EDUC 6711: Reflection

Reflecting on my personal theory of learning from week one has once more made me realize that each student learns differently, and using their previous experiences. The use of a variety of learning activities to help all learners and their different styles is necessary.
This course has taught me about the learning theories and different points of view of previous and recent experts in education. I see technology in the classroom as not only necessary, but as an excellent tool to keep students engaged, socializing, and up to date learning about the growing and constant changes.
A learning tool I will continue using is a Blog to keep students and parents up to date, also using more power point presentations in the classroom because I understand how useful it is for all learners. These are tools I am currently using, but as a long term change I would like to integrate more technology in the classroom as voice threads which I would need school and parents permission to use. Using twitter and podcasts are also technology tools I would like to integrate and have students involved in their learning.
Continuing my personal learning and education is an important change I am planning on doing because the more I learn, I may pass to my students, see and understand their individual needs, and help with their learning styles.

Voice Thread

My voice thread...interesting experience!

http://voicethread.com/share/779928

Social learning in the classroom

Many of my high school students have facebook , myspace, twitter, and other accounts. In the classroom I enjoy having my students collaborate and cooperate with each other about different topics and situations. At this level many students are willing to work with others, but some are not. This is where planning engaging activities helps. As time goes by we build a small community of respecting each other and working together.
Integrating technology is a great tool that may be used to expand their knowledge, and create curiosity in searching and learning. The tools are not always available, but the key is to work with what I have and keep on learning.
Chapter 7 offers various web resources. As a foreign language teacher I liked keypals. It should be great to communicate and learn from others around the world. Safety is always an issue, that’s why I believe parents should be involved.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD