My philosophy of education is that I will meet each child where they are at and guide them to their greatest potential. I believe my role as a teacher is more of a coach. I analyze each student's strength's and areas for potential growth and finds ways to guide them to higher achievement. I also want to instill a joy for learning and an excitement for discovery.
What I have learned this week has not changed my philosophy but rather provided tools that can be used to help each student achieve their best. The knowledge I have gained this week integrates with my philosophy because it provides choice and allows students to express themselves as individuals. It can be simplified for those students who are lower but presents challenges for those students who like the challenge.
Podcasts which I have never considered will be of great benefit for reading. It provides me with a history of each student's reading ability and also a way for students to self-assess and set goals.
Blogs provide a new platform for writing and sharing ideas. I think students will come up with ways to use the technology that I have not considered. The web sites we previewed will give me a fun way to review and assess by using the Jeopardy game. The wordle is a fun way to express yourself and a new way to use words. The panorama site with pictures can open up the world and take us anywhere. When I read a story we will be able to go to the place visually.
I think I will become more efficient because web 2.0 is easy to maneuver and use. A Jeopardy Game which use to take hours to put together can be done much quicker. Just being more familiar with all the technology saves me time from trying to learn on my own.
The time I was allotted for the computer lab was wasted because I did not know what was out there to use. Now time can be used much more effectively and efficiently. I will be sure to put time into the day for students to use the computers that are available in the pod outside the classroom. Because I teach 4th grade I will be sure to allow time in the classroom to use the computer.
A New Year has Started!
16 years ago
very thorough reflection, well done!
ReplyDeleteThe first line of your reflection could be a poster.
ReplyDeleteYour thinking about technology as a way to help you stick to your philosophy instead of changing your philosophy will be appreciated by both your students and the curriculum people in your district. You will be a model of best-practice in the areas you choose to implement.
You have a knack for finding real applications for the technology you've seen. Keep your eye out for newer technologies that emerge in the upcoming months and years. Your ability to find ways to apply technology in your classroom will continue to enrich your curriculum.