1. While reading the many versions of the definition of educational technology, I was very interested in the way the definition was shaped throughout the years. As technology has advanced, it is so very important for this definition to continue to evolve. I believe education technology should be “viewed as a way of looking at instructional problems and examining solutions.” Our “digital native” students have grown up with technology being a way of life. Teachers should view technology as a tool to help students understand what they are learning. The book stated that it should be “used alongside the teacher” to help facilitate learning. Teachers should be looking at ways for students to create something using technology to show their skills. Another important aspect of my definition is the use of technology should be appropriate and professional. There are many great ways to incorporate technology, but there are also many dangerous sites. Teachers must be aware of the way their students are using technology by constantly monitoring their use.
2. As a teacher, it is extremely important to plan a unit thoughtfully with the end goals in mind from the beginning. It is necessary to think about what you want your students to learn, and the best way they will learn it. The way your students learn best must also be considered. What types of technology can be included? The Dick, Carey, and Carey model has all the elements of the instructional design process. However, the order is somewhat confusing to me. I think an assessment should be developed last, not first. Many times, my best laid plans are not followed and I am not able to cover everything intended, or students do not grasp a concept as well as I had hoped. For this reason, I create assessments at the end.
3. It is surprising at how fast technology has evolved in the past 10 years. When I graduated from high school in 1997 I wrote my research paper the “old-fashioned” way- books that I found in the library. In the past 14 years, the Internet has completely taken over. In fact, I cannot imagine my life without it. That goes for my teaching as well. I am always using the Internet for lesson plan ideas, appropriate YouTube clips, and projects for my students. Blogging is a great way for students to journal. When we read Romeo and Juliet, students will take on the persona of a favorite character and create a blog from their viewpoint. As a graduate student, I have completed my degree completely online. This has made it possible for me to work toward my master’s and maintain my responsibilities to my family. In K12, technology has made it possible for students to work at their pace, and recover credit they are missing. This is just one possibility, it seems they are endless!
Paige - consider this. How will you know as a teacher if you have created an effective learning environment if you do not have a goal to which you are aimed. The reason for designing assessment first along with the learning outcomes is to have a target at which you are aiming your instruction. This does not mean you're teaching to the test or assessment, but rather that you know how you will know if students have learned what you have set for them to learn.
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