November 19, 2016
I am so excited to finally be embarking on this journey. My goal is to obtain my Masters in Education, and this certificate program will be a great first step. It is something I have been thinking about for some time, and it feels good to be taking the first step toward making it happen. I am fortunate to work at a school with an administrator that encourages risk taking, and over the past two years, I have been working to implement technology in the classroom. It has truly transformed the way I teach. I already feel comfortable using a variety of tools with my students, but what I am most interested in is how to use these tools with a purpose to enhance student learning and help students meet curricular standards. This is my first school year teacher in a 1:1 classroom and this program will help me ensure that I am using these tools in the most effective way possible. Technology must be used in the classroom with intent and purpose, otherwise, it is just playtime.
I have a dream of creating a Makerspace / STEAM lab at my school. I feel these spaces are the ideal place to promote the 4c's of collaboration, creativity, critical-thinking, and communication. We are maxed out on space at my school, so a dedicated room will probably not happen, but I would like to at least have a mobile cart that teachers can check out to bring materials into their own classrooms. For my project, I will be creating a website (I'm glad the new Google Sites is finally released!) to chronicle my progress on this journey, share ideas and resources, as well as logistical and troubleshooting tips. I find many teachers are very hesitant to bring new devices into their classroom because they don't know what to do with them, and they don't know if they will all be working the way they expect. the plan is that my website will alleviate some of those fears and encourage more teachers to take the risk. Eventually, I would love for my website to be a place where other teachers can contribute their ideas, trials, and tribulations as well.
I feel our cohort is a great mix of new and veteran teachers and I look forward to learning from everyone. I believe students benefit most when veteran teachers with experience and maturity and new teachers with energy and fresh ideas can work together. No one has all the answers and we are all stronger when we come together.
For my electives, I look forward to taking Differentiate with Technology, Cloud Computing in the Classroom, and The Flipped Classroom. I have registered for Differentiate with Technology. I plan to take Cloud Computing in February / March and The Flipped Classroom in April / May.