Looking Back, Looking Ahead

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I want to take time to reflect my educational technology journey since my first blog: “Introduction 8/26/13”. I have learned so much about incorporating technology in the past four months. I have always believed that technology incorporation in the curriculum is imperative in order to help students be equipped with the adequate tools for a competitive 21^st century global market. However, the only difference between August 26 and now is that I now know various ways to incorporate technology in order to facilitate a more effective learning environment. I am confident more than ever that I have the knowledge and skills to teach the 21^st century learners.

 Twelve Posts

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If you look at my twelve preceding blog posts, you will have a better understanding on where my exuding confidence stems from. I have learned and experienced internet research findings regarding technology, developmental stages of technology, webinars, digital investigations, digital stories, substantial technological educational resources, PLNs, web 2.0 tools, and media literacy. These past four months has assured me that technology integration in the class provides a more innovative method for differentiation and engages the students in their learning.

Essentially technology helps teachers connect with their students and allows an innovative fun learning environment. As constructivists point out, meaningful learning occurs when students connect and personalize their learning and technology can accomplish this with the help of a teacher strategically implementing it in the curriculum.

Web 2.0 Tools

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As stated, I have learned a multiple of web 2.0 tools, but there is one that has captivated me. QR Codes has revolutionized activities within my lesson plans and units. Saying that I love QR Codes would be an understatement. If you want to see an example of how I have used QR Codes as an activity take a look at my post: QR Codes Tool: Native-American Unit. You can also visit my QR Codes page on Scribd by clinking Here.

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“We need technology in every classroom and in every student and teacher’s hand, because it is the pen and paper of our time, and it is the lens through which we experience much of our world.” – DavidWarlick

“Teaching in the Internet age means we must teach tomorrow’s skills today.” – Jennifer Fleming