Final Reflection

The GAME plan I developed involved implementing technology tools as a way to assess my students progress and creating a classroom website. When I first set my goals, I was over ambitious. I expected to complete both goals within a few weeks. However, I ran into a variety of problems as I began to work towards my goals. Time was limited for creating my website and resources were limited when I was in need of the technology departments help. In the end, both goals were well on their way to being successful despite changing from short-term to long-term goals.

Dr. Ross claims a teacher should use a variety of techniques to monitor and evaluate students’ knowledge (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). Through implementing new assessment strategies, I have found that students’ engagement increases during quizzes where I use technology. The students that are so often off-task and need constant reminders to focus become on-task and listen to directions completely. This has led to many of my usually unsuccessful students to be successful and confident in their ability. Paper and pencil tests often frustrate students. Technology gives students a new way to express what they know and teachers a new way to assess these students. So I have learned there are many benefits to varying assessment and will continue to do so in my classroom.

This course has made me realize there are endless possibilities for incorporating technology into your curriculum. Technology provides the means to experience learning in a very authentic way (Cennamo, Ross, & Ertmer, 2009). I notice the difference in the students’ motivation as soon as I explain an assignment and they get to use the laptops or the Smart Board. My goal is to get my students excited about learning and allowing the students to be creative is the best way to do this. On a daily basis, I try to make my lessons creative and unique. This course has been one of the most beneficial so far in terms of providing websites, tools, and ideas to implement in the classroom right away.

References:

Cennamo, K., Ross, J. & Ertmer, P. (2009). Technology Integration for Meaningful Classroom Use: A Standards-Based Approach. (Laureate Education, Inc., Custom ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Program seven. Assessing Student Learning [Motion picture]. Integrating Technology Across the Content Areas. Baltimore: Author.