opportunities are difficult to establish. I tried several years ago to establish a relationship with a classroom in Hawaii and Connecticut. The one problem that occured with both classrooms was the time difference. As I teach in a middle school, I have classes throughout the day. It was impossible to find convenient times for both schools to meet. We could have done messaging back and forth, but that to me is not much different than typical pen pals. The few times we were able meet via SKYPE were so much more engaging and enriching. Classrooms on both sides were excited when we had face to face meetings, but because of the difficulty in finding times that were convenient, the meetings did not occur for long. I need more exposure to other teachers who have successfully established relationships with classrooms in other parts of the world.

Impact:

I learned that it is difficult to establish global learning relationships. The time difference is a huge constraint as is trying to make contact for five different sessions of classes throughout the day. When it works, the students are excited to share and discuss topics in a more authentic manner.

Intent:

Hopefully, through the IT program, I will learn more and better ways to make this happen in the future so my students can use technology as a window for learning about other cultures.