ETC 585  Reflections 

Creating this Book on CAST’s UDL Bookbuilder was an interesting experience. This software resource is one I had not previously worked with, therefore it initially presented a learning curve. Once I completed this book, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment upon realizing that I was now part of a professional learning network of Cast UDL BookBuilder authors and creators. Displaying my idea for using technology to accomplish culturally relevant pedagogy will now be available to anyone who chooses to use the Cast book library as a tool for finding educational resources. This book takes the reader through useful options and examples to be used in one's own classroom to incorporate emerging technology. It introduces the iEARN platform in addition to explaining the cultural exchange option available via iEARN. Creating this digital artifact to educate others exemplifies my professional growth and development by showcasing my ability to successfully use new technology. It also illustrates my flexibility and perseverance in using technology to demonstrate unfamiliar concepts. 

I am especially proud of this Professional Development unit which was a collaborative effort. My group and I met twice a week for the duration of the semester, making weekly progress which amounted to a successful, informative, well-designed unit receiving high praise from classmates. Initially, we didn’t have a shared vision for this unit but over time and through many conversations we arrived at a unified goal. We were able to bounce ideas off each other, highlight one another’s strong suits, and deliver help when needed. This digital artifact reached a much higher quality level with the influences provided by working cohesively with fellow educators.  We were exposed to coaching for improvement as well as being recipients of coaching for the same purpose. Additionally, this professional Development Unit exemplifies my ability to “effectively model and facilitate technology-enhanced learning experiences”. It accomplishes this by teaching and demonstrating how to integrate technology for global collaboration and cultural relevancy. This is a Professional Development Unit that I would be proud to share with all educators and is pliable to almost all grade levels.