EDLD+5306+assignment+reflection

Before the Concepts of Educational Technology class, I did not know that Texas had a Long-Range Plan for Technology. Due to my position as an itinerant teacher, I did not have to take the STaR assessment. This class introduced me to a whole new area of assessment and analysis. While reviewing the Long-Range Plan, I felt comfortable with the four main components, but struggled with identiying standards. I also was not required to teach the Technology Application TEKS so I had to become familiar with those during the class. In order to analyze the results of the STaR chart, I had to work with my educational technology department. I had not previously analyzed data that concerned technology. As a result of the analysis and application required in the Concepts class, I now feel comfortable implementing the Technology Application (TA) TEKS within both small and large group settings. I found this experience very rewarding. I have been able to continue using these skills throughout the Educational Technology Leadership program. I learned that I have conflicting attitudes when discussing technology. I seem to be on the border of the digital native/immigrant divide. I fit in with part of Prensky’s description of the natives, but I also hold some of the immigrant views. I need to use my borderline status to my advantage when working with teachers and students. I feel that I can relate to both groups and become a bridge between the two. I hope to use Prensky's articles as a stepping stone to help other teachers bridge the gap between digital natives and immigrants.  I have also learned that I will need to create professional development opportunities that leave teachers feeling empowered. I believe that Mouza stated the need of teachers in a wonderful way. She states "teachers need professional development that is hands-on, is directly aligned to curriculum goals, and allows for follow-up support in their classrooms" (p. 275). I hope to make all my future professional development sessions match this description. I did find that within my district, most teachers still prefer to collaborate in a face-to-face setting rather than through a wiki. For now, any collaboration and professional development that is planned will need to be in a face-to-face setting. The goal will be to encourage teachers to explore other ways to collaborate.

Prensky named four practices in his article, //Turning on the Lights.// I think the last one sums up what I am here to do. "Understand where kids are going - this is, into the future - and help them get there".

Mouza, C. (2002/2003). Learning to teach with new technology: Implications for professional development. //Journal for Research on Technology in Education,// 35(2), 272-89.

Prensky, M. (2001). Digital natives, digital immigrants: Part 1. //On the Horizon,// 9(5), 1-6.

Prensky, M. (2008). Turning on the lights. //Educational Leadership,// 65(6), 40-45.