In Conclusion...

Before I started this class, I had a very basic idea of what educational technology was, and how it could be used.  This class, however, opened my eyes to a whole to world! I had no idea about the existence of some of the tools and technology we focused on in this class.  I also was quite unaware of certain trends emerging in education, like project-based learning.

Prior to taking this class I knew about several technology based applications in education.  For example, I had experience with both Moodle and Blackboard.  Additionally I had heard of, and messed around with certain technology, like Smartboards and Ipads.  I thought this class was going to teach us how to make a web page (which it did), and how to reach a new generation of students (that was also accomplished), however I feel like I gained a lot more insight and knowledge than just those basic things.

The course really showed me just how many web sites, resources and tools are available for students and teachers to use.  It seems like the list of these tools is endless.  I learned that if I can imagine a program that I think would be awesome for students to use, it probably exists, and with a little searching will be able to find something very similar to what I want.  I also learned that creativity is a must when it comes to teaching this generation, but that I need not be overwhelmed.  There are so many resources, blogs, and online communities that offer help to fellow educators. There is still a lot that I am nervous about, as there is SO much out there.  It seems like it would be so easy to get lost at the very start of an idea, but I am less afraid of tackling challenges than I was when class began!

With the help of the text, articles, videos, and even our assignments my thoughts on the Internet and technology have definitely experienced a shift.  Previously I had not been thrilled about the change in society and the focus on technology, but now I see that it does not have to be a negative thing. Amazing things are happening across the globe that would not be possible without the connections the Internet and Web 2.0 tools have given us.  

Social Networks and the Classroom

      Almost everyone who has access to a computer these days is a part of at least one social network.  Social networking g has become an integral part of our everyday lives, and global culture.   Social networks are now used for more than just a means to keep in touch with old friends.  The Internet is a necessity for most information gathering, job searches and application, shopping and selling, entertainment, newsgathering, etc.  This list goes on, as almost anything you can imagine can be found or done online.  Social networks are the tools that people use today to stay connected to all the information they need.

Personally, I do take part in some social networks, like Facebook, and occasionally StumbleUpon, but for the most part my social networking activity ends with those two.  However after reading several articles that discuss the usefulness of social networks in regard to education and use in the classroom, I think I may need to take a more active part in the online community.

     For the longest time, I thought that networks like Facebook and Twitter were a bit ridiculous.  Even though I do have a Facebook, and occasionally post some pictures, it is rare that I post a “status update.”  I had and still do have the mentality that no one really cares about what I am doing all day, or what I am eating for breakfast.  Additionally I don’t really see the need to follow people and know what they are doing in their day-to-day lives.  To me, it is a huge breach of privacy that people are so willing to partake in.  However I do find that sometimes posting can be very helpful.  There have been several times where I needed advice on a decision, but had no background knowledge myself.  I can post something, and within several hours, or even minutes can get feedback from more people than I imagined would be able to help.

     I feel that as I prepare to begin my journey to becoming a valuable educator, I need to change some of my views on the Internet and networking.  It is an undeniable fact that so many people are taking such an active part online, including young people, like those I will eventually be teaching.  I think that in order to better connect with students, and hold their attention, I will need to maintain a digital presence.  Taking an active part in some networks that students can follow and get the information they need, will be crucial to the success of my classroom.  Although networking and connecting via the Internet will be beneficial, I think it is so important that students are taught to be aware of their digital image.  It is necessary that students are held to a certain standard, and taught to be accountable for their actions online. Another thing to consider is that along with the benefits of social networking, the Internet can provide a huge distraction.  I think that the best way to help students keep their focus is to provide them with stimulating and thought provoking work.  
     Just using the internet and networking sites to engage students might be powerful enough in itself to keep them focused and motivated in their education.  Through networking I hope to provide students with an atmosphere similar to what they are used to outside of the classroom, and hopefully open doors for connections unlike before.

