Welcome to my first-ever blog post! I have contemplated for several days now on
how best to kick off this new “technological journey.” I’ve never been one for journaling, and when
it comes to utilizing social media, my experience comes to a halt at
Facebook. Even in that realm, my level
of participation rarely exceeds the obligatory weekly status update, sporadic “liking”
of links or quotes, and posting of way too many pictures of my dogs.
When writing, I tend to labor over each sentence—if not
word—so, unless for the purpose of something academic, I much prefer to express
myself through speech. That being said,
as I read the insightful and witty entries of my peers I can see the merit in the
blogging method. Though I’m a bit
resistant, I will do my very best to embrace it!
Now, on to the task at hand…delving into my reflection on
our class last Friday.
I have truly enjoyed and appreciated the discussions we’ve had
during our MAC classes overall. We
interact, we challenge one another, we respectfully listen to new ideas and
perspective and, along the way, we learn a lot more than we ever would on our
own! Our experience on Friday no
exception—we quickly engaged in a thought provoking, intriguing discussion
about using technology in our classrooms.
I think I was most “wowed” by the idea that you can
completely change the process of learning just by adding in a single new
dimension. With the example of bringing
a digital camera to class, the students completely altered their approach to a
lab exercise the moment they realized they would be accountable for their work
in a public context. Hmmmmm…sounds like
ME right about now!! (Knowing that this
blog is visible to anyone and everyone has me trying my best to write as
eloquent a piece as possible—doubtful I’ll succeed J)
As teachers-in-training, we have an overwhelming amount of
new information to process—theories of practice, pedagogical styles, the
psychology of our students, curriculum standards. Adding in yet another dimension—technology—at
first seemed rather daunting to me (admittedly, I am not the most
technologically savvy person). However,
I have to say that after reading about the ways to cultivate an interactive
classroom and the importance of teaching to “digital natives” in a way that has
substantial meaning, I’m less intimidated about the need to create a “tech
friendly” environment and more excited to take on the challenge!
You so succinctly distilled the Shesky article. It was enlightening. I had not thought of the digital photos as a single element. Do not worry about your writing. You clearly have a unique perspective that is appealing to readers (this one, at least!). The fact that you have never made your writing public before is compelling. I sincerely look forward to watch/read how your ideas and writing develops.
ReplyDeleteThank you so very much! I am actually beginning to enjoy writing these blogs, and even more so, I have loved reading the blogs of our fellow classmates. This truly is a fantastic way to gain deeper insight on how each of us thinks and broaden our own perspectives based on the shared knowledge of others.
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your post. I too was intrigued by this idea that you can change the culture of a classroom by adding a new element. Adding technology to the classroom seems daunting to me, as I too am not the most savvy when it comes to technology but I am excited to see how it can completely change the shape of a classroom. I look forward to reading more of you posts!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Katie! I think over the past few weeks in this class we have seen--and experienced--simple ways to incorporate technology, such that the process seems significantly less daunting.. I definitely do not feel nearly the same degree of apprehension or nervousness about utilizing technological resources in the classroom...and in many ways, I actually look forward to it now!
DeleteI share your sentiments about blogging. I do not put my thoughts online. As of lately I have minimized my Facebook participation to accepting friend requests, looking at posts, and friending a few people. I think blogging will be a fun way to discuss topics in this class. I thought it was interesting how the students reacted to having their work photographed. Their motivation to put forth their best effort was strengthened because their peers would also have access to their work. I enjoyed reading your post!
ReplyDeleteHey Paula,
ReplyDeleteI am reading this post at the end of July, and so much time has passed since this first 504 class.
Are you even further surprised at your technological accomplishments since then? You now have a podcast, Weebly page, and running blog under your belt. I hope you now feel more comfortable sharing your thoughts within a public sphere. I just "read" your post about the animals in your life, and that post was considerably personal (but not too risky, since most people LOVE seeing pictures of pets).
I know that I feel like I've come a long way, and I hope you feel the same way too! If I remember, I'll try to post pics of the little animal loved ones in my life...