Fifth Grade Math and Science Teacher
Final Reflective Statement
Over the course of the semester, I have grown to understand the true meaning of integrating technology in the classroom. Integrating technology into classroom instruction means more than creating PowerPoint presentations and teaching computer skills. Effective technology integration is achieved when the use of technology enhances student learning and supports learning objectives and curriculum goals. Technology integration allows students to foster creativity, strengthen their critical thinking abilities, and build real-world skills that will enable students to be prepared for a 21st century world.
EDT500 taught me that incorporating technology in the classroom doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming for teachers and students. Assignments such as creating a comic strip through Halftone or designing and participating in an Instagram scavenger hunt enabled me to see firsthand the ease in which technology can be navigated and incorporated in the classroom. It became clear to me from the first assignment that I could use technology-based projects to assess students’ mastery of a standard just as effectively (and even more so) than traditional assessment methods.
Through EDT 500, I was exposed to new resources that I could incorporate into my classroom to enhance instruction and student learning. These resources were low-cost, easy to use apps that people of all ages could quickly navigate and master. This course has taught me that technology such as iPads and laptops are not just content consumption devices, but also effective content creation devices. Through assignments, I discovered how to use these resources and ways I could incorporate them into classroom instruction, activities, and assessments.
I am fortunate to work at a school that believes in using technology to support the growth and development of both teachers and students. As a result, I have access to a wide array of resources as well as the support of administration to take risks and incorporate new technology into the classroom. Though I have access to various technological resources, I stand to face challenges when integrating new technology in the classroom.
Educators are constantly pressed for time. When new technology enters the classroom, time must be devoted to walking students through applications, sharing model examples, and answering lingering questions. Often time technology doesn’t work the way we’d hope it would – apps crash, freeze, or stop working altogether. Technology often excites both teachers and students, but it can cause a great deal of frustration as well. Student absences can create difficulties for groups as they collaborate on projects together.
While educators are faced with a host of obstacles when integrating technology in the classroom, I stand to rise above the challenges. With great determination, problem solving, and a collaborative effort, the challenges noted above can be overcome. I will strive to use the knowledge and skills learned in EDT 500 to enhance classroom instruction and learning; helping students develop the 21st century skills they need to become college, career, and life ready.