Flight Path
I started this journey with a desire to challenge myself to learn more about technology. I have been teaching since the early 80’s and I am presently teaching Grade One. This is my continuing journey of professional growth with a primary focus on knowledge building with technology.
My Background
My teaching experience includes teaching Grade One and Two for the last nine years in West Vancouver and prior to that I taught primary for ten years in Delta. I became interested in technology when I was one of the first teachers in the district to receive a computer in my classroom for a student with small motor output challenges. As computers have evolved I have become more and more interested in how they can support learning in the classroom.
I took a year of technology for teachers at SFU and my excitement for integrating technology grew. I began incorporating many interesting applications such as Photostory, Picassohead, online Home Reading and piloting various online programs with my class. I attended workshops and Pro D days, but I wanted to learn more. I heard of the MET program from another teacher who was taking it. I consider myself a student of perpetual learning, so I applied for the MET program.
My Goals
I have been in the MET program since Sept 2010 and one of my goals is to understand and make best choices of technology to best meet the needs of my Grade Ones in their learning. I realize that with every course I take, there is a lot to learn. ETEC 510 helped to me to think about Anderson’s (2004) Towards a Theory of Online Learning, and how to develop strategies for engaging my Grade One class.
Chickering and Gamson’s (1987) Seven Principles for Teaching are invaluable as they form the basis of my educational goals that technology can enhance. As well, Chickering & Ehrmann’s (1996) Implementing the Seven Principles: Technology as a Lever, is paramount to me as it targets seven important elements of best teaching practices. The one that stands out to me is good practice respects diverse talents and ways of learning that addresses learners from Kindergarten to Undergraduate Studies. There are many paths that lead to learning and learning is individually internalized.
Another one of my goals in the MET program is to learn about many aspects of technology. I am willing to learn more about different platforms (Moodle), synchronous and asynchronous communications and a variety of software applications. This is where ETEC 565 will benefit my goals as part of the learning requirements will be to build an online learning platform in Moodle.I have been looking at some resources that can support my goals. I viewed a Moodle Demonstration site. I have used Creative Commons, but need more time to explore and Teacher Tube has been a helpful resource. One of the greatest resources has been other students. Discussion Forms have provided me with invaluable opinions and suggestions from others.
As my journey in the MET program progresses, with my present course ETEC 565 I will continue to reflect, collaborate, communicate, and support others on this path of knowledge. I am looking forward to all the challenges this course has to offer.
My goals are my flight plan!
References
Anderson, T. (2004). Towards a Theory of Online Learning. In T. Anderson & F. Elloumi (Eds.), Theory and Practice of Online Learning. Athabasca, Canada: Athabasca University. 33-60.
Bates, A. W. & Poole, G.(2003). A Framework for Selecting and Using Technology. In Effective Teaching with Technology. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.75-105. (See SECTIONS) except at http://www.batesandpooleubc.ca/chapter-4.htm
Chickering, A.W. & Gamson, Z.F. (1987). Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 39 (7), 3-7. Retrieved online 18 May 2011.
http://www.aahea.org/bulletins/articles/sevenprinciples1987.htm
Chickering, A. W. & Ehrmann, S.C. (1996). Implementing the Seven Principles: Technology as Lever. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, October 1996. Retrieved online 18 May 2011.
hhtp://www.aahea.org/bulletins/articles/sevenprinples.htm
Schrum, L.&Levin, B. (2009). Leading 21st Century Schools. Harnessing Technology for Engagement and Achievement. United States, A SAGE Company, p48.