Reflecting on the Bridge of Technology and Instruction

     In the beginning of my Walden course, I developed a personal learning theory to explain how my instruction is driven by the ways in which my students’ brains work. I discussed the importance of attending to cognitive and social learning theories. I still believe that it is important for students to be given structured learning experiences through cognitive tools. I also still find it important for students to work cooperatively and learn from each other. After taking this course, there are a few modifications that I would make based on what I have learned. As I originally stated, a teacher’s theory of learning will change from class to class and grade to grade. Since I am transitioning from third grade to Pre-K, I will have to start from the basics when integrating technology, but I will put a stronger emphasis on teaching the students to learn how to effectively work cooperatively. Pre-K students are completely unaware of what is expected in a school setting, so my lessons will have to be very structured, to hold their attention. Thankfully, I have learned about technology tools in this course that I will be able to integrate in my Pre-K classroom as well.


     I have learned about several technology tools that I would like to use to enhance the teaching practices that I currently use. Rather than having students simply stand up and present a piece of work, I would like to teach my students how to use VoiceThreads to display and explain what they have done. VoiceThreads will allow the students to share and be proud of their work, as well as allowing the students to learn from each other’s work and develop ideas that are more creative. I will also be using more virtual field trips and Webquests to teach my students. These technology tools will allow students to expand on their personal experiences through online instruction. Since all schools have taken a big cut financially, virtual field trips will allow the students to have an experience and learn, without leaving the classroom.

     The two long-term changes that I would like to make to my classroom are to teach my students how to properly use technology tools, and allowing students to share more of their work via the internet. Since my students are so young, my technology integration will have to be very guided. To teach my students how to use technology, we will cooperatively complete Webquests as a class so that all of the students are able to contribute their prior knowledge. I will also load the students’ work onto the computer and allow the students to add their voice to their work so that the class can all share through VoiceThreads. When teaching higher grades in the future, I hope to be able to take the time to teach them how to use technology tools so that they can use them to develop their own work. I believe that all technology integration first requires guidance of the teacher, and eventually our students will be prepared for their futures in using technology in their education and careers.

The Battle of Homework VoiceThread

I apologize for posting this late in the week, but I just returned from my cruise!

I created a VoiceThread about my struggle to get students to complete homework. Here is the link:

http://voicethread.com/share/1197602/

Enjoy and I look forward to hearing your feedback!

Tiffany