Surviving in a Flat World

Today the word “global” means something different than it has in the past.  After watching the Friedman’s World is Flat book talk, I feel like my idea of the word “global” has shifted ever so slightly. Technology has improved and become available for everyone, allowing people to connect on different levels than ever before.  This connection has many implications for society, and drives the need for education to use different standards, so students have the opportunity to use this technological platform most effectively.

Friedman points out that over time globalization has changed, going through different eras of its own. He categorizes globalization into three phases, beginning in the 1490’s where globalization meant countries exploring and colonizing new lands.  It then transformed in the 1800’s when companies began to globalize through outsourcing.  Since the year 2000 technology has allowed for a new platform, which he calls the Flat World, to develop where globalizing now occurs through individuals.

Individuals today have access to technology that puts the world at their fingertips. Friedman’s lecture put several things into perspective for me.  I agree with his view of globalization and his call for a change in educational standards and leadership. Perhaps with more research and reflection, I will have a different outlook, however it is true that individuals are driving economy today.  People can now form so many connections across a multitude of areas from all over the globe. People are able to sell their stories, lives, creativity, and creations online, and to anyone around the globe.  I think the term Flat World is a perfect name for what is happening to the economy and society today.  There is now a way for everyone to preform on the same platform.

Due to the growth of technology, and the huge role it plays in individual lives and global society, people are going to need to learn how to use the resources available to them in order to thrive.  I believe the educational system has the responsibility to make sure that students are getting the proper experience they need in order to survive in this technological world.  Schools should focus on promoting their student’s and teacher’s creativity, and inspiring them to act on their ideas.  If the future of our culture and economy is to rely on individuals rather than corporations, then those individuals should feel empowered by the endless global opportunities they have access to.

Educational Philosophy

     As I think about entering the world of teaching, I realize I am going to have to do so much more learning than I thought.  Our educational system was created for a time that has come and gone, and now it is essential that educators learn how to teach the students of today. I watched a video about a year ago, before I was positive that I wanted to teach.  It is an animated lecture by Sir Ken Robinson, and really provoked me to question the structure of education. 

          There are several reasons that I have for becoming a teacher, and hope that I can utilize resources of the future to help me become the best educator that I can be. I think that teaching future students will be exciting, with more technological advancements, but unnerving at the same time.

I think that teaching is one of the most important and respectable jobs in the world.  Teachers have the ability to not only educate, but also inspire so many young individuals.  Being able to motivate and inspire younger people is the biggest factor in my desire to teach. I have also always loved being able to help other people, whether that means giving advice or teaching different concepts. Thinking about my career as a future educator in a society that thrives on technology is both exciting and unsettling.

Today’s teachers are facing the need to change the way they reach their students.  I am inspired by the realization that our educational system needs revising.  Students are being taught by a system that was designed for a different era.  I am excited that there is now a conscious need for change.  We need to adapt, and possibly change how we test student’s understanding of knowledge.  Revolutionizing the educational system will provide new opportunities to be creative, and technology can help enhance student’s experience in school. There is an opportunity to get people excited and motivated to learn.  I am hoping that once teachers, and hopefully myself, implement new ways of education by utilizing new technology, students will be excited to go to school every day.

Although I am excited about the needed shift in education, I am unsettled by the thought as well.  Teachers of my generation are going to have the hard task of figuring out how to implement new ways of teaching while maintaining some old educational values.  I am hoping that I will be able to keep up with society and learn how to teach in ways that students will understand.  I am not as technologically savvy as many of my peers seem to be.  It is unnerving thinking that I may not be creative enough to think of new ways of teaching.

Society today is much different than it was several years ago. People have access to unlimited information, and do most of their learning, thinking, and organizing using the internet, computers and cell phones.  Technology has now become a way of life and the educational system needs to adapt to this.  As a future teacher, I see this as a great opportunity to inspire and teach younger generations, but realize how difficult and unnerving this task is going to be.