Final Reflections

Driving Question:

How can we, as future educators, create technology and media infused learning experiences to engage students in authentic ways?

Need to Knows:

• How can we deliver instruction without being a distraction?
• How do we use technology for our content area?
• How do we bring things kids are using now into the classroom so that they are learning to create authenticity?

Did we answer the Driving question?

The driving question was thoroughly covered, in much more detail than I had thought possible. As a tech person for the last two decades, this was an awesome experience.

Did we answer the Need to Knows?

Technology can certainly be a distraction, but if we monitor it, it can and should be a game-changer especially in differentiation. I learned how to incorporate technology in ways I never would have imagined in an ELA classroom - including Maker Spaces, of all things. And by bringing in real life interaction as well as student voice and choice, we create genuine authenticity.

Practice the Most

For an ELA classroom, the most practical aspects of our explorations in technology for me was the dynamic nature of the hyperdocs. My students are not 1-to-1, and getting access to a cart or lab is not always guaranteed; however, I do have a Smartboard hooked into my computer. 

The most intriguing part was the final project. While we do not   

Still Need to Explore 

This is the always-on generation, and for us to imagine that there is not a constant need to maintain awareness of the technology space and how quickly it changes would be folly. Our students at times can be more adept and thoughtful about what tools are available for their use, and the closer we are to the technology, the better stewards we can be for their minds and growth.

Specifically, I need to look more into 3D printing and how it would be applicable to an ELA classroom. I need to develop plans where the Maker Space becomes a part of the process for them. I've seen my students fully engaged with just a sheet of paper and markers because so much of an ELA classroom is simply reading and writing. Being able to get them into 3D modeling and more intriguing crafting options would truly enliven the classroom experience for them.