New Technology Experiences

First off I have to say that this class has been pretty eye opening. I came into it thinking I would pick up a little here or a little there, and that would be it. I'm in my mid twenties and consider myself very technologically oriented. But after these few short weeks, I realized I knew nothing about using technology in the classroom. Now granted I do not currently teach, besides substituting at the middle and high school level.  But after this class, I can say I'm coming away with skills that will truly help me as an educator.

The idea of using a web blog or social media in the classroom really never crossed my mind. I have tried blogging before, but I was part of the 2/3's who abandoned their blogs after a short time. And of course I use social media, but I never really thought about it in the classroom. Most schools that I've been to are very anti-social media for the classroom. But I have seen how it can be used in a positive light to give students a voice. Let them show me in the world that they know. I simply love these two ideas as a way to get more communication and interaction with and from the students.

Lastly, I can say I have never used podcasts or screencasts, but I have to say that the idea of it is brilliant! After using it for the assignments, I started thinking about all the possibilities that they could serve in the classroom. This is definitely a tool that I will use in the classroom for things like lessons, assignments, sharing documents, and communication. I have improved my skills in all areas used in the course. And I can say that I plan on using these skills both in and out of the classroom.