Thursday, December 15, 2011

CEP 811 Reflection


Throughout my CEP 811 course, Adapting Innovative Technology to Education I have learned about effective strategies to implement when integrating technology. The instructional design principles process had me re-evaluate my lessons for optimal goal-directed teaching focusing on motivation, socialization, audience and technology needs. The Universal Design for Learning focused on reaching “all” learners. During this session I was re-introduced to the fact that all my students learn differently and to be sure to design my curriculum to accommodate all backgrounds, strengths and diverse needs. I think this is always in the back of an educator’s head, but I believe more could be done in the classroom to increase success. I have since implemented written, verbal, and visual directions for most projects in my art room. It is especially necessary when introducing a new technology to the students, when not knowing individual skill levels.
Web-based technologies are great for schools, especially since many are free! Google Docs is an excellent example, as well as Google sites. I was glad to be introduced to Merlot. It is a great resource for teachers to use in the classroom. I found great interactive web-based technologies to integrate into an art classroom. The completion of this course has helped me reach some of my personal technology goals, by becoming more familiar with integrating technology into an art curriculum and feeling confident to implement these elements into my classroom, such as a classroom website and interactive web activities. The World Wide Web is full of resources and I feel like I have only begun experiencing the tip of the iceberg, I am excited to continue my journey of educational technology. 

1 comment:

  1. The "tip of the iceberg" is correct... However, remember that there are a lot of technologies that help you reach the same objective. It will be important to find out what works best for you, your subject, and in your school. I love Google Docs and Sites. They have helped me be a better communicator and teacher. I hope you continue to find success in implementing these tools into your classroom.

    Thank you for all your hard work in CEP 811. It has been obvious how much you care about your students. I hope you feel empowered to serve them better! Keep it up.

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