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1) How did you use knoweldge , skills and dispositions developed within
the MS in Educational Technology program to support and advance student learning, creativity, and reflection and curriculum
innovation, assessment, and revision?
My
educational energy has risen to a new level. The Edu masters courses I have taken are energizing and exciting. I have been
exposed to so many new technology possibilities for my students. Students in my lab will learn skills valuable for their
success in the 21st century.
I have incorporated the knowledge I have gained from my masters courses into my classroom guaranteeing
a student centered learning experience. With constructivism at the forefront of my lesson planning, blended with a few
other influences, I create lessons in which students use their inquiry skills and critical thinking to create original products. I spend much of my preparation time creating lessons that are overflowing with hands-on
opportunities, use of visuals, manipulatives, interactive discussions, acting out, real-life applications, reading passages
and so many more components that stem from the ideas of Multiple Intelligences . Technology provides the avenues to make
this possible. I firmly believe that all levels of children can benefit from curriculum that is enriched with the Multiple
Intelligences in mind.
I display the constructivist approach by getting to know my students; each year as
I become familiar with their family life, extracurricular talents, and academic strengths. For an example of a student all
about me sheet which I created see appendix V. When I design lessons I begin units with an interactive class discussion and
activity. As I observe the students I can gauge their understanding of the material, and adapt my lesson if necessary. By
showing respect for my students and praising them for their progress they feel safe and want to learn.
Collaboration
possibilities are endless! I have experienced so many new technology rich ideas and resources for enriching my science classes
for my students which are included but not limited to the following items ( for additional information please visit my school
website):
I
have also been able to pass on ideas to my colleagues. I have gained skills in website development. I have learned to utilize
the Internet as an efficient tool of communication for my students and colleagues. Technology has given me tools I need to
create a learner-centered environment and increase motivation as noted by Holmes and Gardner (e-Learning pgs 82-85). My
students are able to take assessments online and then be provided with immediate feedback. In my classroom students create
virtual vacations visiting National Parks as they teach the geology to their classmates.
After several years of teaching I have now taken a new look at the many learning theories to advance
student learning in my classroom. In the science classroom I have found it necessary to instruct and then have children
repeat what you have proposed in a behavorist fashion (Holmes and Gardner pg 80 2006) , then proceed to science inquiry asking
the student apply the knowledge recently obtained and think critically. I assess them on the accurate application of their
new science skills. (Adelson 2004)
All
of the courses I have taken in this Educational Technology program, especially Edu 511 reflection on theorists, have increased
my process of self reflection. I have taken this program seriously and thoroughly enjoyed the energy gained through professional
collaboration as indicated in my disposition from Edu 570. I appreciate the opportunity of partaking in this program.
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