Its hard to believe that this semester
has come to an end! Though the last week may or may not have aged me
several years, I have to say that the semester has made me learn a
lot about myself.
When I began this semester I was
daunted, I thought of myself as someone who was very technologically
challenged. I only used things like Facebook and twitter to keep in
touch with people, not realizing what potential they possessed. I
also had no idea about the plethora of apps and programs which exist
that can assist classroom teachers. Sites like Animoto and and Prezi,
to me, are so much more engaging than Power Point. If I was to use
them in my classroom I would likely include them in my English class.
With the outcomes of the curriculum allowing for so much creativity,
these two sites could offer ways to creatively generate ideas and
communicate topics. I also learned so much about the connectivity
which can be achieved through sites like twitter and instagram, and
with programs like google docks. Over the semester I have followed so
many interesting people and organizations. I have also been followed
by a few exciting people and organizations. Through this I have been
able to share ideas about education, art and the trials and
tribulations of being a education student. Google docks has really
changed the way I think about group projects and sharing information.
With many of my group presentations we utilized google docks, it
allowed for easy sharing of ideas and editing. This would translate
easily to the classroom in so many subjects. Whether it is generating
tests or using it in group work, similar to how my groups and I did,
google docks offers an easy to understand and easy to use doorway to
learning.
A topic which reoccured throughout our
ICT course was the appropriateness of tech in the classroom. I
believe that tech in the classroom is inevitable, we are in an age
where education is evolving rapidly towards technology. If I was to
shut out technology from my classroom I would be limiting my
students. Things like smart phones and ipads, if used with specific
criteria, can create a strong environment for learning. It is the
responsibility of the teacher to provide guidance and order to the
classroom, whether it includes technology or not. Students who are
distracted by technology are likely not engaged in the learning
environment. If students are engaged in the learning, technology
becomes a tool rather than a distraction.
One of the highlights of the ICT
course for me, among many other things, was the group presentation.
My partner and I focused on the importance of creativity in the
classroom and the ways in which technology can facilitate creativity.
We chose to do a video, as I have had experience with making video in
my undergrad degree. The video was made using three things; a
digital camera, an iphone and imovie. We wanted to make as simple as
possible so it could be utilized easily in the classroom. I think
both of us really enjoyed creating our presentation. I also feel that
it was an awesome way to finish off the semester. I can truly say
that I am more than excited to use the information and skills, which
I have acquired, in my teaching.
Here's an example of a prezi which includes some things I will carry with me..... just click here .
I have also included the video which was created in our ICT class. Thank you to Joanne for being such an amazing partner.
