Iterate and Improve Blog

As teachers, we’re always looking for ways to improve. I’ve found that incorporating research into my teaching has made a significant difference in how I engage my students. Initially, I mostly relied on instinct and traditional methods. But as I faced diverse student needs, I realized I needed to explore research. A turning point for me was Molinari’s (2012) TED talk, "Let's bridge the digital divide!" It highlighted the importance of ensuring all students have access to technology, sparking my interest in equitable learning. Diving deeper into Kurt’s (2018) work on web accessibility, I began implementing collaborative projects and accessible resources. This shift created a more inclusive classroom environment, and students responded positively, feeling more engaged and motivated.

I’ve learned that teaching is an ongoing process. Each semester, I revisit research findings to see what works best. The TPACK framework from Mishra and Koehler (2006) has been a great guide for balancing technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge in my lessons. While research is invaluable, not every strategy fits every classroom. I’ve learned to adapt findings to suit my students’ unique needs. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue integrating research into my practice and collaborating with colleagues. Embracing research has been a game changer, reinforcing that effective teaching thrives on growth and adaptation.

References

Kurt, S. (2018). Moving toward a universally accessible web: Web accessibility and education. Assistive Technology.

Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: A framework for teacher knowledge. Teachers College Record, 108(6), 1017-1054.

Molinari, A. (2012). Let's bridge the digital divide! [Video]. TED.