Reflection+Eight


 * **// Reflection Prompt: //** Summarize your learning for this term. How will you use the knowledge you have constructed to improve your use of technology for learning in your class and for your own personal and professional development? **

Description: Even though I have used technology as an integral part of my instructional practice for the past seven years, becoming a student in an instructional technology program has introduced me to the demands of using digital technology effectively to facilitate learning. The most critical concept learned was TPCK. Technology is still considered by many educators to be an add on instead of integral link in best practices. There are also many levels using technology effectively in the classroom. As with any other practice, using technology should be mindful and should always be looked at through the TPCK lens. I have learned to do that more often since beginning this program. If my plans to use digital technology do not pass the TPCK test and can be done just as effectively without digital tools, I now think about this and often times have selected to use paper and pencil instead. I have also been more cognizant of the digital divides. In my district, the teacher mediated instruction divide seems to be the most serious. As a technology coach and leader, it is important to me to help other teachers begin to use digital technology in their classrooms as an integral part of their instruction to benefit all students.

Impact: I have been selecting my digital technology use more mindfully with the TPCK alway in mind. I presented to a local community club to demonstrate how using digital technology transforms the learning process in my classroom.

Intent: I plan to continue to cautiously select digital technology using the TPCK guide mindfully. I plan to gently coach other teachers who are demonstrating an interest in developing their own style of digital technology use in the classroom. I also plan to work with my building and district administrators in establishing a digital learning community. I would like to learn more about the student technology teams that were mentioned in one of the articles.