Course Reflection: Tech Practices for Instructional Improvement
Throughout this course, I
have learned a several lessons about effective technological philosophies and practices
for instructional improvement.
First, technology is more
than an instructional, production, or communication tool. In the past these are
the purposes I have used technology for in the classroom—to assist me, the
teacher, continue to teach in the same way or to have students perform the same
learning activities but with technology. However, technology should be viewed
as a learning tool in the classroom. The potential for students to engage in
active learning when teachers design technology-supported lessons is of tremendous
value (Roybler & Hughes, 2019). Having a better understanding of the Technological
Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework is a lesson that will benefit
me as I aim to create a more blended learning environment.
Secondly, using
technology supports personalized learning. The development of adaptive software
programs which allow students to receive self-paced, personalized practice and
instruction based on their individual needs is a wonderful use of educational technology.
Beyond that, teachers also have access to more student-specific data and can
more easily personalize learning using technology (Shute & Zapta-Rivera,
2008).
Finally, my knowledge of the wealth of information available for teachers who desire to improve technology integration in their classrooms increased. Professional organizations like the International Society for Technology in Education, website like Edutopia and EdSurge, and educational technology bloggers provide so many insights and resources for teachers looking for new technologies or ways to integrate digital learning.
Overall, I've learned a great deal in this course, and I hope to take these ideas and resources with me as I continue to grow as a teacher and educational technologist.
References
Roblyer,
M. & Hughes, J. (2019). Integrating educational technology into teaching
(8th ed.). Pearson.
Shute,
V., & Zapata-Rivera, D. (2008). Adaptive technologies. In Jonassen, D.,
Spector, M., Driscoll, M., Merrill, M., van Merrienboer, J., Driscoll, M. (Eds.),
Handbook of research on educational communications and technology (pp.
279-294). Routledge.
