Week 8

Weekly Overview

Welcome to our final week of this session - Week Eight!  Over the past 7 weeks, we have investigated the use of digital tools for meaningful and authentic learning in our classrooms.  First, we framed our thinking through TPCK, SAMR, and our philosophical foundational views of teaching and learning. Next we evaluated content specific tools for our classroom with the Triple E. Through these weeks we experimented with different tools to communicate, collaborate, critically think and create - leading into our PBL WebQuest.  Currently we are working to tell this story digitally, expressing our learning as a personal narrative requiring inner thoughts, views and the potential of digital tools  moving forward. Eight weeks goes quickly!  This session has been a concerted effort to have a critical and complicated conversation about where, when, if and how digital tools can provide for meaningful and authentic learning opportunities rooted in our content. 

Skepticism is fine, however a better way may be a critical analysis rooted in a more positive and accepting realization that digital tools exist and have value if used appropriately - allowing us to find ways to provide students opportunities to communicate, collaborate, critically think and create so upon graduation, they are not behind their peers in contexts where they are.  So.  

What does this mean for you now? 

As we turn the corner and look towards our student teaching - you are currently beginning your observations of teachers in the classroom.  Is digital technology a part of your observational considerations?  Have you asked for the Acceptable Use Policy of the district?  How do they look at AI?  Are you asking questions, reflecting, and avoiding the pitfall of what may be called "practical" or "the reality is" or "theory is fine, but practice is different" statements.  Be cautious - what is seen as "what works" is often tradition disguised in a self fulling prophecy of success.  

This week let's focus on the next steps, and continuing the conversation on technology infusion in our educational content areas.  Remember, this course does not end, but should be used and built upon in each of your coming courses.  Continue to explore the use of digital tools for thinking and creating, continue to seek ways to apply the Triple E, or develop your TPACK further.  Be aware of your language use, be mindful of your thoughts - evolve your disposition educationally for the 21st century. 

In class will root ourselves back within the TPACK framework, examine the ISTE standards for our development, and work to identify where we were, where we are, and where we yet need to go.